Family Petition I-130

Form I-130 (Petition for Alien Relative) is an immigration petition filed by a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident on behalf of a qualifying family member.

U.S. Citizens may file for:

• Spouse
• Unmarried children under 21 (Immediate Relative — no waiting line)
• Married children of any age
• Parents (if the petitioner is 21 or older)
• Siblings (if the petitioner is 21 or older)

Lawful Permanent Residents may file for:

• Spouse
• Unmarried children of any age

Properly preparing your documents is the key to a successful review.

Required Documents

• Completed Form I-130 and I-130A (for spouses)
• Proof of the petitioner's citizenship or permanent residency (passport, green card)
• Proof of the qualifying relationship (marriage certificate, birth certificate)
• Passport-style photos of both parties
• Filing fee — $675 (or $625 when filing online)

For Spouses — Additional Requirements

USCIS carefully scrutinizes the authenticity of the marriage. Be prepared to provide: joint photos, bank account statements, a lease agreement, and statements from friends and family.

Wait times depend on the family preference category and the beneficiary's country of birth.

Categories

• IR (Immediate Relative) — spouses, parents, and children under 21 of U.S. citizens. No waiting line.
• F1 — unmarried adult children of U.S. citizens. Wait time: 7–10 years.
• F2A — spouses and children of lawful permanent residents. Wait time: 2–5 years.
• F2B — unmarried adult children of lawful permanent residents. Wait time: 7–12 years.
• F3 — married children of U.S. citizens. Wait time: 12–15 years.
• F4 — siblings of U.S. citizens. Wait time: 15–23 years.

Track the latest cut-off dates in the Department of State's monthly Visa Bulletin.