Assisting With Family-Based Petitions in California

Bringing families together is at the heart of what we do. We simplify the immigration process for spouses, children, parents, and siblings to reunite loved ones.

Determining Your Petition Type

We help you understand which family petition best applies to your situation, from marriage-based green cards to parental sponsorships.

Navigating the Petition Process

Our team handles all required documentation, ensuring your application is completed correctly and submitted without delays.

Supporting You Through Approval

We stay with you through every step—filing, interviews, and approval—until your family member is successfully granted legal status.

I-130, Petition for
Alien Relative

What is Form I-130: Petition for Alien Relative?

Form I-130, officially known as the Petition for Alien Relative, is used by U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents (green card holders) to sponsor certain family members for lawful permanent residence in the United States. At The Jurado Firm, we help families navigate this essential step in the immigration process to reunite with loved ones and build a future together.

What Is the Purpose of Form I-130?

The purpose of Form I-130 is to establish a valid family relationship between a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident (LPR) and their foreign national relative. It is the first step in the family-based immigration process. Filing this petition does not grant a green card on its own, but it does start the process for eligible family members to apply for an immigrant visa (if abroad) or adjustment of status (if already in the U.S.).

What Happens After Filing Form I-130?

Once the I-130 petition is approved by USCIS, the beneficiary (family member) must complete additional immigration steps:

1. If outside the U.S.:

  • Apply for an immigrant visa through consular processing
  • Attend a medical exam and a visa interview at the U.S. embassy or consulate


2. If inside the U.S.:

  • Apply for Adjustment of Status (Form I-485)
  • Attend a USCIS interview and complete a medical exam

The full process can take several months to years, depending on the relationship, visa category, and country of origin.

I-130 / CP

If you're a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident seeking to bring a family member to live in the United States, the first step is filing Form I-130, Petition for Alien Relative. This crucial form, submitted to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), establishes your qualifying relationship with your family member and begins the immigration process.

What Is Consular Processing?

Form I-130 is used to sponsor eligible family members for a family-based green card. Once approved, it allows your relative to apply for an immigrant visa through a process called consular processing, conducted at a U.S. embassy or consulate in their home country.

What Are the Consular Processing Steps?

Steps:

  1. USCIS approves the I-130 and sends the case to the National Visa Center (NVC), which assigns a case number.
  2. The NVC will request various documents and fees from the beneficiary, including the application for an immigrant visa, civil documents (such as birth and marriage certificates), and a police certificate. The beneficiary will also need to undergo a medical examination.
  3. Once all documents and fees are received, the NVC schedules an interview at the U.S. embassy or consulate in the beneficiary’s country.
  4. At the interview, A consular officer reviews the case, asks questions, and decides if the beneficiary qualifies for an immigrant visa.
  5. If approved, the beneficiary gets their passport with the visa and can travel to the U.S. to join their family.

How Long Does the I-130 Consular Processing Take?

The timeline varies depending on:

-Visa category and country of origin

-USCIS and NVC case processing times

-Interview availability at U.S. consulates

-Background checks or requests for additional documentation

Processing can take several months to a few years, so starting early and ensuring all documentation is complete is essential.

I-130 and I-601A Processes |
Family-Based Immigration
& Waivers

Are you trying to bring a loved one to the United States or help them obtain lawful permanent residence? Understanding the I-130 and I-601A waiver processes is essential for families navigating the U.S. immigration system. At The Jurado Firm, we guide clients through these two critical steps toward obtaining a green card based on family relationships—while minimizing separation and delays.

 What Is the I-601A Provisional Waiver?

The I-601A waiver is used by individuals who have been unlawfully present in the U.S. for more than 180 days. Unlawful presence can result in a 3-year or 10-year reentry bar, even for individuals who qualify for a green card.

The I-601A provisional waiver of inadmissibility allows eligible applicants to apply for a waiver before leaving the U.S. for their immigrant visa interview abroad. This helps reduce the risk of long-term family separation. 

Who Qualifies for the I-601A Waiver?

-You must have an approved I-130 petition

-Be physically present in the U.S. at the time of filing

-Be the spouse or child of a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident

-Demonstrate that your U.S. family member would suffer extreme hardship if you are not allowed to return

How the I-130 and I-601A Work Together

These two processes often go hand-in-hand for undocumented immigrants married to U.S. citizens or green card holders:

1. File Form I-130 to prove a valid family relationship

2. Once approved, file Form I-601A to waive the unlawful presence bar

3. Attend the visa interview abroad with the waiver already approved

4. Return to the U.S. and receive lawful permanent resident status (green card)

Experience the Difference of Working With An Immigration firm?

Watch this video to learn:

What to expect in your case

How our process works

Common immigration challenges

Steps to achieve legal status

Our Practice Areas

The Jurado Firm proudly serves the Los Angeles area and beyond with expert guidance in a myriad practice areas.

Business Immigration

Learn More

Business Immigration

We assist businesses in securing work visas, employment-based green cards, and other immigration solutions for foreign talent. Our expertise ensures compliance with U.S. immigration laws while supporting business growth.

Learn More

Entertainment and Sports

Learn More

Entertainment and Sports

We assist businesses in securing work visas, employment-based green cards, and other immigration solutions for foreign talent. Our expertise ensures compliance with U.S. immigration laws while supporting business growth.

Learn More

Asylum

Seeking asylum in the U.S. requires a strong legal case with precise documentation and adherence to strict deadlines. Our experienced team helps individuals and families navigate the asylum process with compassion and expertise.

Learn More

Family Petitions

Learn More

Family Petitions

Reuniting families is at the heart of what we do. Whether you're petitioning for a spouse, child, parent, or sibling, we guide you through the complex family-based immigration process to bring your loved ones closer.

Learn More

Immigration Waivers

Learn More

Immigration Waivers

If you or a loved one have been deemed inadmissible to the U.S., certain waivers may offer a path forward. We assess your situation and help file the appropriate waiver to overcome immigration barriers.

Learn More

Deportation Defense

Learn More

Deportation Defense

Facing removal proceedings can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to navigate it alone. We provide strategic and aggressive deportation defense to protect your rights and fight for your ability to remain in the U.S.

Learn More

U-Visa, Victims of Crimes

Learn More

U-Visa, Victims of Crimes

The U-Visa offers protection to victims of crimes who have assisted law enforcement. We help eligible individuals secure legal status and work authorization, ensuring their safety and future in the U.S.

Learn More

I-751, Removal of Conditions

Learn More

I-751, Removal of Conditions

If you received conditional residency through marriage, you must file an I-751 petition to maintain permanent resident status. We assist in building a strong case to prove your marriage is legitimate and prevent complications.

Learn More

Citizenship and Naturalization

Learn More

Citizenship and Naturalization

Becoming a U.S. citizen is a significant milestone. Our team helps lawful permanent residents navigate the naturalization process, ensuring they meet all requirements for a smooth transition to citizenship.

Learn More

Military Families / Parole in Place

Learn More

Military Families / Parole in Place

Parole in Place offers immigration relief to certain family members of U.S. military personnel. We guide military families through this process, helping them secure legal status without having to leave the country.

Learn More

Violence Against Women Act (VAWA)

Learn More

Violence Against Women Act (VAWA)

VAWA provides protections for victims of domestic violence, allowing them to self-petition for legal status without relying on an abusive spouse. We handle VAWA cases with care and discretion to ensure safety and security.

Learn More

DACA (Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals)

Learn More

DACA (Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals)

DACA allows eligible undocumented individuals brought to the U.S. as children to remain and work legally. We assist with initial applications, renewals, and legal strategies for long-term immigration solutions.

Learn More

K1 Fiancé Visa

Learn More

K1 Fiancé Visa

The K-1 Visa helps U.S. citizens bring their foreign fiancé(e) to the U.S. for marriage. We manage the entire process, ensuring all requirements are met for a successful visa approval.

Learn More

Adjustment of Status

Learn More

Adjustment of Status

For those already in the U.S., Adjustment of Status allows you to apply for a green card without leaving the country. We streamline the process, helping you secure lawful permanent residency efficiently.

Learn More

I-130 / 601A Consular Processing

Learn More

I-130 / 601A Consular Processing

If your green card application requires consular processing, we help you navigate the I-130 petition and 601A waiver, ensuring a smooth path to legal permanent residency from abroad.

Learn More

Real Clients, Real Results

See how we've helped individuals, families, and businesses navigate the immigration process with confidence and success.

"I extend my deepest gratitude to my attorney Whitney for her excellent legal representation in my asylum case. Their professionalism, experience and dedication were fundamental to obtaining a successful result. Also to my legal assistant Xiomara, I deeply appreciate her excellent work on my case. Her ability to explain every detail of the process to me clearly and concisely was invaluable. And of course, thank you to the entire Jurado Firm team. They were always available to answer my questions and I was kept informed at all times."

Derling

"Hello to all those people who want to begin an immigration process such as an adjustment of status, please allow me to recommend the Jurado Firm. I am in process and I am very happy with your service and assistance at all times. Thanks to the lawyer and his assistant, Miss Stephanie, who is an essential person who has helped us from the beginning and they already gave me my work permit. Thank you very much, Miss Stephanie, and also to the entire team who make it possible to achieve this dream."

Garcia Family

"I was able to get a free consultation with Attorney Carlos at The Jurado Firm and eventually I decided to go with them. My legal assistant was Stephanie at the Bakersfield address and overall my experience was made quick and easy. I started with them in spring of 2023 which were a quiet few months because I had to get all my documents in order but in December 2023. I submitted my documents and after the holidays in February 2024 they submitted my Adjustment of status and I received my green card in just under 45 days in March of 2024."

The Mendoza's

Family-Based
Petitions FAQs

Navigating immigration law can be complex—here are the most common questions we receive to help guide you through the process.

Who can petition for a family member?

How long does a family-based petition take?

Can I sponsor my fiancé for a visa?

What happens if my family member’s petition is denied?

Do family petitions require a financial sponsor?

Take the First Step Toward Your Future

Your immigration journey starts here—let our dedicated team guide you through every step with expertise, compassion, and unwavering support.