What’s the next step after the I-130 is approved?

Charles Wang
3 min readJul 24, 2023

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If you have been successful in getting your I-130 petition approved, congratulations! This is an important step in the immigration process. After the I-130 is approved, it is important to understand what the next steps are so that you can move forward in the immigration process.

Today, we will discuss the steps you should take after the I-130 petition is approved. We will cover the filing of other documents, the waiting period, and what to do if your case is stuck in processing.

What’s the next step after the I-130 is approved

Understanding the I-130 Approval

Congratulations, your I-130 petition has been approved! This is a significant milestone in the immigration process, as it confirms that your relationship with your spouse or family member is recognized by the US government. However, it is important to understand that this approval alone does not grant you legal status in the United States.

Instead, it is just the first step in a series of steps you must take to obtain your green card. Now, we will outline what you need to do after your I-130 is approved.

Gathering Required Documents

Once the I-130 petition has been approved, it’s time to start gathering the required documents for the Adjustment of Status application. These documents will vary depending on the specific situation of the applicant, but some common ones include a birth certificate, marriage certificate, police clearance certificate, and medical examination report.

It’s important to carefully review the USCIS requirements and make sure all necessary documents are obtained before filing the Adjustment of Status application. This can help ensure a smoother process and avoid delays in the application processing.

Filing the Adjustment of Status Application

Once the I-130 petition is approved, the next step is to file the Adjustment of Status application. This application allows the petitioner to change their status from a non-immigrant to an immigrant, and is filed with the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).

It is important to make sure all necessary documents and fees are included with the application to avoid any delays or issues. The USCIS website provides detailed information on how to fill out and file the application, or a legal professional can be consulted for assistance.

Preparing for the Visa Interview

Once the Adjustment of Status application has been filed, and USCIS has approved it, the next step is to prepare for the visa interview. This interview will take place at the US consulate or embassy in the immigrant’s home country. It is important to review all the documents submitted with the application, including any evidence of financial support or relationship documentation, as these may be asked about during the interview.

It is also recommended to practice answering common interview questions, such as how the immigrant plans to support themselves in the US and why they wish to live in the country. Being prepared and confident can make all the difference in the success of the visa interview.

Finalizing Travel Arrangements

Once the I-130 petition is approved and the visa interview is scheduled, it’s time to start finalizing travel arrangements. This includes booking flights, making hotel reservations, and ensuring you have all the necessary documents for travel. It’s important to plan ahead and allow enough time for any additional requirements, such as obtaining a passport or visa for your spouse. Make sure to check the travel restrictions and guidelines for your destination country to avoid any last-minute complications.

With everything in order, you’ll be ready to embark on your new journey together.

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Charles Wang

Charles Wang is an online immigration service provider. We are not a law firm or a substitute for the advice of an attorney.