Navigating the Immigration Process: Form I-130 Explained

Form I-130, Petition for Alien Relative, is used by U.S. citizens or lawful permanent residents to establish the qualifying relationship with a family member who wishes to immigrate to the United States. 

Here are general Form I-130 instructions:

• Download the Form:

You can download the most recent version of Form I-130 from the official U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) website.

• Read the Instructions:

Before you start filling out the form, carefully read the instructions provided with Form I-130. The instructions will guide you through the completion process and provide important information.

• Complete the Form:

Type or print in black ink. Fill out all the required fields accurately. If a question does not apply to you, write “N/A” (not applicable) in the space provided.

• Part 1: Relationship Information:

Provide your personal information, including your name, address, and contact details.

If you are a U.S. citizen petitioning for a family member, indicate your citizenship status.

Specify the relationship with the beneficiary (the person you are petitioning for) and provide their information.

• Part 2: Information About You (Petitioner):

Provide details about your citizenship, immigration status (if applicable), and other personal information.

• Part 3: Additional Information About You (Petitioner):

Answer the questions related to your criminal history, if any. If you have a criminal record, provide the necessary details.

• Part 4: Information About Beneficiary:

Provide details about the beneficiary, including their full name, address, and other required information.

• Part 5: Other Information:

Answer the questions related to previous filings, if applicable.

• Part 6: Petitioner’s Statement, Contact Information, Declaration, and Signature:

Sign and date the form. If someone helped you fill out the form, they must also sign and provide their contact information.

• Filing Fee:

Include the required filing fee with your application. Check the USCIS website for the most up-to-date fee information.

• Supporting Documents:

Include supporting documents as evidence of the qualifying relationship. This may include birth certificates, marriage certificates, etc. Ensure that all documents are clear and legible.

• Mail the Form:

Mail the completed Form I-130 along with supporting documents and the filing fee to the appropriate USCIS address. Check the USCIS website or the form instructions for the correct address.

• Check Application Status:

After submitting the form, you can check the status of your application online through the USCIS website.

Form I-130 checklist of required documents

The Form I-130, Petition for Alien Relative, is used by U.S. citizens or permanent residents to petition for a family member to immigrate to the United States. The specific required documents may vary based on individual circumstances and the relationship between the petitioner and the beneficiary. However, here is a general checklist of commonly required documents for filing Form I-130:

• Form I-130, Petition for Alien Relative:

Ensure the form is properly filled out and signed by the petitioner.

• Proof of U.S. Citizenship or Permanent Residency:

For U.S. citizens: A copy of a birth certificate, U.S. passport, or Certificate of Naturalization.

For permanent residents: A copy of both sides of the green card.

• Proof of the Family Relationship:

For spouses: Marriage certificate.

For children: Birth certificate showing the relationship to the petitioner.

For parents: Birth certificate showing the relationship to the petitioner.

• Passport Photos:

Include passport-sized photos of the petitioner and the beneficiary.

• Proof of Name Change (if applicable):

If either the petitioner or beneficiary has changed their name, include legal documentation of the change.

• Evidence of a Bona Fide Relationship:

Include documents such as joint bank accounts, joint property ownership, and other evidence that demonstrates a genuine relationship between the petitioner and beneficiary.

• Affidavit of Support (Form I-864):

This form is required to demonstrate that the petitioner has the financial means to support the beneficiary. Include supporting financial documents such as tax returns, W-2s, and proof of employment.

• Filing Fee:

Include the required filing fee with the petition. Check the USCIS website for the current fee amount.

• G-1145, E-Notification of Application/Petition Acceptance (optional):

If you want to receive electronic notification of your petition’s acceptance, include this form.

• Any Additional Supporting Documents:

Depending on the specific circumstances, additional documents may be required. Check the USCIS instructions and guidelines for the most up-to-date information.