Petition for Alien Relative Lawyer in New Jersey
Filing a Petition for Alien Relative (Form I-130) in New Jersey is the first step to bring a family member to the U.S. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides full representation for this process. Our firm, founded in 1997, has over 120 years of combined legal experience. We handle the details of your case to help avoid delays or denials. Contact us for a consultation.
Last verified: April 2026 | New Jersey Superior Court | New Jersey Legislature
The Petition for Alien Relative, or Form I-130, is the foundational application to establish a qualifying family relationship for U.S. immigration purposes. It is governed by the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA). The process involves proving a bona fide relationship and meeting specific eligibility criteria based on the petitioner’s status (U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident). Successfully filing this petition is the critical first step in the family-based green card process for a relative living abroad or adjusting status within the United States.
For official information, review the USCIS Form I-130 page and the U.S. Department of State Visa Information.
- Gather all required evidence of the family relationship (birth certificates, marriage certificates, divorce decrees, photographs, financial co-mingling documents).
- Complete and sign Form I-130 and the corresponding filing fee.
- Prepare a detailed cover letter and assemble the complete petition package for submission to the correct USCIS lockbox.
- Monitor the case status online and prepare for any requests for additional evidence or an interview.
In New Jersey, a Petition for Alien Relative requires meticulous documentation to prove a qualifying family relationship to a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident.
| Petition Type | Who Can File | Processing Time* | Key Requirement |
|---|---|---|---|
| Immediate Relative (IR) | U.S. Citizen for spouse, unmarried child under 21, or parent | Varies by Service Center | No annual visa limit |
| Family Preference (F1-F4) | U.S. Citizens & LPRs for other specific relatives | Varies + Visa Bulletin wait | Subject to annual visa quotas |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. With a combined attorney experience of over 120 years and a record of 4,739+ case results firm-wide, our team understands the importance of careful, precise preparation in immigration matters. Our tagline, “Advocacy Without Borders,” reflects our commitment to clients handling legal systems.
While specific local case counts are not available for this jurisdiction, our firm has extensive experience handling family-based immigration petitions. We focus on building a strong, evidence-based case from the start to pursue a favorable outcome.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — New Jersey
44 Apple St, 1st Floor, Tinton Falls, NJ 07724
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (609)-983-0003
By appointment only. 24/7 phone consultations.
Our New Jersey location serves clients across the state, including those in Monmouth County and surrounding areas. We are accessible via major highways and represent clients in immigration matters throughout New Jersey. As a petition for alien relative lawyer near me New Jersey, we provide accessible legal support. We serve communities including Freehold, Tinton Falls, Red Bank, Long Branch, and Asbury Park.
Petition for Alien Relative Lawyer New Jersey FAQ
Who can file a Petition for Alien Relative?
U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents (green card holders) can file, but the categories of relatives they can sponsor differ. U.S. citizens can petition for spouses, parents, children, and siblings. Lawful permanent residents can only petition for spouses and unmarried children.
How long does the I-130 petition take to process?
It depends. USCIS processing times vary significantly by service center and petition category, currently ranging from several months to over a year. After USCIS approval, there may be additional waiting time based on visa availability in the Department of State’s monthly Visa Bulletin.
What evidence do I need for a spousal petition?
You need proof of a bona fide marriage. This includes your marriage certificate, photos together, joint financial accounts, leases or mortgages, insurance policies, affidavits from friends/family, and evidence of communication if you lived apart.
Can I adjust status in the U.S. while my I-130 is pending?
It depends on the beneficiary’s current immigration status. If the beneficiary is already in the U.S. in a lawful status and is an immediate relative of a U.S. citizen, they may be eligible to file Form I-485 for Adjustment of Status concurrently with the I-130.
What happens if my I-130 petition is denied?
You typically have the right to appeal the decision to the Administrative Appeals Office (AAO) within 30 days by filing a Form I-290B. The specific reasons for denial will dictate the best strategy, which may involve an appeal or refiling a corrected petition.
For more information, see our New Jersey Civil Litigation hub page. We also assist clients in Bergen County and with related matters like contract disputes.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws and procedures change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.