What Is An Adjustment Of Status?

Many immigrants wish to stay in the United States for a long period of time. But, to accomplish this, they may need to apply for an adjustment of status.

 What Is An Adjustment Of Status? 

The definition of an “adjustment of status” is as follows: a process that an immigrant can use to apply for, and then obtain, lawful permanent residency status within the United Status.

Someone who is currently in the United States, but considered a lawful permanent resident, can apply for an adjustment of status. By doing so, they can become a lawful permanent resident.

The act of becoming a lawful permanent resident offers many advantages. Some of the most notable advantages that can come from this act are as follows:

• A lawful permanent resident can live in the United States on a permanent basis.
• A lawful permanent resident can obtain a job while in the United States.
• A lawful permanent resident can own and/or rent property in the United States.
• A lawful permanent resident can open a bank account in the United States.

Every single one of these benefits allows an immigrant to live a rich, fulfilling life within the United States.

 What Are The Requirements For An Adjustment Of Status? 

The requirements for an adjustment of status are as follows:

• A person applying for an adjustment of status must be physically present within the United States.
• A person applying for an adjustment of status must meet the eligibility requirements of their desired status.
• A person applying for an adjustment of status must have entered the United States through legal means.
• A person applying for an adjustment of status must not have a record of criminal activity.
• A person applying for an adjustment of status must not have any deportation orders against them.

Every single one of these requirements must be met, in order for a person who is applying for an adjustment of status to obtain the adjustment of status they are seeking.

 What Can You Do To Apply For An Adjustment Of Status? 

To apply for an adjustment of status, there are several steps every immigrant should take:

• Contact an immigration lawyer.
• Determine if they meet the eligibility requirements.
• File a petition for immigration.
• Work with a lawyer to file Form I-485.
• Conduct the necessary application steps.
• Check on the status of the adjustment of status regularly.
• Receive an official decision, regarding the adjustment of status.

Every single one of the steps outlined above is vague. But, these are the steps that comprise the basic process of applying for, and obtaining, any adjustment of status.

 Speak With A Houston Immigration Lawyer 

The act of applying for an adjustment of status will allow you to live in the United States. By speaking with a Houston immigration lawyer at BBA Immigration today, we can assist you in applying for an adjustment of status and living in the United States on a long-term basis.

Sources: 

law.cornell.edu/wex/adjustment_of_status

uscis.gov/green-card

uscis.gov/policy-manual/volume-7

uscis.gov/i-485