Green Card For Parents

[bestpal]

When you petition relatives oversea, you only file I130 with USCIS. After ther I130 is approved by USCIS, your case will then forwarded to NVC (national visa center) for immigration visa processing with the embassy at your relatives' country of residence. Immigration visa processing at NVC is a multi-step process. More information can be found at the http://travel.state.gov/visa/immigrants/info/info_1335.html

 

[Jackolantern]

If the above is true, then is it better to file i-130 & i485 at the same time(the relative is abroad and plans to stay there until the whole application process is done)?

I-485 is only for when the noncitizen relative who wants to get a green card is already in the US and wants to live in the US until the green card is approved. This would be filed together with the I-130, or after the I-130.

If the noncitizen relative is outside the US, or is inside the US but is planning to leave the US to wait for the interview and approval at a consulate, the I-130 would be filed without any I-485. On the I-130 there is a question that asks for the city & country location of the desired consulate.

 

[luckylilly]

I will be applying for my mom next week.I want to confirm what the total cost is for this.From what I have so far it seems to be $1365.I just want to make sure this is correct..many changes and oversight in this process sometimes.

Thanks a lot!!

 

[Jackolantern]

I will be applying for my mom next week.I want to confirm what the total cost is for this.From what I have so far it seems to be $1365.I just want to make sure this is correct.

Which method are you using? I-485 or consular processing? The fees are different. And if you're choosing I-485, I hope you've read the above posts in the thread regarding potential pitfalls of filing I-485 after the parent entered with a tourist visa.