Adjustment of Status
What Is Adjustment of Status?
Adjustment of Status is a pathway to lawful permanent residency (green card) for eligible individuals already residing in the United States. This streamlined pathway enables you to transition from your current immigration status to lawful permanent resident status while remaining with your family and maintaining your established life in America.
Unlike consular processing, which requires applicants to return to their home country to complete visa processing at a U.S. embassy or consulate, adjustment of status offers the significant advantage of allowing you to remain in the United States throughout the entire process.
Understanding the Adjustment of Status Process
The adjustment of status process involves several critical steps that must be carefully navigated.
Determining Eligibility
The first step requires confirming that you qualify for permanent residency under one of several immigrant categories. Common pathways include family-based petitions, employment-based sponsorship, asylum status, or special immigrant classifications. Each category has certain requirements that must be met for eligibility.
Filing the Immigrant Petition
Most applicants require an approved immigrant petition before proceeding. These often involve another party’s “sponsorship” or petitioning for you, common for family- and employment-based cases. Other specialized forms may be used to apply depending on specific circumstances.
Submitting Form I-485
For certain categories, you must wait until a visa becomes available based on priority dates published in the State Department’s monthly Visa Bulletin. Once eligible, you will file Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status, along with extensive supporting documentation proving your eligibility and admissibility to the United States.
Background Checks and Interview Process
USCIS will schedule you for biometrics services for your fingerprints, photograph, and signature for required security and background checks. Depending on your case, USCIS may require an in-person interview where you will answer questions under oath about your application and eligibility. USCIS may also issue a Request for Evidence if additional information is needed.
Final Decision
After reviewing your complete case file, USCIS will issue a decision. Approved applicants receive their green card, while denied cases may have options for appeals or motions to reconsider.
Joseph & Hall P.C. Can Guide Your Success
At Joseph & Hall P.C., we understand that the adjustment of status process can feel confusing and even overwhelming. Our experienced immigration lawyers provide comprehensive support throughout every stage of your case.
- Comprehensive Case Assessment: We begin with a thorough evaluation of your eligibility, identifying whether adjustment of status is the strongest pathway for your permanent residency application while addressing any potential complications before they become problems.
- Strategic Application Preparation: Our legal team meticulously prepares your documentation to ensure accuracy and completeness that maximizes your chances of approval.
- Interview Preparation: When interviews are required, we can conduct thorough preparation sessions, reviewing potential questions and ensuring you feel confident and prepared for this crucial step.
- Problem Resolution: If complications arise, such as Requests for Evidence or processing delays, our lawyers are equipped to respond quickly and effectively, drawing on decades of experience to address challenges and keep your case moving forward.
Take the Next Step Toward Permanent Residency Through Adjustment of Status
Your path to permanent residency does not have to be uncertain. At Joseph & Hall P.C., we have successfully guided numerous clients through adjustment of status and other immigration processes since 1998. Our personalized approach ensures that you receive the skillful guidance and dedicated support you deserve. Contact our team today and let our experienced immigration lawyers help you turn your American dream into reality.
