Question 1

Can I file one I-130 for my spouse and our children together?

Accepted Answer

No. USCIS requires a separate Form I-130 petition for each qualifying relative, including each child, even if they are all immigrating based on the same family unit.

Question 2

Do I need to submit my Permanent Resident Card if I'm a U.S. citizen petitioner?

Accepted Answer

No. U.S. citizen petitioners submit proof of citizenship (birth certificate, passport, or naturalization certificate); the Permanent Resident Card is only required when the petitioner is a lawful permanent resident.

Question 3

What happens if I don't know my relative's A-Number?

Accepted Answer

If the beneficiary has never been issued an Alien Registration Number, you can leave that field blank; if one exists but you're unsure of it, check any prior USCIS notice or leave it blank and let USCIS match records rather than guessing at a number.

Question 4

Can I file Form I-130 and Form I-485 (adjustment of status) at the same time?

Accepted Answer

Concurrent filing is possible in certain immediate relative and some preference cases where a visa number is immediately available; eligibility depends on the beneficiary's category and current visa bulletin status, so review the official instructions for concurrent filing criteria.

Question 5

Is a medical exam required to submit Form I-130?

Accepted Answer

No. The medical examination (Form I-693) is required later, typically at the adjustment of status or immigrant visa stage, not with the I-130 petition itself.

Question 6

What if my petition is approved but my relative is not yet eligible to immigrate?

Accepted Answer

An approved I-130 establishes the qualifying relationship but does not itself grant immigration status; the case is then forwarded to the National Visa Center or held until a visa number becomes available under the applicable preference category.

Petition for Alien Relative

Filing guide preview

FAQ

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