For children who have successfully navigated the U.S. immigration process, whether sponsored by a U.S. citizen parent, through family preference categories, or other programs, a significant chapter has begun: life as a Lawful Permanent Resident. This means holding a U.S. Green Card, which offers the invaluable opportunity to live, study, and thrive permanently in the United States.

LforLaw is here for parents and legal guardians, providing essential guidance on what to do after your child migrates to the USA. We’ll cover immediate responsibilities, tips for ensuring their successful integration and well-being, and outline the clear pathway towards U.S. citizenship for child immigrants. We’ll also emphasize the importance of becoming a law-abiding immigrant from an early age.

Your Child’s Immediate Steps as a New Green Card Holder

The moment of entry or adjustment of status makes your child a permanent resident. Here’s what needs to be done:

1. Receive the Physical Green Card: The official Permanent Resident Card (Form I-551) will be mailed to the U.S. address provided during the immigration process. Keep this card safe, as it is crucial proof of their lawful permanent resident status. For young children, parents/guardians are responsible for its safekeeping.
2. Verify I-94 Record: If the child entered the U.S. with an immigrant visa, parents/guardians should verify the I-94 Arrival/Departure Record online, ensuring all information is accurate and that the child was admitted as a Lawful Permanent Resident.
3. Social Security Number (SSN): If the child doesn’t already have one, apply for a Social Security Number. This is essential for school registration, healthcare, and future employment.
4. Enroll in School: U.S. law guarantees access to public education for all children, regardless of immigration status. Enroll your child in the appropriate public school for their age and grade level.
5. Alien Registration Requirement (New for 2025):
   • For children aged 14 or older (or turning 14 soon): As of January 20, 2025, a new Executive Order requires many aliens (including new Green Card holders) who were not fingerprinted during their visa application and who remain in the United States for 30 days or longer, to apply for registration and fingerprinting.
   • Parents and legal guardians of aliens below the age of 14 must ensure that those aliens are registered.
   • Within 30 days of reaching their 14th birthday, all previously registered aliens must apply for re-registration and fingerprinting.
   • This typically involves submitting Form G-325R and attending a biometrics appointment. Non-compliance can lead to criminal penalties. Consult the USCIS website or an attorney for the latest procedures.
6. Update Address with USCIS: Parents/guardians must file Form AR-11, Alien’s Change of Address Card, with USCIS within 10 days of any move. This is a legal requirement for all Green Card holders, including children.

Fostering Integration & Well-being: Key Responsibilities for Parents/Guardians

The goal is to help your child thrive in their new environment.

1. Prioritize Education:

   • School Attendance: Ensure consistent school attendance. Education is fundamental for their future opportunities.
   • Language Support: If English is not their first language, seek out English as a Second Language (ESL) programs offered by schools. Encourage learning English through daily interactions, books, and media.
   • Academic Support: Provide support for homework and school projects. Communicate regularly with teachers to monitor their progress and address any challenges.

2. Healthcare Access:

   • Understand the U.S. healthcare system. Enroll your child in health insurance (through your employer, Medicaid/CHIP if eligible, or the Affordable Care Act marketplace).
   • Schedule routine check-ups and ensure all necessary immunizations are up-to-date.

3. Cultural Integration & Socialization:

   • Encourage Peer Interaction: Facilitate opportunities for your child to make friends, join clubs, or participate in sports.
   • Cultural Understanding: Help them understand U.S. customs and social norms while also celebrating their cultural heritage.
   • Mental Health Support: Be attentive to any signs of adjustment difficulties or emotional stress. Resources are available through schools, community centers, and mental health professionals.

4. Financial Literacy (Age-Appropriate):

   • As children grow, teach them about saving, budgeting, and the basics of the U.S. financial system. This prepares them for future independence.

Maintaining Your Child’s Permanent Resident Status

While a Green Card is “permanent,” parents/guardians must ensure compliance with immigration laws.

1. No Abandonment of Residency: Ensure the child truly resides in the U.S. Extended absences (generally, over 6 months at a time, especially over one year) can lead to questions about abandonment of residency. If long trips are unavoidable, consult an immigration attorney about a Re-entry Permit (Form I-131).
2. Renewing the Green Card for Minors:
   • Special Rule for Under 14: If your child received their Green Card before their 14th birthday, and the card’s expiration date is after their 16th birthday, you generally must file Form I-90 to renew their Green Card and provide biometrics within 30 days after their 14th birthday. There is often a fee waiver if filed within this specific window. Missing this can incur fees and complications. Mark this date on your calendar!
   • Standard Renewal: For all other cases, Green Cards typically expire every 10 years. It is the parents’/guardians’ responsibility to file Form I-90 to renew the card before its expiration date.
3. Obey All Laws: Teach children the importance of following all laws. Even as minors, engaging in criminal activity can have severe immigration consequences later in life, potentially impacting future citizenship applications or even leading to deportation proceedings.

The Path to U.S. Citizenship for Child Immigrants (Naturalization)

For many children, their Green Card is the direct path to becoming a U.S. citizen. There are two primary ways children can become U.S. citizens:

1. Automatic Citizenship (Child Citizenship Act of 2000):

   • This is the most direct and common route for children. A child automatically becomes a U.S. citizen if all of the following conditions are met:
     • At least one parent is a U.S. citizen (either by birth or naturalization).
     • The child is under the age of 18.
     • The child is a Lawful Permanent Resident (has a Green Card).
     • The child is residing in the U.S. in the legal and physical custody of the U.S. citizen parent.
   • How it Works: In these cases, there’s usually no need for the child to file Form N-400 or undergo a naturalization interview. Parents can apply for a Certificate of Citizenship (Form N-600) to obtain official proof of the child’s citizenship, or simply apply for a U.S. passport for the child.

2. Naturalization through Application (N-400):

   • If a child does not qualify for automatic citizenship (e.g., neither parent is a U.S. citizen, or they didn’t meet the physical custody requirement), they can apply for citizenship once they meet the general requirements as an adult Green Card holder.
   • This typically involves being a Lawful Permanent Resident for 5 years (or 3 years if married to a U.S. citizen), demonstrating good moral character, and passing English and civics tests.

Your child’s migration to the U.S. as a Green Card holder is a precious opportunity. By diligently fulfilling the responsibilities of permanent residency, prioritizing their education and well-being, and understanding the clear path to citizenship, you can ensure they embark on a successful and secure life in their new home.

The journey of immigrant children often requires specialized guidance. The experienced immigration attorneys at LforLaw are dedicated to supporting families through every stage of their immigration journey, from initial Green Card responsibilities to navigating the path to U.S. citizenship. Contact us today for personalized advice and compassionate legal support.