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How to Bring a Relative to the U.S. Through Form I-130

How to Bring a Relative to the U.S. Through Form I-130: A Complete Guide

Bringing a family member to the United States is a dream for many U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents (LPRs). Whether it’s a spouse, child, parent, or sibling, the process involves navigating the U.S. immigration system, and the first step often hinges on submitting Form I-130, Petition for Alien Relative. It’s important to know how to bring a relative to the U.S. through form I-130.

Form I-130 is the official document used to establish the familial relationship necessary for family-based immigration. Once approved, the relative can apply for an immigrant visa or adjustment of status to become a lawful permanent resident.

In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through how to bring a relative to the U.S. using Form I-130, including eligibility requirements, necessary documents, the filing process, and tips to increase your chances of success.

What Is Form I-130?

Form I-130 is a petition filed by a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident to establish a qualifying family relationship with a foreign relative. It is the foundational step in the family-based immigration process.

Key points:

It does not grant immediate immigration status.
Its approval allows the relative to apply for an immigrant visa or adjust status.
It helps USCIS determine whether the relationship qualifies under U.S. immigration law.

Who Can You Petition For Using Form I-130?

The form can be filed for various relatives, depending on your immigration status:

If you are a U.S. citizen, you can petition for:

Spouse
Unmarried children under 21
Parents (if you are 21 or older)
Siblings (brothers and sisters)

If you are a Lawful Permanent Resident (Green Card Holder), you can petition for:

Spouse
Unmarried children under 21

Note: Certain family members, such as siblings and parents, cannot be petitioned by a green card holder.

How to Bring a Relative to the U.S. Using Form I-130: Step-by-Step Process

1. Determine Eligibility and Relationship

Before filing, ensure your relationship qualifies and you meet the eligibility criteria:

You are a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident.
You are legally eligible to file a petition.
The relationship between you and your relative is genuine and legally recognized.

2. Gather Necessary Documents

Supporting documents are essential to prove the relationship and your legal status. These include:

Proof of your U.S. citizenship or permanent residence:
- U.S. passport, birth certificate, naturalization certificate, or green card.
Proof of relationship:
- Marriage certificate (for spouse)
- Birth certificates (for children or parents)
- Adoption records (if applicable)
Proof of legal status if a green card holder:
- Copy of your green card

3. Complete Form I-130

Fill out the form carefully, providing accurate information about:

Your personal details
Your relationship to the relative
Your immigration status
Your relative’s details

Be sure to answer all questions completely and sign the form.

4. Prepare Supporting Evidence

Alongside Form I-130, submit supporting documents such as:

Proof of relationship (marriage or birth certificates)
Evidence of your legal status
Passport-sized photos of you and your relative
Any previous immigration documents relevant to the case

5. Pay the Filing Fee

As of now, the fee for Form I-130 is $535. Check the USCIS website for the latest fee and accepted payment methods.

6. File the Petition

Mail your completed application, supporting documents, and payment to the appropriate USCIS filing address, which depends on your location.

Tip:
Use certified or trackable mailing services to confirm delivery.

7. Track Your Application

USCIS provides a receipt number once your petition is received. Use this to monitor the processing status online through the USCIS website.

8. Respond to Requests for Evidence (RFE)

USCIS may request additional documents or clarification. Respond promptly and thoroughly to avoid delays.

9. Approval and Next Steps

Once USCIS approves your I-130, your relative can proceed with applying for an immigrant visa at the U.S. consulate or adjusting status if they are already in the U.S.