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Steps to take in the adjustment of status process

On Behalf of | Apr 9, 2021 | Immigration |

Immigrants in the U.S. who want to apply for a Green Card will have to take certain steps. Applying for a Green Card is referred to as “adjustment of status.” The following is a brief overview of the steps to take in the adjustment of status process.

Ensure you are eligible for a Green Card

Eligibility requirements depend on what immigrant category you are applying under. The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services website has a page outlining all possible categories you can apply under.

Complete and file the immigrant petition

To apply for a Green Card, an immigrant petition must be filed along with a Green Card application. Generally, the immigrant petition is filed by someone else, referred to as the sponsor. Some common petitions include Form I-130 Petition for Alien Relative, Form I-140 Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker, Form I-730 Refugee/Asylee Relative Petition and Form I-589 Application for Asylum and for Withholding of Removal.

Complete and file Form I-485

The next step those eligible for adjustment of status must take is to file Form I-485. This is the Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status.

Attend your biometrics services appointment

This appointment will take place at your local Application Support Center. Some information that will be collected includes your fingerprints, photograph and signature. This helps the USCIS verify your identity and perform a background check.

Attend an interview and submit additional evidence if necessary

In some cases, the USCIS will require you to attend an interview where you will answer questions about your Form I-485 under oath. In addition, the USCIS may request additional evidence to be submitted.

Receive your written decision notice

Once the USCIS makes a decision regarding your application, you will be notified in writing. If approved, you will be sent your Green Card at a later date.

Learn more about adjustment of status

Ultimately, this post is for educational purposes only and does not contain legal advice. Those who want to learn more about the naturalization process are encouraged to explore our firm’s website for further information.