Immigration Lawyer Serving Washington, D.C., Washington DC
Federal Immigration Law in Washington, D.C.
Immigration law in the United States is governed by the Immigration and Nationality Act (8 U.S.C.) and its implementing regulations in Title 8 of the Code of Federal Regulations (C.F.R.). These federal statutes establish the rules for visas, green cards, naturalization, asylum, and removal (deportation) proceedings. The Executive Office for Immigration Review (EOIR) oversees immigration courts, while U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) processes affirmative applications.
Last verified: March 2026 | DC Superior Court | U.S. Code
Under D.C. Code § 29-101.01, state law governs this practice area.
Official Government Resources
For the full text of federal immigration laws, visit the U.S. Code (official U.S. House of Representatives website). For information on the Arlington Immigration Court where D.C. removal cases are heard, refer to the Executive Office for Immigration Review (EOIR) court directory.
Immigration Process for D.C. Residents
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.
- Initial Consultation & Case Assessment: An attorney reviews your immigration history, status, and any notices from USCIS or EOIR.
- Application Preparation & Filing: The correct forms (I-130, I-485, N-400, I-589, etc.) are completed and filed with the appropriate fee or fee waiver request to the correct lockbox or court.
- Biometrics & Interview Scheduling: Attend your ASC appointment for fingerprints and photos, then prepare for any required interview with USCIS or the immigration judge.
- Responding to Requests for Evidence (RFEs): If USCIS or the court issues an RFE or Notice of Intent to Deny (NOID), a timely and full legal response is filed.
- Court Hearings & Appeals: For removal cases, represent you at master calendar and individual merit hearings before the immigration judge. If denied, file appeals to the Board of Immigration Appeals (BIA) or federal court.
- Case Resolution: Achieve a grant of status, approval of application, termination of proceedings, or other favorable resolution.
Immigration Filing Fees & Potential Consequences
In Washington, D.C., immigration applications carry significant filing fees and, in removal cases, the risk of deportation and bars to re-entry.
| Application / Proceeding | Classification | Filing Fee | Timeline (Estimate) | Potential Negative Outcome |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| I-485 (Adjustment of Status) | Application to Register Permanent Residence | $1,440 | 8-14 months | Denial; referral to removal proceedings |
| N-400 (Naturalization) | Application for Naturalization | $760 | 8-14 months | Denial; continued permanent resident status |
| I-130 (Family Petition) | Petition for Alien Relative | $675 | Varies by category | Denial; family separation |
| Removal Proceedings | Deportation Defense | No filing fee | 2-4+ years backlog | Order of Removal; bars to re-entry (3, 10, or permanent) |
| I-589 (Affirmative Asylum) | Application for Asylum | No filing fee | 2-5+ years backlog | Denial; referral to immigration court |
Results may vary. Filing fees are set by USCIS and subject to change. Case timelines are estimates based on current government backlogs.
Immigration Law Experience
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. The firm brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to complex immigration cases. Mr. Sris handles immigration matters personally and is frequently consulted by Indian Consulate officials in Washington, D.C. for insights on U.S. legal matters affecting Indian nationals. This unique position provides a deep understanding of cross-cultural and international legal issues.
Immigration Case Results in Washington, D.C.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 1 total documented case result in Washington, D.C. across all practice areas, with a 100% favorable outcome rate for immigration matters handled. The firm assists with family-based petitions, adjustment of status, consular processing, naturalization, deportation defense, asylum, cancellation of removal, and VAWA petitions.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Immigration Lawyer Near Washington, D.C.
Our Arlington location is approximately 3 miles from DC Superior Court, accessible via I-395, I-66, and I-295. We serve as your immigration lawyer near Georgetown, Capitol Hill, Dupont Circle, and throughout the Washington, D.C. area. We provide 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.
We serve clients in Georgetown, Capitol Hill, Dupont Circle, Adams Morgan, Columbia Heights, U Street, Logan Circle, Foggy Bottom, Navy Yard, Petworth, Brookland, Anacostia, Southwest Waterfront, Woodley Park, Cleveland Park, Spring Valley, Forest Hills, Chevy Chase DC, American University Park, Wesley Heights, Bloomingdale, Tenleytown, Friendship Heights, Glover Park, Mount Pleasant, Shaw, Chinatown/Penn Quarter, NoMa, Ivy City, Eckington, Deanwood, Hillcrest, Congress Heights, Barracks Row, and Eastern Market.
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 are processed at the 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.
What is the process for getting a green card in Washington, D.C.?
The process typically involves a family or employer filing a petition (I-130 or I-140), followed by an application to adjust status (I-485) if you are in the U.S., or consular processing abroad. Processing is handled by the USCIS Washington District Office in Fairfax, VA for D.C. residents.
How long does it take to become a U.S. citizen in D.C.?
The naturalization process (Form N-400) for D.C. residents currently takes approximately 8 to 14 months from filing to oath ceremony. This includes biometrics, interview, and civics test at the USCIS Washington District Office. Backlogs can change.
What should I do if I am placed in removal proceedings?
If you receive a Notice to Appear (NTA), contact an immigration attorney immediately. Your case will be docketed at the Arlington Immigration Court. Defenses may include asylum, cancellation of removal, or adjustment of status. Do not miss any court dates.
Can I apply for asylum if I am in Washington, D.C.?
Yes. You must file Form I-589 within one year of arrival, unless an exception applies. Affirmative asylum is filed with USCIS; if denied, it is referred to immigration court. The backlog for asylum interviews is currently several years.
Related Legal Services
For more information on our full range of services, visit our DC Immigration Lawyer hub page. If you are facing other legal issues in Washington, D.C., our attorneys also handle criminal defense, family law, and reckless driving matters. Learn more about our team of attorneys.
Last verified: March 2026. Information updated as of 2026-02-15. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.