To apply for a family-based green card, key documents include a valid Form I-130, Proof of family relationship such as birth or marriage certificates, and the beneficiary's passport. Supporting evidence like financial documents and Form I-864 (Affidavit of Support) are essential to demonstrate the sponsor's ability to support the applicant. Medical examination results and Form I-485 or consular processing forms complete the application process for permanent residency.
What Documents Are Needed for Family-Based Green Card Application?
| Number | Name | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | I-130 Approval Notice | The I-130 Approval Notice is a crucial document in the family-based green card application process, serving as formal confirmation that the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has approved the petition for a relative. This notice must be submitted along with other essential documents such as proof of familial relationship, the beneficiary's birth certificate, and evidence of the petitioner's U.S. citizenship or permanent residency to proceed with the green card application. |
| 2 | Conditional Green Card Documentation | To apply for a conditional green card through family-based immigration, key documents include Form I-751, Petition to Remove Conditions on Residence, marriage certificate proving the bona fide nature of the marriage, and evidence such as joint bank account statements, lease agreements, or photos demonstrating the genuine relationship. Supporting identification like passports, birth certificates, and prior immigration documents must also be submitted to verify eligibility and maintain lawful status during the conditional residency period. |
| 3 | Bona Fide Marriage Evidence | Evidence of bona fide marriage for a family-based green card application typically includes joint financial documents such as bank statements, mortgage or lease agreements, and insurance policies listing both spouses. Additional supporting documents include photos of the couple together over time, affidavits from friends and family, and correspondence showing ongoing communication to prove the authenticity of the marital relationship. |
| 4 | Intent to Reunite Statement | The Intent to Reunite Statement is a crucial document in a family-based green card application, demonstrating the petitioner's genuine plan to live together with the beneficiary upon approval. USCIS requires this statement to verify the bona fide nature of the familial relationship and the commitment to establish a shared residence. |
| 5 | Divorce Decree (for Prior Marriages) | A divorce decree is essential for family-based green card applications to prove the legal termination of all prior marriages, ensuring eligibility and preventing immigration fraud. This document must be a certified copy issued by a recognized court and include the date and grounds of divorce for USCIS verification. |
| 6 | Affidavit of Support (Form I-864) | The Affidavit of Support (Form I-864) is a crucial document in family-based green card applications, demonstrating the U.S. sponsor's financial ability to support the intending immigrant and preventing them from becoming a public charge. This legally binding contract requires the sponsor to prove an income level at least 125% above the Federal Poverty Guidelines, ensuring sufficient financial resources throughout the immigrant's residency. |
| 7 | Joint Asset Ownership Proof | Proof of joint asset ownership for a family-based green card application includes documents such as jointly held bank statements, title deeds, mortgage agreements, and insurance policies listing both spouses. These documents demonstrate the bona fide nature of the marital relationship by confirming shared financial responsibilities and co-ownership of assets. |
| 8 | USCIS Online Account Number | For a family-based green card application, the USCIS Online Account Number is a crucial identifier used to access and manage your case electronically through the USCIS website. Including this number ensures streamlined communication and faster updates on the petition status for sponsors and beneficiaries during the immigration process. |
| 9 | Passport-Style Visa Photographs | Passport-style visa photographs are essential for family-based green card applications, requiring specific dimensions of 2x2 inches with a white background. These photos must clearly show the applicant's full face, front view, and a neutral expression to meet USCIS standards. |
| 10 | Biometric Services Appointment Notice | The Biometric Services Appointment Notice is a critical document in the family-based green card application process, requiring applicants to attend fingerprinting and photograph sessions for background checks and identity verification. This notice includes the appointment date, time, and location, and must be brought to the appointment along with a valid government-issued photo ID. |
Overview of Family-Based Green Card Application
The family-based green card application process requires specific documents to establish the relationship between the petitioner and the beneficiary. Key documents include proof of the family relationship, such as birth or marriage certificates, and evidence of the petitioner's U.S. citizenship or permanent resident status. Additional supporting materials like affidavits, financial records, and identity documents help strengthen the application for approval by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
Eligibility Criteria for Family Sponsorship
Applying for a family-based green card requires meeting specific eligibility criteria for sponsorship. Understanding these criteria ensures your application process is smooth and successful.
- Proof of U.S. Citizenship or Permanent Residency - The sponsoring family member must provide official documents confirming their status in the United States.
- Valid Family Relationship Evidence - Applicants must submit documentation such as birth certificates or marriage licenses to establish the qualifying family connection.
- Financial Support Commitment - The sponsor must demonstrate the ability to financially support the immigrant, usually through submitting an Affidavit of Support (Form I-864).
Essential Forms and Application Packages
Applying for a family-based green card requires submitting specific forms and supporting documents to USCIS. Properly organizing essential forms and application packages is crucial for a successful petition.
- Form I-130, Petition for Alien Relative - This form establishes the qualifying family relationship between the petitioner and the beneficiary.
- Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status - Used if the beneficiary is already in the U.S. to apply for adjustment of status to permanent resident.
- Supporting Documentation - Includes proof of family relationship, such as birth certificates, marriage certificates, and evidence of the petitioner's U.S. citizenship or permanent residency.
Completing and submitting all required forms with accurate documentation accelerates the family-based green card application process.
Proof of Family Relationship: Required Evidence
Proof of family relationship is a crucial component of a family-based green card application. This evidence establishes the legitimate connection between the petitioner and the applicant.
Common documents include birth certificates, marriage certificates, and adoption records. These official records must clearly demonstrate the familial ties recognized by immigration authorities.
Financial Sponsorship and the Affidavit of Support
For a family-based green card application, the petitioner must provide evidence of financial sponsorship to demonstrate the immigrant will not become a public charge. The key document for this purpose is the Affidavit of Support (Form I-864), which legally binds the sponsor to support the intending immigrant financially. This form requires proof of the sponsor's income, such as recent tax returns, W-2s, or employment verification, to meet the minimum income guidelines set by the U.S. government.
Civil Documents: Birth, Marriage, and Divorce Certificates
| Document Type | Description | Purpose in Family-Based Green Card Application |
|---|---|---|
| Birth Certificate | Official record issued by a government authority indicating your date and place of birth along with parentage. | Proves the family relationship between the petitioner and the beneficiary, establishing eligibility under family-based immigration categories. |
| Marriage Certificate | Legal document that verifies your marriage to the petitioner or beneficiary. | Confirms the validity of the marital relationship, which is essential for spouses applying for a green card. |
| Divorce Certificate | Official document showing the legal termination of a previous marriage. | Demonstrates the end of prior marriages to establish the current marital status clearly and avoid legal complications. |
Translating and Certifying Foreign Documents
Translating and certifying foreign documents are essential steps in the family-based green card application process. All documents not in English must be accompanied by a certified translation to ensure accuracy and legal compliance.
The certified translator must attest that the translation is complete and accurate, including their signature and contact information. Common documents requiring translation include birth certificates, marriage certificates, and police records. Proper certification prevents delays and supports the legitimacy of the application.
Documentation for Adjustment of Status Applicants
Family-based green card applicants filing for Adjustment of Status must submit specific documentation to prove eligibility. Essential documents include Form I-485, Proof of lawful entry, and Evidence of family relationship.
Applicants must also provide Medical Examination Form I-693 and Affidavit of Support Form I-864 to demonstrate financial stability. Supporting identity documents, such as a passport and birth certificate, are necessary to verify the applicant's background and nationality.
Common Submission Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Submitting the correct documents is crucial for a successful family-based green card application. Common submission errors can cause significant delays or denials if not addressed properly.
- Incomplete Forms - Failing to fill out all required sections or skipping mandatory signatures can lead to rejection.
- Missing Proof of Relationship - Omitting key evidence such as marriage certificates or birth certificates weakens the application.
- Expired or Illegible Documents - Submitting outdated or unclear copies reduces credibility and triggers requests for additional evidence.
What Documents Are Needed for Family-Based Green Card Application? Infographic
