The Path to Permanent Residency for Spouses and Qualifying Family Members
Filing an I-130 is the first key step in helping your loved one become a U.S. permanent resident. One error, missing document or weak relationship-evidence can delay approval by months.
What is the Relative-Sponsored Process — Form I-130?
Form I-130 tells USCIS that a real, qualifying family relationship exists between you (the petitioner) and your family member (the beneficiary). Once approved, it unlocks the path to a green card—either in the U.S. through Adjustment of Status or abroad through Consular Processing. If you have already filed an I-130, What Happens Next?
Who Can File & For Whom (Overview)
- U.S. citizens may file for: spouse, unmarried children under 21, unmarried sons/daughters 21+, married sons/daughters, parents (if 21+), and siblings (if 21+).
- Permanent residents (green card holders) may file for: spouse, unmarried children under 21, and unmarried sons/daughters 21+.
Not sure where your relative fits? We’ll map the correct category and timeline during your consult.
Eligibility Snapshot (What USCIS Looks For)
- Correct filing path (AOS vs. consular) based on your relative’s location and entry history.
- A qualifying family relationship (proved by documents).
- A bona fide marriage (for spouse cases) and no prior sham marriages.
- No bars that would block the process (we check inadmissibility issues early).
Required Documents (Typical)
From the Petitioner (U.S. Citizen or LPR):
- Proof of status (U.S. passport, naturalization certificate, birth certificate, or front/back of green card)
- Government-issued ID
- Proof of name changes, if any
From the Beneficiary (Family Member):
- Birth certificate & passport biographic page
- Marriage certificate/divorce decrees (if spouse case)
- Prior immigration documents (I-94, visas), if any
- Two passport-style photos (if required for your path)
Relationship Evidence (Examples):
- Marriage cases: joint lease/mortgage, tax returns, bank accounts, photos over time, messages, travel, affidavits
- Parent/child: birth certificates showing both parents, legitimation evidence if needed
- Siblings: birth certificates showing a common parent
We’ll give you a tailored evidence checklist so you don’t over- or under-submit.
How We Work with You
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Step 1: Strategy Consult Call
We assess your eligibility, pick the correct strategy, and flag any waiver issues as early as possible. We also explore other potential options.
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Step 2: Confirm Eligibility
Sometimes we may not remember everything or kept every document. We will work with you to file Freedom of Information Act requests.
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Step 3: Build the I-130
We work with you to prepare the I-130, assemble proof of relationship and quality-check everything.
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Step 4: File with USCIS
We submit your packet and track receipts and notices.
Why Choose Brozovich Law?
- Human-centered: real communication and a plan that makes sense.
- Modern & efficient: secure digital intake, clear checklists, proactive updates.
- Thorough prep: we anticipate issues early (entries, prior marriages, waivers).
- Colorado-based, nationwide service.
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