What is the I-130 Processing Time for a Spouse?

People often ask us how long it will take for a spouse’s I-130 to be processed. It’s a great question, and the answer varies, depending on several factors. Though spouses are classified as immediate relatives and are subject to shorter wait times than some other types of relatives, the process itself still takes time.

Form I-130 is one of the most important immigration tools in the U.S. Obtaining permanent residence for loved ones encourages families to plant roots in our country. But if you don’t know what to expect from the process, you might find yourself frustrated by the length of time it takes to get approval for your family members.

Before we look into the best way to find out the processing time, let’s review what the I-130 is and how it is used.

What is the I-130 Form?

The I-130, Petition for Alien Relative, is the first step you’ll take in gaining permanent residence for a family member. The I-130 form can be used for many relatives, though it is often used for immediate family members, such as spouses, children and parents.

So, What is the I-130 Processing Time for Spouses in 2019?

A couple of weeks after submitting the form, you will be notified that your application was received. It might take another couple of weeks, or longer, for the application to be reviewed. You’ll then find out whether the application was accepted.

Once the processing begins, the time varies, depending on the classification of relative for which you are seeking permanent residency. The turnaround time for approval is much quicker for spouses, children and parents. The number of people waiting on approval also impacts the wait times, so the wait for someone two years ago will not necessarily be the same as it is in 2019.

The U.S. Citizen and Immigration Services offers a way to check processing times on their website. You’ll find more specific details when you enter the desired fields into that site. You might find that the approval process takes several months, so it’s best to get started as soon as possible.

The I-130 Processing for A Spouse Takes Time– But It’s Worth It

Each step in the process takes time. Even getting your loved one into the country after the application has been approved takes more time than applicants realize. It’s vital to make sure the I-130 form is filled out correctly and that all requested information is provided. Minor errors can set the I-130 approval time for a spouse back and delay the process of obtaining permanent residence.

For assistance with the I-130 form, we encourage you to contact Carman Fullerton. We understand how important these matters are for our clients, and we make sure to treat your case with the urgency it deserves. We’ll answer any questions you might have and keep you up-to-date on your case.

Our team will review the I-130 form to provide the government with all the information it needs and ensure there are no mistakes on the form. We help clients with all immigration-related matters. Contact Carman Fullerton today to put us to work on your behalf.

Attorney Kirby J. Fullerton

Attorney Kirby J. Fullerton

Mr. Fullerton’s practice is focused on immigration law. He speaks Spanish, and represents clients in cases before the immigration courts and the Board of Immigration Appeals. He began his career practicing criminal defense, and understands how matters in criminal courts can affect a client’s immigration status. [Attorney Bio]