Refugee/Asylee Relative Petition [Form I-730]

Family reunification for refugees and asylees in the United States

For individuals who have been recognized as refugees or asylees in the United States, the separation from their loved ones can be one of the most difficult consequences of their immigration process.

Form I-730 — Refugee/Asylee Relative Petition provides the opportunity to bring eligible relatives to the country legally and expeditiously, promoting family unity and the emotional well-being of those who have found protection in the United States.

Table of Contents

• What is Form I-730?
• Who can file this petition?
• Eligible relatives to be beneficiaries
• Required documents and evidence
• Step-by-step filing process
• Timelines and processing times
• Why trust Legalízate Ya?
• 📞 Contact us today

What is Form I-730?

Form I-730 is the application that allows a refugee or asylee in the United States to file a petition to reunite with their spouse and minor children in the country.

This procedure is essential to ensure that those who have received international protection can rebuild their family unit and live in a safe environment, away from the risks they faced in their home country.

USCIS and the Department of State coordinate this process to ensure the security and eligibility of beneficiaries before their arrival in the United States.

Who can file this petition?

The following individuals may file Form I-730:

• Those who have been recognized as refugees under the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA).
• Those who have received asylum in the United States.
• Those who wish to bring their spouse or unmarried children under 21 who are outside the country at the time of filing.

The filing of the I-730 must be done within the permitted timeframe, generally within two years of being granted refugee or asylee status, unless exceptional circumstances exist.

Eligible relatives to be beneficiaries

Beneficiaries of Form I-730 include:

• Spouse legally married to the refugee or asylee.
• Unmarried children under 21 years of age, including biological and adopted children.

Other relatives, such as parents, siblings, or children over 21, are not eligible and must explore other immigration avenues.

Required documents and evidence

For the filing of Form I-730, the following is required:

• Completed and signed Form I-730.
• Proof of petitioner’s status (refugee document or asylum approval letter).
• Proof of family relationship: marriage certificates for spouses, birth certificates for children.
• Recent photographs of each beneficiary.
• Copies of identity documents and passports, if available.
• Filing fee, if applicable (some applications are fee-exempt).

Complete and organized documentation is crucial to avoid delays or Requests for Evidence (RFE).

Step-by-step filing process

1. Case evaluation: An attorney analyzes the eligibility of the petitioner and beneficiaries.
2. Application preparation: Birth certificates, marriage certificates, and identity documents are gathered.
3. Filing Form I-730 with USCIS, generally from within the United States.
4. Case review by USCIS; an RFE may be issued requesting additional information.
5. Submission of the application to the Department of State, which coordinates the consular interview and background checks.
6. Final decision and visa issuance so the beneficiary can legally enter the United States.

Timelines and processing times

The average processing time for Form I-730 varies, but typically takes between 6 and 12 months from filing to approval and visa issuance.

Factors that may affect timelines include:

• Complexity of the family case.
• Compliance with all required documents.
• Security and background checks of the beneficiaries.

Why trust Legalízate Ya?

At Legalízate Ya, we understand that family reunification is a priority for refugees and asylees.
Our team combines immigration legal experience and cultural sensitivity, offering comprehensive and confidential advice to ensure the application is filed correctly and efficiently.

We help you prepare the strongest evidence, meet deadlines, and reduce risks of delays or denials, ensuring your loved ones can reunite with you as soon as possible.

📞 Contact us today

If you wish to file Form I-730 and reunite your family in the United States, do not wait any longer.
Call (956) 725-9714 or visit www.legalizateya.com/en to schedule a confidential and personalized consultation.

Legalízate Ya — your trusted ally for family reunification and immigration protection.