Immediate Relative Petition Lawyer Serving Wicomico County, Maryland
An Immediate Relative Petition (Form I-130) is the first step for a U.S. citizen to sponsor a spouse, parent, or unmarried child under 21 for a green card. For Wicomico County residents, these petitions are processed at the USCIS Baltimore Field Office. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Last verified: April 2026 | District Court of MD for Wicomico County | USCIS I-130 Petition
The Immigration and Nationality Act (INA) defines “immediate relatives” as the spouses, unmarried children under 21, and parents of U.S. citizens. There is no annual cap on visas for this category, unlike family preference categories. The process begins with filing Form I-130, Petition for Alien Relative, with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, our firm has the experience to handle this process for Maryland families.
Official Immigration Resources
Understanding the official process is critical. The USCIS website for Form I-130 provides the latest forms, fees, and instructions. For court-related matters in removal proceedings, review the Baltimore Immigration Court information from the U.S. Department of Justice.
Handling an Immediate Relative Petition in Wicomico County
For Wicomico County families, the immediate relative petition process involves specific local steps. Immigration cases are processed at the USCIS Baltimore Field Office. If the beneficiary is outside the U.S., the case moves to the National Visa Center and then to a U.S. consulate for consular processing. If the beneficiary is already in the U.S. legally, they may apply for adjustment of status (Form I-485) concurrently with the I-130.
- Case Evaluation & Document Gathering: We review your family relationship and collect all required evidence, such as marriage certificates, birth certificates, proof of U.S. citizenship, and evidence of a bona fide marriage.
- Prepare and File Form I-130: Our team prepares the I-130 petition and supporting documents, ensuring accuracy to avoid USCIS delays. We file the petition with the correct USCIS lockbox.
- Respond to USCIS Requests: If USCIS issues a Request for Evidence (RFE) or a Notice of Intent to Deny (NOID), we prepare a full legal response to address their concerns.
- handle the Next Steps: Upon I-130 approval, we guide you through the next phase—either consular processing abroad or filing for adjustment of status in the U.S.—including preparing for interviews.
Understanding the Immediate Relative Petition Process
Filing an I-130 petition for an immediate relative in Wicomico County starts a multi-step process that can lead to a green card, but requires careful adherence to USCIS procedures and evidence requirements.
| Petition Type | Form | Typical Processing Time | Filing Fee | Key Requirement |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Spouse of U.S. Citizen | I-130 | 8-14 months | $675 | Valid marriage, proof of bona fide relationship |
| Parent of U.S. Citizen (21+) | I-130 | 8-14 months | $675 | U.S. citizen petitioner must be at least 21 |
| Unmarried Child (under 21) of U.S. Citizen | I-130 | 8-14 months | $675 | Child’s birth certificate proving relationship |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Our Experience with Family Immigration
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. Our firm-wide experience spans over 120 combined years. We have handled 4,739+ documented case results with a favorable outcome rate exceeding 93%. Mr. Sris, our managing attorney, leads our immigration practice, bringing a strategic approach to immediate relative petitions and other family-based immigration matters for Maryland residents.
Case Results in Maryland Immigration
Our firm provides aggressive representation in immigration matters. While every case is unique, our focused approach aims for the best possible result. We have successfully represented clients in family-based petitions, adjustment of status, and removal defense.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Contact Our Wicomico County Immediate Relative Petition Lawyer
Our Maryland office serves clients in Wicomico County, including Salisbury, Fruitland, and Delmar. We offer 24/7 phone consultations and meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
199 E Montgomery Ave Suite 100 Room 211, Rockville, MD 20850
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (888)-437-7747
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions: Immediate Relative Petitions
Where is the USCIS office for Wicomico County, Maryland?
Immigration applications for Wicomico County residents are processed at the USCIS Baltimore Field Office at Fallon Federal Building, 31 Hopkins Plaza, Baltimore, MD 21201. Removal proceedings are at Baltimore Immigration Court. SRIS handles all immigration matters for Maryland residents.
How long does an immediate relative petition take?
It depends. Current USCIS processing times for an I-130 petition for an immediate relative are approximately 8 to 14 months. After approval, the timeline depends on whether the beneficiary will adjust status in the U.S. or go through consular processing abroad, which can add several more months.
What evidence is needed for a spouse petition?
Substantial evidence proving a bona fide marriage is required. This includes a marriage certificate, joint financial accounts, leases or mortgages, insurance policies, photos together, affidavits from friends/family, and evidence of shared life. USCIS scrutinizes recent marriages closely.
Can I file for my parent if I am a green card holder?
No. Only U.S. citizens who are at least 21 years old can file an immediate relative petition (I-130) for a parent. Lawful permanent residents (green card holders) cannot petition for parents; they must wait until they become naturalized U.S. citizens.
What happens if my I-130 petition is denied?
If your I-130 is denied, you typically have the right to appeal the decision to the Administrative Appeals Office (AAO) within 30 days. An immediate relative immigration lawyer Wicomico County can analyze the denial notice, determine the grounds, and advise on the strongest strategy for an appeal or motion to reopen/reconsider.
What is the difference between an immediate relative and a family preference visa?
Immediate relatives of U.S. citizens (spouses, unmarried children under 21, parents) have no annual visa limits. Family preference categories (for other family relationships) have annual numerical caps, resulting in waiting periods that can last years. An IR visa petition lawyer Wicomico County can clarify which category applies to your case.
If you need an Immediate Relative Petition Lawyer Wicomico County residents trust, contact us for a consultation. We also assist with related matters like criminal defense in Wicomico County which can impact immigration status. For other family immigration needs in Maryland, see our Montgomery County immigration lawyer page. Learn more about our firm on our Maryland Immigration Lawyer hub page.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws and procedures change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance regarding your immediate relative petition.