Question
I want to petition my parents: which form is it and what does it cost?
Short answer
A U.S. citizen aged 21 or older files one Form I-130 for each parent: one for mom and another for dad. Each I-130 carries its USCIS fee, $675 on paper. USCIS fees are paid separately.
Paso Libre editorial team
Reviewed September 29, 2026 · Educational information, not legal advice
One per parent
USCIS says a separate Form I-130 is filed for each eligible relative. Mom and dad are two relatives, so that is two petitions and two fees.
The official page describes a citizen's parents as an “immediate relative” when the citizen is 21 or older.
Families in this situation normally file this form. Paso Libre does not decide whether it applies to you.
What it costs
USCIS fee for each I-130: $675 on paper ($625 online). Two parents, two fees, paid to USCIS.
Paso Libre charges $149 to prepare the I-130 with you. You fill it in free and pay only when you finish your answers. USCIS fees are paid separately.
What you will be asked for
For a parent, the official page asks for a copy of YOUR birth certificate: it is what shows who your parents are.
If your parent is abroad, the case continues at the consulate after USCIS approves the I-130. If they are inside the country, which path applies is a legal question.
If your question needs legal advice
This question needs legal advice. To protect you, we do not want to guess. Here is how to find a licensed attorney or a DOJ-accredited representative.
Official sources
- Form I-130 — USCIS ↗ · Read on September 29, 2026
- Form G-1055, fee schedule — USCIS ↗ · Read on October 10, 2026
- Find legal services — USCIS ↗ · Read on September 29, 2026
- Accredited representatives — Department of Justice ↗ · Read on September 29, 2026