What is a Form I-730?
Form I-730 is an application for refugee or asylee “following-to-join” benefits. This form is used by a relative of a refugee or asylee living in the United States to apply for a visa so they can travel to the U.S. and join their relative. The I-730 is typically used when the relative of the refugee or asylee resides outside the United States.
Who is Eligible for Form I-730?
Anyone who is the beneficiary of a pending or approved family-based immigrant petition for immediate relative status can submit Form I-730. This includes immediate relatives of U.S. citizens, such as spouses, unmarried children under 21, and parents. It also includes spouses and unmarried minor children of permanent residents.
What is the Latest Form I-730 Edition?
The latest edition of Form I-730 is dated October 15, 2019.
What are the Required Documents for Form I-730?
1. Proof of the refugee or asylee’s relationship to the petitioner (such as a birth or marriage certificate).
2. Proof of the petitioner’s U.S. citizenship, such as a birth certificate, naturalization certificate, or valid U.S. passport.
3. Proof that the petitioner is eligible for a refugee or asylum status (such as I-94 form).
4. Evidence of the refugee or asylee’s status (such as evidence of refugee or asylum status provided by a USCIS office).
5. Evidence of current address (such as a driver’s license, utility bill, etc.).
6. Documentation showing that the petitioner has been abroad for at least one year (such as passport stamps, airline tickets, etc.).
7. A copy of the Form I-730, Petition for Qualifying Family Member of Refugee/Asylee, completed and signed.
8. Proof of financial support for the qualifying family member (such as a bank statement).
9. An Affidavit of Support from a responsible individual in the U.S., if necessary.
10. Two passport-style photographs of the qualifying family member, taken within 30 days before filing Form I-730.
How to Submit Form I-730?
Form I-730 can be filed electronically or by mail.
To file electronically:
1. Visit the USCIS website and create an account if you don’t have one.
2. Log in to your account and select Form I-730 from the list of available forms.
3. Read the instructions carefully, then fill out the form online.
4. Once you’ve completed the form, pay the filing fee and submit it electronically.
To file by mail:
1. Download Form I-730 from the USCIS website and print it out.
2. Complete the form and make sure to include all necessary documents and supporting evidence.
3. Write a check or money order for the filing fee and attach it to your application.
4. Mail your completed application, fee, and documents to the address listed on the form or to the address provided on the USCIS website.
What are the Filing Tips for Form I-730?
1. Ensure that you have all of the necessary documents ready before filing your Form I-730. This includes supporting evidence such as birth certificates, marriage certificates, and other documents that prove your relationship to your qualifying relative.
2. Make sure to double check all of the information you provide on your Form I-730 before submitting. U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services will not accept applications that are incomplete or contain incorrect information.
3. Include all required fees with your application. Currently, the fee for filing Form I-730 is $535.
4. Submit your Form I-730 as soon as possible. Problems with the form or missing documents can delay processing.
5. Make sure to keep copies of everything you send to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services. This includes your completed Form I-730, supporting documents, and fees paid.
6. Follow up with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services after you submit your Form I-730 to make sure it has been received and is being processed in a timely manner.
Are There Special Instructions for Form I-730?
When completing Form I-730, Refugee/Asylee Relative Petition, it is important to follow the instructions carefully and make sure to provide all required documents.
Instructions for Form I-730:
1. Gather all required documents. This includes evidence that establishes the relationship between the petitioner and the beneficiary, proof of refugee or asylee status, and any supporting documents.
2. Read all instructions carefully and answer all questions accurately and completely.
3. Sign and date the form in blue or black ink.
4. Include two passport-style photographs of the beneficiary with the form.
5. Calculate and include the filing fee, as indicated in the instructions.
6. Mail or deliver the completed form and all required documents to the address indicated on the form.
What is the Form I-730 Fee?
The Form I-730 Fee is the fee required when filing an I-730 Petition for Refugee/Asylee Relative. This form is used to petition on behalf of a foreign relative who is a refugee or asylee in order to be granted permission to enter the United States. The fee for this form is $535, and it must be paid before the petition can be processed.
Can I Apply for Form I-730 Fee Waiver or Reduction?
Yes, you can apply for a fee waiver or reduction for Form I-730. The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) offer fee waivers or reduced fees for certain forms and applications. In order to qualify, applicants must demonstrate that they are unable to pay the full fee due to a significant financial hardship. The following categories of applicants may be eligible for a fee waiver: refugees, asylees, victims of trafficking, and certain other individuals who have been granted humanitarian relief; individuals whose household income is at or below 150% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines; individuals who receive certain types of public assistance benefits; and members of the U.S. military and their spouses, who are applying for U nonimmigrant status, or to adjust status based on marriage to a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident. To apply for a fee waiver or reduction for Form I-730, submit Form I-912, Request for Fee Waiver, at the same time as the form being submitted.
What is the Form I-730 Processing Time?
The processing time for a Form I-730 can vary depending on the specific case and the backlog of applications. Generally, the processing time is approximately 4 to 6 months, but it can take longer depending on the circ*mstances.
Form I-730 Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is Form I-730?
A: Form I-730, also known as the Refugee/Asylee Relative Petition, is a form that can be used by refugees and asylees to petition for certain family members to follow them to the United States. Through the form, applicants can request for certain family members to receive derivative refugee status or derivative asylum status. Eligible family members include spouses, unmarried children under 21, and parents who are of the same nationality as the refugee or asylee.
Q: Who is eligible to file Form I-730?
A: A refugee or asylee who has been admitted to the United States under either of these statuses is eligible to file Form I-730. The form can be used to petition for certain family members including spouses, unmarried children under 21, and parents.
Q: Where can I find Form I-730?
A: Form I-730 can be found on the website of the United States Department of Homeland Security (DHS) at https://www.uscis.gov/i-730.
Q: How do I fill out Form I-730?
A: You should fill out Form I-730 carefully and completely. You will need to provide detailed information about yourself and your qualifying family members, including their names, dates of birth, addresses, and other contact information. Make sure to sign the form at the end and include the filing fee or evidence of fee exemption.
Q: What happens after filing Form I-730?
A: After you file Form I-730, USCIS will review your application and will notify you when it makes a decision on your petition. Depending on your situation, it may take several months before you receive a decision on your application.
