Are you eager to unite with your loved ones in the United States? Family reunification is a fundamental principle of U.S. immigration, and it all begins with Form I-130, known as the Petition for Alien Relative. This essential document serves as the cornerstone of the family-based Green Card process and paves the way for your family members to join you in the land of opportunity.
Understanding Form I-130
Form I-130 is your key to proving a valid family relationship between U.S. citizens or Green Card holders and their relatives seeking to immigrate to the United States. This petition is your first step toward bringing your family together, and it must be submitted to the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
Who Can File Form I-130?
Wondering who can file Form I-130? In general, it can be filed by an adult U.S. citizen or Green Card holder for another person seeking a Green Card. U.S. citizens can file for their spouses, children, parents, and siblings, while Green Card holders can request Green Cards for their spouses and unmarried children.
Gathering Supporting Documents
Accompanying Form I-130, you and your beneficiary must submit various documents to validate your relationship. These may include copies of your U.S. passport, U.S. birth certificate, naturalization certificate, or Green Card, as well as the foreign passport of the beneficiary. Additional documents like marriage certificates, joint bank account statements, or adoption papers may be necessary, depending on your case. If any of these documents are in a language other than English, you’ll also need certified English translations.
Filing Form I-130
The USCIS website provides a free download of Form I-130. After downloading, you can either fill it out electronically or by hand. This comprehensive 12-page form collects essential information about the sponsor and beneficiary, ultimately serving as proof of your eligibility for the Green Card application.
Understanding the Costs
Preparing to file Form I-130 comes with a price tag. As of May 2022, the filing fee for Form I-130 is $535. However, as the Green Card process progresses, additional fees will apply, including those for Form I-485 and biometrics appointments.
Navigating the Processing Time
The processing time for Form I-130 varies based on your relationship and category. Immediate relatives, such as spouses or children under 21, can expect a processing time between 5 and 12 months. However, those in other family preference categories may face longer waiting periods, possibly spanning several years. The USCIS will notify you of the progress, and for immediate relatives, approvals typically occur within 5 to 9 months.
What’s Next in Your Green Card Journey?
Once Form I-130 establishes the validity of your family relationship, the next step is filing Form I-485. This application will grant your beneficiary lawful permanent resident status in the United States, bringing you one step closer to being reunited with your loved ones.
Stay tuned as we guide you through the intricate process of family-based immigration with SG Immigration Solutions. We’re here to help you navigate the path to reunification with your family in the USA.
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Legal Disclaimer: SG immigration Solutions is a document preparer service and is not a law firm. We are not licensed to practice law, provide legal advice, or represent you in any legal matter. The documents we prepare are based on the information you provide, and they are not a substitute for legal advice from a qualified attorney.
