1. Determine Eligibility
The relationship between the petitioner (U.S. citizen or green card holder) and the relative determines eligibility:
- Immediate Relatives of U.S. Citizens:
- Spouse
- Unmarried children under 21
- Parents (if the petitioner is 21 or older)
- Family Preference Categories:
- Unmarried children of U.S. citizens (21 or older)
- Spouses and unmarried children of green card holders
- Married children of U.S. citizens
- Siblings of U.S. citizens (if the petitioner is 21 or older)
2. File Form I-130 (Petition for Alien Relative)
The petitioner must:
- Complete and file Form I-130 with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
- Include supporting documents such as proof of the relationship (e.g., marriage certificate, birth certificate).
- Pay the required filing fee.
3. Wait for USCIS Approval
USCIS reviews the petition and, if approved:
- For immediate relatives, the petition is forwarded to the National Visa Center (NVC).
- For family preference categories, the petition waits for a visa to become available based on the Visa Bulletin.
4. Wait for Visa Availability (Family Preference Categories Only)
Family preference categories are subject to annual visa caps. The relative must wait until their priority date becomes current according to the monthly Visa Bulletin.
5. Complete Consular Processing or Adjustment of Status
- Consular Processing (if the relative is outside the U.S.):
- File Form DS-260 (Online Immigrant Visa Application).
- Attend a medical examination and prepare required documents.
- Attend an interview at the U.S. embassy or consulate.
- Adjustment of Status (if the relative is in the U.S. and eligible):
- File Form I-485 (Application to Adjust Status).
- Attend a biometrics appointment.
- Attend a USCIS interview (if required).
6. Attend the Interview
The relative will attend an interview with a consular officer or USCIS officer to:
- Verify the relationship.
- Confirm eligibility for a green card.
7. Receive a Decision
- Approval: The relative receives an immigrant visa (consular processing) or a green card (adjustment of status).
- Denial: The relative may appeal or reapply depending on the circumstances.
Additional Considerations
- Affidavit of Support: The petitioner must file Form I-864 to demonstrate financial ability to support the relative.
- Medical Exam: All applicants must complete a medical examination with an approved physician.
- Travel Restrictions: Relatives applying for adjustment of status should avoid leaving the U.S. without an advance parole document.
Give your online presence it deserves.
Duis aute irure dolor in reprehenderit in voluptate velit esse cillum dolore eu fugiat nulla pariatur. Excepteur sint occaecat cupidatat ipsums dolores et fuchsias sadips uns inure autre ficilis.
Let’s Talk.
Contact Details
Phone: (404) 955-7498
Email: admin@immiguruforms.com
Web: immiguruforms.com
Connect.
LANGUAGES WE SPEAK
English
Arabic
Persian
Hindi