Parent Visa Lawyer Serving Westchester County, New York
A parent immigration petition lawyer Westchester County can help U.S. citizens sponsor their parents for a green card. The process requires filing Form I-130 and handling either adjustment of status or consular processing. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides experienced guidance for family-based immigration in Westchester County, helping reunite families through lawful permanent residency.
Last verified: April 2026 | Westchester County Court | U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS)
Sponsoring a parent for a green card is a primary pathway for family reunification under U.S. immigration law. The process is governed by the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA). A U.S. citizen petitioner must file Form I-130, Petition for Alien Relative, to establish the qualifying relationship. Unlike other family categories, there is no annual numerical limit for immediate relatives, which includes parents of U.S. citizens, so a visa is typically immediately available. However, the process involves strict documentation, financial sponsorship requirements via Form I-864, and either adjustment of status within the U.S. or consular processing abroad.
For a green card for parents lawyer Westchester County to handle, the key is proving the biological or legal parent-child relationship and ensuring the U.S. citizen petitioner meets the income requirements to act as a financial sponsor.
Official Immigration Resources
Understanding the legal framework is essential. The Immigration and Nationality Act (INA) is the foundation of U.S. immigration law. For procedural rules and form instructions, always refer to the official U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) website.
- Establish Eligibility: Confirm the petitioner is a U.S. citizen (21 or older) and can prove the parent-child relationship with birth certificates, adoption decrees, or other legal documents.
- Prepare the Petition: Complete and file Form I-130 with USCIS, along with all required supporting evidence and the filing fee.
- Financial Sponsorship: The petitioner must prepare and submit Form I-864, Affidavit of Support, demonstrating sufficient income or assets to support the immigrant parent at 125% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines.
- Choose the Path: Determine if the parent will adjust status in the U.S. (File I-485) or undergo consular processing at a U.S. embassy or consulate in their home country.
- Attend Interviews: Be prepared for a biometrics appointment and a final interview with either USCIS or the Department of State consular officer.
- Receive Decision: If approved, the parent will receive their green card (if adjusting status) or an immigrant visa to travel to the U.S. and become a permanent resident.
Parent Visa Process Overview
The parent visa process is a multi-step immigration petition that requires precise documentation and adherence to federal procedures.
| Step | Form | Key Requirement | Typical Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Petition Filing | I-130 | Proof of U.S. citizenship & relationship | 6-12 months adjudication |
| Financial Support | I-864 | Income at 125% of Poverty Guidelines | Filed with or after I-130 |
| Application | I-485 or DS-260 | Medical exam, background checks | Varies by pathway |
| Final Interview | N/A | Review of all documents & eligibility | Scheduled by USCIS or Consulate |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Parent Visa Case
Founded in 1997, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings decades of combined experience to complex family-based immigration matters. Our firm-wide track record includes over 4,739 documented case results. We understand the personal importance of reuniting families and the technical demands of the immigration system. Our approach is to provide clear, strategic guidance case-specific to each family’s specific situation.
Our team handles the full scope of the parent visa process. We assist with preparing the initial I-130 petition, compiling evidence of the family relationship, ensuring the Affidavit of Support meets all requirements, and guiding clients through the final steps of adjustment of status or consular processing. We aim to handle the details of USCIS procedures on your behalf.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Contact Our Westchester County Parent Visa Lawyer
Our New York location serves clients throughout Westchester County, including White Plains, Yonkers, New Rochelle, Mount Vernon, and Scarsdale. We are accessible via I-87, I-287, and the Metro-North lines.
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.
Parent Visa & Green Card FAQs for Westchester County
As a U.S. citizen in Westchester, can I sponsor both of my parents for green cards?
Yes. A U.S. citizen can file separate I-130 petitions for each parent. There is no limit on the number of immediate relative petitions a citizen can file, so you can sponsor both parents simultaneously.
What is the difference between adjustment of status and consular processing for a parent visa?
It depends on where the parent is currently living. If the parent is lawfully in the U.S., they may apply to adjust status (Form I-485). If they are abroad, they must go through consular processing at a U.S. embassy. A parent visa lawyer Westchester County can advise on the best path based on the parent’s immigration history and status.
What income do I need to sponsor my parent for a green card?
You must demonstrate an annual income of at least 125% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines for your household size, which includes yourself, your dependents, and the immigrating parent. For 2026, the requirement for a household of two is approximately $25,550. If your income is insufficient, a joint sponsor may be used.
How long does the parent green card process take?
The timeline varies. I-130 petition processing can take 6-12 months. If consular processing is required, additional time for the National Visa Center and embassy interview is needed. Overall, the process often takes between 1 to 2 years from filing to visa issuance.
Can a green card holder (permanent resident) sponsor a parent?
No. Only U.S. citizens (who are at least 21 years old) can petition for parents. Permanent residents cannot file petitions for parents. This is a key reason many permanent residents pursue naturalization to become U.S. citizens.
For more information on family-based immigration, see our New York Immigration Lawyer hub page. We also assist clients in nearby areas like New York County (Manhattan) and Nassau County. For other legal needs in Westchester, consider our Criminal Defense Lawyer or Family Law Lawyer services.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws and procedures change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance on your parent visa case.