K-3 Visa Lawyer Serving Bergen County, New Jersey
A K-3 visa allows a foreign-citizen spouse of a U.S. citizen to enter the United States while awaiting approval of an immigrant visa petition (I-130). The process involves concurrent filing with USCIS and the Department of State. For Bergen County residents, cases are processed through the USCIS Newark Field Office. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Understanding the K-3 Visa Process
Last verified: April 2026 | Superior Court of NJ, Bergen Vicinage | USCIS.gov
The K-3 nonimmigrant visa is governed by the Immigration and Nationality Act (8 U.S.C. § 1101 et seq.) and its implementing regulations. It is designed to reduce family separation by allowing a spouse to wait in the U.S. for immigrant visa processing. The process begins when a U.S. citizen files Form I-130, Petition for Alien Relative, for their spouse. After the I-130 is received by USCIS, the citizen can file Form I-129F, Petition for Alien Fiancé(e), to request K-3 status for their spouse.
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, our firm has over 120 years of combined attorney experience handling contested immigration matters, including family-based petitions.
Official Government Resources
For the official regulations and forms, refer to the USCIS I-130 page. For court and processing information relevant to New Jersey, visit the Bergen Vicinage website.
The K-3 Visa Petition Process in Bergen County
For Bergen County residents, the visa petition process starts with filing the I-130 and I-129F with the USCIS lockbox. These are typically routed to the National Benefits Center. While the K-3 visa is less commonly issued today due to faster I-130 processing, it remains a strategic option in certain cases. A key local procedural fact is that all affirmative immigration applications for Bergen County, including supporting forms for family petitions, are adjudicated at the USCIS Newark Field Office at the Peter Rodino Federal Building.
- File Form I-130, Petition for Alien Relative, with USCIS.
- Upon receipt notice, file Form I-129F for K-3 visa benefits.
- Await approval notices and transfer of the case to the National Visa Center (NVC).
- Complete the online immigrant visa application (DS-260) and submit supporting documents.
- Attend a medical examination and an interview at the U.S. Embassy or Consulate in the spouse’s home country.
- If approved, enter the U.S. on K-3 status and later apply for adjustment of status to lawful permanent resident.
Potential Challenges and Considerations
In Bergen County, a K-3 visa case involves handling federal immigration law with potential challenges including processing delays, requests for evidence, and the requirement to prove a bona fide marriage.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Immigration Practice in New Jersey
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., founded in 1997, brings a focused approach to immigration law. Our firm-wide experience includes handling over 4,739 documented case results. We understand the detailed requirements of the immigration visa application process and the importance of timely, accurate filing for families in Bergen County.
Case Results and Client Focus
SRIS actively practices immigration law in New Jersey. Firm-wide, SRIS has handled 4,739+ documented case results with over 93% favorable outcomes. We assist Bergen County residents with family-based petitions, adjustment of status, and consular processing.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
K 3 Visa Lawyer Bergen County
Our New Jersey location serves clients throughout Bergen County, including Hackensack, Fort Lee, Teaneck, Paramus, and Englewood. We are accessible via I-80, the NJ Turnpike, and Route 17.
Contact a K 3 Visa Lawyer Bergen County Today:
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (609)-983-0003
Address: 44 Apple St, 1st Floor, Tinton Falls, NJ 07724
24/7 phone consultations — meetings by appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions: K-3 Visas in Bergen County
Where is the USCIS office for Bergen County, New Jersey?
Yes. Immigration applications for Bergen County residents are processed at USCIS Newark Field Office, Peter Rodino Federal Building, 970 Broad St, Newark, NJ 07102. Removal at Newark Immigration Court. Detained cases: Elizabeth Contract Detention Facility. NJ’s Immigrant Trust Directive limits local law enforcement cooperation with ICE.
What is the first step in the K-3 visa process?
The first step is for the U.S. citizen spouse to file Form I-130, Petition for Alien Relative, with USCIS. This establishes the qualifying relationship. The K-3 specific Form I-129F can be filed after the I-130 receipt notice is issued.
Can I work in the U.S. on a K-3 visa?
Yes. After entering the U.S. with a K-3 visa, you can apply for an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) by filing Form I-765 with USCIS. You cannot work until you receive the approved EAD card.
How long does the K-3 visa process take?
It depends. Processing times vary based on USCIS caseloads and the embassy where the interview is held. Currently, I-130 processing for spouses can be 10-16 months. The concurrent I-129F for the K-3 may not significantly speed up the overall timeline in many cases today.
Do I need a lawyer for the visa petition process?
While not required, an experienced immigration visa application lawyer can help handle forms, evidence requirements, and potential requests for evidence. This is especially important for the K-3 process which involves coordinating two separate petitions.
Related Legal Services in Bergen County
If you need other legal assistance in Bergen County, we also handle criminal defense, DUI/DWI defense, and family law matters. For more immigration information, visit our New Jersey immigration hub page. We also serve neighboring areas like Hunterdon County and Morris County.
Page Last verified: April 2026. Immigration laws and procedures change frequently. The information on this page is for general understanding and should not be taken as legal advice for your specific case. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance regarding your K-3 visa matter.
Your case in Bergen County, New Jersey
Immigration matters are federal: removal cases for New Jersey residents are heard at the Newark Immigration Court and applications are decided by USCIS. County criminal charges that can affect immigration status are heard in the Criminal Part of the Law Division. In Bergen County that is the Superior Court of NJ, Bergen Vicinage (2nd Vicinage), 10 Main Street, Hackensack, NJ 07601, telephone (201) 527-2700, open Mon-Fri 8:30AM-4:30PM. Court procedures change; confirm the current schedule on the official vicinage website or with the clerk before you file or appear.
The governing law for this topic is the federal Immigration and Nationality Act. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. handles Bergen County matters from its New Jersey location at 44 Apple St 1st Floor, Tinton Falls, NJ 07724; meetings are by appointment. Request a New Jersey consultation at (888) 437-7747 or (609) 983-0003.
Related New Jersey pages: Bergen County NJ lawyers directory · Hudson County NJ K-3 Visa Lawyer · K-3 Visa Lawyer Monmouth County, NJ.