Do We Need a Lawyer for the I-130?
No, you are not required to hire a lawyer to file Form I-130, Petition for Alien Relative. Many individuals complete and submit the form independently, especially when the case is straightforward, such as a U.S. citizen petitioning for a spouse, parent, or child with no legal complications.
However, seeking legal advice is highly recommended if you face any complex circumstances. These may include:
- Uncertain immigration status or history
- Previous visa overstays, deportations, or unlawful presence
- Incomplete or missing documentation
- Questions about eligibility or family relationship categories
- A desire to avoid errors and delays
An experienced immigration attorney can guide you through the process, ensure your petition is accurate and complete, and improve the likelihood of a successful outcome. While hiring a lawyer involves additional cost, it can ultimately save time, prevent mistakes, and reduce stress, especially in more complicated cases.
