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.