Vickerstaff Law Office

Call For An Initial Consultation

Local: 502-442-2039 Toll-Free: 888-832-2944
Vickerstaff Law Office

Call For An Initial Consultation

Local: 502-442-2039
Toll-Free: 888-832-2944

Louisville, Kentucky, Immigration Lawyer

Louisville, Kentucky, Immigration Lawyer

Filing an I-130 petition abroad

On Behalf of | Mar 1, 2021 | family immigration

If you currently live outside of the U.S. and you want to help a close relative such as a spouse or child immigrate to the U.S., you need to review the steps necessary to move forward with your goals. Although a majority of people file immigrant visa petitions from within the U.S., it is possible to file certain forms while abroad, such as Form I-130.

When it comes to filing an immigrant visa petition, you must carefully review the unique details surrounding your circumstances and ensure that you satisfy any conditions. This helps avoid delays and the denial of your petition.

Filing Form I-130 overseas

According to the U.S. Department of State, people can file immigrant visa petitions from outside of the U.S. in certain instances. For example, some petitioners have the option to file this form online or by sending the form to the USCIS Dallas Lockbox. If you currently live in another country and want to submit a petition abroad, you can review requirements, processing times and the status of your case online.

Filing Form I-130 under exceptional circumstances

The U.S. Department of State reports that people can also file Form I-130 at U.S. embassies or consulates, in exceptional circumstances. Some exceptional circumstances involve medical emergencies, threats to personal safety or military-related emergencies. If you believe that you have exceptional circumstances, you can reach out to your nearest U.S. consulate or embassy for assistance. It is only possible to file on behalf of an immediate relative such as a spouse, parent (if the petitioner is over 21) or child (if the child is under 21 and not married).