Form I-130, Petition for Alien Relative, is used by U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents to establish the qualifying relationship with certain relatives who wish to immigrate to the United States. Form I-130 instructions are provided below:
1. Filling out the Form:
- Ensure that you use the latest version of Form I-130, which can be downloaded from the USCIS website.
- Complete all sections of the form accurately and legibly. If a question does not apply to your situation, mark it as “N/A.”
2. Eligibility:
- You must be a U.S. citizen or a lawful permanent resident (green card holder) to file Form I-130.
- The form is typically used to petition for spouses, parents, children, and siblings.
3. Supporting Documents:
- Include the required supporting documents, which may include proof of your U.S. citizenship or green card status, evidence of the qualifying relationship (such as marriage or birth certificates), and any additional documents specified in the form instructions.
- All documents not in English must be accompanied by a certified English translation.
4. Filing Fee:
- Include the appropriate filing fee with the form. Check the USCIS website or the form instructions for the current fee amount and acceptable payment methods.
5. Mailing the Form:
- Mail the completed Form I-130 and supporting documents to the USCIS Lockbox facility as instructed on the form and the USCIS website.
6. Form G-1145, E-Notification of Application/Petition Acceptance (optional):
- If you wish to receive an email or text message notification when your petition is accepted, you can include Form G-1145 with your filing.
7. Biometrics Appointment:
- After USCIS receives your petition, they may schedule the beneficiary for a biometrics appointment. Ensure that the beneficiary attends the appointment as scheduled.
8. USCIS Processing:
- USCIS will review the petition and supporting documents. If additional evidence is needed, they may issue a Request for Evidence (RFE).
9. Consular Processing or Adjustment of Status:
- Once the petition is approved, the beneficiary may proceed with either consular processing or adjustment of status, depending on their location and eligibility.
Remember to check the USCIS website for any updates or changes to the form and instructions, and consider consulting with an immigration attorney for personalized guidance based on your specific situation.
Form I-130A Instructions
Form I-130A, Supplemental Information for Spouse Beneficiary, is used to provide additional information about the beneficiary (spouse) when filing Form I-130, Petition for Alien Relative. Note that instructions and requirements may change, so it’s important to check the official USCIS website for the most up-to-date information. Below are general Form I-130A instructions:
1. Purpose:
- Form I-130A is typically filed in conjunction with Form I-130 when sponsoring a spouse. It provides additional information about the spouse beneficiary.
2. Completing the Form:
- Ensure that you are using the latest version of Form I-130A, which can be downloaded from the USCIS website.
- Complete all sections of the form accurately and legibly. If a question does not apply to your situation, mark it as “N/A.”
3. Part 1: Information About You (Petitioner):
- Provide information about yourself, the petitioner, including personal details, immigration history, and contact information.
4. Part 2: Information About Beneficiary:
- Provide information about the beneficiary (spouse), including personal details, immigration history, and contact information.
5. Part 3: Other Information:
- Answer questions about the beneficiary’s marital history, employment, and other relevant information.
6. Certification:
- The petitioner must sign and date the form, certifying that the information provided is true and correct to the best of their knowledge.
7. Supporting Documents:
- Include any necessary supporting documents, such as proof of the petitioner’s U.S. citizenship or green card status and any other documents that support the information provided in Form I-130A.
8. Filing with Form I-130:
- Form I-130A is typically filed together with Form I-130. Make sure both forms are completed and submitted together.
9. Mailing the Forms:
- Mail the completed Form I-130 and Form I-130A, along with supporting documents, to the USCIS Lockbox facility as instructed on the forms and the USCIS website.
10. Filing Fee:
- Include the appropriate filing fee with the forms. Check the USCIS website or the form instructions for the current fee amount and acceptable payment methods.
Always refer to the most recent version of the form and its instructions on the USCIS website. If you have any doubts or specific questions about your case, consider seeking advice from an immigration attorney for guidance tailored to your situation.