What does it mean when Fred's mother has established a prima facie case for his Form I-130?

Establishing a prima facie case means that Fred's mother has met the initial burden of proof required for the Form I-130 petition. In legal terms, a prima facie case represents sufficient evidence that, unless rebutted, would justify a legal claim. In the context of the Form I-130, which is a petition for an alien relative, establishing a prima facie case indicates that the evidence presented shows that the relationship between Fred and his mother is legitimate and meets the basic requirements set forth by USCIS.

While the case being approvable or deniable can depend on further evidence or documentation beyond the prima facie stage, simply meeting this initial burden does not guarantee approval. Timely filing the petition is a separate procedural consideration that does not directly relate to having established a prima facie case.

Thus, the correct understanding of having established a prima facie case lies in the ability of Fred's mother to present enough evidence to support the relationship claim at this initial stage in the process.