At a Glance
Form I-130 is the first step for bringing certain family members to live in the United States permanently. Think of it as proving the family relationship to the U.S. government. After the I-130 is approved, your relative can take the next step toward a green card.
Important: An approved I-130 by itself does not give your relative legal status, permission to work, or permission to enter the U.S. It only confirms the relationship and (in most cases) sets a place in line.
Who You Can Sponsor
Eligible Relatives
If you're a U.S. citizen, you can sponsor:
- Spouse
- Unmarried children under 21
- Unmarried sons/daughters 21+
- Married sons/daughters (any age)
- Brothers/sisters (you must be 21+)
- Parents (you must be 21+)
If you're a permanent resident (green card holder), you can sponsor:
- Spouse
- Unmarried children under 21
- Unmarried sons/daughters 21+
Immediate relatives of U.S. citizens (spouse, unmarried child under 21, parent) aren't limited by annual visa caps—visas are "always available" for them.
Family-preference categories (for example, siblings of U.S. citizens) are limited by annual numbers. Your relative's priority date (the day USCIS receives the I-130) controls when they can take the next step.
Ineligible Relationships
You cannot use I-130 for: grandparents, grandchildren, nieces/nephews, aunts/uncles, cousins, or parents-in-law. There are also specific bars for certain proxy marriages or situations involving marriage fraud.
Required Documents
Required Documents
- ✓ Proof of your status: U.S. passport, naturalization/citizenship certificate, or green card (front & back)
- ✓ Proof of the family relationship: Marriage certificate for spouse; birth certificates for children/parents
- ✓ Name-change documents (if applicable)
- ✓ Translations: Any non-English document must include a full English translation with translator certification
- ✓ For spouse cases: Bona-fide marriage evidence (joint lease, bank accounts, photos, affidavits)
Filing Fees
Filing Fees
Online Filing: $625 Paper Filing: $675
How to File Form I-130
Option 1: File Online
1. Create USCIS Account Sign in to your USCIS online account or create a new one
2. Complete Form Select I-130 and follow the guided steps
3. Upload Documents Scan and upload all required documents
4. Pay & Submit Pay the filing fee online and submit your application
Option 2: File by Mail
1. Download Forms Get the current I-130 and I-130A (if sponsoring spouse)
2. Prepare Packet Assemble your forms, documents, and correct fee
3. Mail to USCIS Send to the correct USCIS lockbox based on your location
What Happens After Filing
- Receipt Notice (Form I-797C): Confirms USCIS got your case and shows your receipt number
- Biometrics/Interview: USCIS may request fingerprints or an interview
- Decision: Approval, Request for Evidence (RFE), or denial
Next Steps After Approval
If your relative is inside the U.S.:
- File Form I-485 (Adjustment of Status)
- Include Form I-864 (Affidavit of Support)
- Can also file I-765 (work permit) and I-131 (travel document)
If your relative is outside the U.S.:
- Case goes to National Visa Center (NVC)
- Complete DS-260 and submit documents
- Attend embassy interview
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Paying the wrong fee or using an outdated form
- Mailing to the wrong lockbox address
- Forgetting Form I-130A for spouse cases
- Not including solid relationship evidence
- Skipping required translations