A Caring Adjustment Of Status Team Helping You Pursue Permanent Residency
The adjustment of status process provides a pathway for individuals who are already in the U.S. to pursue green cards. It can be a key step toward solidifying your American Dream. Handling this process correctly is crucial. Based in Greenbelt, Maryland, we at IvyLaw Law Office, LLC, help individuals throughout the U.S. pursue effective solutions when it comes to adjustment of status.
Who Is Eligible For Adjustment Of Status?
To seek a green card through adjustment of status, you must meet specific requirements, including:
- Green card eligibility: You must be eligible for a green card. Common ways include through your family, your work, or being an asylee in the U.S. for over a year.
- Presence in the U.S.: You must currently be in the country.
- Admissibility: You must not be inadmissible under U.S. immigration law.
We can guide you on whether you would currently qualify for this green card process.
Is Adjustment Of Status Different From Consular Processing?
Yes, these are two distinct processes for pursuing a green card. Adjustment of status is only available to those currently in the United States. Consular processing, on the other hand, is just for individuals seeking a green card from abroad.
How To Seek An Adjustment Of Status
The immigration adjustment of status process typically involves the following steps:
- Petitioning: In most cases, you start the process with the filing of an immigration petition. Typically, this must be done by your sponsor, though there are some green card categories that allow for self-petitioning. The form needed for your petition depends on your particular circumstances.
- Filing a green card application: You then apply for a green card using Form I-485. You have to wait to do this until a visa becomes available, unless your green card category has no annual visa cap.
- Going through the post-application process: Depending on your situation, this process could include submitting additional documents or attending a United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) interview.
- Receiving a decision: USCIS will eventually decide on your application. If granted, you will receive your green card shortly after.
Attention to detail is critical during this process. Missteps could endanger your immigration goals. We are here to give you the knowledgeable and dependable support you need at every step.
Can You Appeal a Denial?
No, in most cases, you are not allowed to appeal a denial of an adjustment of status. However, there are other avenues for seeking a more favorable result, such as filing a motion to reconsider or reopen. We can help you explore your options if a denial occurs.
What Responsibilities Come With A Green Card?
You will want to make sure you clearly understand the responsibilities of being a permanent resident of the U.S. before applying for a legal status change. These include duties to:
- Follow all federal, state, and local laws
- File and pay income taxes
- Register for the selective service if you are a male aged 18-25
Our attorney can answer any questions about what is required of a U.S. permanent resident and what you need to do to maintain this status.
What Are The Benefits Of Being A Permanent Resident?
A U.S. green card provides many significant benefits. It allows you to
- The freedom to live and work anywhere in the U.S.
- Petition for certain family members to join you in the U.S.
- Have an eventual pathway for U.S. citizenship
We are fully dedicated to helping you pursue such opportunities through an adjustment of status and supporting your quest for the American dream.
Talk To A Caring Adjustment Of Status Lawyer For Free
Get personalized guidance and empathetic support focused on your green card goals. We stand ready to walk you through every aspect of the adjustment of status process. Set up a free consultation today by calling us at 301-614-0811 or sending us an email.