Help With Immigration Forms

Navigating U.S. immigration forms can be confusing. This page links directly to official USCIS forms and offers plain-language explanations of what each one is used for. For most people, it is best to get help from a qualified immigration attorney before filing.

Common Immigration Forms

Form I-130 – Petition for Alien Relative

Used to establish a family relationship between a U.S. citizen or permanent resident and a noncitizen relative.

  • USCIS Form I-130
  • Who can file: U.S. citizens and permanent residents
  • Purpose: To bring a spouse, child, sibling, or parent to the U.S.
  • Filing tip: Supporting documents like birth/marriage certificates are required

Form I-765 – Application for Employment Authorization (Work Permit)

Lets certain immigrants apply for legal permission to work in the U.S.

  • USCIS Form I-765
  • Who can file: Asylum seekers, DACA recipients, TPS holders, others
  • Tip: You need to prove you qualify — usually based on a pending or granted immigration status

Form I-589 – Application for Asylum

Used to apply for asylum in the United States based on fear of persecution.

  • USCIS Form I-589
  • Who can file: Anyone physically present in the U.S. who fears returning home
  • Time limit: You must file within one year of arriving in the U.S., unless an exception applies

Form I-485 – Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status

Used to apply for a green card if you’re already inside the U.S.

  • USCIS Form I-485
  • Commonly filed after an approved I-130 or I-360
  • Requires: A medical exam and proof of eligibility

Form I-131 – Application for Travel Document

Allows eligible immigrants to apply for advance parole, refugee travel, or reentry permits.

  • USCIS Form I-131
  • Warning: Leaving the U.S. without this may cancel some applications

Form G-28 – Notice of Attorney Representation

Used to officially declare that a lawyer or accredited representative is helping with your case.

  • USCIS Form G-28
  • Purpose: Required if someone is representing you in any filing

Important Notes

  • Always double-check you are using the latest form version on uscis.gov.
  • Filling out a form incorrectly can delay or harm your case.
  • If possible, speak with a licensed attorney or legal aid organization before filing.

Coming Soon

  • Downloadable PDF checklists for Forms I-130, I-589, and I-765
  • Spanish version of this page: Ayuda con Formularios
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