I-130 Checklist for a Child
A child Form I-130 asks USCIS to recognize a parent-child qualifying relationship. Evidence depends on how that relationship was created—birth, step relationship, or adoption. CivicNest does not determine which child category applies to you.
Based on official USCIS sources
CivicNest editorial. CivicNest is not a law firm and is not affiliated with USCIS.
- Form
- I-130
- Edition
- 04/01/24
- Last reviewed
- September 30, 2026
Petitioner status evidence
Include proof of your U.S. citizenship or lawful permanent resident status using documents the current Form I-130 instructions accept.
Birth relationship
Many child petitions start with the child’s birth certificate showing the parent-child relationship claimed on the form. Names should match the petition or be explained with name-change evidence when needed.
Stepchild and adopted child situations
Stepchild and adopted-child filings generally need additional documents beyond a birth certificate. The Form I-130 instructions describe those situations separately.
CivicNest’s curated filing guidance notes that extra documents apply for stepchildren and adopted children, but it does not replace the official instruction matrix. Use the current USCIS Form I-130 instructions for the exact documents your situation requires.
Beneficiary information and translations
Include identity records for the child that match the petition. Foreign-language documents generally need a complete English translation and a translator certification.
What this page does not decide
This page does not determine whether a child qualifies as a son or daughter under immigration law, and it does not invent document lists for every subcategory. When the instructions describe a document CivicNest has not curated in detail, follow the official I-130 instructions.
Official USCIS sources
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USCIS filing fees are separate.