Adjustment of Status Attorney Atlanta, GA

What Does Adjustment of Status Mean?

When someone from another country is in the United States, they need to be properly documented with USCIS, which usually means they are here on a specific type of visa. Most visas expire after a certain time, so even if you’re applying for permanent residency, you need to let USCIS know that you are “adjusting your immigration status.” This process allows you to stay in the country legally while your green card application is being processed.

Who Needs to File for an Adjustment of Status?

There are different situations where you may need to file for an adjustment of status, and there isn’t one simple way to handle it since everyone’s situation is unique. Depending on your case, you may need to file different forms at different times, which is why it’s a good idea to work with an experienced attorney who can make sure everything is done correctly.

Here are some examples of how the process works based on different situations:

Employment-Based Green Cards

If you’re seeking a green card through employment, both you and your employer need to file forms.

• The employer must file Form I-140 (Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker).
• After the I-140 is approved, you (the employee) will file Form I-485 (Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status).

Immediate Relatives of U.S. Citizens

If you’re a spouse, parent, or child of a U.S. citizen, and you want to apply for a green card, here’s how it works:

• The family member who is a U.S. citizen must first file Form I-130 (Petition for Alien Relative).
• Then, the immigrant must file Form I-485 (Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status).

If the immigrant is already in the U.S., both forms can be submitted at the same time.

K-1 Fiancé(e) Visa Holders

If you entered the U.S. on a K-1 fiancé(e) visa, you’ll need to adjust your status after marrying your U.S. citizen partner to stay in the country while waiting for your green card.

• First, the U.S. citizen fiancé(e) must file Form I-129F (Petition for Alien Fiancé(e)) to sponsor you for marriage.
• After you marry within 90 days, you can file Form I-485 (Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status) to stay legally in the U.S. while you wait for your green card approval.

Immigration Requirements Can Be Confusing

With so many different situations when applying for a green card, it can be hard to know how and when to file for an adjustment of status. This is an important step, so you want to make sure everything is done correctly the first time.

Are you:

• Unsure about how or when to file for an adjustment of status?
• Confused about the difference between Form I-485 and Form I-130?
• Needing help with the green card application process?
• Worried about your criminal record and if it could cause problems with U.S. immigration?

Talking to an immigration expert at MyImmigration can help answer your questions, clear up your concerns, and give you peace of mind.

Contact a MyImmigration Adjustment of Status Attorney in Atlanta Today

When applying for a green card, it’s important to file for an adjustment of status if you’re already in the country. This step is necessary to change your status to a lawful permanent resident.

Contact us today to learn more about how to file for an adjustment of status correctly. Our compassionate team of immigration attorneys will assist you through the process and make sure your application goes smoothly. Let us help you make your dream of living and working in the United States a reality.