Immediate Relative Petition Lawyer Serving Ontario County, New York
An Immediate Relative Petition (Form I-130) is the first step for a U.S. citizen to sponsor a spouse, child, or parent for a green card. In Ontario County, this federal process is governed by the Immigration and Nationality Act (8 U.S.C. § 1151). Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Last verified: April 2026 | Ontario County Supreme Court | USCIS I-130 Page
Filing an I-130 petition establishes the qualifying family relationship between a U.S. citizen petitioner and a foreign national beneficiary. As an immediate relative petition lawyer in Ontario County, we understand that success depends on precise evidence and adherence to strict USCIS procedures. Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, our firm leverages extensive experience in immigration law to help families in the Finger Lakes region handle this complex process.
Official Immigration Resources & Statutes
The Immediate Relative Petition process is defined by federal law. Key resources include the USCIS instructions for Form I-130 and the Executive Office for Immigration Review (EOIR) for matters involving removal proceedings. The primary statute is the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA), specifically sections governing family-sponsored immigration.
- Determine Eligibility: Confirm the petitioner is a U.S. citizen and the beneficiary qualifies as an immediate relative (spouse, unmarried child under 21, or parent).
- Gather Documentation: Collect proof of the petitioner’s U.S. citizenship, evidence of the bona fide family relationship (marriage certificate, birth certificates), and required forms and fees.
- File Form I-130: Submit the complete petition package to the correct USCIS lockbox address. Retain copies of everything sent.
- Respond to USCIS Requests: If USCIS issues a Request for Evidence (RFE), provide a complete and timely response with additional documentation.
- Await Approval & Next Steps: Upon I-130 approval, the case moves to the National Visa Center (NVC) for consular processing (if beneficiary is abroad) or to adjustment of status (if beneficiary is in the U.S.).
Understanding the Immediate Relative Petition Process
In Ontario County, filing an Immediate Relative Petition (I-130) is a critical administrative step that, if approved, provides a direct path to a green card without annual visa caps.
While the petition itself does not carry penalties, errors can lead to denial, delays, or a finding of misrepresentation. A strong petition requires meticulous attention to detail in documenting the family relationship and the petitioner’s status.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Immigration Case
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. Our firm brings a combined 120+ years of legal experience to every case. We have a documented record of handling complex immigration matters, including family-based petitions. Our approach is direct and focused on the specific procedural requirements of your case.
Mr. Sris, our managing attorney, leads our immigration practice. His background and the firm’s collaborative approach ensure your immediate relative petition receives careful attention from filing through to the next stages of the green card process.
Handling Immigration Cases in Ontario County
Our firm actively handles immigration cases for residents of Ontario County. We assist with I-130 petitions, responses to Requests for Evidence (RFE), and the subsequent visa or adjustment of status applications. We understand the local procedural nuances, including which USCIS service centers and field offices typically handle cases from the Finger Lakes region.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Contact Our New York Immigration Lawyers
Our New York location serves Ontario County and the Finger Lakes region. We are accessible via I-90 (NYS Thruway) and other major highways.
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.
We serve clients in Canandaigua, Geneva, Victor, Farmington, Manchester, Phelps, Hopewell, Seneca, and East Bloomfield.
Immediate Relative Petition FAQs for Ontario County
Where is the immigration court for Ontario County, New York?
Removal proceedings are held at the New York Immigration Court in Manhattan or the Varick Street Immigration Court. The USCIS NYC Field Office at 26 Federal Plaza handles affirmative applications. New York has strong sanctuary policies limiting cooperation with ICE enforcement.
What is an Immediate Relative Petition (I-130)?
It is the formal petition filed by a U.S. citizen with USCIS to establish a qualifying family relationship with a foreign national spouse, unmarried child under 21, or parent. Approval is the first mandatory step for those relatives to obtain lawful permanent residence (a green card).
How long does an I-130 petition take to process?
Processing times vary significantly by USCIS service center and case specifics. Current estimates range from several months to over a year. You can check current processing times on the official USCIS website for the specific service center handling your case.
Can I file an I-130 if my relative is already in the United States?
Yes. If your immediate relative is lawfully present in the U.S., you can file the I-130 petition concurrently with an Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status (Form I-485), provided they are eligible to adjust status.
What evidence is needed for a spouse-based I-130 petition?
You must provide proof of the petitioner’s U.S. citizenship, a valid marriage certificate, and evidence of a bona fide marital relationship. This evidence can include joint financial accounts, leases, photographs, correspondence, and affidavits from friends and family.
Related Legal Services: For other legal needs in Ontario County, explore our criminal defense and family law services. For more immigration resources, visit our New York immigration hub page.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws and procedures change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance regarding your immediate relative petition.