How to File Form I-130

1. Understand what Form I-130 does

Form I-130 asks USCIS to recognize a qualifying family relationship between a petitioner and a beneficiary. An approved petition does not by itself grant permanent residence.

2. Identify the qualifying relationship

Spouse, child, parent, and sibling petitions use different evidence. Decide which relationship you are filing for using official USCIS rules—not search-page shortcuts. CivicNest does not choose the relationship for you.

3. Gather petitioner evidence

Collect proof of your U.S. citizenship or lawful permanent resident status using documents the current Form I-130 instructions accept.

4. Gather relationship evidence

Use the supporting-documents page for the major evidence buckets, then open the spouse, child, or parent page that matches your filing.

5. Determine whether Form I-130A applies

Spouse filings often include Form I-130A, Supplemental Information for Spouse Beneficiary, in the same package. CivicNest does not currently prepare I-130A. See the I-130A page and the official form instructions.

6. Prepare Form I-130

Complete the petition carefully, including petitioner and beneficiary information and the relationship claimed. CivicNest walks through those questions and produces a downloadable official PDF for you to review.

7. Review filing method and fee

Current G-1055 scenarios CivicNest tracks include paper $675 · online $625 (other amounts apply in some situations). CivicNest currently tracks $675 for many paper filings and $625 for many online filings. Confirm Form G-1055 before you pay. CivicNest preparation is not a USCIS filing fee.

Some people can file online through a USCIS account; others use paper. Preparing the form in CivicNest is not electronic filing with USCIS.

8. Submit according to current USCIS instructions

File the completed form, fee, and evidence through the channel USCIS accepts for your situation. Follow the current Form I-130 page and instructions for addresses, online steps, and notices.

9. Keep copies and monitor the case

Keep copies of everything you submit. Use the receipt notice and your USCIS account tools to track the case. CivicNest does not track USCIS case status for you after you file.

Official USCIS sources

• USCIS Form I-130
• Form I-130 instructions (PDF)
• USCIS Form I-130A
• Form I-130A instructions (PDF)
• USCIS filing fees (G-1055)