United States

Family-Based Petition (I-130)

Petition by a US citizen or lawful permanent resident to establish a qualifying family relationship for an immigrant visa.

Validity

Approved petition does not expire while relationship remains valid

Processing Time

Immediate relatives: 8 – 16 months. Preference categories: years depending on visa bulletin.

Pathway

Foundation for adjustment of status or consular processing

Section 01

Eligibility

Core criteria an applicant must meet to file under this category.

Petitioner is a US citizen or LPR
Qualifying relationship: spouse, parent, child, sibling (siblings limited to US citizen petitioners)
Bona fide relationship with documentary evidence

Section 02

Income Requirements

Financial Threshold

I-864 Affidavit of Support required at the immigrant visa stage — petitioner must meet 125% of federal poverty guidelines (100% for military).

Other Qualifications

Documents & Conditions

Supporting requirements typically reviewed before and during the application.

Proof of petitioner's status (passport, naturalization certificate, green card)
Civil documents establishing the relationship (marriage, birth certificates)
For marriage cases: extensive bona fides — joint finances, residence, communication, photos

ImportantEligibility criteria, financial thresholds, and processing times are set by the relevant immigration authorities and change periodically. The figures shown are current general guidance only and do not constitute legal advice. We confirm exact requirements for your case during consultation.