For couples embarking on the journey of marriage-based immigration in New York City, understanding the Adjustment of Status (AOS) process and its timelines is crucial. As an experienced immigration attorney specializing in marriage Green Cards, I'll guide you through the expected processing times for Manhattan, Queens, and Brooklyn USCIS field offices.

Navigating the labyrinth of U.S. immigration can feel like solving a complex puzzle, with each piece representing a different step in your journey. For those embarking on the path to permanent residency through marriage-based Adjustment of Status in New York City, one crucial piece of this puzzle is understanding the varying processing times across different boroughs. In this illuminating exploration, we'll unveil the hidden patterns and surprising disparities in Adjustment of Status timelines for Manhattan, Queens, and Brooklyn. Whether you're a starry-eyed newlywed or an immigration professional, this insider's guide will equip you with the knowledge to set realistic expectations and navigate the process with confidence. Buckle up as we embark on a journey through the concrete jungle of NYC immigration timelines!

Adjustment of Status Timelines Across Different Offices

Manhattan

For marriage Green Card adjudication, the timeline in Manhattan typically ranges from 6 to 10 months, with the average being around 8 months. This relatively swift processing time makes Manhattan one of the faster offices for Adjustment of Status cases, even though USCIS’s processing time information which can be found on their website, is well above the normal processing times that we see in our office.

Queens

In Queens, the process tends to take longer, with an average processing time of about 13 months, even though the online USCIS processing times are about the same as Manhattan’s. This extended timeline is something applicants should be prepared for when applying through this office.

Brooklyn

Brooklyn sees a wider range in processing times, typically between 12 to 18 months. This variance can be attributed to several factors, including the volume of applications, specific case circumstances and office resources.

Summary: Marriage-Based Adjustment of Status NYC Field Office Comparisons

Manhattan USCIS Field Office

• Average Processing Time: 6-10 months

• Typical Timeline: Around 8 months for I-485 adjudication

• Key Benefit: Generally faster processing compared to other NYC offices

Queens USCIS Field Office

• Average Processing Time: 10-15 months

• Typical Timeline: Approximately 13 months for I-485 approval

• Note: Slightly longer wait times compared to Manhattan

Brooklyn USCIS Field Office

• Average Processing Time: 12-18 months

• Typical Timeline: Wider range due to case variability

For Employment Authorization Documents (Form I-765/EAD), the average processing time across all three offices—Manhattan, Queens, and Brooklyn—is fairly consistent at around 3-4 months.

Benefits of Comparing Average Processing Times

As an attorney focusing on marriage based Adjustment of Status cases, I have the benefit of comparing average processing times across numerous cases. This allows me to provide clients with a more accurate picture of what to expect and prepare them for the waiting period involved.

Anomalies in Processing Times

While we generally see these typical timelines, there are occasional anomalies. For instance, some clients have experienced exceptionally quick processing times, receiving their green cards in as little as 3 months. One of our client reviews stated, “We got our Green Card in 3 months!” While these occurrences are rare, they do happen. However, it’s important to understand that these are exceptions rather than the rule.

Inaccuracies of USCIS Portal Estimates

The USCIS portal provides estimates for individual clients, but these estimates can be notoriously inaccurate. Several factors contribute to this unreliability:

1. Case Complexity: Each case is unique, and minor complexities can significantly affect processing times.

2. Office Workload: The workload of the specific USCIS office handling the case can cause delays or expedite the process.

3. Policy Changes: Shifts in immigration policies or procedures can also impact timelines, sometimes causing unexpected delays.

Because of these variables, the processing times shown in client portals often do not reflect the actual experience. You can read more about whether the USCIS online portal’s estimates are accurate or not here.

Key Factors Affecting Your Marriage Green Card Timeline

1. Petition Completeness: Ensuring your I-130 and I-485 packets are thorough and accurate

2. Response to RFEs: Swiftly addressing any Requests for Evidence from USCIS

3. Bona Fide Marriage Evidence: Strength of documentation proving genuine marital relationship

4. Background Checks: Any delays in security clearances can impact processing times

5. Interview Scheduling: Availability of interview slots at your local USCIS office

Warning: This information is intended to help you manage your expectations and your life on your journey to establishing permanent residence in the U.S. This information should not be used to “forum shop,” which means that you can’t choose which county you would like to apply in. If the couple lives together, the governing office will be the county the couple lives in. If the couple is not living together currently, the beneficiary’s county of residence will dictate which Field Office will have jurisdiction in their case. 

When a couple is married and applying for a green card in New York City, they often ask me if they can choose which county they want their case going through. I often warn them that you cannot use somebody else's address to file your case, just based on faster processing times, and that this can backfire because USCIS expects to see evidence of cohabitation for the couple. If the marital address is different than the address listed on the USCIS petitions, the couple’s case could be denied for lack of jurisdiction.

Understanding the typical timelines for marriage Adjustment of Status cases in Manhattan, Queens, and Brooklyn is essential for setting realistic expectations. While Manhattan generally offers the fastest processing times, Queens and Brooklyn have longer average timelines. Anomalies can occur, but they are not the norm. It’s also crucial to be aware of the inaccuracies in USCIS portal estimates due to various influencing factors. By staying informed and prepared, you can navigate the marriage green card Adjustment of Status cases process with greater confidence and less stress. Remember, while these timelines provide a general guideline, each case is unique. As your dedicated marriage-based immigration attorney, I'll work tirelessly to navigate the complexities of the NYC immigration system, striving for the most efficient processing of your Green Card application.

Stay informed and prepared throughout your journey to permanent residency. With expert guidance and a clear understanding of the process, you can approach your marriage-based Adjustment of Status with confidence in the vibrant backdrop of New York City. Should you or your loved one have any questions or need representation, please do not hesitate to call us, email us at info@khunkhunlaw.com, or review other options to get in touch with us for an immigration consultation. We have represented many clients with successful results even with the most difficult set of facts.