Immigrant Visas

Appointments for Filing I-130 Petitions

Recent legislation has led to changes in the procedures American citizens resident abroad will follow if they wish to sponsor an immediate relative (spouse, parent or minor child) for an immigrant visa. Effective immediately, the immediate relative petition (I-130) should be filed with the USCIS office responsible for the petitioner's place of residence (that is, the place of residence of the American citizen who is filing the petition). Consular offices at U.S. Embassies and Consulates are no longer required to accept I-130s, although they will continue to provide guidance to American citizen petitioners. American citizens should submit their I-130 at the CIS office responsible for their place of residence. American citizens may visit the USCIS website - www.USCIS.gov for additional information on I-130 petitions.

This procedural change may result in a processing delay for some applicants. The Department of State recognizes and sincerely regrets the inconvenience this may cause.