If you are a U.S. citizen, you may be able to apply for citizenship for your spouse, children, or parents through a family-based petition. To start the process, you need to file Form I-130.
Depending on the specifics of your case, there are additional forms to file. Applicants also have to attend an interview with a USCIS officer. A legal expert can ensure that you fill out all the forms correctly and pass through all the stages with flying colors.
File Form I-130
The first step in applying for citizenship through a family-based petition is to file Form I-130, Petition for Alien Relative.
Make sure to add the following when filing your application:
- A copy of your birth certificate or other documents as proof of U.S. citizenship
- A copy of your spouse’s or parent’s birth certificate
- A copy of your marriage certificate
- Evidence of any legal name changes
- Photographs
- The filing fees
It is best to get help from an immigration lawyer in Arizona before starting the procedure. A legal expert can protect your rights throughout the process.
Submit Additional Forms
After you have filed Form I-130, you will need to submit additional forms depending on your relationship with the person for whom you are petitioning. For example, if you are petitioning for your spouse, you must file Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status.
If you are petitioning for your child, you will need to file Form I-485 and Form I-864W, Intending Immigrant’s Affidavit of Support, Under Section 213A of the INA. And if you are petitioning for your parent, you will need to file Form I-130 and Form I-864, Affidavit of Support Under Section 213A of the INA.
Other forms may need to be filed depending on your circumstances. which include:
- Form I-693, Report of Medical Examination and Vaccination Record
- Form I-601A, Application for Provisional Unlawful Presence Waiver
- Form I-601, Application for Waiver of Grounds of Inadmissibility
- Form N-600K, Application for Citizenship and Issuance
It is essential to consult with an immigration lawyer to ensure that you file all necessary forms.
Attend an Official Interview
After submitting your forms, your loved one will get scheduled for an official interview. If your loved one is in the U.S., they will talk with a USCIS officer. However, if they are outside of the country, the interview will take place at a local embassy or consulate.
The interview is an opportunity for the interviewer to ask questions about the application and verify the forms’ information. It is essential to bring originals or certified copies of all documents submitted to the interview. The interviewer will also ask questions about personal history and background.
Your loved one should be prepared to answer questions about family, education, employment, and any other topics related to your life. After the interview, the interviewer will approve or deny your application.
Wait for the Availability of Your Visa
If the application is approved, an official will notify you of the availability of an immigrant visa. You will need to pay the visa processing fee and submit additional forms.
Once everything is in order, your loved one will be scheduled for a medical examination. If they get approved for citizenship, they will take an Oath of Allegiance to the United States and receive a certificate of naturalization.
Why It Is Essential to Get Help From an Immigration Lawyer
The process of applying for citizenship through a family-based petition can be complex. Furthermore, many forms need to be filed, and it is crucial to make sure that everything gets done correctly to avoid delays or denial of your application.
An immigration lawyer will be able to guide you through the process and ensure that everything gets done correctly. They can also help you if there are any problems with your application or if you need to appeal a decision.
Final Thoughts
Applying for citizenship through a family-based petition can be a complicated process, but it is possible when you get help from an immigration attorney in Arizona. They will be able to guide you and help you with the process and make sure that everything is done correctly.
Cindy R. Schneider is a blog master and journalist with a fierce passion for writing. She has been editing articles for various US-based newspapers whilst contributing to the growth of many personal or organizational blogs for 10 years now. She is well accustomed to writing online as well as offline articles covering almost any type of subject, be it health, immigration paperwork, or pretty much anything else-related.
