How Much Does an I-130 Family Petition Cost in Florida?
The I-130 petition is how a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident sponsors a family member for a green card. Attorney fees depend on the petitioner's status, the relationship, prior immigration history, and whether complications like prior marriages or prior I-130 filings are involved.
I-130 attorney fees in Florida typically run $1,500–$4,000. A straightforward immediate-relative I-130 (USC petitioning for a spouse or child) sits near the low end. Cases involving prior divorces, prior marriage fraud findings, or a prior I-130 filed for a different person require more documentation and legal analysis, pushing fees higher.
What Drives the Cost
- Petitioner status — USC petitions are simpler; LPR petitions involve priority dates and longer wait times
- Relationship category — immediate relatives are simpler than preference categories
- Prior marriage complications — prior divorces or a prior marriage fraud finding require extensive documentation
- Prior I-130 filings — filing a second I-130 after a prior denied or withdrawn petition adds complexity
- Beneficiary location — consular processing abroad vs. beneficiary already in the U.S. with status
What's Included in the Attorney Fee
- Preparation and review of the I-130 petition and all supporting documents
- Cover letter and legal brief explaining any complications
- Coordination with NVC (National Visa Center) for consular processing cases
- Response to any RFEs (Requests for Evidence)
- Guidance on supporting documentation requirements
Government Fees (Not Included)
The USCIS filing fee for the I-130 is currently $535 per petition (subject to change). If the case goes to consular processing, NVC fees and the immigrant visa application fee (DS-260) are additional. These fees are paid directly to USCIS/DOS and are not included in the attorney fee.
How Location Affects the Fee
The I-130 is filed with USCIS by mail or online — no court appearances are required for most petitions. Travel surcharges are rarely applicable to I-130 work unless in-person USCIS interviews are required and the USCIS field office is far from Tampa.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much is the USCIS filing fee for Form I-130?
The USCIS filing fee for Form I-130 (Petition for Alien Relative) is currently $535 per petition and is subject to change. It is paid directly to USCIS and is separate from any attorney fee.
What is the total cost of a family immigration petition?
The total combines the I-130 filing fee with the attorney fee, and — for cases completed abroad through consular processing — additional National Visa Center and immigrant visa fees. Use the estimator for a personalized range.
Does one I-130 cover my whole family?
Generally each relative needs a separate I-130 petition. Which family members you can petition for, and in what category, depends on your status and their relationship to you.
Are there extra government fees for consular processing?
Yes. When a family petition is completed abroad, additional National Visa Center and immigrant visa fees apply on top of the I-130 filing fee. See the cost guide for details.
How much does a family immigration lawyer cost in Florida?
Attorney fees depend on the relationship, whether the case is filed in the U.S. or abroad, and any complications. Use the estimator for a range tailored to your case.
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Attorney Advertising. This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Fee ranges shown are estimates only and do not represent a binding offer. Legal representation is subject to a written engagement agreement.