Family Petitions from Inside the U.S.
Victoria Barr Law assists families in filing immigration petitions from within the U.S., helping loved ones reunite and secure legal immigration status.
Related Family-Based Immigration Services
What Is a Family Petition from Inside the U.S.?
Family petitions from inside the U.S. allow U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents to sponsor eligible family members for lawful immigration status. This process often involves filing Form I-130 (Petition for Alien Relative) and, when applicable, Form I-485 (Application to Adjust Status) for family members already present in the U.S.
Who Can File a Family Petition?
- U.S. Citizens: Can file petitions for spouses, children, parents, and siblings.
- Lawful Permanent Residents (Green Card Holders): Can file petitions for spouses and unmarried children.
- Immediate Relatives Inside the U.S.: Family members currently in the U.S. may adjust their status without leaving the country.
Required Documents for Family Petitions
- Completed Form I-130 (Petition for Alien Relative)
- Proof of U.S. citizenship or lawful permanent resident status
- Birth certificates, marriage certificates, or adoption records
- Proof of genuine family relationships (photos, correspondence, affidavits)
- Evidence of lawful entry into the U.S. (if applicable)
- Filing fees or fee waiver request (if eligible)
Family Petition Process
- File the Petition: Submit Form I-130 with required documents and fees to USCIS.
- Receive USCIS Receipt Notice: USCIS issues a receipt notice acknowledging application acceptance.
- USCIS Review: The petition undergoes background and eligibility review.
- Petition Approval: If approved, the family member may proceed with consular processing or adjustment of status.
- Adjustment of Status or Visa Interview: Attend a USCIS interview or U.S. embassy visa appointment.
Why Choose Victoria Barr Law?
- Experienced Family Immigration Attorneys: We guide families through the entire petition process.
- Accurate Filings: We ensure all required forms and documents are properly completed and submitted.
- Case Monitoring & Representation: We handle USCIS correspondence and represent clients during interviews.
- Bilingual Legal Services: We provide services in both English and Spanish for clear communication and personal support.
Reunite Your Family Today
Our experienced attorneys are ready to assist with your family petition. Contact us for a personalized consultation today.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Family Petitions from Inside the U.S.
A family-based petition is a request filed with USCIS to help a qualifying family member obtain lawful permanent resident status (a green card) in the United States.
U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents can file family petitions for specific relatives, including spouses, children, parents, and siblings.
Form I-130, Petition for Alien Relative, is used to file a family petition with USCIS to establish a qualifying relationship.
Yes, if your relative is in the U.S. and eligible, they may be able to adjust their status to lawful permanent resident after the family petition is approved.
Documents may include proof of your status (U.S. citizen or resident), proof of the family relationship (e.g., marriage or birth certificates), and Form I-130. Supporting documents vary by case.
Processing times vary depending on the type of relationship and USCIS case load. Immediate relatives (e.g., spouses) are typically processed faster than other family categories.
After approval, if the relative is in the U.S., they may file Form I-485 to adjust their status. If they are outside the U.S., the case is sent to the National Visa Center for consular processing.
Yes, a petition can be denied if USCIS determines the relationship is not genuine, documents are missing, or the petitioner fails to meet eligibility requirements.
The USCIS filing fee for Form I-130 is $535. Additional costs may apply for adjustment of status or consular processing.
Yes, you can file multiple petitions for different qualifying relatives (e.g., spouse and children). Each petition requires a separate Form I-130 and filing fee.