Spouse Visa Lawyer Serving the Bronx, New York
A spouse visa (CR-1/IR-1) allows a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident to bring their foreign-born spouse to live permanently in the United States. The process requires filing an I-130 petition, proving a bona fide marriage, and handling either adjustment of status or consular processing. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides full representation for Bronx residents seeking spousal immigration.
Last verified: April 2026 | New York Immigration Court | Immigration and Nationality Act (8 U.S.C.)
Spousal immigration is governed by federal law, specifically the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA). The primary petition is Form I-130, Petition for Alien Relative, filed by the U.S. citizen or green card holder spouse. Approval establishes the qualifying relationship. The foreign spouse then applies for an immigrant visa through consular processing abroad or files for adjustment of status (Form I-485) if already lawfully present in the U.S. The process aims to prove the marriage is genuine and not entered into for immigration benefits.
Official Government Resources
- USCIS I-130 Petition for Alien Relative (official U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services form and instructions).
- Executive Office for Immigration Review (EOIR) (official U.S. Department of Justice site for immigration court procedures).
handling the Spouse Visa Process in New York
For Bronx residents, the spouse visa process typically involves the USCIS New York Field Office or the New York Immigration Court for any removal issues. New York’s sanctuary policies can affect local enforcement but do not change federal adjudication standards. A strong petition addresses potential requests for evidence (RFEs) upfront.
- File the I-130 Petition: The U.S. citizen or LPR spouse submits Form I-130 with USCIS, along with proof of citizenship/LPR status and bona fide marriage evidence (joint leases, bank accounts, photos, affidavits).
- Choose the Visa Path: If the beneficiary is outside the U.S., the case proceeds to the National Visa Center (NVC) for consular processing. If inside the U.S. and eligible, they may file for adjustment of status (Form I-485).
- Attend the Interview: Both spouses typically must attend an interview at a USCIS office or U.S. consulate abroad to answer questions about their relationship and marriage.
- Receive a Decision: If approved, the foreign spouse receives either a green card (if adjusting status) or an immigrant visa to enter the U.S. as a permanent resident.
In the Bronx, a successful spouse visa petition results in lawful permanent residence, but denials can lead to removal proceedings and bars on future immigration benefits.
| Application/Stage | Typical Processing Time | Government Filing Fee | Key Requirement |
|---|---|---|---|
| I-130 Petition | 10-14 months | $675 | Proof of bona fide marriage |
| Adjustment of Status (I-485) | 10-24 months | $1,440 | Lawful entry & inspection |
| Consular Processing | 12-18 months | $325 + $220 | Medical exam & interview abroad |
| Removal of Conditions (I-751) | 18-24 months | $850 | Proof marriage is ongoing |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Spouse Visa Case
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. Our firm brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to immigration cases. We understand the detailed evidence required for a marriage visa petition lawyer Bronx clients can trust. We handle the full process, from the initial I-130 petition to adjustment of status or consular processing, aiming to avoid requests for evidence (RFEs) and delays.
Documented Case Results
SRIS actively practices in New York — firm-wide, SRIS has handled 4,739+ documented case results with over 93% favorable outcomes. Our experience as a spousal immigration lawyer Bronx residents rely on includes successfully responding to complex Requests for Evidence (RFEs) and preparing clients for rigorous interviews.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Spouse Visa Lawyer Near the Bronx
Our New York location serves clients at courts and USCIS offices throughout the Bronx and New York City. We represent clients in neighborhoods including Fordham, Kingsbridge, Riverdale, Pelham Parkway, and Morris Park.
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 — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions: Spouse Visas in the Bronx
Where is the immigration court for the Bronx, New York?
Yes. Removal proceedings for Bronx residents are heard at the New York Immigration Court at 26 Federal Plaza in Manhattan or the Varick Street Immigration Court. The USCIS NYC Field Office at 26 Federal Plaza handles affirmative applications like adjustment of status.
Can a green card holder petition for a spouse?
Yes. A lawful permanent resident (green card holder) can file an I-130 petition for a spouse. However, the waiting time for a visa number is longer than for U.S. citizen petitioners, and the beneficiary cannot apply for adjustment of status until a visa number is immediately available.
What evidence proves a bona fide marriage?
It depends. Strong evidence includes a joint lease or mortgage, joint bank accounts and credit cards, joint tax returns, insurance policies listing both spouses, photos together over time, affidavits from friends/family, and birth certificates of children together. The goal is to show a shared life.
What happens if my spouse visa is denied?
If a spouse visa is denied, the options depend on the reason. You may be able to appeal, file a motion to reconsider, or re-file the petition with additional evidence. If the denial leads to removal proceedings, you must defend your case in immigration court immediately.
How long does a spouse visa take?
For a U.S. citizen petitioner, the process typically takes 12-24 months from filing the I-130 to the spouse receiving a green card, depending on whether consular processing or adjustment of status is used. Processing times vary significantly based on USCIS backlogs and the beneficiary’s country.
For more information, see our New York Immigration Lawyer hub page. We also assist with criminal defense and family law matters in New York.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.