Bringing my sister

[Igor&Veronika 1]

Guys,

Is there anyone familiar with the process of how to reunite with my sister?

I'm a naturalized US citizen thru marriage. My sister is a russian citizen of 26 years old.

I would like to know how long does this process take in terms of month or years?

[NigeriaorBust 4,087]

13 years or more given the current process

[aaron2020 11,651]

Hi,

Follow the Guides.

Its about 12-13 years for a visa. Her husband and children will be able to immigigrate with her.

[RhettVoe 281]

or, take a trip back to Russia to visit with her......

[Boiler 43,675]

I think those time estimations are optimistic.

Only time will tell.

Edited June 27, 2014 by Boiler

[walfredo 2]

I would say that it doesnt hurt to file a petition now, because even though current estimates are 13 years or so, it could change down the road, especially if Immigration Reform is passed in the next few years.

Do it now, and youll reserve her place in line. Who knows what can change in the future.

Edited June 27, 2014 by walfredo

[Igor&Veronika 1]

Thank you everyone for their replies, the prospects do not sound too good. I do however have 1 more question related to this situation if you don't mind answering.

I heard previously that if I file a petition for her now, than my sister will be (unofficially) banned from entering the country for entire 13 years simply because US embassy in Russia wouldn't issue her a travel visa while immigration case is pending.

Does anyone has an opinion how true that statement might be?

[aaron2020 11,651]

Thank you everyone for their replies, the prospects do not sound too good. I do however have 1 more question related to this situation if you don't mind answering.

I heard previously that if I file a petition for her now, than my sister will be (unofficially) banned from entering the country for entire 13 years simply because US embassy in Russia wouldn't issue her a travel visa while immigration case is pending.

Does anyone has an opinion how true that statement might be?

Not true.

Do a search on this forum and you will see lots of people who obtained visitor visas after petitions were filed.

Your sister will need to overcome the presumption that all visa applicants plan to immigrate to the US by showing her strong ties to Russia in order to get a visitor visa.

[Boiler 43,675]

Not a bad idea to apply for the visitor visa first.