I-130 vs. I-129
Navigating USCIS forms can be tricky. Here's a breakdown of the key differences between Form I-130 and Form I-129 to help you figure out which one you need:
Form I-130: Petition for Alien Relative
Who uses it? U.S. citizens or green card holders petitioning for family members to immigrate to the US.
Who can be sponsored? Spouses, unmarried children (under 21 and over 21), parents (for US citizens only), and siblings (for US citizens only).
What happens after approval? The family member can apply for an immigrant visa or adjust their status to green card holder.
Form I-129: Petition for a Nonimmigrant Worker
Who uses it? U.S. employers petitioning for foreign workers to come to the US temporarily.
Who can be sponsored? Workers in various categories like H-1B specialty occupations, L-1 intracompany transfers, or professionals under NAFTA.
What happens after approval? The foreign worker can apply for a nonimmigrant visa or change their status if already in the US.
Remember:
Form I-130 is for family-based immigration.
Form I-129 is for employer-sponsored temporary workers.