Your Guide to i130 and How Long It’s Going To Take
The i130 is a form that is necessary for the foreign spouse of an American citizen to get permanent residence in the US. The process can take anywhere from 6 months to 2 years, depending on how quickly they are processed. Here’s what you need to know about the immigration process and why it takes so long.
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What Is i130 And Who Needs It?
People who have been married to a US citizen for less than two years need an i130. People who have been married to an American spouse for over two years do not need this form and can go straight into applying for their green card. However, there are some exceptions to this, so always check with an immigration lawyer if you are unsure.
What Does The i130 Do?
The form essentially starts off the process of getting a green card. It is an application that asks for specific information about the couple, such as their addresses and marriage date. Once it has been filled out and sent in, the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) will process it.
How Long Does It Take To Get Approved?
The processing time for the i130 can vary a lot depending on where you are filing from. If you are filing from outside of the United States, it can take six months to process. If you are filing from within the United States, it can take up to two years for this form to be processed and approved.
Do I Need An Attorney?
You should always hire an immigration lawyer when filling out any paperwork with USCIS because they tend to have a lot of requirements that might not seem apparent to someone who is not familiar with the process. In addition, an Austin immigration lawyer can help make sure everything is filled out correctly and that you have a higher chance of getting approved.
Filing for a green card can seem like a daunting task, but with the help of an immigration lawyer and this guide, you will be on your way to becoming a permanent resident of the United States.
Several Factors That May Affect Your Application Process
While filing for a green card may seem daunting, there are several things you can do to improve your chances of a smooth approval process. Keep in mind that the following factors may affect how long it takes for your application to be processed:
- Filing location
- The current state of immigration law
- Your circumstances
Always consult with an immigration lawyer before filing your i130, especially if you have any of the following factors that may prolong the process:
- Previous criminal records
- Prior deportations or illegal entry into US territory
- Documentation issues
- Family ties to foreign countries
While there is no definite answer as to how long the i130 processing time will be, it is crucial to start gathering all of the necessary documents and information as soon as possible. Then, with the help of an experienced immigration lawyer, you can streamline the process and improve your chances for a successful application.
Can You Speed Up The Processing Time?
Speeding up the process of getting an i130 approved is possible through direct mailing. This means sending in your form to the USCIS office closest to you, rather than waiting for them to come to pick it up from where you live. You can choose this option when filling out the address section of your application.
Are There Any Other Ways To Speed Up The Process?
Some may think of filing an i130 as a tedious task, but there are some ways you can make the process easier. One way is to contact a lawyer who will help streamline your case and provide valuable information on what needs to be included in the application package.
Although there’s no absolute answer for how long it takes for your i130 to be approved, the more organized you are with your application materials and information, the better chance you have of getting approval.
What Happens When Your Applications Are Approved?
Please take note that when you successfully get your i130 approved, it does not necessarily mean you will become a legal resident right away. There is still more paperwork that needs to be done and other requirements that need to be met before gaining approval for the green card application.
The first steps of this process include:
- You must make sure your biometrics have been taken
- You must attend an interview at the USCIS office closest to you
After these steps are completed, your application will be reviewed, and a decision will be made as to whether or not you meet all of the requirements for legal residency in the United States.
The time frame for this process can vary depending on individual circumstances. However, having your green card application approved is a crucial step towards securing the future of yourself and your family in this country.
Final Words
While taking your family and relatives with you to the United States may seem like a daunting task, it is essential to remember that there are several ways you can improve your chances of success. With the help of an experienced immigration lawyer and this guide, you will be on your way to securing residency in the United States.
