Adjustment Of Status

Adjustment of Status: Apply for a Green Card Without Leaving the U.S.

If you're already in the United States and want to apply for a green card, you may be eligible for a process called Adjustment of Status (AOS). This process allows certain immigrants to apply for lawful permanent residence without leaving the country.

Whether you're married to a U.S. citizen, the child of a resident, or have another path to permanent residency, this post explains what adjustment of status is, who qualifies, and how we guide you through it.

What Is Adjustment of Status?

Adjustment of Status is the process of applying for a green card from inside the United States. Instead of traveling to a U.S. embassy or consulate abroad, eligible applicants can remain in the U.S. while their application is processed.

This is a major benefit because:

• You don’t have to leave the U.S.

• You may be eligible for work and travel permits while your case is pending

• It helps families stay together during the process

Who Qualifies for Adjustment of Status?

Adjustment of status allows certain individuals already in the United States to apply for a green card without leaving the country. Eligibility depends on several factors, including how you entered the U.S., your immigration category, and whether a visa is available.

You may qualify for USCIS adjustment of status if:

• You entered the United States lawfully, such as with a visa or parole
• You have an approved immigrant petition, often filed by a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident family member
• An immigrant visa is available in your category
• You are not inadmissible under immigration law, or you may qualify for a waiver if certain issues apply

Common situations where people apply for adjustment of status include:

• Spouses of U.S. citizens
• Immediate relatives of U.S. citizens, such as parents or unmarried children under 21
• Fiancé(e) visa holders who marry their U.S. citizen sponsor after entering the United States
• Individuals applying through VAWA, asylum, or certain special immigrant categories

Because eligibility for adjustment of status can vary depending on the facts of each case, many individuals choose to work with an adjustment of status attorney to review their situation and determine the appropriate next steps.

How Do I Apply for Adjustment of Status?

Applying for adjustment of status allows certain individuals already in the United States to apply for a green card through USCIS. While every case is different, most adjustment of status applications follow a similar process.

1. File the immigrant petition.
   A family member or employer typically files an immigrant petition, such as Form I-130 for family-based cases, to establish eligibility for a green card.
2. Submit Form I-485 (Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status).
   Once a visa is available, the applicant files Form I-485 with USCIS to request permanent residence.
3. Apply for work and travel authorization if needed.
   Many applicants also file Form I-765 for a work permit and Form I-131 for advance parole travel permission while the case is pending.
4. Attend a biometrics appointment.
   USCIS typically schedules a fingerprinting appointment to conduct background and security checks.
5. Prepare for and attend the USCIS interview.
   Some applicants are scheduled for an in-person interview where an officer reviews the application and supporting documents.
6. Receive the final decision.
   If the application is approved, the applicant will receive lawful permanent resident status and a green card.

What Can Delay or Deny an Adjustment of Status Case?

• Unlawful entry without inspection typically disqualifies you—unless covered by special rules like 245(i) or VAWA

• Working without authorization or overstaying a visa may not disqualify immediate relatives of U.S. citizens, but can affect others

• Criminal history or prior immigration violations may require a waiver

Why Hiring an Adjustment of Status Lawyer Improves Approval Chances

Applying for adjustment of status may appear straightforward, but the process involves detailed forms, supporting documentation, and strict eligibility requirements. Even small errors or missing documents can lead to delays, requests for additional evidence, or application denials. Working with an experienced adjustment of status attorney can help ensure the process is handled carefully from the start.

Salomon Numa assists individuals and families with adjustment of status applications by guiding them through each step of the process and helping them prepare complete and accurate submissions to USCIS.

• Reviewing eligibility for adjustment of status and identifying potential issues early
• Preparing and reviewing immigration forms and supporting documentation
• Organizing financial, identity, and relationship evidence required by USCIS
• Preparing clients for USCIS interviews and explaining what to expect
• Responding to requests for evidence and tracking case progress

Careful preparation and legal guidance can help reduce delays and ensure the application is presented clearly and accurately during the USCIS adjustment of status process.

Let Us Help You Move Forward

If you’ve been told you’re inadmissible, it doesn’t have to be the end of your immigration journey. We help families fight for waivers and build strong, heartfelt cases.