Document Checklist
Source-backed checklist for Form I-130 family petitions, including petitioner status proof, beneficiary identity records, relationship evidence, spouse I-130A checks, translation records, and current USCIS filing instructions.
An I-130 checklist should organize petitioner status proof, beneficiary identity records, relationship evidence, current Form I-130 instructions, Form I-130A when required for a spouse beneficiary, civil translations, and later financial support records for the immigrant visa or adjustment stage.
Confirm whether the petitioner is a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident, then check current online or paper Form I-130 instructions and fee sources before filing.
Match the evidence to the family category, such as spouse, parent, child, or sibling, and include civil records, translations, prior marriage terminations, and bona fide marriage proof when relevant.
For spouse cases, review I-130A requirements. Keep I-864 support records ready for the immigrant visa or adjustment stage rather than treating them as the first petition filing packet.
Use these official pages to verify current form rules, filing posture, fees, processing-time data, and category limits. This page is a planning aid, not a filing decision.
Check the current form edition, filing options, relationship evidence, and filing location.
Use when the petition involves a spouse beneficiary and current instructions require the supplement.
Review how immediate-relative family petitions connect to the permanent residence process.
Confirm the filing fee, filing category, and fee exemption or fee waiver posture before filing.
Marriage certificate, court order, or adoption decree
Must be translated if not in English by a certified translator
Civil marriage certificate required even if you had a religious ceremony
Required when the beneficiary is ready for immigrant visa or adjustment
Include all schedules and W-2s
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