What does Form I-130 demonstrate?

Form I-130, formally known as the Petition for Alien Relative, is specifically designed for U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents to establish a qualifying relationship with certain family members who are seeking to immigrate to the United States. This form is a crucial step in the family-based immigration process because it helps to prove that a legitimate familial connection exists, which is a requirement for sponsoring relatives.

The form typically supports petitions for immediate relatives, such as spouses, children, and siblings, allowing these individuals to apply for an immigrant visa or adjust their status to become lawful permanent residents. By filing Form I-130, the petitioner initiates the immigration process for their relative, demonstrating both their willingness and ability to support that individual in their journey to gain permanent residency.

Other choices do not pertain to the purpose of Form I-130: applications for asylum status involve a separate process intended for individuals seeking protection from persecution; work permits are covered under different forms, such as Form I-765; and verification of employment eligibility relates to Form I-9, which is unrelated to family-based immigration matters. Thus, the focus of Form I-130 specifically on establishing family relationships makes it the correct choice in this context.