Immediate Relative Petition Lawyer Serving New York County (Manhattan), 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. For New York County (Manhattan) residents, these cases are processed at the USCIS NYC Field Office at 26 Federal Plaza. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Understanding Immediate Relative Petitions in New York County
An immediate relative petition, filed on Form I-130, establishes the qualifying family relationship between a U.S. citizen petitioner and a foreign national beneficiary who is an immediate relative. Immediate relatives include spouses, unmarried children under 21, and parents (if the petitioner is at least 21). Unlike family preference categories, immediate relatives are not subject to annual visa quotas, which can significantly shorten the overall waiting time for a green card.
Last verified: April 2026 | New York County Supreme Court | USCIS I-130 Page
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, our firm brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to complex immigration matters. We understand the detailed evidence required to prove a bona fide family relationship to USCIS adjudicators in New York.
Official Immigration Resources
- USCIS Form I-130, Petition for Alien Relative – Official form and instructions from U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services.
- New York County Supreme Court – Official website for the New York County court system.
Procedural Insights for New York County Filings
For New York County (Manhattan) residents, immediate relative petitions are typically filed by mail to the USCIS lockbox, but the interview and adjudication for the subsequent green card application (Adjustment of Status) will occur at the USCIS NYC Field Office at 26 Federal Plaza. This office handles a high volume of cases, and preparation is key. Our team stays current on local USCIS officer trends and interview focus areas.
- Case Evaluation: We review your family relationship and immigration history to confirm eligibility and identify any potential issues, such as prior immigration violations.
- Petition Preparation: We meticulously prepare Form I-130 and assemble all required supporting documentation to prove the qualifying relationship.
- Filing & Monitoring: We file the petition with the correct USCIS service center and monitor the case status, responding promptly to any Requests for Evidence (RFEs).
- Adjustment of Status or Consular Processing: Once the I-130 is approved, we guide you through the next step—filing for a green card either within the U.S. or through a U.S. embassy abroad.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Immigration Case
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. With over 120 years of combined attorney experience and a track record of 4,739+ documented case results firm-wide, we bring substantial resources to your immigration matter. Our founding attorney, Mr. Sris, is a former prosecutor whose background in accounting and information systems provides a unique advantage in organizing complex evidence for immigration petitions. The firm is frequently consulted by Indian Consulate officials in Washington, D.C., for insights on U.S. legal matters.
Case Results and Client Advocacy
SRIS actively practices immigration law in New York. Firm-wide, we have handled 4,739+ documented case results with over 93% favorable outcomes. Our approach involves a thorough review of each client’s unique situation to build the strongest possible petition for New York County filings.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Contact Our New York County Immigration Lawyers
Our New York location serves clients in New York County (Manhattan) and surrounding areas. We are accessible via all major subway lines, Metro-North, and PATH trains.
Neighborhoods Served in Manhattan: Midtown, Lower Manhattan, Upper East Side, Upper West Side, Harlem, Greenwich Village, SoHo, Tribeca, Chelsea, Hell’s Kitchen, East Village, Financial District, Chinatown, Washington Heights, Inwood.
Availability: 24/7 phone consultations. Meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Buffalo, NY
50 Fountain Plaza, Suite 1400, Office No. 142
Buffalo, NY 14202, United States
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (838)-292-0003
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions: Immediate Relative Petitions in New York
Where is the immigration court for New York County (Manhattan), New York?
Removal proceedings for New York County residents are held at the New York Immigration Court, 26 Federal Plaza, Manhattan, or the Varick Street Immigration Court. The USCIS NYC Field Office at 26 Federal Plaza handles affirmative applications like Adjustment of Status. New York has strong sanctuary policies limiting local cooperation with ICE enforcement.
What is an immediate relative petition?
It is a Form I-130 filed by a U.S. citizen to establish a qualifying relationship with a spouse, unmarried child under 21, or parent. This is the first required step for these family members to obtain lawful permanent resident status (a green card). An experienced immediate relative immigration lawyer New York County can ensure the petition is properly filed.
How long does an immediate relative petition take?
Processing times vary. Currently, I-130 petitions for immediate relatives can take approximately 10-15 months for USCIS adjudication. After approval, the beneficiary must then complete either consular processing or adjustment of status, which adds additional time. An IR visa petition lawyer New York County can provide current timeline estimates.
What evidence is needed for a spouse petition?
Strong evidence includes a marriage certificate, proof of the petitioner’s U.S. citizenship, and documents showing a shared life. This can encompass joint leases or mortgages, shared bank accounts, utility bills, insurance policies, photographs, and affidavits from friends and family. An immediate relative petition lawyer New York County can help compile a compelling evidence package.
Can I adjust status in New York if I entered without inspection?
It depends. Generally, individuals who entered the U.S. without inspection are not eligible to adjust status. However, certain exceptions may apply, such as eligibility under Section 245(i) or through a VAWA self-petition. Consulting with an immigration lawyer is essential to explore any potential options.
Related Legal Services in New York County
Our firm provides full legal support for New York County residents. also to immediate relative petitions, we assist with criminal defense and family law matters. For broader immigration help, visit our New York immigration lawyer hub page. We also serve clients in neighboring areas like Kings County (Brooklyn) and Queens County (Queens).
Page last verified and updated: April 2026. Immigration laws and procedures change frequently. For the most current guidance regarding your immediate relative petition in New York County, contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747.