How to Apply for Adjustment of Status in the US

Q: Adjustment of Status Through Marriage

The most common adjustment is through marriage to a US citizen or lawful permanent resident. However, not all cases qualify. Those who entered without passing through a checkpoint or overstayed their permitted time cannot adjust their status, even if they marry a citizen or resident.

Q: Adjustment of Status Limitations

Certain restrictions prevent adjustment of status: Undocumented Entry: Individuals who entered the United States without passing through an official checkpoint cannot adjust their status. Overstay: Individuals who entered with valid documents but overstayed their authorized time also cannot change their status, even if they marry a lawful resident.

Adjustment of status is an immigration process in the United States that allows foreign nationals to change their immigration status without leaving the country. Below, you will find the most important information about this process and its requirements.

BECOME A PERMANENT RESIDENT

Adjustment of Status: Everything You Need to Know

Discover how to change your immigration status to permanent residency without leaving the United States.

Types

Obtain residency or change between nonimmigrant visas, such as switching from a work visa to a student visa. Each case depends on the initial status and specific conditions.

Advantages

Avoid leaving the country and facing additional costs and risks. Additionally, it prevents the 3 and 10-year bars, which prohibit returning if you leave while undocumented.

Tips

This process must be completed within the United States. If the person is outside the country, it must be done through a consulate and USCIS. Consulting an attorney is key to ensuring success.

CHANGE YOUR IMMIGRATION STATUS IN THE US

Learn More About the Adjustment of Status Process in the US

Get key details on how to adjust your immigration status and achieve the stability you need in the United States.

What Is Adjustment of Status?

Adjustment of status allows a person in the United States to change their immigration situation from a temporary visa to permanent residency (Green Card). This applies to those who entered with visas such as tourist, student, or refugee and wish to become permanent residents.

Adjustment of Status Through Marriage

The most common adjustment is through marriage to a US citizen or lawful permanent resident. However, not all cases qualify. Those who entered without passing through a checkpoint or overstayed their permitted time cannot adjust their status, even if they marry a citizen or resident.

Adjustment of Status Limitations

Certain restrictions prevent adjustment of status:

Undocumented Entry: Individuals who entered the United States without passing through an official checkpoint cannot adjust their status.

Overstay: Individuals who entered with valid documents but overstayed their authorized time also cannot change their status, even if they marry a lawful resident.