Processing time depends on several factors, including:

• Visa category (immediate relative vs. preference category)
• Country of origin
• USCIS and National Visa Center (NVC) workload
  
  

Immediate relatives of U.S. citizens (parents, spouse, and child under 18) generally move faster (often 12–18 months), while preference categories can take several years.

 We can help you check current timelines based on your relative’s situation.

In some cases your relative’s spouse or unmarried children under 21 may also qualify to immigrate as derivative beneficiaries—but it depends on the family category of the petition.

• Immediate Relative Category (IR)
  If you are a U.S. citizen, petitioning for a spouse, parent, or unmarried child under 21 (IR-1/IR-5/IR-2), derivative beneficiaries are NOT allowed. Each qualifying family member needs their own separate I-130 petition.
  
  
• Family Preference Categories (F-1, F-2A, F-2B, F-3, F-4)
  If your relative falls under a family preference category, their spouse and unmarried children under 21 can be included as derivatives under the same petition. They may immigrate together once the priority date becomes current.
  
  

Important:
 Eligibility for derivative beneficiaries depends strictly on immigration law. If the derivative child “ages out” (turns 21), they may need separate processing unless protected by the Child Status Protection Act (CSPA).

Yes. U.S. citizens and permanent residents living abroad can file an I-130 petition for their qualifying family members.

However, petitioners who spend most of their time outside the United States may face additional scrutiny.

The purpose of the I-130 is to help reunite family members in the United States. If USCIS or a U.S. consulate believes the petitioner does not intend to return to the U.S., the case may be questioned.

For example, we have seen cases where the I-130 was approved by USCIS, but later revoked by a U.S. consulate abroad because the petitioner appeared to be living permanently overseas. In those situations, the consulate concludes that the beneficiary is simply seeking immigration, but not family reunification.

If you live overseas and are unsure whether your circumstances may affect your petition, we recommend consulting an immigration attorney.

For most family-based immigration cases, an attorney is not required.
 Many clients choose our service because their case does not involve legal disputes or complications, and they simply need accurate form preparation and guidance.

However, if your case involves criminal history, immigration violations, prior denials, or complex legal issues, we strongly recommend consulting an immigration attorney.

If you failed to meet the USCIS qualification/requirement or made mistakes on your petition, USCIS can deny an I-130 or any immigration petition. Common reasons include:

• Missing or inconsistent information
• Insufficient evidence of family relationship or supporting documents
• Supporting documents do not meet USCIS/NVC guidelines
• Ineligibility based on immigration or criminal history
• Filing the wrong category or incorrect documentation
• Failure to respond to USCIS requests on time

Our role is to help ensure your paperwork is accurate, complete, and supported with strong evidence — reducing the chance of delays or denial.

What happens next depends on whether your relative is inside or outside the United States:

• If your relative is outside the United States:
  USCIS will transfer the approved petition to the National Visa Center (NVC) for the next stage of processing, known as Consular Processing. The NVC will collect fees, civil documents, and financial documents before transferring to the local U.S. consulate for the immigrant visa interview.
  
  
• If your relative is inside the United States:
  If they are eligible to adjust status, they may apply for Adjustment of Status (AOS) and complete the process without leaving the United States. Once approved, they receive their green card directly—no NVC or consulate involvement.

Whether you proceed through consular processing or adjustment of status, we can guide you through each step, help prepare the necessary documents, and ensure you have the support you need throughout the entire process.

 Yes. As your immigration consultant and legal document assistant, we will continue to assist you throughout the entire process. If you have questions at any stage, we are available to explain the procedures, requirements, and next steps.

If USCIS or the National Visa Center (NVC) issues a Request for Evidence (RFE) or asks for additional documents, we will help you understand what is being requested and assist you in preparing and organizing the necessary documents for your response.

However, if your case involves complex legal issues, potential legal consequences, or matters that require legal interpretation, we may recommend that you consult with an immigration attorney.

Our goal is to ensure you feel supported from the beginning of your case until the final decision.

Yes. Family-based immigration is only one category. Other pathways include:

• Employment-based immigration
• Investment-based immigration (EB-5)
• Humanitarian programs (asylum, refugee status, etc.)
• Diversity Visa Lottery (DV Lottery)
• Special immigrant categories

If you're unsure which category applies, we can provide general guidance on the ways to immigration.