Thinking of bringing your family to the US to be closer? The I-130 form is your first step, but there are some key things to remember to avoid any roadblocks.

One Form Per Family Member

This might seem obvious, but each relative you want to petition for needs their own separate I-130 form. So, if you want to sponsor your spouse and child, that's two separate forms.

Who Can You Petition For?

As a US citizen or lawful permanent resident, you can use this form to petition for some close family members, like:

• Your spouse

• Your unmarried children under 21

• Your parents (if you're a US citizen over 21)

• Your siblings (if you're a US citizen over 21)

Gathering Your Documents

Every I-130 form needs some proof to back it up. This typically includes things like:

• Proof of your US citizenship or permanent residency status (think passport, green card)

• Documents showing your family relationship (birth certificates, marriage licenses)

• Any additional documents mentioned in the form's instructions

The Process: Petition to Approval

1. Get Prepared: Fill out the I-130 form(s) and gather all the supporting documents. Don't forget the filing fee for each form!

2. Send it In: Mail your forms and fees to the USCIS address listed in the instructions.

3. Wait for Confirmation: USCIS will send you a notice confirming they received your petition.

4. Review and Response: USCIS will review your petition and might ask for more information if needed. Be prepared to answer any questions.

5. Approval! (Hopefully): If USCIS approves your petition, they'll send it to the National Visa Center (NVC) if your family member is abroad. If they're already in the US, you might be able to adjust their status.

Important Reminders

• Remember, separate forms for each relative.

• There's a filing fee for each form.

• Double-check all information to avoid delays.

By understanding these steps, you can navigate the I-130 process more smoothly and get one step closer to reuniting with your family in the US. For more specific details, you can visit the USCIS website (https://www.uscis.gov/). Remember, a little planning goes a long way!