Family reunification under the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA § 201) allows U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents to petition for qualifying family members to obtain green cards. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has extensive criminal defense experience and handles family reunification cases for Richmond County (Staten Island), New York residents. Call (888) 437-7747 for a consultation by appointment.
Family Reunification Lawyer in Richmond County, New York
Family reunification is governed by the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA), specifically 8 U.S.C. § 1151 (INA § 201), which sets the worldwide levels of family-sponsored immigrants. U.S. citizens may petition for immediate relatives (spouses, parents, and unmarried children under 21) without numerical limits. Lawful permanent residents may petition for spouses and unmarried children within preference categories subject to annual caps. The process begins with Form I-130, Petition for Alien Relative, filed with USCIS. Founded in 1997 by Mr. Sris, former prosecutor — Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., Advocacy Without Borders, brings 120+ years combined legal experience to family reunification cases in Richmond County.
Last verified: April 2026 | Richmond County Supreme Court | New York State Courts — official site
For official statutory text, refer to INA § 201 (8 U.S.C. § 1151) — New York State Senate — official site and USCIS Family-Based Immigration — official site.
In Richmond County, family reunification cases are processed through USCIS and, if removal proceedings arise, the New York Immigration Court at 26 Federal Plaza. We have observed that USCIS adjudicators in New York closely scrutinize the bona fides of the family relationship, particularly for spousal petitions.
- Step 1: Determine your qualifying family relationship under INA § 201.
- Step 2: Gather supporting documents proving the relationship and petitioner’s status.
- Step 3: File Form I-130 with USCIS, including all required evidence and fees.
- Step 4: Respond promptly to any USCIS requests for additional evidence.
- Step 5: After I-130 approval, proceed with adjustment of status or consular processing.
- Step 6: Attend any required interviews at the USCIS field office or U.S. consulate.
In Richmond County, New York, family reunification cases involve federal immigration law under the INA. Consequences for fraud or misrepresentation include removal proceedings, unlawful presence bars, and permanent inadmissibility.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Immigration Fraud | Federal offense | Up to 10 years | Up to $250,000 | N/A | Removal, permanent inadmissibility |
| Misrepresentation | INA § 212(a)(6)(C) | N/A | N/A | N/A | Permanent bar from U.S. entry |
| Unlawful Presence | INA § 212(a)(9)(B) | N/A | N/A | N/A | 3-year or 10-year bar |
Results may vary.
Founded in 1997 by Mr. Sris, former prosecutor — Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings 120+ years combined legal experience, 4,739+ documented firm-wide results across VA, MD, DC, NY and NJ, and a favorable-outcome rate above 93%. The firm handles family reunification cases for Richmond County residents, including I-130 petitions, adjustment of status, and removal defense. Mr. Sris personally oversees each case, ensuring strategic guidance and thorough preparation.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has extensive criminal defense experience firm-wide, with 4,739+ documented results across VA, MD, DC, NY and NJ, and a favorable-outcome rate above 93%. While specific case results for Richmond County family reunification are not available, the firm’s track record demonstrates a commitment to achieving positive outcomes for clients. Results may vary.
Our location in Buffalo, New York, is approximately 375 miles from Richmond County Supreme Court at 18 Richmond Terrace, Staten Island, NY 10301, with access via I-278, Staten Island Expressway, and West Shore Expressway. Serving the communities of Staten Island (St. George, New Dorp, Tottenville, Great Kills, Stapleton, Port Richmond). 24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Buffalo, NY
50 Fountain Plaza, Suite 1400, Office No. 142, Buffalo, NY 14202
Phone: (838) 292-0003 | Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions About Family Reunification in Richmond County
Where is the immigration court for Richmond County (Staten Island), New York?
Removal proceedings for Richmond County residents are heard at the New York Immigration Court at 26 Federal Plaza, Manhattan, or Varick Street Immigration Court. Affirmative applications are processed at the USCIS NYC Field Office at 26 Federal Plaza. New York has strong sanctuary policies limiting cooperation with ICE enforcement under NYC Executive Order 41. SRIS handles immigration for Richmond County residents.
Removal proceedings are at New York Immigration Court, 26 Federal Plaza, Manhattan. USCIS NYC Field Office handles affirmative applications.
What is the process for family reunification in Richmond County, New York?
The process involves filing a Form I-130 Petition for Alien Relative with USCIS, establishing a qualifying family relationship under INA § 201. After approval, the beneficiary may apply for a green card through adjustment of status or consular processing. Processing times vary by category and USCIS workload.
How long does family reunification take in Richmond County, New York?
Processing times depend on the visa category. Immediate relative petitions (spouse, parent, minor child) typically take 8-14 months for USCIS adjudication. Family preference categories may take several years due to annual visa caps. The New York Immigration Court at 26 Federal Plaza handles removal cases with backlogs of 2-5+ years.
Can I get a family reunification lawyer near me in Richmond County?
Yes. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. serves Richmond County residents from our New York location at 50 Fountain Plaza, Suite 1400, Buffalo, NY 14202. We provide phone consultations 24/7 and in-person meetings by appointment. Call (888) 437-7747 to discuss your family reunification case. We are an affordable family reunification lawyer in Richmond County.
What are the costs for family reunification in Richmond County, New York?
USCIS filing fees include $675 for Form I-130 and $1,440 for Form I-485 (adjustment of status). Biometrics fees are $85. Fee waivers (Form I-912) may be available. Legal fees vary. SRIS, P.C. offers affordable family reunification lawyer services in Richmond County. Call (888) 437-7747 for a consultation.
For more information about family reunification in New York, visit our Family Green Card Lawyer Bronx hub page. You may also find these related pages useful: Green Card Lawyer Orange County, K 3 Spouse Visa Lawyer Orange County, and K 3 Spouse Visa Lawyer Warren County.
Page last updated: 2026-04-29. Legal references verified as of 2026-02-15. Immigration laws and policies may change; consult with an attorney for current requirements.