Family Immigration to the United States: A Guide to the USCIS I-130

Last Updated: December 2, 2025 by Mark I Davies, Esq & Richard Latta, Esq.

For many Scottish nationals, building a life with a spouse or close family member in the United States can feel like a distant dream—until they learn about the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) Form I-130, Petition for Alien Relative. This foundational step in the family-based immigration system helps U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents reunite with their loved ones in America.

Below is a clear, up-to-date overview of how the I-130 process works, what Scottish beneficiaries can expect, and why partnering with an experienced U.S. immigration lawyer can make a world of difference.

What Is the USCIS Form I-130?

Form I-130 is used by a U.S. citizen or green card holder to establish a qualifying family relationship with a foreign national relative. Common qualifying relationships include:

• Spouses
• Parents (if the petitioner is 21 or older)
• Children
• Siblings (for U.S. citizens only)

Approval of the I-130 does not grant a visa or immigration status by itself. Instead, it confirms that a valid family relationship exists and allows the beneficiary to move to the next step—either applying for an immigrant visa through the U.S. Embassy in London or adjusting status inside the United States, depending on eligibility.

Why Scottish Beneficiaries Are a Growing Group

While the overall immigration pathway is the same for all foreign beneficiaries, many Scottish families pursue U.S. immigration for reasons such as:

• Marriage to U.S. citizens they met through travel or work exchanges
• Opportunities for long-term relocation to the U.S. tech, medical, education, or business sectors
• Desire to live closer to extended family already settled in America

Because Scotland shares strong cultural and travel ties with the U.S., family-based petitions are among the most common immigration routes for Scottish nationals.

What Scottish Applicants Should Expect: A Step-by-Step Overview

1. Filing the I-130 Petition

   The U.S. petitioner submits the I-130 to USCIS along with proof of the qualifying relationship, identity documents, and supporting evidence.

2. USCIS Review and Approval

   Processing times vary, but approval confirms USCIS recognizes the family relationship.

3. National Visa Center (NVC) Processing

   Once approved, the case is transferred to the NVC, which collects additional forms and financial evidence, including the Affidavit of Support (Form I-864).

4. Immigrant Visa Interview in London

   Scottish beneficiaries attend their visa interview at the U.S. Embassy in London. They bring civil documents, a medical exam report, and proof of the family relationship.

5. Entry to the United States

   Upon visa issuance, the beneficiary may travel to the U.S. to become a permanent resident (green card holder).

Why Work With a U.S. Immigration Lawyer?

Although the I-130 process seems straightforward, family immigration involves detailed documentation and strict legal standards. Many Scottish applicants benefit from legal guidance for several reasons:

1. Ensuring a Strong, Well-Prepared Filing

   An experienced attorney helps prepare a complete petition package, reducing the risk of delays or Requests for Evidence (RFEs).

2. Navigating Cross-Border Requirements

   Applicants living in Scotland must coordinate documents from the U.K., including police certificates, birth records, and marriage documentation. A lawyer familiar with U.K. processes can streamline this.

3. Avoiding Eligibility Pitfalls

   Even simple mistakes—incorrect financial sponsorship documentation, incomplete forms, or insufficient relationship evidence—can delay or jeopardize a case.

4. Support Through Each Stage

   From USCIS filing to the London Embassy interview, a U.S. immigration lawyer provides guidance, interview preparation, and oversight to ensure compliance with immigration rules.

Final Thoughts

For Scottish beneficiaries and their U.S. family members, the I-130 process opens the door to building a shared life in America. While the immigration system can feel complex, having knowledgeable legal support can make the journey far smoother, more predictable, and less stressful.

If you or a loved one in Scotland is considering a family-based immigration petition, connecting with an experienced U.S. immigration lawyer is one of the best first steps to take.

Contact Davies & Associates — Edinburgh Office

You can contact our Edinburgh office using the following details:

• Address: Rutland Square, Edinburgh EH2
• Telephone: +44 (0)131 000 0000
• Email: [email protected]
• Consultation: Request a free L-1 assessment through our Edinburgh team.

Our office is centrally located in Edinburgh’s New Town business district, serving clients throughout Scotland and Northern England with direct liaison to our U.S. offices in New York, Miami , Los Angeles , and Houston.

Map — Edinburgh Office

For your convenience, here is an interactive map showing the approximate location of our Edinburgh office in the New Town business district: