Understanding “Part 6. Petitioner’s Statement, Contact Information, Declaration, and Signature” on Form I-130

Edition Date: 07/20/21

The journey to reunite with family members through the U.S. immigration process can be complex and challenging. The I-130 form, officially known as the “Petition for Alien Relative,” is a crucial document in this process. It is used by U.S. citizens or permanent residents to establish their relationship with a family member seeking lawful permanent residency in the United States. While the I-130 form can seem daunting, breaking it down into specific sections can help make the process more manageable.

I. Introduction

In this article, we will delve into “Part 6. Petitioner’s Statement, Contact Information, Declaration, and Signature.” This section of the form is vital because it contains important statements and contact information that can impact the success of your petition.

II. Understanding the Petitioner’s Statement

 

 

In “Part 6. Petitioner’s Statement,” you are required to make specific declarations about your ability to understand the form and the information provided. This section includes two options, 1.a and 1.b, and it’s essential to select the one that best describes your situation.

• Option 1.a: If you can read and understand English and have read and comprehended every question and instruction on the petition, you should select this option. By choosing 1.a, you confirm that you are proficient in English and have independently completed the form.
• Option 1.b: Alternatively, if you required an interpreter, select option 1.b. This option indicates that the interpreter, whose details are to be provided in “Part 7,” read the petition and your responses to you in a language in which you are fluent. This is a crucial distinction if English is not your primary language.

Whichever option you select, it is essential to provide accurate information. In the case of 1.b, the interpreter’s role is significant, as they help bridge the language gap and ensure that you understand the contents of the form.

2: At my request, the preparer named in Part 8., prepared this petition for me based only upon information I provided or authorized.

This item addresses the role of a preparer, if applicable. In some cases, individuals seek assistance from a preparer, such as an attorney or an accredited representative, to help them complete the immigration forms. Item Number 2 is relevant when you’ve had a preparer assist you in completing the I-130 petition.

III. Petitioner’s Contact Information

In “Part 6. Petitioner’s Contact Information,” you are required to provide accurate contact details. While this may seem straightforward, it’s of utmost importance. This section comprises the following fields:

• Item 3: “Petitioner’s Daytime Telephone Number”
• Item 4: “Petitioner’s Mobile Telephone Number (if any)”
• Item 5: “Petitioner’s Email Address (if any)”

Accuracy and completeness are crucial. USCIS may need to contact you for various reasons, including clarifications on your petition or to schedule an interview or biometrics appointment. By providing up-to-date and functioning contact information, you ensure that the immigration process proceeds smoothly.

Make sure to double-check the information you provide, as any errors or discrepancies can lead to delays or complications in your application process.

IV. Petitioner’s Declaration and Certification

The “Petitioner’s Declaration and Certification” is a pivotal part of the I-130 form. In this section, you affirm the authenticity of your documents and provide authorization for information release. It contains the following key elements:

• Verification of Document Copies: Here, you declare that all documents submitted are exact photocopies of unaltered, original documents. This emphasizes the importance of submitting accurate and unaltered copies.
• Authorization for Information Release: You authorize USCIS to release any necessary information from your records to determine your eligibility for the immigration benefit you seek. This extends to information contained in the petition, supporting documents, and USCIS records.
• Biometrics Oath: The section also mentions that you may be required to appear for biometrics (fingerprints, photograph, and/or signature). If so, you’ll be asked to sign an oath reaffirming your responsibility for the information in your petition.

In conclusion, the “Petitioner’s Declaration and Certification” is where you confirm, under penalty of perjury, that all information provided or authorized by you is accurate and that you’ve reviewed and understood everything contained in your petition and supporting documents. This section underscores the significance of honesty and accuracy throughout the immigration process.

V. Signing and Dating the Petition

“Part 6. Petitioner’s Statement, Contact Information, Declaration, and Signature” on the I-130 form concludes with the requirement for your signature. In this section, you’ll find:

• Item 6.a: “Petitioner’s Signature (sign in ink)”
• Item 6.b: “Date of Signature (mm/dd/yyyy)”

These fields may seem straightforward, but it’s crucial to pay attention to the details. When signing the form, be sure to do so in ink. This signifies your commitment to the contents of the petition.

Regarding the date, it’s essential to use the mm/dd/yyyy format. This format ensures uniformity and accuracy in dating the form. A correct date format is necessary to prevent any misunderstandings or discrepancies.

Remember that your signature signifies that you take full responsibility for the information provided in the petition. It’s a legally binding confirmation of your compliance with immigration laws and regulations.

Case Study: Mai Nguyen

Let’s consider a case study to illustrate the importance of accurately completing “Part 6. Petitioner’s Statement, Contact Information, Declaration, and Signature” on Form I-130.

 

 

Fictional Persona: Mai Nguyen

Petitioner’s Statement:

Mai Nguyen, a resident of Hanoi, Vietnam, is applying for a family-based immigrant visa to reunite with her spouse, who is a U.S. citizen. In “Part 6. Petitioner’s Statement,” Mai has selected “Option 1.a.” She can read and understand English, and she has meticulously read and comprehended every question and instruction on the I-130 petition, as well as her responses to those questions.

Petitioner’s Contact Information:

• Item 3: Petitioner’s Daytime Telephone Number: (84) 123-456-7890
• Item 4: Petitioner’s Mobile Telephone Number: (84) 987-654-3210
• Item 5: Petitioner’s Email Address: mai.nguyen@email.com

Mai Nguyen has provided up-to-date contact information, ensuring that USCIS can reach her if needed.

Petitioner’s Declaration and Certification:

Mai Nguyen affirms that all documents she has submitted are exact photocopies of unaltered, original documents. She understands that USCIS may request the submission of original documents at a later date. Furthermore, she authorizes the release of any necessary information from her records to facilitate the immigration process. Mai is fully prepared to cooperate in providing any requested information and documentation to ensure the smooth processing of her petition.

Petitioner’s Signature:

• Item 6.a: Petitioner’s Signature (sign in ink): [Mai Nguyen’s Signature]
• Item 6.b: Date of Signature (mm/dd/yyyy): 10/15/23

Mai Nguyen has carefully signed the petition in ink, providing the correct date format as per the instructions.

Mai Nguyen’s example serves as a fictional representation of how an individual from Vietnam might complete “Part 6. Petitioner’s Statement, Contact Information, Declaration, and Signature” on the I-130 form. This persona illustrates the importance of accurate and complete information in the immigration process.

Edition Date and Form Submission

The edition date of the form is a critical detail. In the I-130 form, you can find the edition date at the bottom of the page. It’s essential to use the edition date specified on the form and instructions when filling out your petition.

When completing and printing the form for submission, ensure that the edition date and page numbers are visible at the bottom of all pages. Using the correct edition is crucial, as USCIS may reject your petition if any pages are missing or if they are from a different form edition.

USCIS’s strict adherence to edition dates serves to maintain consistency and ensures that the latest instructions and requirements are followed. To avoid any potential issues with your submission, always double-check the edition date before filling out the form.

This article provides a comprehensive guide to “Part 6. Petitioner’s Statement, Contact Information, Declaration, and Signature” on Form I-130, emphasizing the importance of accuracy, clarity, and adherence to instructions. If you have any further questions or need additional information, consult the official USCIS website or seek legal advice to ensure a successful immigration process.