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Fill in Your USCIS I-130 Template

The USCIS I-130 form, officially known as the Petition for Alien Relative, is a crucial document for U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents who wish to sponsor a family member for immigration. This form establishes the relationship between the petitioner and the beneficiary, paving the way for the relative to apply for a green card. Understanding the requirements and process associated with the I-130 can significantly impact the success of the immigration journey.

Table of Contents

The USCIS I-130 form, also known as the Petition for Alien Relative, plays a crucial role in the family-based immigration process in the United States. This form is designed to establish a qualifying relationship between a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident and their foreign relative. By submitting the I-130, petitioners initiate the process for their relatives to obtain a visa or green card, allowing them to live and work in the U.S. The form requires detailed information about both the petitioner and the beneficiary, including personal details, proof of the relationship, and supporting documentation. It is important to provide accurate information, as any discrepancies can lead to delays or denials. Additionally, understanding the filing fees, processing times, and potential interview requirements associated with the I-130 can significantly impact the overall experience. As families navigate this essential step in the immigration process, being well-informed about the I-130 form can help ensure a smoother journey toward reunification.

Sample - USCIS I-130 Form

Petition for Alien Relative

USCIS

Department of Homeland Security

Form I-130

OMB No. 1615-0012

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services

Expires 02/28/2027

For USCIS Use Only

Fee Stamp

Action Stamp

A-Number

A-

Initial Receipt

Resubmitted

Relocated

Section of Law/Visa Category

Received

201(b) Spouse - IR-1/CR-1

203(a)(1) Unm. S/D - F1-1

203(a)(2)(B) Unm. S/D - F2-4

201(b) Child - IR-2/CR-2

203(a)(2)(A) Spouse - F2-1

203(a)(3) Married S/D - F3-1

Sent

201(b) Parent - IR-5

203(a)(2)(A) Child - F2-2

203(a)(4) Brother/Sister - F4-1

Completed

Approved

Petition was filed on (Priority Date mm/dd/yyyy):

Field Investigation

Personal Interview

204(a)(2)(A) Resolved

Previously Forwarded

Pet. A-File Reviewed

I-485 Filed Simultaneously

Returned

PDR request granted/denied - New priority date (mm/dd/yyyy):

203(g) Resolved

Ben. A-File Reviewed

204(g) Resolved

Remarks

At which USCIS office (e.g., NBC, VSC, LOS, CRO) was Form I-130 adjudicated?

To be completed by an attorney or accredited representative (if any).

Select this box if

Volag Number

Attorney State Bar Number

Attorney or Accredited Representative

Form G-28 is

(if any)

(if applicable)

USCIS Online Account Number (if any)

attached.

► START HERE - Type or print in black ink.

If you need extra space to complete any section of this petition, use the space provided in Part 9. Additional Information.

Complete and submit as many copies of Part 9., as necessary, with your petition.

Part 1. Relationship (You are the Petitioner. Your relative is the Beneficiary)

1.I am filing this petition for my (Select only one box):

Spouse

Parent

Brother/Sister

Child

2.If you are filing this petition for your child or parent, select the box that describes your relationship (Select only one box):

Child was born to parents who were married to each other at the time of the child's birth

Part 2. Information About You (Petitioner)

1.Alien Registration Number (A-Number) (if any)

► A-

2.USCIS Online Account Number (if any)

►

3.U.S. Social Security Number (if any)

►

Stepchild/Stepparent

Child was born to parents who were not married to each other at the time of the child's birth

Child was adopted (not an Orphan or Hague Convention adoptee)

3.If the beneficiary is your brother/sister, are you related by

adoption?

Yes

4.Did you gain lawful permanent resident status or

citizenship through adoption?

Yes

Your Full Name

4.a. Family Name

(Last Name)

4.b. Given Name

(First Name)

4.c. Middle Name

Form I-130 Edition 04/01/24

Page 1 of 12

Part 2. Information About You (Petitioner)

(continued)

Other Names Used (if any)

Provide all other names you have ever used, including aliases, maiden name, and nicknames.

5.a. Family Name (Last Name)

5.b. Given Name (First Name)

5.c. Middle Name

Other Information

6.City/Town/Village of Birth

7.Country of Birth

8.	Date of Birth (mm/dd/yyyy)
9.
9.	Sex		Male		Female

Mailing Address						(USPS ZIP Code Lookup)
10.a. In Care Of Name
10.b.
	Street Number
	Street Number
10.c.	and Name

	Apt.	Ste.			Flr.
10.d.	City or Town



10.e.				10.f.
10.e.	State			10.f.	ZIP Code
10.g.
	Province
	Province
10.h.	Postal Code


10.i.	Country
10.i.	Country

11.Is your current mailing address the same as your physical

address?

Yes

If you answered "No" to Item Number 11., provide information on your physical address in Item Numbers 12.a. - 13.b.

Address History

Provide your physical addresses for the last five years, whether inside or outside the United States. Provide your current address first if it is different from your mailing address in Item

Numbers 10.a. - 10.i.

Physical Address 1
12.a. Street Number
12.a. Street Number
12.b.	and Name

	Apt.	Ste.		Flr.
12.c.	City or Town


12.d.
			12.e. ZIP Code
	State		12.e. ZIP Code
12.f.
	Province
	Province
12.g.	Postal Code


12.h.	Country
12.h.	Country

13.a. Date From (mm/dd/yyyy)

13.b. Date To (mm/dd/yyyy)					PRESENT

Physical Address 2
14.a. Street Number
14.a. Street Number
14.b.	and Name

	Apt.	Ste.		Flr.
14.c.	City or Town


14.d.
			14.e. ZIP Code
	State		14.e. ZIP Code
14.f.
	Province
	Province
14.g.	Postal Code


14.h.	Country
14.h.	Country

15.a. Date From (mm/dd/yyyy)

15.b. Date To (mm/dd/yyyy)

Your Marital Information

16. How many times have you been married? ►

17.Current Marital Status

Single, Never Married		Married	Divorced
Widowed	Separated	Annulled

Form I-130 Edition 04/01/24

Page 2 of 12

Part 2. Information About You (Petitioner)

(continued)

18.Date of Current Marriage (if currently married)

(mm/dd/yyyy)

Place of Your Current Marriage (if married)

19.a. City or Town

19.b. State

19.c. Province

19.d. Country

Names of All Your Spouses (if any)

Provide information on your current spouse (if currently married) first and then list all your prior spouses (if any).

Spouse 1

20.a. Family Name

(Last Name)

20.b. Given Name

(First Name)

20.c. Middle Name

21. Date Marriage Ended (mm/dd/yyyy)

Spouse 2

22.a. Family Name

(Last Name)

22.b. Given Name

(First Name)

22.c. Middle Name

23. Date Marriage Ended (mm/dd/yyyy)

27.Country of Birth

28.City/Town/Village of Residence

29.Country of Residence

Parent 2's Information

Full Name of Parent 2

30.a. Family Name

(Last Name)

30.b. Given Name

(First Name)

30.c. Middle Name

31. Date of Birth (mm/dd/yyyy)

32. Sex

Male

Female

33.Country of Birth

34.City/Town/Village of Residence

35.Country of Residence

Additional Information About You (Petitioner)

36.I am a (Select only one box):

U.S. Citizen

Lawful Permanent Resident

If you are a U.S. citizen, complete Item Number 37.

37.My citizenship was acquired through (Select only one box):

Birth in the United States

Information About Your Parents

Parent 1's Information

Full Name of Parent 1

24.a. Family Name

(Last Name)

24.b. Given Name

(First Name)

24.c. Middle Name

25.Date of Birth (mm/dd/yyyy)

26. Sex

Male

Female

Naturalization

Parents

38.Have you obtained a Certificate of Naturalization or a

Certificate of Citizenship?

Yes

If you answered "Yes" to Item Number 38., complete the following:

39.a. Certificate Number

39.b. Place of Issuance

39.c. Date of Issuance (mm/dd/yyyy)

Form I-130 Edition 04/01/24

Page 3 of 12

Part 2. Information About You (Petitioner)

(continued)

If you are a lawful permanent resident, complete Item

Numbers 40.a. - 41.

40.a. Class of Admission

40.b. Date of Admission (mm/dd/yyyy)

Place of Admission 40.c. City or Town

40.d State

41.Did you gain lawful permanent resident status through marriage to a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident?

Yes

Employment History

Provide your employment history for the last five years, whether inside or outside the United States. Provide your current employment first. If you are currently unemployed, type or print "Unemployed" in Item Number 42.

Employer 1

42.Name of Employer/Company

43.a. Street Number

and Name

43.b.	Apt.	Ste.		Flr.
43.c.	City or Town




43.d.	State		43.e. ZIP Code
43.f.
	Province
	Province
43.g.	Postal Code

Employer 2

46.Name of Employer/Company

47.a. Street Number

and Name

47.b.	Apt.	Ste.		Flr.
47.c.	City or Town




47.d.	State		47.e. ZIP Code
47.f.
	Province
	Province
47.g.	Postal Code


47.h.	Country
47.h.	Country

48.Your Occupation

49.a. Date From (mm/dd/yyyy)

49.b. Date To (mm/dd/yyyy)

Part 3. Biographic Information

NOTE: Provide the biographic information about you, the petitioner.

1.Ethnicity (Select only one box)

Hispanic or Latino

Not Hispanic or Latino

2.Race (Select all applicable boxes)

White

Asian

Black or African American

American Indian or Alaska Native

Native Hawaiian or Other Pacific Islander

43.h. Country
44.
44.	Your Occupation
45.a.
	Date From (mm/dd/yyyy)
	Date From (mm/dd/yyyy)


45.b.	Date To (mm/dd/yyyy)	PRESENT

Height

Feet

4.Weight

5.Eye Color (Select only one box)

Black	Blue
Gray	Green
Maroon	Pink

Inches

Pounds

Brown

Hazel

Unknown/Other

Form I-130 Edition 04/01/24

Page 4 of 12

Part 3. Biographic Information (continued)

6.Hair Color (Select only one box)

Bald (No hair)	Black	Blond
Brown	Gray	Red
Sandy	White	Unknown/Other

Part 4. Information About Beneficiary

1.Alien Registration Number (A-Number) (if any)

Beneficiary's Physical Address

If the beneficiary lives outside the United States in a home without a street number or name, leave Item Numbers 11.a. and 11.b. blank.

11.a. Street Number

and Name

11.b.	Apt.	Ste.	Flr.
11.c.	City or Town

► A-

2.USCIS Online Account Number (if any)

►

3.U.S. Social Security Number (if any)

►

11.d. State

11.f. Province

11.g. Postal Code 11.h. Country

11.e. ZIP Code

Beneficiary's Full Name

4.a. Family Name

(Last Name)

4.b. Given Name

(First Name)

4.c. Middle Name

Other Names Used (if any)

Provide all other names the beneficiary has ever used, including aliases, maiden name, and nicknames.

5.a. Family Name (Last Name)

5.b. Given Name (First Name)

5.c. Middle Name

Other Information About Beneficiary

6.City/Town/Village of Birth

7.Country of Birth

8.	Date of Birth (mm/dd/yyyy)
9.	Sex	Male	Female

10.Has anyone else ever filed a petition for the beneficiary?

Yes

Unknown

NOTE: Select "Unknown" only if you do not know, and the beneficiary also does not know, if anyone else has ever filed a petition for the beneficiary.

Other Address and Contact Information

Provide the address in the United States where the beneficiary intends to live, if different from Item Numbers 11.a. - 11.h. If the address is the same, type or print "SAME" in Item Number 12.a.

12.a Street Number

and Name

12.b.	Apt.	Ste.		Flr.
12.c.	City or Town



12.d.	State		12.e. ZIP Code
12.d.	State		12.e. ZIP Code

Provide the beneficiary's address outside the United States, if different from Item Numbers 11.a. - 11.h. If the address is the same, type or print "SAME" in Item Number 13.a.

13.a. Street Number

and Name

13.b.

Apt.

Ste.

Flr.

13.c. City or Town

13.d. Province

13.e. Postal Code

13.f. Country

14.Daytime Telephone Number (if any)

Form I-130 Edition 04/01/24

Page 5 of 12

Part 4. Information About Beneficiary

(continued)

15.Mobile Telephone Number (if any)

16.Email Address (if any)

Beneficiary's Marital Information

17.How many times has the beneficiary been married?

►

18.Current Marital Status

Single, Never Married		Married	Divorced
Widowed	Separated	Annulled

19.Date of Current Marriage (if currently married)

(mm/dd/yyyy)

24. Date Marriage Ended (mm/dd/yyyy)

Information About Beneficiary's Family

Provide information about the beneficiary's spouse and children.

Person 1

25.a. Family Name

(Last Name)

25.b. Given Name

(First Name)

25.c. Middle Name

26. Relationship

27. Date of Birth (mm/dd/yyyy)

28.Country of Birth

Place of Beneficiary's Current Marriage (if married)

20.a. City or Town

20.b. State

20.c. Province

20.d. Country

Names of Beneficiary's Spouses (if any)

Provide information on the beneficiary's current spouse (if currently married) first and then list all the beneficiary's prior spouses (if any).

Spouse 1

21.a. Family Name

(Last Name)

21.b. Given Name

(First Name)

21.c. Middle Name

22. Date Marriage Ended (mm/dd/yyyy)

Person 2

29.a. Family Name

(Last Name)

29.b. Given Name

(First Name)

29.c. Middle Name

30.Relationship

31.Date of Birth (mm/dd/yyyy)

32.Country of Birth

Person 3

33.a. Family Name

(Last Name)

33.b. Given Name

(First Name)

33.c. Middle Name

34.Relationship

35.Date of Birth (mm/dd/yyyy)

36.Country of Birth

Spouse 2

23.a. Family Name

(Last Name)

23.b. Given Name

(First Name)

23.c. Middle Name

Form I-130 Edition 04/01/24

Page 6 of 12

↓ USCIS I-130 PDF

File Specs

Fact Name	Description
Purpose	The I-130 form is used to establish a relationship between a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident and a relative who wishes to immigrate to the United States.
Eligibility	U.S. citizens can file for their spouse, children, parents, and siblings. Lawful permanent residents can file for their spouse and unmarried children.
Filing Fee	The current filing fee for the I-130 form is $535. Check for any updates or changes in fees before submitting.
Processing Time	Processing times can vary significantly based on the service center and the applicant's situation. It can take several months to over a year.
Supporting Documents	Applicants must submit proof of the relationship, such as marriage certificates or birth certificates, along with the I-130 form.
Where to File	The form must be filed with the appropriate USCIS service center based on the applicant's location and the relationship type.
Governing Laws	The I-130 form is governed by the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA) and related regulations under U.S. immigration law.
Online Filing	Eligible applicants can file the I-130 form online through the USCIS website, making the process more convenient.
Important Updates	Stay informed about any changes to immigration laws or policies that may affect the I-130 process by regularly checking the USCIS website.

USCIS I-130 - Usage Guidelines

After completing the USCIS I-130 form, it is essential to prepare for the next steps in the immigration process. This includes gathering supporting documents and understanding the submission procedure to ensure a smooth application experience.

Obtain the USCIS I-130 form from the official USCIS website or an authorized source.
Review the form instructions carefully to understand each section and requirement.
Fill out Part 1, providing information about the petitioner, including your name, address, date of birth, and other personal details.
Complete Part 2, where you will provide information about the beneficiary, such as their name, address, date of birth, and relationship to you.
In Part 3, answer questions regarding your marital status and provide details about any previous marriages, if applicable.
Fill out Part 4, which asks for information about your children, if you have any.
Complete Part 5 by signing and dating the form. Ensure that you sign in the designated area.
Gather the necessary supporting documents, such as proof of your U.S. citizenship or lawful permanent residency and evidence of your relationship with the beneficiary.
Review the completed form and supporting documents for accuracy and completeness.
Prepare the payment for the filing fee and include it with your application.
Mail the completed form and documents to the appropriate USCIS address based on your location and the beneficiary's situation.

Your Questions, Answered

What is the USCIS I-130 form?

The USCIS I-130 form, also known as the Petition for Alien Relative, is a document used by U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents to establish a qualifying relationship with a foreign relative. This form is the first step in helping your relative apply for a green card and become a lawful permanent resident of the United States.

Who can file the I-130 form?

U.S. citizens can file the I-130 form for their spouses, children, parents, and siblings. Lawful permanent residents can only file for their spouses and unmarried children. It is important to ensure that the relationship qualifies under U.S. immigration law before submitting the form.

What documents are required to submit with the I-130 form?

When submitting the I-130 form, you will need to provide proof of your relationship with the relative. This may include marriage certificates, birth certificates, or other legal documents. Additionally, you must include proof of your own citizenship or permanent residency, such as a copy of your passport, naturalization certificate, or green card.

How much does it cost to file the I-130 form?

The filing fee for the I-130 form is currently $535. This fee must be paid at the time of submission. Be sure to check the USCIS website for any updates on fees, as they can change over time. Payment can be made via check, money order, or online if filing electronically.

How long does it take to process the I-130 form?

Processing times for the I-130 form can vary based on several factors, including the service center handling your case and the specifics of your situation. Generally, it can take anywhere from a few months to over a year. You can check the current processing times on the USCIS website for more accurate information.

Can I check the status of my I-130 petition?

Yes, you can check the status of your I-130 petition online through the USCIS website. You will need your receipt number, which is provided when you submit your application. This allows you to track the progress of your petition and receive updates on any actions taken.

What happens after the I-130 form is approved?

Once the I-130 form is approved, the next steps depend on whether your relative is inside or outside the United States. If they are in the U.S., they may be eligible to apply for adjustment of status. If they are outside the U.S., they will need to go through consular processing to obtain an immigrant visa. It’s important to follow the specific instructions provided by USCIS after approval to ensure a smooth transition to permanent residency.

Common mistakes

Inaccurate Information: One of the most common mistakes is providing incorrect details. Double-check names, dates, and other personal information to ensure accuracy.
Missing Signatures: Forgetting to sign the form can lead to delays. Ensure that all required signatures are included before submission.
Omitting Required Documents: Failing to include necessary supporting documents can result in rejection. Always refer to the instructions to confirm what is needed.
Not Using the Latest Version: Using an outdated version of the I-130 form can cause issues. Always download the most current form from the USCIS website.
Incorrect Filing Fee: Submitting the wrong fee can delay processing. Check the USCIS website for the current fee and acceptable payment methods.
Incomplete Sections: Leaving sections blank can lead to confusion. Fill out every applicable section thoroughly to avoid complications.
Not Following Instructions: Each form has specific instructions. Ignoring these can lead to mistakes, so read them carefully before filling out the form.
Using Incorrect Addresses: Providing the wrong address for yourself or your beneficiary can cause significant delays. Verify that all addresses are accurate and up-to-date.
Failing to Keep Copies: Not keeping a copy of your submitted form can be problematic. Always make copies of everything you send to USCIS for your records.

Documents used along the form

The USCIS I-130 form, officially known as the Petition for Alien Relative, is a crucial document for U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents who wish to sponsor a family member for immigration. Along with the I-130 form, several other documents are often required to support the application. Below is a list of five common forms and documents that may accompany the I-130 submission.

Form I-485: This is the Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status. It is used by individuals who are already in the U.S. and wish to apply for a green card based on their relationship to the I-130 petitioner.
Form I-864: The Affidavit of Support is required to demonstrate that the petitioner has adequate financial means to support the immigrant. This form helps ensure that the immigrant will not become a public charge.
Form I-797: This is the Notice of Action issued by USCIS. It serves as proof that the I-130 petition has been received and is being processed. This document is essential for tracking the status of the application.
Form G-325A: The Biographic Information form collects personal details about the petitioner and the beneficiary. It helps USCIS verify identities and assess the relationship between the parties involved.
Supporting Documents: This category includes various documents such as birth certificates, marriage licenses, and evidence of the relationship between the petitioner and the beneficiary. These documents are vital for establishing the legitimacy of the claimed relationship.

Gathering these forms and documents is an important step in the immigration process. Ensuring that each item is complete and accurate can significantly impact the outcome of the I-130 petition. It is advisable to review all requirements carefully and seek assistance if needed.

Similar forms

The USCIS I-130 form, known as the Petition for Alien Relative, shares similarities with the I-485 form, which is the Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status. Both forms are part of the process for family members seeking to immigrate to the United States. While the I-130 establishes the relationship between the petitioner and the beneficiary, the I-485 allows the beneficiary to apply for a green card after the I-130 is approved. Together, they facilitate the transition from a temporary to a permanent resident status.

Another document comparable to the I-130 is the I-864 form, also known as the Affidavit of Support. This form is required when a U.S. citizen or permanent resident sponsors a relative for a green card. Like the I-130, the I-864 demonstrates the financial capability of the sponsor to support the immigrant. This ensures that the immigrant will not rely on government assistance, reinforcing the financial commitment made by the sponsor.

The I-131 form, or Application for Travel Document, is another document that shares a connection with the I-130. While the I-130 focuses on establishing family relationships, the I-131 allows individuals to apply for a re-entry permit or advance parole. This is crucial for individuals who may need to travel outside the U.S. while their immigration process is ongoing, ensuring they can return without jeopardizing their application status.

Similar to the I-130, the I-765 form, Application for Employment Authorization, allows individuals to apply for the right to work in the United States. While the I-130 is about family relationships, the I-765 is often filed by individuals who are waiting for their green card approval. Both forms are essential in the broader immigration process, allowing applicants to establish their presence and support themselves while their applications are pending.

The I-140 form, or Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker, is another document that parallels the I-130. While the I-130 is used for family-based immigration, the I-140 is utilized for employment-based immigration. Both forms require the petitioner to demonstrate eligibility and support the application with necessary documentation. They are vital steps in securing legal status for individuals seeking to live and work in the U.S.

Lastly, the I-601 form, Application for Waiver of Grounds of Inadmissibility, is relevant in situations where an applicant may be deemed inadmissible to the U.S. The I-130 may be filed alongside the I-601 if the beneficiary has issues that could prevent them from obtaining a visa. Both forms work together to address potential barriers in the immigration process, ensuring that family reunification can still occur despite legal challenges.

Dos and Don'ts

When filling out the USCIS I-130 form, attention to detail is crucial. Here are seven important dos and don'ts to keep in mind:

Do read the instructions carefully before starting the form.
Don't leave any required fields blank; provide all necessary information.
Do use black ink and write clearly to ensure readability.
Don't submit the form without double-checking for errors.
Do include all supporting documents as specified in the instructions.
Don't forget to sign and date the form before submission.
Do keep a copy of the completed form and all documents for your records.

Misconceptions

The USCIS I-130 form, also known as the Petition for Alien Relative, is a crucial document for those seeking to bring family members to the United States. However, there are several misconceptions surrounding this form that can lead to confusion. Here are five common misconceptions:

Only U.S. citizens can file the I-130 form. This is not true. Lawful permanent residents (green card holders) can also file the I-130 for their spouses and unmarried children.
Filing the I-130 guarantees a visa. While the I-130 is an important first step, it does not guarantee that a visa will be issued. The petition must be approved, and the relative must meet all eligibility requirements for a visa.
Once the I-130 is approved, the process is complete. Approval of the I-130 is just one part of the process. After approval, the petition must go through further steps, including consular processing or adjustment of status, depending on the situation.
There is no fee to file the I-130. In fact, there is a filing fee associated with the I-130 form. It is important to check the USCIS website for the most current fee information.
All family members can be included in one I-130 form. Each family member requires a separate I-130 form. You cannot list multiple relatives on a single petition.

Understanding these misconceptions can help individuals navigate the immigration process more effectively. Always refer to official USCIS resources for the most accurate and up-to-date information.

Key takeaways

When filling out and using the USCIS I-130 form, it is essential to understand several key points to ensure a smooth application process.

The I-130 form is used to establish a family relationship between a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident and a foreign relative.
Accurate and complete information is crucial. Any errors or omissions may delay processing or result in denial.
All required supporting documents must accompany the I-130 form. These documents may include proof of citizenship, marriage certificates, and birth certificates.
Filing fees are associated with the I-130 form. Be sure to check the current fee schedule on the USCIS website.
Once submitted, applicants can track the status of their I-130 petition through the USCIS online portal.
Approval of the I-130 does not guarantee a visa; it is the first step in a multi-step immigration process.

Understanding these key takeaways can help in navigating the I-130 form process effectively.