How to Petition for an Alien Relative

An alien relative is someone who is living in the United States illegally, meaning that they currently don’t have citizenship status. You can petition on behalf of that person in order for them to gain legal immigration status. This is an early step in the long process of getting citizenship. Below are the steps you'll need to take in order to petition the immigration service on behalf of your alien relative.

Things You'll Need

• Computer
• Internet access
• Printer

Instructions

1. Visit the USCIS website and scroll to the bottom of the screen. There you’ll find two PDF files that you should download onto your computer. One is the I-30 form and the other is the instructional booklet for the form, which contains all the information you need to properly fill out the form before sending it in (see Resources below).

2. Print off the form and fill fill it out, answering all of the questions asked as clearly and honestly as possible. Questions include who you’re petitioning for and how they’re related to you. You'll also need your social security number, citizenship status, address and even the name and address of your employer.

3. Write out a check or money order for the amount shown on the website. The amount will vary from year to year, but generally should be under $500. The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services only accepts checks or money orders.

4. Send the completed form and check or money order to the address listed on the website. You should pay special attention to the addresses listed since the state or territory you live in is what decides which address you use. If you send it to the wrong address, it will take longer to process the application.

Tips & Warnings

• You should consider printing off two copies of the form, so that if you make a mistake you’ll have an extra copy to work with.

• Double check the form to make sure you’ve filled everything out and used the right addresses. Any empty spaces or areas that aren’t filled out can result in a delay in processing your form or an outright denial of your claim. Then you’ll need to fill out a new form and resend the payment.

• Be aware that having your application approved doesn’t automatically entitle you to support and get citizenship for your alien relative. This is only one part of the whole process.

Resources

• Download form I-30 and the instructions here.