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People already residing in the United States with a nonimmigrant visa and wishing to remain permanently must submit an application and paperwork to the federal government to request an adjustment of status. While you may qualify to apply, as with any other applications regarding immigration law, the procedures are complex.
You may encounter complications and hurdles. However, these complications and hurdles are surmountable with the help of a Chamblee adjustment of status lawyer. We could alleviate some of the stress you face and help avoid timely delays on your application and ensure that everything is done correctly to give you your best chance at achieving citizenship. Reach out to one of our citizenship and naturalization attorneys today to discuss initial steps in the process.
Immigration laws provide a range of options for those wishing to apply for their adjustment of status and green card. The requirements vary slightly depending on which option the individual applies to receive. However, all applicants must be present in the U.S. lawfully. The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) accepts applications for adjustment of status for purposes including the following:
Once approved and the agency issues the approval for adjustment of status and green card, the individual can permanently live and work anywhere in the country. A lawyer in Chamblee can help a person determine if their purpose qualifies for an adjustment of status.
The approval process requires completing five primary steps, the first being submitting the I-130 Visa Petition application by the immigrant’s sponsor. Once the application is approved, the next step is filing an application called Form I-485, which is the official request for the federal government to adjust the applicant’s status. An attorney in Chamblee could provide guidance throughout the process and answer any questions the person applying might have.
After the government agency receives the application, they will schedule and notify the applicant of a biometrics appointment they must attend to provide fingerprints and approval for a criminal background check completed through the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI).
Finally, they must attend a formal Green Card interview, and the last step is awaiting approval to receive the permanent resident card. Sometimes, the USCIS denies applications for various reasons, and the steps needed to overcome the issue will depend on the case specifics.
A primary requirement to apply for an adjustment of status is to be present in the country when submitting the application. While the process for those outside the country differs slightly, the eligibility requirements are identical except for the applicant’s location. A lawyer in Chamblee could walk someone through the exact steps of an adjustment of status in or out of the country.
Those applying abroad will undergo the consular process with the U.S. Consulate or Embassy. Applicants cannot enter the U.S. legally until the government agency approves their application for lawful permanent residency and issues the Green Card. Most applicants receive eligibility for this process after a family member petitions the federal government for approval to sponsor them to immigrate to the country.
The opportunity to live and work in the U.S. is a life-long goal for many who apply for an adjustment of status. While applying can be exciting, the process can be time-consuming and frustrating for many.
A compassionate and knowledgeable Chamblee adjustment of statute lawyer understands the process and challenges you must navigate and could help you through every step of the way. Call soon to schedule an appointment and learn more about the different methods and the options available to you or your loved ones if you wish to apply as a sponsor.