Family-Based Petition (Form I-130): Document Checklist

If a family member is petitioning for you — or you're petitioning for a family member — USCIS will ask for a lot of paperwork to prove the relationship and eligibility. We put together a free, plain-language checklist covering what you'll typically need to gather, so nothing catches you by surprise.

What's Inside

• Petitioner's status documents (citizenship or green card)
• Identity documents for both petitioner and beneficiary
• Proof of relationship (marriage, parent-child, or sibling)
• Evidence of a genuine marriage, for spousal petitions
• Beneficiary's documents
• What to add if you're filing for Adjustment of Status at the same time
• A simple filing timeline

Available in English, Spanish, and Arabic.

Not a Substitute for Legal Advice

This checklist is general information, not legal advice. Every case is different — your relationship category, where you live, and your immigration history can all change what you need or how your case should be filed. Schedule a consultation if you'd like Ahmad to review your specific situation.