How Glendale Immigration Lawyers Handle I-130 and I-485 Together

For many families, the process of bringing a loved one to the United States or adjusting immigration status while already in the country begins with two essential forms—Form I-130 (Petition for Alien Relative) and Form I-485 (Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status). When handled together, these forms can streamline the path to a green card and significantly reduce wait times. However, filing them concurrently requires precise timing, eligibility verification, and detailed documentation. Skilled Green Card Lawyer Glendale professionals help applicants prepare and submit both forms correctly, ensuring compliance with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) requirements and preventing costly delays.

Understanding the Relationship Between I-130 and I-485

The I-130 petition is filed by a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident to establish a qualifying family relationship with the intending immigrant. Once USCIS approves the I-130, it serves as proof that the relationship is legitimate and recognized under immigration law.

Form I-485, on the other hand, allows the beneficiary, if physically present in the United States, to apply for lawful permanent residency (a green card) without leaving the country. When both forms are filed together, the process is called “concurrent filing.” This option is available only when an immigrant visa number is immediately available, typically for immediate relatives of U.S. citizens, such as spouses, unmarried children under 21, or parents.

Experienced Green Card Attorneys Glendale carefully assess whether an applicant qualifies for concurrent filing based on the Department of State’s Visa Bulletin, current immigration status, and family relationship.

Benefits of Filing I-130 and I-485 Concurrently

Concurrent filing offers several advantages that make it a preferred route for eligible applicants:

• Faster processing: Filing both forms together reduces overall waiting time, as USCIS processes the petition and adjustment of status simultaneously.
• Work and travel authorization: Applicants can also submit Form I-765 (Employment Authorization) and Form I-131 (Advance Parole) along with their I-485, allowing them to work and travel while the green card application is pending.
• Avoiding consular processing: Eligible applicants can complete the entire process within the United States, eliminating the need for interviews or processing at a U.S. consulate abroad.
• Family unity: Immediate relatives can remain with their loved ones throughout the process, avoiding lengthy separations.

A Green Card Lawyer Glendale guides applicants through the benefits and ensures that all required documents are filed together to maximize efficiency.

Confirming Eligibility for Concurrent Filing

The first step is determining whether concurrent filing is allowed under immigration law. Only certain family-based categories—such as spouses, parents, and unmarried minor children of U.S. citizens—are eligible to file both forms simultaneously.

Other categories, such as relatives of permanent residents or married children of U.S. citizens, must wait for visa availability before submitting the I-485. Green Card Attorneys Glendale verify eligibility by analyzing the applicant’s immigration history, lawful presence, and any prior overstays or visa violations that may affect adjustment eligibility.

Preparing Form I-130 – Establishing Family Relationship

The I-130 form serves as the foundation of the application. It establishes a valid family relationship through documentation such as marriage certificates, birth records, photographs, joint leases, or financial records.

Attorneys ensure that all evidence aligns with USCIS expectations, particularly in marriage-based cases, where authenticity is closely scrutinized. A Green Card Lawyer Glendale also helps prepare affidavits from friends or relatives confirming the legitimacy of the relationship, strengthening the petition against potential challenges.

Preparing Form I-485 – Adjustment of Status Application

Form I-485 requires extensive personal, financial, and medical information. Applicants must include evidence of lawful entry, proof of identity, medical examination results (Form I-693), and financial sponsorship under Form I-864.

Green Card Attorneys Glendale ensure that every section is complete and consistent with the I-130 petition to avoid Requests for Evidence (RFEs). They also review the applicant’s immigration record for past violations, such as unauthorized employment or visa overstays, and determine whether waivers may be required.

Including Supporting Forms and Documentation

When filing both forms together, several additional applications can be submitted simultaneously:

• Form I-765 for employment authorization (EAD)
• Form I-131 for travel authorization (Advance Parole)
• Form I-864 Affidavit of Support (to prove financial sponsorship)
• Form I-693 medical examination results

A Green Card Lawyer Glendale ensures that all supporting documents are properly assembled and filed in the correct order, as USCIS often rejects applications for clerical errors or missing items.

Biometrics Appointment and USCIS Interview

After submission, applicants receive a biometrics appointment to provide fingerprints and photographs for background checks. USCIS then schedules an interview, typically held at a local field office. During this interview, officers verify the authenticity of the family relationship and review the applicant’s immigration and personal history.

An attorney prepares clients for the interview by conducting mock sessions, reviewing questions, and ensuring applicants bring all necessary evidence, such as original documents and updated proof of relationship. Green Card Attorneys Glendale often attend these interviews to provide representation and clarify any legal issues that arise.

Common Challenges in Concurrent Filings

While concurrent filing can speed up the process, it also introduces potential complications if not handled properly. Common challenges include:

• Inconsistencies between I-130 and I-485 data
• Missing or outdated financial documentation
• Medical exam errors or incomplete vaccination records
• Failure to prove lawful entry into the United States
• Prior immigration violations affecting eligibility

A Green Card Lawyer Glendale identifies and resolves these issues before submission, reducing the likelihood of delays or denials. If USCIS issues a Request for Evidence or Notice of Intent to Deny, attorneys respond promptly with additional documentation or legal arguments.

Approval and Green Card Issuance

Once both forms are approved, USCIS mails the physical green card to the applicant, granting lawful permanent resident status. Spouses of U.S. citizens married for less than 2 years receive a conditional green card valid for 2 years, after which they must file Form I-751 to remove the conditions.

Attorneys assist with tracking approval status, updating records, and guiding clients through post-approval responsibilities such as maintaining permanent residence and applying for citizenship after the required period.

Handling Denials or Delays

In some cases, USCIS may delay or deny concurrent filings due to eligibility concerns, missing evidence, or suspicion of fraud. Green Card Attorneys Glendale handle these setbacks by filing motions to reopen or reconsider under Form I-290B, submitting new evidence, or appealing to the Administrative Appeals Office (AAO).

For denials related to procedural issues, attorneys can also refile the application with corrected documentation to restart the process efficiently.

Why Legal Representation Is Essential

Concurrent filing of I-130 and I-485 is one of the most time-sensitive and detail-oriented procedures in immigration law. Even small mistakes—like mismatched addresses, missing forms, or payment errors—can result in rejections that delay your family’s reunification.

Working with an experienced Green Card Lawyer Glendale ensures that every document is accurate, every form complies with USCIS policy, and every potential issue is addressed proactively. Legal counsel also helps prevent missteps that could trigger immigration bars or unlawful presence concerns.

Get Legal Help from Trusted Green Card Attorneys in Glendale

Filing Form I-130 and Form I-485 together offers an efficient path to permanent residency for eligible families—but only when handled with precision and legal expertise. Partnering with Green Card Attorneys Glendale ensures that your petition is complete, your documentation is persuasive, and your process runs smoothly from start to finish.

Whether you are adjusting status as a spouse, parent, or child of a U.S. citizen, an experienced Green Card Lawyer Glendale will guide you through every step—filing, biometrics, interviews, and final approval—so you can secure your future in the United States with confidence.

With professional legal support, the complex process of family-based green card applications becomes a well-structured path toward permanent residence, unity, and stability in Glendale and beyond.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I file Form I-130 and Form I-485 together?

Yes, but only if you are an immediate relative of a U.S. citizen and a visa number is immediately available.

How long does concurrent filing take?

Processing typically takes 10 to 20 months, depending on USCIS workload, documentation accuracy, and interview scheduling.

Do I need to be in the U.S. to file Form I-485?

Yes, Form I-485 is only for applicants already present in the United States under lawful status.

Can I work while my green card application is pending?

Yes. You can apply for work authorization (Form I-765) when filing the I-485, allowing employment while awaiting approval.

What happens if my concurrent filing is denied?

You may appeal, file a motion to reopen, or refile after addressing the issues that led to the denial. An attorney can help determine the best course of action.

Final Thoughts

Concurrent filing of I-130 and I-485 provides families with a faster, more direct route to permanent residency. With the guidance of an experienced Green Card Lawyer Glendale or a trusted team of Green Card Attorneys Glendale, applicants can avoid errors, prevent delays, and achieve successful approval—turning a complicated immigration process into a confident and efficient journey toward lawful permanent residence in the United States.

Disclaimer:

The content provided in this article is for informational and educational purposes only and should not be considered legal advice. Immigration processes, including the filing of Forms I-130 and I-485, involve complex eligibility requirements and procedural details that can vary based on individual circumstances. Reading this article does not create an attorney-client relationship. For personalized guidance and assistance with concurrent filing, eligibility review, or USCIS documentation, readers are strongly encouraged to consult a qualified Green Card Lawyer Glendale or licensed Green Card Attorneys Glendale to ensure compliance with current immigration laws and regulations.