Immigration Lawyer Serving Washington, D.C., Washington DC
Immigration Law in Washington, D.C.
Immigration law is federal, governed by the Immigration and Nationality Act (8 U.S.C.), Title 8 of the Code of Federal Regulations (C.F.R.), and policies from U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) and the Executive Office for Immigration Review (EOIR). While there is no D.C.-specific immigration statute, D.C. residents handle a unique jurisdictional field where affirmative applications are processed in Virginia and removal proceedings are heard in Arlington.
Last verified: March 2026 | DC Superior Court | U.S. Code Title 8
Under D.C. Code § 29-101.01, state law governs this practice area.
Official Immigration Resources
For the most current information, refer to these official government sources:
- U.S. Code Title 8 – Aliens and Nationality (official U.S. House of Representatives)
- DC Superior Court website (for certain family court matters intersecting with immigration status)
Washington, D.C. Immigration Process
Immigration cases for Washington, D.C. residents are processed at the USCIS Washington District Office at 2675 Prosperity Avenue, Fairfax, VA 22031 for affirmative applications including green cards, naturalization, and work permits; removal (deportation defense) proceedings are heard at the Arlington Immigration Court at 1901 South Bell Street, Arlington, VA 22202.
- Determine Jurisdiction: Confirm whether your case is with USCIS (affirmative) or the Immigration Court (defensive).
- File Correct Forms: Submit complete applications with fees to the correct USCIS lockbox or file motions with the Immigration Court.
- Attend Appointments: Go to biometrics, interviews at the Fairfax USCIS office, or hearings at the Arlington court.
- Respond to Requests: Answer any Requests for Evidence (RFE) or Notices of Intent to Deny (NOID) thoroughly and on time.
- Receive Decision: Await a decision from USCIS or a final order from the Immigration Judge.
Potential Immigration Consequences
In Washington, D.C., immigration violations carry federal consequences including removal proceedings, unlawful presence bars (3-year, 10-year, permanent), and deportation for aggravated felonies.
| Application/Issue | Classification | Processing Time | Filing Fee | Key Consequence |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| I-485 Adjustment of Status | Affirmative Application | 8-14 months | $1,440 | Lawful Permanent Resident status |
| N-400 Naturalization | Affirmative Application | 8-14 months | $760 | U.S. Citizenship |
| I-130 Family Petition | Affirmative Application | Varies by category | $675 | Petition approval for relative |
| Removal Proceedings | Defensive Case | 2-4+ years backlog | Court fee may apply | Deportation or Relief Granted |
| I-589 Asylum | Affirmative/Defensive | 2-5+ year backlog | No filing fee | Asylum status or denial |
Results may vary. Filing fees and processing times are subject to change by USCIS and EOIR.
Our Immigration Law Experience
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. With a background in accounting and information systems, Mr. Sris provides a unique advantage in complex immigration cases involving financial evidence. Indian Consulate officials in Washington, D.C. frequently consult him on U.S. legal matters affecting Indian nationals, reflecting the firm’s recognized standing. Our approach combines this deep experience with a case-specific strategy for every client.
Immigration Case Results in Washington, D.C.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 1 total documented case results across all practice areas for Washington, D.C., with a 100% favorable outcome rate in immigration matters. Our representation focuses on achieving the best possible result, whether that is an approved application, granted relief from removal, or a successful appeal.
Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome. Case results depend on a variety of factors unique to each case.
Immigration Lawyer Near Washington, D.C.
Our Arlington location is approximately 3 miles from DC Superior Court, accessible via I-395 and I-66. We serve as your immigration lawyer near Georgetown, Capitol Hill, Dupont Circle, and surrounding Washington, D.C. neighborhoods. We offer 24/7 phone consultations at (888) 437-7747. Meetings are by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
1655 Fort Myer Dr, Suite 700, Room No. 719
Arlington, VA 22209
Phone: (888) 437-7747 | Local: 703-589-9250
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the immigration court for DC?
Removal proceedings for DC residents are heard at the Arlington Immigration Court at 1901 S. Bell St, Arlington, VA 22202. Affirmative applications processed at USCIS Washington District Office, 2675 Prosperity Ave, Fairfax, VA 22031. Mr. Sris is consulted by Indian Consulate officials in DC on U.S. legal matters. 1 total documented case results across all practice areas (100% favorable outcome rate).
What is the process for a family-based green card in Washington, D.C.?
File Form I-130 petition with USCIS. Once approved, apply for adjustment of status if beneficiary is in the U.S. or consular processing if abroad. The USCIS Washington District Office in Fairfax, VA processes DC applications. Timeline is typically 8-14 months for immediate relatives.
Can I apply for naturalization (citizenship) in DC?
Yes. File Form N-400 with USCIS. DC residents submit to the Washington District Office. Requirements include 5 years as a permanent resident (3 if married to a U.S. citizen), physical presence, good moral character, and passing English and civics tests. Processing takes 8-14 months.
What happens if I am placed in removal proceedings?
You will receive a Notice to Appear (NTA) and have a hearing at the Arlington Immigration Court. Defenses include asylum, cancellation of removal, adjustment of status, or prosecutorial discretion. The court backlog is 2-4+ years. An attorney can help build your strongest case.
What are common grounds for inadmissibility to the U.S.?
Health-related grounds, criminal convictions, security risks, public charge likelihood, fraud/misrepresentation, unlawful presence bars (3-year, 10-year, permanent), and prior removal orders. Many grounds have waiver options, such as Form I-601 or I-601A, which require demonstrating extreme hardship to a qualifying relative.
Related Legal Services
If you need assistance with other legal matters in Washington, D.C., our firm also handles:
- Washington, D.C. Criminal Defense Lawyer
- Washington, D.C. Divorce & Family Law Lawyer
- DC Immigration Lawyer Hub
Learn more about our attorneys or our Arlington law location.
Last verified: March 2026. Immigration law and agency procedures change frequently. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for the most current guidance related to your specific situation.