Family-Based Immigration and Form I-130: How Congruence Law, P.C. Supports Families Seeking Lawful Status

At Congruence Law, P.C., we understand that family unity is at the heart of U.S. immigration policy. Whether reuniting spouses, bringing parents or children to the United States, or securing green card eligibility for a sibling, family-based immigration begins with a foundational legal step: Form I-130, Petition for Alien Relative.

Our firm provides compassionate, detail-oriented legal representation for families seeking lawful permanent residency through I-130 petitions. We help clients navigate complex rules, avoid costly delays, and build a strong evidentiary record for U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) review.

Form I-130 is used by U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents (green card holders) to establish a qualifying family relationship with a foreign national relative who seeks to immigrate to the United States. Filing and approval of Form I-130 is the first step in the family-based immigration process.

U.S. citizens may file I-130s for a spouse, parent (if the petitioner is over 21), child (minor or adult, married or unmarried), or sibling (if the petitioner is over 21). Lawful permanent residents may file for a spouse or unmarried child (under or over 21). Green card holders cannot petition for married children, parents, or siblings.

Congruence Law, P.C. offers comprehensive representation for clients seeking to file Form I-130. Our services include initial eligibility assessment to verify both the petitioner’s and the beneficiary’s qualifications, including admissibility, family relationship status, and document availability. We assist with compiling and submitting a complete I-130 petition packet, including proof of the qualifying relationship (such as marriage certificates, birth records, or adoption papers), supporting affidavits, translations, and Form I-130A where applicable. We also provide guidance on the Affidavit of Support (Form I-864), and advise on the best course—Adjustment of Status or Consular Processing—depending on the beneficiary’s location and immigration status. Our team maintains communication with USCIS, monitors progress, and prepares clients for interviews, responses to Requests for Evidence (RFEs), and next-stage filings.

Too often, families attempt to file on their own or with incomplete guidance, resulting in costly errors, long delays, or denials. One of the most common pitfalls is insufficient documentation proving the qualifying relationship, especially in marriage-based cases. USCIS may question the bona fides of the marriage if not supported by clear evidence such as joint leases, photos, shared financial documents, and personal affidavits. In cases involving stepchildren, adoptive children, or less straightforward family ties, improper documentation or timelines often result in rejections.

Another frequent issue is filing the wrong or incomplete forms. For example, failing to include Form I-130A for a foreign spouse leads to rejections. Documents in foreign languages that are not translated and certified also result in delays. Petitioners may also overlook eligibility restrictions—for instance, green card holders attempting to file for parents or siblings—resulting in returned applications. Additionally, USCIS closely scrutinizes applications for inconsistent information across past filings, visa records, or immigration histories. Discrepancies in marital history, entry dates, or status can be detrimental. Many applicants also misunderstand the significance of preference categories and fail to properly track Visa Bulletin dates, delaying further action after approval.

At Congruence Law, we take proactive steps to avoid these problems. We prepare complete and persuasive initial filings, including thorough cover letters, indexes, and supporting documents organized to help the USCIS officer process the application efficiently. We ensure all foreign-language documents are professionally translated and certified. For preference category cases, we monitor the Visa Bulletin and alert clients when it’s time to proceed with the next steps. We address any red flags—such as prior overstays, unlawful presence, or prior denials—upfront with strategic documentation or legal explanations. When the case moves to the interview stage, we prepare clients thoroughly, including document updates and sample questions.

We know the stakes in family-based immigration are deeply personal. At Congruence Law, P.C., we combine legal precision with compassion, guiding families through every stage of the immigration process with transparency and care. Whether you're filing a new petition or responding to a delay or denial, our team is here to provide clear answers, efficient action, and tireless advocacy to help bring your family together—legally and permanently.

To schedule a consultation or begin your family immigration process, contact us at immigration@congruence.com. Let us help you take the first step toward reunification and residency with confidence.