(日本語)

Important: Who is eligible to file I-130 petitions at overseas consular posts?

This is the first of two steps in obtaining an immigrant visa. (The second step is the actual application for the visa which is described in a separate section.) American citizens resident in Japan for more than six months preceding the the petitioning may file an immigrant visa petition (I-130) for a spouse, child, step-child, or parent at the Immigrant Visa Unit in Tokyo or Naha. If the relative is resident in Japan and the claimed identities and relationships are clear, the petition can be accepted by consular services and the IV application processed. Other petitions must be submitted with the USCIS.

Those who wish to file an IV petition in Tokyo or Naha must schedule an appointment to do so. Please do not schedule an appointment until you have read the instructions carefully and assembled ALL of the necessary documents. Please confirm available dates from the calendar link at the bottom of the checklist page.

Due to security concerns and space constraints, only those with appointments will be admitted. The petitioner is required at the petitioning. Both the petitioner and beneficiary should be present to submit the I-130 petition. Given the space limitations, no family members other than beneficiaries will be admitted. In view of the amount of time it takes to complete the process, parents are kindly requested not to bring small children.

• I-130 Petition Checklist