Adjustment of Status Lawyer Niagara County handles green card applications from within the US under the Immigration and Nationality Act (8 U.S.C.). Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 4,739+ documented case results firm-wide. Your path to lawful permanent residence starts with a case-specific strategy.
Last verified: April 2026 | Niagara County Court | Niagara County Supreme Court | Immigration and Nationality Act (8 U.S.C.)
Adjustment of status is the process for a person already in the United States to apply for lawful permanent residence (a green card) without leaving the country. The Immigration and Nationality Act (INA) governs eligibility under 8 U.S.C. § 1255. You must have an approved immigrant visa petition, an immediately available visa number, and be admissible to the United States. The USCIS Field Office serving Niagara County is the Buffalo Field Office.
For adjustment of status specifically, the primary statute is INA § 245 (8 U.S.C. § 1255). This section allows certain individuals already in the U.S. to adjust to permanent resident status. Unlike consular processing, you do not need to travel abroad for an immigrant visa interview. The process involves filing Form I-485 with supporting documentation and attending a biometrics appointment and interview at the local USCIS field office.
Review the official statute: Immigration and Nationality Act § 245 (8 U.S.C. § 1255) (official USCIS). For court procedures, visit the Niagara County Supreme Court website.
In Niagara County, the adjustment of status process requires careful preparation of Form I-485 and supporting evidence. The USCIS Buffalo Field Office handles interviews for Niagara County residents. You must demonstrate continuous lawful status, admissibility, and eligibility for the specific green card category.
- Step 1: Determine eligibility — confirm you have an approved immigrant petition (I-130, I-140, etc.) and a visa number is available.
- Step 2: Prepare Form I-485, including all supporting documents: birth certificate, passport photos, medical exam (I-693), and evidence of lawful entry.
- Step 3: File the application with USCIS, including filing fees and any required waivers (I-601 for inadmissibility).
- Step 4: Attend biometrics appointment at the USCIS Application Support Center (ASC) in Buffalo.
- Step 5: Prepare for and attend the adjustment of status interview at the Buffalo Field Office.
- Step 6: Receive decision — approval grants permanent residence; denial may require appeal or motion to reopen.
In Niagara County, adjustment of status carries no criminal penalty but improper filing can lead to denial, removal proceedings, or unlawful presence bars.
| Issue | Classification | Consequence | Fee | Impact on Status | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Denial of I-485 | Administrative | No jail | Filing fee lost ($1,440) | Must depart or seek other relief | May trigger NTA (Notice to Appear) |
| Fraud or misrepresentation | INA § 212(a)(6)(C) | Permanent bar | N/A | Lifetime inadmissibility | May require I-601 waiver |
| Unlawful presence | INA § 212(a)(9)(B) | 3 or 10-year bar | N/A | Must file I-601A waiver | Requires consular processing |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by Mr. Sris, a former prosecutor. The firm has over 120 years of combined legal experience and has handled 4,739+ documented case results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate firm-wide. Mr. Sris personally amended Virginia Code § 20-107.3, demonstrating deep legal experience. The firm provides full representation for adjustment of status cases, from initial consultation through interview preparation and follow-up.
Firm-wide, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has handled 4,739+ documented case results with over 93% favorable outcomes across VA, MD, NJ, NY, and DC. For Niagara County immigration matters, the firm applies this extensive experience to each adjustment of status case.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Buffalo Location
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.
Our Buffalo location is accessible via I-90 (NYS Thruway) and serves clients at Niagara County courts. We represent clients from Lockport, Niagara Falls, North Tonawanda, Lewiston, Sanborn, Newfane, Cambria, Ransomville, Wilson, and Youngstown.
Looking for an Adjustment of Status Lawyer Niagara County? We are here to help with your green card application from within the US.
Can I adjust status if I entered the US without inspection?
No, generally not. You must have been inspected and admitted or paroled to adjust status under INA § 245(a). Exceptions exist for certain family-based categories under INA § 245(i).
How long does the AOS process take in Niagara County?
It depends. Current USCIS processing times for I-485 at the Buffalo Field Office range from 8 to 14 months. Employment-based cases may take 6 to 12 months. Family-based cases vary by category.
Do I need a lawyer for the adjustment of status interview?
Yes, it is strongly recommended. An attorney can prepare you for questions, ensure all documents are complete, and address any issues the officer raises during the interview at the Buffalo Field Office.
What happens if my adjustment of status is denied?
It depends. You may file a motion to reopen or reconsider with USCIS. If you are placed in removal proceedings, you can renew the application before an immigration judge at the New York Immigration Court.
Can I work while my I-485 is pending?
Yes. You can file Form I-765 (Employment Authorization Document) concurrently with your I-485. Processing takes 3 to 6 months. You may also file for advance parole (I-131) for international travel.
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Last verified: April 2026. Information updated as of April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.