Hello Everyone,

I have an immigration question!

My niece is 16years old and she would like to reside here after she graduates high school!
I am not sure how these immigration stuff work.. does anyone know how I can get her here legally?

Thanks! :)

If one of her parents is US citizen, parent can file immigrant visa for her but relationship between you and her does not allowed to do so.

The best bet would be apply for student visa but it is non-immigrant visa, so she must maintain her attendance record otherwise she will be sent back home in six months.

If one of her parents is US citizen, parent can file immigrant visa for her but relationship between you and her does not allowed to do so.

The best bet would be apply for student visa but it is non-immigrant visa, so she must maintain her attendance record otherwise she will be sent back home in six months.

What about if I adopt her as my own child... can I file an immigrant visa for her? I am a US citizen by birth, I am sure that will speed up the process!

Any thoughts?

It's too late for adoption. In case the child is not an orphan, adoption can be done on the condition that you have been supporting her for longer than 2 years (many documents and supported evidence required) and by the time you file immigrant visa for her, she must be under 16 years old.

Well, it looks like a Student Visa is the only way to go!

Thank you so much for your input.