Navigating the Immigration Process in the USA: A Step-by-Step Guide

Relocating to the USA can be an exciting but challenging journey, especially when dealing with immigration paperwork. This blog post outlines the steps involved in a recent case of an H1B visa holder applying for a green card through the I-130, I-485, and related applications. Let’s dive right in! 📍 New Jersey

Timeline of Key Events

• 📅 5/21: Marriage ceremony
• 📅 5/28: Received marriage certificate
• 📅 5/31: Started filling out forms and collecting attachments
• 📅 6/05: Gathered documents required for birth certificate notarization in China
• 📅 6/08: Health checkup
• 📅 6/15: Submitted I-130 online and paid $625, received an electronic receipt
• 📅 6/16: Received TDAP vaccine
• 📅 6/18: Obtained sealed I-693 and paid $500 for medical exam; took passport-style photos at home
• 📅 6/20: Received birth certificate notarization and translation; reviewed and signed all documents; spent $3 for three checks (I-485: $1440, I-765: $260, I-131: $630)
• 📅 6/21: Mailed I-485 (including I-693 and I-864), I-765, and I-131 via USPS; received I-130 paper receipt notice the same day

Step-by-Step Guide

1️⃣ Preparation

To ensure a smooth application process, start with these essential preparations:

• Obtain your marriage certificate at the city hall.
• Organize birth certificate notarization (handled by a family member in China): obtain medical proof of birth from the police station before visiting the notary.
• Prepare your vaccination card (the little yellow book required upon arriving in the USA).
• Visit the USCIS website to find a civil surgeon for your medical exam and vaccination updates.

2️⃣ Form Filling

All forms must be downloaded from the USCIS website, filled out on your computer, printed, and signed:

• The petitioner must complete the I-130 online and submit attachments (relationship timeline, proof of shared residence, joint account statements, life insurance beneficiaries, travel photos, and joint tickets).
• The beneficiary must fill out the I-130A, print, sign, and scan it as an attachment to the I-130 online submission.
• Beneficiaries should also fill out I-485, portions of I-693, I-765, and I-131 forms.
• The petitioner fills out the I-864.

3️⃣ Organizing Attachments

Prepare and send everything in an organized manner:

• Mail a cover letter for all forms, including individual envelopes for I-485 (with I-693), I-864, I-765, and I-131.
• Use labels on envelopes to enhance organization and present a polished image.
• Find the correct mailing address on the USCIS website to ensure you send it to the right place based on residence.
• Purchase a flat-rate shipping box from USPS for $19.15, which includes postage regardless of weight.

Completing your immigration application can seem daunting, but breaking it down into these manageable steps makes the process more achievable. With careful organization and attention to detail, you’ll be well on your way to achieving a successful application!