What is Form I-130A, and Who Needs to Fill It Out?
Form I-130A, officially called the “Supplemental Information for Spouse Beneficiary”, is a U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) form that collects additional details about the spouse applying for a marriage-based green card. This form gathers information such as the spouse’s residential and employment history for the past five years and details about their parents.
Form I-130A is an important part of the marriage-based green card process. It complements the main family sponsorship form, Form I-130, officially known as the “Petition for Alien Relative”. If you’re applying for a marriage-based green card, both forms must be submitted together.
This guide explains everything you need to know about Form I-130A, including its purpose, filing requirements, and tips for completing it accurately.
Why Is Form I-130A Required?
Form I-130A is used to verify the background and relationship details of the spouse applying for a green card. USCIS uses this form to ensure the marriage is genuine and to cross-check the information provided in the I-130 form.
If you’re working on your marriage-based green card application, filing Form I-130A alongside Form I-130 is your first step toward completing the process.
Cost of Filing Form I-130A
The great news is that there’s no additional fee for filing Form I-130A. It’s included as part of the family sponsorship process, which has its own associated costs for Form I-130.
Processing Time for Form I-130A
The processing time for Form I-130A is tied to that of Form I-130 since they are submitted together. In general, processing times vary depending on where the application is filed and the current USCIS workload.
To better understand the full timeline for a marriage-based green card, check USCIS updates or consult a detailed guide like the one on Law and Visas.
Who Needs to Complete Form I-130A?
Form I-130A is required specifically for spouses applying for a marriage-based green card.
- If the spouse lives in the United States, they must complete and sign the form.
- If the spouse lives outside the United States, they still need to fill out the form, but the sponsoring spouse (the U.S. citizen or green card holder) will submit it without the applicant’s signature.
Who Doesn’t Need Form I-130A?
Form I-130A is not necessary for family sponsorship applications involving other relatives, such as parents, children, or siblings.
How to File Form I-130A
Form I-130A must be submitted as part of a complete application package along with Form I-130. Depending on your situation, you may file these forms:
- Standalone Filing – Just the family sponsorship form (Form I-130) and Form I-130A.
- Concurrent Filing – Both the family sponsorship forms and the green card application (Form I-485).
The filing address depends on where you live and the type of filing. USCIS provides a detailed chart to help you determine where to send your forms.
Required Supporting Documents for Form I-130A
No additional documents are required specifically for Form I-130A. However, it must accompany the supporting evidence already required for Form I-130. These documents may include:
- Proof of the sponsoring spouse’s U.S. citizenship or green card status.
- Evidence of a valid, genuine marriage (e.g., marriage certificate, joint financial documents, photos).
- Proof of name changes (if applicable).
- Birth certificates or other documents to verify identity.
Since the I-130A and I-130 forms are submitted together, make sure your application package is complete to avoid delays.
Tips for Filling Out Form I-130A
- Be Accurate: Ensure all information matches the details in Form I-130. Any discrepancies could lead to delays or requests for additional evidence.
- Provide Complete Residential History: List all addresses from the past five years without leaving gaps.
- Include Full Employment History: Provide job details for the past five years. If you’ve been unemployed, indicate this on the form.
- Double-Check Information: Review your form for errors before submitting it. Mistakes can cause delays.
If you’ve had difficulty keeping track of your address or job history, use tools like old tax returns, bank statements, or employment records to fill in the gaps.
What Happens After Filing Form I-130A?
Once USCIS receives your I-130 and I-130A, they will review your application package. If the forms and supporting documents are complete, USCIS will:
- Assign a priority date, which secures your place in line for a green card (if applicable).
- Notify you of the next steps in the process, which may include a biometric appointment or interview.
FAQs About Form I-130A
Can I File Form I-130A Separately?
No, Form I-130A must be filed together with Form I-130 as part of the marriage-based green card application.
What If I’m Missing Information for Form I-130A?
If you’re unable to provide complete residential or employment history, USCIS may issue a Request for Evidence (RFE). To avoid delays, ensure you’ve gathered all necessary details before filing.
Does Form I-130A Require an Interview?
USCIS typically reviews Form I-130A as part of the overall marriage-based green card application. While the form itself doesn’t trigger an interview, the entire application process often includes an interview to verify the marriage.
Simplify Your Marriage-Based Green Card Application
Filing Form I-130A is a critical part of the marriage-based green card process. By taking the time to complete it accurately and submitting it with all required documents, you’re one step closer to reuniting with your loved one.
Need help? Law and Visas makes it easier to navigate every step of your green card journey, from completing Form I-130A to gathering all supporting documents. Get started today!
