What does an I-130 approval mean?

An I-130 is a petition for a family-based immigrant visa that starts the process of getting a green card. Approval of an I-130 petition is the first step for an immigrant to file an application for a green card (lawful permanent residence).

How long does it take after I-130 is approved?

After filing Form I-130, Petition for Alien Relative, the approval process can take anywhere from 5 to 12 months for immediate relatives and could take several years for family preference categories. This is an approximation. It may be shorter for some and longer for others.

How long does it take to get green card after I-130 is approved?

For immediate relatives (spouse, parent, or child) of a U.S. green card holder (legal permanent resident), processing times for Form I-130 currently vary between 13.5 and 19 months. For immediate relatives of a U.S. citizen, I-130 processing times currently average 15 to 20 months (as of June 7, 2021).

What happens after the USCIS sends your approved I-130 to the NVC?

After your I-130 is approved, USCIS will send it to NVC for pre-processing. Then, NVC will begin collecting fees, forms, and documents from the petitioner and beneficiary.

Can I 485 be denied after I-130 is approved?

If Your I-130 Petition is Approved, But Your I-485 Application is Denied. It’s also possible that your marriage-based petition could be approved, but your I-485 application for permanent residence is denied. You receive a notice to attend your marriage-based green card interview, but you do not go.

Can I travel while I-130 is pending?

An immigrant petition filed on your behalf means you will eventually get an immigrant visa and immigrate to the U.S., if you are eligible. However, immigration authorities may not issue non-immigrant visas while immigrant petitions are pending. …

What is the fee for I-130?

$535
The filing fee for Form I-130 is $535. The filing fee for this petition cannot be waived. NOTE: The filing fee is not refundable, regardless of any action USCIS takes on this petition. DO NOT MAIL CASH.

How long does it take to get i130 approved?

Most Form I-130 petitions for immediate relatives are approved within a 5 to 9 month time frame, but they can take longer in some cases. If you are in the United States and also filed an application to adjust status, USCIS will begin reviewing Form I-485 at this point.

What happens after filing I-130 petition?

What Happens After Filing the I-130 Soon after sending in the petition, you should get a receipt notice from USCIS. This will tell you to check the USCIS website for information on how long the application is likely to remain in processing.

What happens after my I-130 is approved?

After an I-130 is approved, the USCIS forwards the petition to the NVC, which then contacts the immigrant spouse and collects additional forms and information from her. This includes Form DS-230, Application for Immigrant Visa and Alien Registration, which is used by immigrants who reside outside of the U.S.

What happens if my I-130 petition is denied?

If your I-130 is denied while in removal proceedings, you will still lack legal status . This leaves you open for deportation and being separated from your family. If possible, speak to an immigration lawyer that can defend you against deportation and help you to adjust your status.