New York Immigration Attorney

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OUR SERVICES

Immigration Help You Can Trust

We guide you through every step of the immigration process with clarity, strategic planning, and dedicated support.

Family Immigration

I-130 petitions
Marriage-based green cards
Adjustment of status
Consular processing
Family-based visa strategy and filing support

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Humanitarian Immigration

Temporary Protected Status (TPS)
Asylum & Withholding of Removal
Protection under CAT
U Visa (crime victims)
VAWA self-petitions

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Removal Defense

Cancellation of removal
I-601 / I-212 waivers
Deportation defense in Immigration Court
Complex inadmissibility issues

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USA Citizenship

Naturalization (N-400)
Citizenship support
Derivative citizenship cases

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About Galina DeVita

Why Clients Choose Us

Galina Devita

Chief Immigration Attorney

Our Chief Immigration Attorney oversees all legal matters and ensures the highest standards of service for clients in New York and across the United States. With extensive experience in U.S. immigration law, she provides strategic guidance on complex cases, including family-based petitions, humanitarian protections, removal defense, and naturalization.

Years of experience

30+

Services offered

95%

Successful cases

Customers reviews

What clients say

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Contacts

We serve clients in English, Spanish, and Russian to ensure clear communication at every stage of the process.

By email

galinadelaw@gmail.com

By phone

(917) 825 – 0646

Office hours

Monday – Friday

9 AM – 6 PM EST

Saturday

9 AM – 2 PM

Sunday

Closed

Also emergency calls available

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a green card, and how do I obtain one?

A green card provides lawful permanent residency in the United States, allowing you to live and work in the country indefinitely. You can obtain a green card through several pathways, including family-based sponsorship (for spouses, parents, or other close relatives), employment-based petitions, humanitarian protections such as asylum or refugee status, or special programs like the Diversity Visa Lottery. Our New York immigration attorneys can guide you through the application process, ensure all forms are properly filed, and help maximize your chances of approval.

How can I apply for refugee status?

To apply for refugee status in the United States, you must demonstrate a well-founded fear of persecution in your home country due to race, religion, nationality, political opinion, or membership in a particular social group. Applications are submitted to the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) or through the United Nations Refugee Agency (UNHCR) for those outside the U.S. Our New York immigration attorneys guide clients through the entire refugee application process, helping gather supporting evidence, prepare for interviews, and advocate for a successful outcome.

What is the process for seeking asylum?

Seeking asylum in the United States requires filing a formal application with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) or presenting your claim in immigration court if you are already in removal proceedings. You must provide evidence showing a well-founded fear of persecution based on race, religion, nationality, political opinion, or membership in a particular social group. The process includes submitting detailed forms, supporting documentation, and attending an interview or hearing with immigration authorities. Our New York asylum attorneys assist clients at every step, from preparing a strong case to representing them in interviews and court hearings to maximize the chance of approval.

Can I lose my immigration status, and if so, how?

Yes, it is possible to lose your immigration status in the United States. Common reasons include violating the terms of your visa, committing certain crimes, failing to maintain lawful permanent residency requirements, or being placed in removal proceedings by immigration authorities. Our New York immigration attorneys help individuals understand their rights, navigate legal challenges, and take steps to prevent loss of status or defend against deportation when necessary.

How long does the green card process take in New York City?

The processing time for a green card in New York City depends on the type of application, whether it’s family-based, employment-based, or through humanitarian protection. Family-based petitions typically take several months to a few years, while employment-based cases can vary depending on visa availability. Our NYC immigration attorneys guide you through the process and help ensure your application is filed correctly to minimize delays.

Can I apply for a green card from inside the U.S. or do I need to go through consular processing?

If you are already in the United States, you may be eligible for adjustment of status, which allows you to apply for a green card without leaving the country. If you are outside the U.S., you must go through consular processing at a U.S. embassy or consulate. Our New York immigration attorneys help determine the best path based on your situation and guide you through every step.

How do I apply for a U visa for victims of crime in NYC?

A U visa is available for victims of qualifying crimes who assist law enforcement. To apply, you must submit Form I-918 along with evidence of the crime and a law enforcement certification. Our NYC immigration lawyers assist with gathering evidence, preparing forms, and ensuring your application meets USCIS requirements to maximize your chances of approval.

What is the difference between asylum and refugee status in the United States?

Both asylum and refugee status protect individuals facing persecution based on race, religion, nationality, political opinion, or membership in a social group. The key difference is location: refugees apply from outside the U.S., while asylum seekers apply from within the U.S. Our NYC attorneys guide clients through both processes and provide legal representation for interviews and court hearings.

How do I file a waiver for a previous immigration violation in New York?

Certain immigration violations, such as overstays or unlawful presence, may require a waiver (Form I-601 or I-212) to become eligible for a visa or green card. Our NYC immigration lawyers evaluate your case, help gather supporting evidence, and submit a waiver request to USCIS to increase the likelihood of approval.

Can I sponsor my spouse, children, or parents for a green card from NYC?

Yes, U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents can sponsor eligible family members for a green card. The process involves filing Form I-130 and, if the relative is in the U.S., adjustment of status; if abroad, consular processing. Our New York immigration attorneys guide clients through each step to reunite families safely and efficiently.

What documents are required for a marriage-based green card in New York?

Key documents include proof of a bona fide marriage, birth certificates, passports, I-94 records, financial support evidence (Form I-864), and any prior divorce decrees if applicable. Our NYC immigration attorneys review all documents, prepare your application package, and guide you through interviews with USCIS.

How do I apply for Temporary Protected Status (TPS) while living in NYC?

TPS provides temporary legal status to nationals of designated countries affected by conflict or natural disaster. To apply, eligible individuals must submit Form I-821 and supporting documents within the registration period. Our New York immigration lawyers help ensure your application is complete, accurate, and timely filed.

What are my options if I am facing deportation or removal proceedings in New York?

If you are in removal proceedings, you may be eligible for relief such as asylum, withholding of removal, cancellation of removal, or waivers. Our NYC removal defense attorneys represent clients in Immigration Court and before USCIS, develop legal strategies, and work to protect your status and rights.

How do I apply for naturalization and become a U.S. citizen while living in NYC?

To apply for U.S. citizenship, you must meet eligibility requirements, including residency, good moral character, and English/civics knowledge. The process involves filing Form N-400, attending a biometrics appointment, and completing an interview and citizenship test. Our New York immigration attorneys guide you through each step to ensure a smooth naturalization process.