Form I-130 and Form I-130A: Your First Step to Reuniting Your Family in the U.S.

What Exactly Are Forms I-130 and I-130A?

 

Form I-130: This core form is completed by the U.S. citizen or permanent resident on behalf of their relative seeking to immigrate. Unlike many immigration forms filled out by the intending immigrant themselves, Form I-130 initiates the sponsorship process.  
 

Form I-130A (Optional): This supplementary form provides additional information specifically when a spouse is petitioning for their immigrant spouse.

 

While Approval Doesn't Guarantee Immediate Residency

 

Submitting and receiving approval for Form I-130 alone doesn't grant immediate immigration benefits. It serves as a critical foundation, confirming your qualifying family relationship as a basis for your relative to pursue permanent residency.

 

Taking the First Step: When to File Form I-130

 

Regardless of your relative's current location (inside or outside the U.S.), filing Form I-130 on their behalf is the initial step. However, processing times can vary significantly depending on your relative's category:

 

• Immediate Relatives (Faster Processing):  These include spouses of U.S. citizens, unmarried children under 21 of citizens, and parents of U.S. citizens over 21.  Immediate relatives benefit from faster processing due to no annual visa limitations set by Congress.

• Family Preference Categories (Potentially Longer Wait):  This category encompasses a broader range of relatives. Due to yearly visa quotas, processing times can be substantially longer (from 6 months to potentially over 6 years) and depend on the date the I-130 was submitted.

 

Considering Where Your Relative Lives: Concurrent vs. Separate Filings

 

Relative Living in the U.S. (as an Immediate Relative): If your relative qualifies as an immediate relative of a U.S. citizen, they may be eligible to file Form I-485 (Adjustment of Status) concurrently with Form I-130, potentially streamlining the process.

Relative Living Outside the U.S.: If your relative resides outside the U.S., they'll solely file Form I-130 initially. Following approval, they'll then submit Form DS-260 with the National Visa Center.

 

Navigate with Confidence: Streamline Your Family's Immigration Journey with Nationality Express

 

The complexities of immigration processes can be daunting.  At Nationality Express, we understand the profound importance of family reunification.  Our comprehensive services can help ensure a smooth and efficient experience for you and your loved ones.

 

We offer:

 

• Expert Guidance: Our team of experienced immigration professionals will provide clear and accurate guidance throughout the entire process, all online, completely virtually.

• Accurate Application Preparation: We'll meticulously complete and file Form I-130 (and I-130A if applicable) to avoid delays due to errors.

• Meeting Deadlines: We'll handle deadlines efficiently to ensure your application stays on track.

• Addressing Challenges: We'll anticipate potential complications and proactively work towards solutions.

 

Focus on Your Reunion, Let Nationality Express Handle the Paperwork

 

By utilizing Nationality Express' services, you can focus on the joy of reuniting with your family while we ensure your immigration journey is as stress-free as possible.  Click here to learn more about how Nationality Express can simplify your family's path to a life together in the United States.

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