What is Form I-130?
The form I-130 is a petition for a foreign relative to obtain a U.S. green card. It's needed by U.S. citizens or lawful permanent residents who want to help a family member immigrate to the United States. By filling out this form, you're officially requesting the U.S. government to recognize your family relationship and consider granting your relative permanent residency. It's the first step in a family-based immigration process, vital for reuniting families across borders.
What is Form I-130 used for?
The Form I-130 is essential for individuals aiming to establish a family member's eligibility to immigrate to the U.S. Here's what it's used for:
- To prove a valid family relationship between the petitioner and the beneficiary.
- To initiate the process for a family member to obtain a Green Card.
- To classify the status of the beneficiary under specific family-based visa categories.
How to fill out Form I-130?
- 1
Start by entering your personal information in Part 1. Include your full name, address, and relationship to the beneficiary.
- 2
In Part 2, provide detailed information about the beneficiary (the person you are sponsoring).
- 3
Complete the Additional Information sections if applicable, based on your answers in previous parts.
- 4
Answer all questions truthfully and review for accuracy to avoid processing delays.
- 5
Sign and date the form. Refer to official guidelines for specific signature requirements.
- 6
Compile required supporting documents as listed in the instructions.
- 7
Submit the form and documents to the appropriate address as directed by the USCIS.
Who is required to fill out Form I-130?
Form I-130 is filled out by U.S. citizens or lawful permanent residents who want to sponsor a family member for immigration.
The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) uses this form to process the family member's visa application.
When is Form I-130 not required?
The form I-130 is not necessary for individuals who already hold U.S. citizenship or are current permanent residents looking to sponsor a relative for immigration.
Those with humanitarian protections, such as refugees or asylees, within the United States, do not need to submit this form for their family members to join them.
Moreover, non-immigrant visa holders, such as tourists or business visitors, are not required to complete the form I-130 for their stay or activities in the U.S.
When is Form I-130 due?
The deadline for Form I-130, Petition for Alien Relative, does not have a specific due date. It should be submitted when you are ready to sponsor your relative for U.S. permanent residency.
Ensure all required information and documents are gathered before submitting to avoid delays in processing.
How to get a blank Form I-130?
To get an USCIS-issued blank form I-130, visit our platform where the template is pre-loaded in our editor for you to fill out. Our website helps you complete and download the form, though it doesn't support submitting it.
How to sign Form I-130?
To sign Form I-130, you can use a traditional wet signature. Always verify current guidelines for the most accurate method.
PDF Guru supports the creation of simple electronic signatures for forms that accept them. For wet signatures, download and print the form from PDF Guru, then sign it manually.
Where to file Form I-130?
This form can be submitted online via the official website. It simplifies the process by allowing digital submission.
Alternatively, it can also be sent by mail. This option suits those preferring traditional methods or without internet access.
