Immigration Lawyer Serving New York County (Manhattan), New York
New York City’s sanctuary policies under Executive Order 41 limit local cooperation with ICE, providing some protection. Call (888) 437-7747 for a consultation by appointment.
Federal Immigration Law in Manhattan
U.S. immigration law is federal, meaning the same statutes apply in New York County as nationwide. The primary law is the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA), codified at Title 8 of the U.S. Code. The Code of Federal Regulations (8 C.F.R.) provides the implementing rules. For removal proceedings, the Executive Office for Immigration Review (EOIR) regulations apply. New York City has its own local policy, Executive Order 41, which limits city agency cooperation with federal immigration enforcement.
Last verified: March 2026 | New York County Supreme Court | USCIS Laws & Policy
Official Government Resources
For accurate, up-to-date information, refer to these official .gov sources:
- Immigration and Nationality Act (INA) (official USCIS)
- New York County Supreme Court website (for related family or criminal matters that may intersect with immigration)
Manhattan Immigration Court Process
Immigration cases for Manhattan residents are processed through federal agencies, not state courts. The key local procedural fact is jurisdiction: your ZIP code determines which USCIS field office handles your case. Most Manhattan residents use the NYC Field Office at 26 Federal Plaza.
- Determine your filing location: Manhattan residents typically file at the USCIS NYC Field Office at 26 Federal Plaza. Long Island residents use the Holtsville office.
- Prepare your petition and evidence: Gather all required forms, fees, and documentary evidence. For family-based cases, this includes marriage certificates, birth certificates, and proof of bona fide relationship.
- File your application with USCIS: Submit your complete packet to the correct USCIS lockbox. Keep copies of everything. You will receive a receipt notice (Form I-797).
- Attend your biometrics appointment: USCIS will schedule a biometrics appointment at an Application Support Center (ASC) to take your fingerprints, photo, and signature.
- Respond to any Requests for Evidence (RFEs): USCIS may issue an RFE if they need more information. A complete and timely response is critical.
- Attend your interview (if required): For adjustment of status and naturalization, an interview at the field office is standard.
Immigration Consequences & Filing Costs
In New York County (Manhattan), immigration violations carry federal penalties including removal (deportation), bars to re-entry (3-year, 10-year, or permanent), and ineligibility for future benefits.
| Application / Issue | Classification | Filing Fee | Typical Timeline | Key Consequence |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| I-485 Adjustment of Status | Application to Register Permanent Residence | $1,440 | 8-14 months | Grants lawful permanent resident (green card) status. |
| I-130 Family Petition | Petition for Alien Relative | $675 | Varies by category | First step for family-based green card. |
| N-400 Naturalization | Application for Naturalization | $760 | 8-14 months | Confers U.S. citizenship. |
| Removal Proceedings | Deportation Defense | No filing fee* | 2-5+ years | Risk of deportation; defenses include asylum, cancellation of removal. |
| I-751 Remove Conditions | Petition to Remove Conditions on Residence | $850 | 10-13 months | Removes conditional status from a 2-year green card. |
*Attorney fees apply. Results may vary. Filing fees are set by USCIS and are subject to change.
Our Immigration Law Experience
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. The firm brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. Mr. Sris’s background in accounting and information systems provides a unique advantage in complex immigration cases involving financial documentation or business petitions. Indian Consulate officials in Washington, D.C., frequently consult him informally for insights on U.S. legal matters affecting the community.
Documented Case Results
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 4,739+ documented case results firm-wide across VA, MD, NJ, NY, and DC, with over 93% favorable outcomes. Our immigration practice handles family-based petitions, adjustment of status, naturalization, deportation defense, asylum, cancellation of removal, and VAWA petitions.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Immigration Lawyer Near New York County (Manhattan)
Our New York location serves clients at New York County courts and federal immigration offices. We are accessible via FDR Drive, West Side Highway, and all subway lines. Our immigration lawyer near Manhattan represents clients throughout the borough.
We serve Manhattan communities including 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, and Inwood.
Available 24/7: Phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
New York Location — Buffalo/NY area
Phone: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (838)-292-0003
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most common immigration issue for Manhattan residents?
Family-based petitions (I-130) and adjustment of status (I-485) are common. Manhattan residents file at the USCIS NYC Field Office at 26 Federal Plaza. Processing times vary, with naturalization taking 8-14 months.
Can I fight deportation in New York County?
Yes. Removal proceedings are heard at the New York Immigration Court at 26 Federal Plaza or Varick Street. Defenses include asylum, cancellation of removal, and adjustment of status. NYC’s sanctuary policies limit local cooperation with ICE.
How much does it cost to file for a green card in Manhattan?
Filing fees are set by USCIS. The I-485 adjustment of status application costs $1,440. The I-130 family petition is $675. Fee waivers (I-912) are available for those who qualify based on income.
What is NYC Executive Order 41?
It is a sanctuary policy that limits New York City agencies from cooperating with ICE detainers and enforcement actions, unless related to certain criminal activity. This provides some protection for immigrants in the city.
Who handles immigration cases at SRIS in New York?
Mr. Sris personally leads immigration matters for New York. He is a former prosecutor with a background in accounting and information systems, which aids in complex cases. Indian Consulate officials frequently consult him on U.S. legal matters.
Related Legal Resources
New York Immigration Lawyer Hub |
Immigration Lawyer in Kings County (Brooklyn) |
Criminal Defense Lawyer in New York County |
Mr. Sris Attorney Profile |
Our New York Office
Last verified: March 2026. Immigration law and USCIS policies change frequently. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance regarding your specific situation.