Family Sponsorship Visa
The I-130 Petition for Alien Relative is the first step in helping a foreign family member immigrate to the United States. It establishes a qualifying relationship between a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident (green card holder) and their relative. Approval of Form I-130 allows the family member to apply for a family-based green card.
Who Can File I-130?
U.S. Citizens can petition for:
Spouse
Children (unmarried under 21 / married)
Parents (if petitioner is 21+)
Siblings (if petitioner is 21+)
Green Card Holders (Permanent Residents) can petition for:
Spouse
Unmarried children
Basic Requirements
Proof of U.S. citizenship or permanent residency of the petitioner
Proof of family relationship (marriage certificate, birth certificate, adoption papers)
Completed and signed Form I-130
How to Apply
Complete Form I-130
Fill out the petition accurately and select the correct relationship category.Gather Supporting Documents
Proof of U.S. citizenship or green card
Proof of relationship (birth/marriage certificates)
Passport photos of petitioner and beneficiary
Evidence of legal name changes (if any)
Pay the Filing Fee
Check the current USCIS fee for Form I-130.Submit the Petition
Online (if eligible) via USCIS account
By mail to the appropriate USCIS lockbox address
USCIS Processing
Receive receipt notice (Form I-797)
USCIS may request additional evidence (RFE)
Once approved, the petition moves to National Visa Center (NVC) for consular processing if the beneficiary is outside the U.S.
Who Can File I-130?
Spouse
Children (unmarried under 21 / married)
Parents (if petitioner is 21+)
Siblings (if petitioner is 21+)
Green Card Holders (Permanent Residents) can petition for:
Spouse
Unmarried children
Basic Requirements
Proof of U.S. citizenship or permanent residency of the petitioner
Proof of family relationship (marriage certificate, birth certificate, adoption papers)
Completed and signed Form I-130
How to Apply
Complete Form I-130
Fill out the petition accurately and select the correct relationship category.
Gather Supporting Documents
Proof of U.S. citizenship or green card
Proof of relationship (birth/marriage certificates)
Passport photos of petitioner and beneficiary
Evidence of legal name changes (if any)
Pay the Filing Fee
Check the current USCIS fee for Form I-130.
Submit the Petition
Online (if eligible) via USCIS account
By mail to the appropriate USCIS lockbox address
USCIS Processing
Receive receipt notice (Form I-797)
USCIS may request additional evidence (RFE)
Once approved, the petition moves to National Visa Center (NVC) for consular processing if the beneficiary is outside the U.S.
