After the I-130 petition for a spouse is approved, the next steps depend on two important criteria: (1) if the immigrant is in an Immediate Relative or Family Preference Category and (2) if the immigrant is inside or outside the United States. Here are the next steps based on these criteria:

Immediate Relative Inside the United States:

• Adjustment of Status: After the I-130 is approved, the immigrant can file Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status, to become a permanent resident.

Immediate Relative Outside the United States:

• National Visa Center (NVC): After the I-130 is approved, USCIS will send the approved petition to the NVC, which will collect fees, forms, and documents from the petitioner and beneficiary.
• Consular Processing: The immigrant will need to apply for an immigrant visa at a U.S. consulate abroad.

Family Preference Category:

• Wait for Priority Date: Individuals in the Family Preference category will generally wait many months, and sometimes years, for their priority date to become current.

Regardless of the category, the immigrant will need to provide additional documentation to USCIS, such as birth certificates, marriage certificates, and police clearances. They may also need to attend an interview with USCIS and pay additional fees.