I-130 approve time

[chinghojames]

Hi,

My girl friend(US citizen) and I plan to marry at the end of June. My current F-1 VISA will expire in JULY 1st but My OPT will allow me to stay until JULY 25th. Do you think I have enough time to file I-130 at the same time with I-485, I-765 (work permit) and I-131 (travel document)? Do I need to get out of the USA until they approve I-130?

Thank You!

 

[PraetorianXI]

You can send all the forms at the same time (concurrently) to the Chicago Lockbox. Then your status will be "pending" and legal to stay in the US until your petition is approved or denied. You do not have to leave the US.

Ps: try to file before July 30th. New fees (a lot more expensive) will kick in that day.

 

[chinghojames]

Thank you very much~ I think I will file them all at once by the end of this June just too be safe

 

[PraetorianXI]

No problem, just make sure you send EVERYTHING at once and read through this forum for directions, specially the stickies!

 

[chinghojames]

Where should I mail the documents if I am living in New Jersey?

 

[PraetorianXI]

The Chicago Lockbox, the information is found on the instructions for the forms.