An accompanying relative is a close family member of a person who is immigrating to the United States. This term typically refers to spouses and unmarried children under the age of twenty-one. When someone qualifies for a visa or green card, they may also apply for similar immigration benefits for their accompanying relatives, allowing these family members to join them in the U.S.
The term "accompanying relative" is primarily used in immigration law. It is relevant in the context of family-based immigration petitions, where U.S. citizens or lawful permanent residents can sponsor their immediate family members for visas or green cards. Users can often manage the application process themselves using legal templates and forms provided by services like US Legal Forms.
Here are a couple of examples of abatement:
Example 1: A U.S. citizen marries a foreign national and applies for a spousal visa. The spouse qualifies as an accompanying relative and can apply for a green card as part of the immigration process.
Example 2: A lawful permanent resident has a child under the age of twenty-one. When applying for a green card renewal, they can also petition for their child to receive a green card as an accompanying relative. (hypothetical example)
| Term | Definition | Differences |
|---|---|---|
| Immediate relative | A family member who is eligible for immigration benefits. | Includes spouses and children, but may not cover other relatives. |
| Dependent | A person who relies on another for financial support. | May include relatives not eligible for immigration benefits. |
If you are immigrating to the U.S. and have accompanying relatives, ensure you include them in your visa or green card application. You can use US Legal Forms to find templates and guides to help with the application process. If your situation is complex, consider consulting a legal professional for tailored advice.
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Spouses and unmarried children under the age of twenty-one qualify as accompanying relatives.