The Adjustment of Status (AOS) process offers a unique opportunity for non-U.S. citizens already in the United States to apply for lawful permanent residency—commonly known as a green card—without needing to leave the country. This pathway is especially beneficial for those who entered the U.S. on temporary visas, such as student or work visas, and now wish to make their stay permanent. By allowing applicants to remain in the U.S. throughout the process, AOS provides a more convenient option compared to consular processing, which requires individuals to apply for a green card from outside the U.S. and wait abroad until approval.
For those considering AOS, the process begins with determining eligibility for a green card. Once eligibility is confirmed, the next step involves having a sponsor—often a family member or employer—file the appropriate petition with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). Depending on the type of green card being sought, this could involve filing forms such as the I-130 for family-based applications or the I-140 for employment-based ones. Once the petition is approved by USCIS, applicants must then verify that a visa is available for their category.
When a visa becomes available, the applicant can proceed by filing Form I-485, the official Adjustment of Status application. Along with this, individuals may also request work and travel permits, allowing them to maintain their employment and travel freely while awaiting a decision on their green card. During the AOS process, USCIS will schedule a biometrics appointment to collect fingerprints and other identifying information. In some cases, applicants may also be required to attend an in-person interview to further review their application.
Approaching the Adjustment of Status process can seem stressful, but Rahimi Law Firm P.C. is here to guide you every step of the way. Our experienced team is dedicated to helping clients successfully transition to permanent residency.