Are you and your spouse navigating the complex process of obtaining a permanent residency through marriage? Then you’ll also need to file form I-130A (Supplemental Information for a Spouse), which plays a crucial role in the application process. Understanding its purpose, and requirements, and how to properly complete it can significantly streamline your journey toward getting a Green Card. In this guide, we will walk you through everything you need to know about Form I-130A, providing valuable insights and guidance to help you navigate the process successfully and avoid any delays or rejections with your application.
Form I-130A, also referred to as the "Supplemental Information for Spouse Beneficiary," is an essential component of the marriage-based visa application process. As a requirement specific to marriage-based Green Cards, it serves as a supplement to Form I-130, Petition for a Foreign Relative, and provides additional information such as residential and employment history for the past five years as well as information about the spouse's parents. This form is required to establish the legitimacy of the marital relationship and determine the eligibility of the petitioner and the beneficiary for residency.
The processing time for the I-130A is the same as that for the family sponsorship form since they are filed together, so we are looking at an average response time of about 6 to 12 months if you’re looking for an adjustment of status, and between 12 to 16 months if you’re opting for consular processing. If the beneficiary is already living in the U.S., they must complete and sign the I-130A form. However, if they live abroad, they are still required to complete and file the I-130A, but their signature is not mandatory. Instead, the petitioner/sponsor will be responsible for submitting the form. It is worth noting, that I-130A does not have an additional cost to your application. Its role is to supplement more information to the family sponsorship form, which already includes a fee of $535 ($625-$675 as of April 1, 2024). Please keep in mind that fees related to USCIS may change at any time, so make sure you stay updated through their website.
In addition to submitting Form I-130A, you must include other supporting documents to prove your spousal relationship. These documents may include a copy of your marriage certificate, evidence of terminating previous marriages, and other proof that your marriage is real, such as proof of joint property ownership, a lease indicating joint tenancy, evidence of combined financial resources, birth certificates of children from the marriage, affidavits from individuals who can personally confirm your marriage, and any other relevant documents to validate your current marital status. This can sometimes be challenging, especially if you're not sure where to start or how to gather the necessary documents. In this case, you may want to consider using an online service like Alvva to help you start your process.
Alvva is a comprehensive platform designed to assist you with all aspects of the immigration process, including collecting evidence, filling out your USCIS forms, and accessing financial resources. Alvva can also help translate documents from English to Spanish for those who need it, making it an incredibly convenient and user-friendly option for anyone applying for a marriage-based Green Card. By using a service like Alvva, you can be confident that you are submitting the strongest possible application and have the support you need throughout the process.
Tackling the various necessary forms can be a complex and demanding task for individuals navigating the immigration process on their own. It requires careful attention to detail and a clear understanding of the specific requirements set forth by USCIS. However, by utilizing the resources available, such as Alvva, applicants can alleviate the challenges associated with completing documents such as Form I-130A. Alvva's user-friendly platform provides valuable assistance and guidance, ensuring that all the necessary information is accurately filled out. With the right support and resources, you can confidently complete your application packet and increase your chances of a successful immigration journey. Start with your free consultation today!