New Jersey Family Reunification Lawyer — How Can You Bring Your Family Together?
A New Jersey family reunification lawyer from Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. helps U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents sponsor eligible family members for green cards. The process centers on filing a Form I-130 petition with USCIS, but handling consular processing or adjustment of status requires precise legal help.
What Is Family Reunification Under U.S. Immigration Law?
Family reunification is the cornerstone of U.S. immigration policy, allowing U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents (green card holders) to sponsor certain family members for immigrant visas (green cards). The process is governed by the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA). A petitioner (the sponsor) must file a Form I-130, Petition for Alien Relative, to establish the qualifying family relationship with the beneficiary (the family member seeking the visa).
Last verified: April 2026 | U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) | USCIS I-130 Petition
Founded in 1997, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has over 120 years of combined attorney experience in immigration matters. Our founder, Mr. Sris, a former prosecutor, brings a strategic understanding of government processes to family-based immigration cases.
Official Government Resources
For the most current forms, fees, and processing times, always refer to official .gov sources:
- Form I-130, Petition for Alien Relative (USCIS.gov)
- Visa Bulletin (U.S. Department of State)
The Family Reunification Process in New Jersey
Successfully reuniting a family involves more than just filing a form. The path depends on the sponsor’s status, the family relationship, and where the beneficiary lives. A common procedural fact in New Jersey is that beneficiaries already in the U.S. may be eligible to adjust status concurrently with the I-130 petition, avoiding the need to leave the country.
- Determine Eligibility: Confirm you are a U.S. citizen or LPR and that your family member fits into an eligible preference category (immediate relative, family preference).
- File Form I-130: Prepare and submit the I-130 petition with USCIS, including all required supporting documentation and fees to prove the qualifying relationship.
- Wait for Petition Approval & Priority Date: Upon approval, a priority date is established. Beneficiaries in preference categories must wait for this date to become current per the monthly Visa Bulletin.
- Choose the Application Path: If the beneficiary is outside the U.S., they will go through consular processing at a U.S. embassy. If inside the U.S. and eligible, they may apply for adjustment of status (Form I-485).
- Attend Interview & Finalize: The beneficiary will attend an interview with either a consular officer or a USCIS officer. If approved, they will receive their immigrant visa or green card.
- Consider Potential Waivers: If the beneficiary has grounds of inadmissibility (e.g., unlawful presence, criminal history), explore filing a waiver (Form I-601 or I-601A) concurrently.
Family-Based Immigration Categories & Potential Challenges
In New Jersey, family reunification can lead to permanent residency, but wait times vary from several months to over a decade depending on the category.
| Category | For U.S. Citizens | For Lawful Permanent Residents | Typical Wait Time* |
|---|---|---|---|
| Immediate Relatives | Spouses, unmarried children under 21, parents | N/A | No annual limit; processing time only |
| Family First Preference (F1) | Unmarried sons/daughters (21+) | N/A | Several years |
| Family Second Preference (F2A) | N/A | Spouses & unmarried children under 21 | Varies; often shorter |
| Family Second Preference (F2B) | N/A | Unmarried sons/daughters (21+) | Several years |
| Family Third Preference (F3) | Married sons/daughters (any age) | N/A | Over a decade |
| Family Fourth Preference (F4) | Siblings | N/A | Over a decade |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
*Wait times are estimates based on visa availability and are subject to change monthly with the Visa Bulletin.
Our Authority in Immigration Law
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., founded in 1997, brings a multi-state perspective to immigration law. Our firm’s tagline, “Advocacy Without Borders,” reflects our commitment to clients handling the U.S. immigration system. We understand the significant importance of family reunification and the legal precision required to handle USCIS procedures, consular processing, and potential deportation defense.
Case Results & Client Focus
While every case is unique, our firm-wide focus on meticulous preparation aims for successful outcomes in family-based petitions. We have handled numerous I-130 petitions, adjustment of status applications, and waiver requests. Our approach involves a thorough review of your family’s specific situation to build the strongest possible case for reunification.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Local New Jersey Immigration Legal Help
If you are seeking a family reunification lawyer near New Jersey, our firm is accessible to clients throughout the state. We serve families across New Jersey, including those near major immigration courts and USCIS offices.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
44 Apple St, 1st Floor
Tinton Falls, NJ 07724
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (609)-983-0003 | Local: (732) 651-0900
By appointment only.
We offer 24/7 phone consultations — call (888) 437-7747 — with meetings by appointment only at our New Jersey location.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a green card holder sponsor a married child?
No. Lawful Permanent Residents (green card holders) can only sponsor their spouse and unmarried children. Only U.S. citizens can sponsor married sons and daughters under the Family Third Preference (F3) category, which has a very long waiting period.
What happens if my I-130 petition is denied?
It depends on the reason for denial. You may have the option to appeal the decision to the Board of Immigration Appeals (BIA) by filing a Notice of Appeal (Form I-290B). Alternatively, you may be able to refile the petition if you can correct the deficiency, such as providing additional evidence of the relationship. An attorney can review the denial notice to advise on the best course of action.
How long does it take to get a green card through family reunification?
The timeline varies dramatically. Immediate relative petitions (for spouses, minor children, and parents of U.S. citizens) have no annual limit and are typically processed within 1-2 years. For family preference categories (like siblings or married adult children), the wait can exceed a decade, as it depends on your priority date becoming current in the Visa Bulletin.
Can I still sponsor a family member if I am on disability or not working?
Yes, but you must still meet the income requirements of the Affidavit of Support (Form I-864). If your income is insufficient, you can use a joint sponsor—another U.S. citizen or LPR who meets the income thresholds—or count assets. The key is demonstrating the sponsored immigrant will not become a public charge.
What is the difference between consular processing and adjustment of status?
Consular processing is for beneficiaries outside the United States; they apply for an immigrant visa at a U.S. embassy or consulate. Adjustment of status is for beneficiaries already legally inside the U.S.; they apply to change their status to permanent resident without leaving. Eligibility for adjustment is strict and requires the beneficiary to be in a lawful status.
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Last verified: April 2026. Information is current as of this date. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for up-to-date guidance.
New Jersey law governs this practice area.