Immediate Relative Petition Lawyer Serving Rockland County, New York
An immediate relative petition (Form I-130) is the first step for a U.S. citizen to sponsor a spouse, parent, or unmarried child under 21 for a green card. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides full representation for Rockland County families handling this process. We handle I-130 petitions, adjustment of status, consular processing, and potential waivers.
Understanding Immediate Relative Petitions in New York
The Immigration and Nationality Act (INA) defines “immediate relatives” as the spouse, parent, or unmarried child under 21 of a U.S. citizen. Unlike family preference categories, there is no annual numerical limit for immediate relatives, which can lead to faster processing. The process is governed by federal law under Title 8 of the U.S. Code and corresponding regulations.
Last verified: April 2026 | Rockland County Court | U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS)
Official Immigration Resources
For the official text of the Immigration and Nationality Act, see 8 U.S.C. § 1151 (official USCIS). For New York-specific court information, you can review the Rockland County Supreme Court website.
handling the I-130 Process for Rockland County Families
For Rockland County residents, the immediate relative petition process typically involves filing Form I-130 with USCIS. The petition establishes the qualifying family relationship. Once approved, the foreign national relative can apply for a green card either through adjustment of status if they are already lawfully in the U.S., or through consular processing at a U.S. embassy or consulate abroad.
- Case Evaluation & Strategy: We review your family situation, identify the correct petition type, and develop a strategy to prove the qualifying relationship.
- Petition Preparation & Filing: We meticulously prepare Form I-130 and all supporting evidence, then file it with the correct USCIS Lockbox facility.
- Responding to Requests for Evidence (RFE): If USCIS requests more information, we prepare a full response to address their concerns.
- Post-Approval Steps: After I-130 approval, we guide you through the next phase—either filing for adjustment of status (I-485) or handling the National Visa Center and consular process.
- Addressing Complications: We handle issues like prior immigration violations, unlawful presence, or criminal history that may require a waiver (I-601 or I-601A).
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Family Immigration Case
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. Our tagline, “Advocacy Without Borders,” reflects our commitment to clients in Rockland County and beyond. We understand the personal stakes of uniting families and provide dedicated, case-specific representation.
Our Record in Immigration Law
SRIS actively practices immigration law in New York. Firm-wide, SRIS has handled 4,739+ documented case results with over 93% favorable outcomes. Our experience spans successful I-130 petitions, adjustment of status applications, and overcoming challenges like requests for evidence and inadmissibility issues.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Immediate Relative Petition Lawyer Near Rockland County
Our New York location serves clients in Rockland County and the Hudson Valley. We represent families in New City, Nanuet, Spring Valley, Suffern, Haverstraw, Pearl River, Nyack, Stony Point, and Sloatsburg.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
50 Fountain Plaza, Suite 1400, Office No. 142
Buffalo, NY 14202
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (838)-292-0003
By appointment only.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions: Immediate Relative Petitions
Where is the immigration court for Rockland County, New York?
It depends. Removal proceedings for Rockland County residents are held at the New York Immigration Court at 26 Federal Plaza in Manhattan or the Varick Street Immigration Court. Affirmative applications are filed with USCIS. New York has strong sanctuary policies limiting local cooperation with ICE enforcement.
What is the difference between an immediate relative petition and a family preference petition?
An immediate relative petition is for the spouse, parent, or unmarried child under 21 of a U.S. citizen and has no annual visa limit. A family preference petition is for other family relationships (like married children or siblings) and is subject to annual quotas and waiting periods that can last years.
Can I file an immediate relative petition if my spouse is in the U.S. unlawfully?
It depends. If the spouse entered the U.S. without inspection, they generally cannot adjust status here and must process through a U.S. consulate abroad, which may trigger a 3- or 10-year bar. A waiver may be available. Consulting with an immediate relative immigration lawyer Rockland County is critical to assess your options and risks.
How long does an immediate relative petition take?
Current USCIS processing times for I-130 petitions for immediate relatives can range from 10 to 18 months. After approval, the subsequent green card application (adjustment of status or consular processing) adds additional time. An experienced IR visa petition lawyer Rockland County can help manage expectations and monitor your case timeline.
What evidence is needed for a spouse-based immediate relative petition?
You need proof of the U.S. citizen’s status, proof of a bona fide marriage (marriage certificate, joint assets, photos, correspondence, affidavits), and proof the marriage was not entered into for immigration purposes. USCIS requires strong documentation to establish the legitimacy of the relationship.
Related Practice Areas: Criminal Defense Lawyer Rockland County | Divorce & Family Law Lawyer Rockland County
Also Serving: Immigration Lawyer New York County | Immigration Lawyer Nassau County
Learn More: New York Immigration Lawyer | Meet Mr. Sris | Our New York Location
Page Last verified: April 2026. Immigration laws and procedures change frequently. The information on this page is for general understanding and should not be taken as legal advice for your specific case. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance regarding your immediate relative petition.