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Petition for Alien Relative also known as Form I-130 is a crucial document for U.S. citizens and LPRs (lawful permanent residents) sponsoring their relatives for green cards. Once Form I-130 is approved, the further processing steps depend on the location of “beneficiary” – a family member being sponsored for permanent residency. 

What to Do After Form I-130 is Approved if I Am Outside the U.S.?

If you are outside the U.S. when Form I-130 is approved, you need to complete consular processing to obtain an immigrant visa:

 

1. National Visa Center (NVC) Processing:
   • After approval, USCIS forwards the petition to the NVC, which will assign a case number and provide further instructions. You’ll need to pay visa fees and submit required documents like the affidavit of support and civil documents. 
2. Visa Interview:
   • The NVC schedules a visa interview at the U.S. embassy or consulate in your country. Prepare for the interview by gathering all required documentation, including proof of your relationship.
3. Medical Examination:
   • You must undergo a medical examination by an approved physician before the interview. Submit the results to the U.S. embassy or consulate.
4. Attend the Interview:
   • At the interview, a consular officer will review your documents and ask questions about your application. If approved, you will receive an immigrant visa.
5. Travel to the U.S.:
   • With your immigrant visa, you can travel to the U.S. Upon entry, you will be granted permanent residency (a green card) and can start your new life in the U.S.

What to Do After Form I-130 is Approved if I Am in the U.S.?

If you are in the U.S. when Form I-130 is approved, follow these steps to adjust your status:

1. File Form I-485:
   • Complete and submit Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status. This application enables a person to apply for the green card within the United States of America, and it can be filed soon after Form I-130 has been approved. You are also allowed to file Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization
2. Attend Biometrics Appointment:
   • You will be scheduled to attend a biometrics appointment where USCIS will take your fingerprints, photo and signature for background checks. On your immigration forms, you might be required to provide your USCIS #, or Alien Registration Number.
3. Prepare for the Interview:
   • You may be asked to appear for an interview when applying for adjustment of status with USCIS. 
4. Receive Your Green Card:
   • If Form I-485 is approved, the green card will be sent to you in the mail. To timely receive all case updates from USCIS, make sure that you provide the latest address.
5. Maintain Status:
   • Maintain lawful status while awaiting Form I-485 approval. Beneficiaries cannot engage in prohibited activities such as unauthorised employment.

 

Knowing what to do after getting approval of Form I-130 is important whether you are in your home country or the United States of America. Following these procedures will be helpful in successfully completing your immigration journey and getting your family members to join you in America.