Adjustment of Status Lawyers
- 15+ Years Experience
- Bilingual Services (Spanish/English)
- Free Consultation
- Family-Centered Approach
Applying for adjustment of status (AOS) is one of the most critical turning points in your immigration journey. The AOS process enables you to transition from a temporary visa holder to a Green Card holder, granting you new rights, stability, and access to opportunities in the United States. You could then even qualify for United States citizenship after a certain period of time. However, for many families, understanding the adjustment of status rules and dealing with all the forms that need to be filled out can be overwhelming. Small mistakes can result in months of delay or even a denied adjustment of status (AOS) application. This is why many turn to lawyers with experience managing status of adjustment petitions.
At Alonso & Alonso, our immigration lawyers bring more than 15 years of experience to your side. We know how to troubleshoot complicated or high-risk immigration cases and understand how to help each case progress efficiently. Our bilingual team offers immigration services in both Spanish and English, ensuring you always feel comfortable sharing your story and asking questions. We pride ourselves on a family-centered approach, prioritizing you and your loved ones at every step.
We begin every client relationship with a complimentary evaluation, which provides an opportunity to discuss your goals and understand how we can support you in achieving permanent residency in the U.S.
What is Adjustment of Status?
Adjustment of status is the process that allows immigrants already lawfully and physically present in the United States to apply for lawful permanent resident status, commonly known as getting a Green Card, without having to leave the country. This alternative to consular processing means you can stay close to your family, job, and daily life in the U.S. during the process of becoming a lawful permanent resident.
Mistakes in paperwork or problems with your immigration history could result in serious delays or denials. Working with an adjustment of status lawyer ensures that your adjustment of status application is complete, all supporting documentation is included, and common pitfalls are avoided. Successfully adjusting your status brings the right to live, work, and travel freely in the U.S.
Adjustment of Status Eligibility Requirements
Applying for adjustment of status lets certain individuals in the United States apply for lawful permanent residency (a Green Card) without leaving the country. However, eligibility requirements depend on many factors, including your reason for applying, your immigration status, and how you entered the U.S. Here’s what you need to know about eligibility for different types of applicants.
Family-Based Green Card/Permanent Residency
You may be able to adjust your status to permanent residency if you fit into one of the following family categories:
- Immediate relatives of U.S. citizens, which can include spouses, unmarried children under 21, or a parent, with the citizen being at least 21 years old.
- Other eligible family members, which may include adult children, married children, or siblings of someone who has US citizenship, as well as spouses or unmarried children (of any age) of permanent residents, may be eligible under family-based preference categories.
- Survivors of domestic violence (VAWA self-petitioners), such as spouses, children, or parents abused by their U.S. citizen or permanent resident family member, may also be covered.
Green Card Through Refugee Status or Asylee Status
Those lawfully admitted to the U.S. as refugees or asylees, now in the country and granted protection, may apply for a Green Card after meeting a one-year residency requirement. Asylees and refugees typically have unique forms and steps to follow, but the law is meant to offer a stable path to permanent residence.
Green Card for Victims of Abuse or Crime
You may also qualify if you have:
- A T visa for trafficking victims
- A U visa for crime victims who assist law enforcement
Green Card Through Other Categories
In addition to the main groups, you may be eligible through the Diversity Visa Lottery, registry (long-term residence since before 1972), and certain country-based programs (like Liberians, Cubans, Vietnamese, Cambodians, Laos nationals).
Eligibility rules are complex, and immigration law is constantly evolving. An adjustment of status lawyer can help determine whether you qualify and how to strengthen your case, no matter what your background or path looks like.
The Adjustment of Status Application Process
The adjustment of status process can be complicated, but understanding each step prepares you and helps your application go more smoothly. Here’s an overview of what you’ll need to do to complete the adjustment of status:
Step 1: Determine Your Eligibility Under US Immigration Law
Start by confirming that you qualify under a specific immigrant category, such as family, employment, granted asylum, special immigrant, or another eligible status. Each group has its own rules, so be sure to double-check your path forward to ensure you’re on the right track.
Step 2: File an Immigration Petition (If Needed)
Most applicants must have an approved immigrant petition on file before submitting Form I-485 (Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status). This petition is typically filed by a family member, employer, or other sponsor. Common forms include I-130, I-140, I-360, I-526, and I-730, among others. In some categories, you’re allowed to file the petition and Form I-485 together (this is called concurrent filing).
Step 3: Check Visa Availability
For most categories, you must ensure that a visa is available to you according to your category and priority date. Check the Department of State’s Visa Bulletin and USCIS visa availability charts. Exceptions apply for some of these groups. For example, if you’re an immediate relative of a US citizen, a visa is always available.
Step 4: File Form I-485 (Green Card Application)
When you know you’re eligible and there’s a visa available, prepare and file Form I-485 with USCIS. Carefully follow all instructions, attach the required evidence, and mail it to the correct USCIS field office.
Step 5: Go To Your Biometrics Appointment
USCIS will send you an appointment date to appear at an Application Support Center for your biometrics appointment. There, you’ll provide your fingerprints, photograph, and signature for FBI background checks.
Step 6: Attend a USCIS Interview (if Required)
Many, but not all, applicants will be called for an in-person interview with a USCIS officer. Bring originals of important supporting documents like your passport, birth certificate, I-94, travel records, and anything you submitted with your adjustment of status application. USCIS will provide all details about the time and location of your appointment.
Step 7: Respond to Any Request for Evidence
If USCIS wants additional evidence for your adjustment of status application, they’ll send you a Request for Evidence (RFE). You must respond within the deadline and submit supporting documents USCIS requests. If you fail to do so, USCIS may deny your case.
Step 8: Check Your Case Status
You can track your paperwork online with your receipt number or by calling USCIS. This can give you an idea of what is happening with your adjustment of status application process.
Step 9: Receive a Decision
Finally, USCIS will mail you a decision. If approved, you’ll get an approval notice followed by your Green Card. If denied, expect a letter explaining the reasons and whether there’s an opportunity to file a motion to reopen the case.
Going through adjustment of status requires knowledge and patience. A skilled adjustment of status lawyer can help you every step of the way.
Choose Alonso & Alonso During The Adjustment of Status Process
Obtaining USCIS adjustment of status is far more than filling out forms – it’s a detailed legal process with a lot to lose if anything goes wrong. An experienced adjustment of status lawyer helps you avoid common mistakes, meets strict deadlines, and responds appropriately to requests from government agencies. Here’s why Alonso & Alonso is a great choice for this situation:
- Decades of Proven Immigration Experience: Immigration attorneys Vanessa and Chris have over 15 years of experience exclusively practicing immigration law, thriving in the most complex and urgent adjustment cases.
- Hundreds of Success Stories: From simple family-based adjustments to challenging and denied cases, we have helped so many people with successful journeys to permanent residency.
- Bilingual Team: Our native Spanish-speaking attorneys break down barriers, ensuring nothing is lost in translation and every client fully understands the adjustment of status process.
- Our Clients are Like Family: You get more than transactional legal advice. We approach every AOS application with heart and respect.
Obtaining your Green Card is a significant milestone, and Alonso & Alonso is here to ensure you achieve it.
Family Reunification Success Stories
They are so kind and understanding at this law firm. Every employee is happy to help you. I truly appreciate them, as we’ve been to many different lawyers and nobody can compare to the way they treat their clients. I love how they are consistent with calls and texts letting you know in which phase of the process that your case is in. Highly recommend their services. They were able to get my dad a work permit even when we thought it’d be near impossible!!
It’s been a pleasure working with the firm Alonso & Alonso , they have been keeping me updated about my case and answer all the questions that I may have. The whole staff have been amazing and super helpful thank you so much for your patience and for going above and beyond for your clients.
WIN.!!WIN.! WIN.!!!!!!They won my removal and deportation case. I could have get deported. It was an impossible case. Attorney Chris Alonso and his team is amazing. I am really thankful to the whole team of Alonso & Alonso Law firm. Now I can work freely and hopefully will get my green card soon. Throughout the process they were professional, honest and helpful. The way they presented my case in the court was simply professional, humble and proud of the their skills.
Thanks Alonso & Alonso Attorneys at Law, you saved my life and future.!🙏🙏
I’m very happy with their service. Best customer service. They keep you updated very well through out the process.
I am very happy to be a part of the Alonso and Alonso family. Very professional and attentive. They always keep me inform of how my case is going. I also love it that they take there time to review my case and make sure everything is right on point . I understand that this takes time to me it doesn’t matter how long it takes as long as my lawyer get me what will change my life . Thank you family for taking my case when no other lawyers would . Keep doing a great job and making our dreams come true. May god bless you Mr Chris and Vanessa and there professional team.
This team has been one of the most consistent, attentive and more with my case. They always answer my calls quick and have the patience for all of my questions;They inform me about everything so well . I’m glad to be a part of Alonso & Alonso law.
Book a Free Case Evaluation with Experienced Adjustment of Status Attorneys
Taking the first step toward permanent residency starts with getting trusted legal advice for your AOS application. When you book a free case evaluation with our experienced adjustment of status attorneys, you’ll have the chance to ask your questions and learn what your next steps are. We provide honest answers, practical guidance, and a sense of relief that comes from working with legal professionals who care deeply about your future. This path can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to go through it alone. Reach out today to schedule your free evaluation.
Adjustment of Legal Status FAQs
How much does a qualified attorney charge for adjustment of status?
Immigration attorney fees for adjustment of status are usually thousands of dollars, with the exact amount depending on the complexity of your case and the level of personalized immigration services your lawyer provides. More complicated or high-risk situations may be on the higher end.
Do you need an immigration lawyer to apply for adjustment of status?
Hiring an adjustment of status lawyer is not required, but many applicants choose to work with an immigration attorney to avoid costly mistakes and improve their odds of success. Your experienced attorney will help you determine the necessary forms to be submitted and provide careful preparation to ensure you avoid errors during the process.
What is strong evidence for adjustment of status?
Strong evidence includes a valid, approved petition (such as Form I-130 or I-140), proof of a genuine family or employment relationship, marriage certificates, financial support documents, identity records (such as passports, visas, and I-94s), and any relevant background or immigration status documentation.
How much is the adjustment of status fee?
The government filing fee for most adult applicants is approximately $1,440, but it may be higher or lower depending on your category. Applicants in certain humanitarian categories or children under 14 may be eligible for a reduced or waived fee.
What disqualifies you from adjustment of status?
Disqualifiers can include entering the U.S. without inspection, certain criminal convictions, misrepresenting facts to immigration officials, violating visa conditions, or health/inadmissibility bars. There are some exceptions and waivers, and each situation should be looked at on an individual basis. An adjustment of status lawyer can assess your specific case.
