Is there a time limit to completing the application after I-130 filed?

We need to figure out how to get enough money in place, I need to get various police records, etc.. Is there any reason NOT to file the I-130 immediately? So, for example, when we receive a response from the Embassy, are we obliged to act fast or can we take as long as we want?

The filing of the I-130 takes a good few months anyway. Maybe my time line will be of help, we're applying through the embassy in London. We filed the I-130 Feb 2011 and I received petition approval in July 2011. As my wife and I are both teachers we really need to move in the summer months so we put applying for the visa on hold till January this year, I just had my medical last week and am waiting on my interview.

If I remember right you have 12 months from receiving your approval to applying for the visa but I could be wrong, my wife phoned the expensive helpline not me.

Once you have your visa you have six months to travel. My advice would be to get the I-130 in now if you think you will be travelling in the next 18 months. The longest wait seems to be the first petition.

And I absolutely would start gathering your paperwork and evidence!