Form I-130, Petition for Alien Relative
Establish a qualifying family relationship for a relative.
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About USCIS Form I-130, Petition for Alien Relative
Form I-130 is filed by a US citizen or lawful permanent resident to establish a qualifying family relationship with a relative who wants to immigrate. It is the first step that shows the relationship exists.
This page is a general guide and helper only. It is not legal or immigration advice. Always download and file the current official form from USCIS, since some USCIS forms must be completed on the official version.
Who needs to complete it
- US citizens petitioning for a spouse, child, parent, or sibling.
- Lawful permanent residents petitioning for a spouse or unmarried child.
- Sponsors starting the family based immigration process.
- Relatives who need the relationship documented before later steps.
How to fill out USCIS Form I-130, Petition for Alien Relative
- 1Read the instructions to confirm the relationship you are petitioning for qualifies.
- 2Enter details about you, the petitioner, including your status as a citizen or permanent resident.
- 3Provide information about the relative, the beneficiary, including names, birth details, and address.
- 4Describe the family relationship and any prior marriages for both people where the form asks.
- 5List addresses, employment history, and other background details the form requests.
- 6Answer the questions about how and where the relative plans to complete their case.
- 7Review, sign, and date the petition, and note any preparer or interpreter who helped.
- 8Assemble the supporting documents that prove the relationship and file per the current instructions.
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Frequently asked questions
What does Form I-130 do?
It establishes that a qualifying family relationship exists between the petitioner and the relative. Approval of the petition is one step and does not by itself grant any immigration status.
Who can file this petition?
A US citizen or a lawful permanent resident can file for certain relatives. The instructions explain which relationships each sponsor may petition for.
Can I file for more than one relative?
A separate petition is generally filed for each qualifying relative. Check the current instructions for how family members are handled.
Is this the official form?
This page is a helper and general guide, not legal or immigration advice. Always download and file the current official form from USCIS at the link provided.