How long are I-130 approved apps valid?

[mexican_lover]

I'm considering beginning the filing process for my wife with the possibility I'll be denied in the end. But I should be able to get approval for the I-130 and since the fees are less right now, I'd like to get that much done at least if they remain valid indefinitely.

Anyone know how long an approved I-130 is valid?

[my3helpers]

Our I-130 was approved back in 1998 and we just moved forward with it this past Feb. of 2007 and we are steady moving along and it has not been an issue as of yet.

[samantha]

I-130 is good for a year.

[kitkat1]

To keep it "alive" you must contact the NVC at least once a year.

[All4Love]

Does anyone know if it's good enough to just send in one of the next requested forms or fees to keep it alive? That's what we've been doing - taking our time and spacing out the agent form, the visa fee, etc. I'm trying to figure out if they count a year from the date you filed, the date it was approved or the last date that you sent anything in or responded in any way. Maybe I need to just call and ask?

[Luckysprite]

I would think that it is a year from the last time your responded in any way.

I also think that I have heard people simply call the NVC one a year to keep their case 'alive' - but atleast by sending your papers in slowly - you are accomplishing a part of this process! :)

[yoyislee]

I was told by Hermandad Mexicana that i can star with the 1-130 to get started and wait until 2009 for some kind of immigrant reform they never tell me to keep it alive or something but i don't really know. So on my understanding that means it can be approved for a while. You can ask Laurel on her chat every wed. at 11.00

[kitkat1]

I would not rely on a non-USCIS organization to provide you with accurate information regarding the US immigration process. While USCIS and the NVC don't always provide correct information, it's always best to start with a US government entity for correct answers. It is necessary to have contact with the NVC in order to keep an approved petition "alive". They don't hold paperwork forever and it's necessary to be in touch with them.