Petition for Immediate Relative (Form I-130)
Form I-130 (Petition for Alien Relative) is the first step for a US citizen or permanent resident to sponsor a family member for permanent residency (Green Card). Family-based immigration represents approximately 65% of all legal immigration to the US.
Who Can File the I-130?
- US citizens can sponsor: spouse, unmarried children under 21, unmarried children over 21, married children, parents, and siblings
- Permanent residents can sponsor: spouse and unmarried children (under and over 21)
- Immediate relatives (spouse, minor children, and parents of citizens): no visa limit, faster processing
- Preference categories Have annual visa limits, longer wait times
Required Documents
- Form I-130 Complete and signed application ($535 USD)
- Proof of citizenship/residency Passport, naturalization certificate, or Green Card of the petitioner
- Proof of relationship Marriage certificate, birth certificates, evidence of genuine relationship
- Photographs 2 passport-size photos of each person
- Form I-864 Affidavit of support (financial responsibility)
Wait Times by Category
- Immediate relatives (IR) No wait, direct processing (8-14 months)
- F1 (unmarried adult children of citizen) 7-8 years wait
- F2A (spouse and minor children of resident) 2-3 years wait
- F2B (unmarried adult children of resident) 7-10 years wait
- F3 (married children of citizen) 14-15 years wait
- F4 (siblings of citizen) 15-23 years wait
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does the I-130 petition cost?
The filing fee for Form I-130 is $535 USD per family member sponsored. Additional costs include Form I-864 (affidavit of support) and visa processing fees.
How long does the process take?
For immediate relatives of US citizens: 8-14 months. For preference categories, wait times range from 2 to 23 years depending on the category and country of origin.
Can a permanent resident sponsor siblings?
No. Only US citizens can sponsor siblings (F4 category). Permanent residents can only sponsor spouses and unmarried children.
What is the Affidavit of Support (I-864)?
It is a legal document where the petitioner commits to provide financial support to the immigrant. You must demonstrate income of at least 125% of the federal poverty level.
Contact us today for a free consultation about your family petition.