Getting a Green Card Through Canadian Mother

I have a few questions. I'm trying to move and find work in the States. So far it's been a no go, but I'm not giving up. I thought basically my only hope was to get a job and get an H-1B Visa.

My mother lived her youth in the U.S. My grandparents became U.S. citizens through naturalization while she was still a minor working on a SSN and green card. This was in 1964 when this took place. I read somewhere by virtue of this, she may already be a citizen of the US and not know it (well she's looking into it now). If she's able to obtain dual Canadian/U.S. citizenship can I apply for a green card through sponsorship through her? I'm a bit confused about Family green card thing.

Also do I need to have a job offer in order to apply for the H-1B?

If your mother is a US citizen, she would be able to file for PR on your behalf. Keep in mind though that this usually takes quite a bit of time and you may have to wait years for visa number. As for the H1B, you can only obtain this with a job offer that is in a specialized field.

I'm a professional graphic designer. I believe this is one of the H-B1 jobs if I remember correctly. Thank you for that. Even if she resides in Canada she can sponsor me? I'm trying to explore all outlets before figuring what my best course of action is. I'm in no rush at this point. Just doing the research and talking to people.

Even if she resides in Canada she can sponsor me? I'm trying to explore all outlets before figuring what my best course of action is. I'm in no rush at this point. Just doing the research and talking to people.

Hmmm... Not quite sure. Maybe Steven could jump in here for this question. I believe she can still sponsor you but again, if your goal is to be in the US soon, it will take years before anything happens.

If you're a professional GD, why don't you just go for a TN? This particular occupation is on the list. It's much quicker and less cost effective. In the long run your company can either pursue the H1B or Green card for you.

Even if the mother were a US Citien, the waiting period to file for GC is over 6 years right now. She can file an I-130 for you wherever she lives, but sponsorship for GC is years off, so find another way, like TN or H1

Not sure she's even eligible for citizenship herself, but as others have said, even if she is, parental sponsorship petitions can take several years to process, so if you are otherwise eligible, find another way.

And good luck finding a job in the US with the highest unemployment rates since the Great Depression!

Someone else asked a similar question a while ago and Steve pointed out that she would also have to be up to date on her US income tax to be able to sponsor you for a green card. As Steve said, "that's the usual show-stopper"

I know unemployment is high in the US, but somehow I know several people who change jobs because they get offered better positions. I, myself, have been offered (without looking) other positions through head hunters. So you should remain realistic about the current circumstances but I suppose it doesnt hurt to try! And as you said, you're in no hurry. It's lucky your job of choice happens to be on NAFTA.

Best to you!

Like I said I'm in no real rush at this point. It's a possibility for the future and I'm exploring all venues. Thanks

Well, if you're in no hurry, you could definitely explore the option of your mother sponsoring you. If you visit www.visajourney.com, it will give you some tips as to what can be done.