Applying for an Adjustment of Status in the United States: Why Hire an Immigration Lawyer
If you are in the United States on a temporary visa, you may be seeking permanent residency or even citizenship. A Vanderwall Immigration attorney can be your best guide as you go through an Adjustment of Status proceeding. You can apply for an Adjustment of Status without returning to your home country if you qualify. Also, you can apply for an employment authorization document (EAD) or work permit during processing. In fact, you can even travel during this.
To be eligible for an Adjustment of Status, you need to satisfy some criteria first. But the application process is governed by federal laws and statutes, so it can be quite complicated to complete without a lawyer’s help. An attorney can review your situation and determine your eligibility to complete the process. If they find you eligible, they can assist you throughout every stage of your journey.
Understanding the Adjustment of Status Process
Adjustment of status allows you to go from being a temporary resident in the U. S. to becoming a Green Card holder or lawful and permanent resident in the country. It occurs without the need to leave the country. For instance, you may hold a temporary visa and want to adjust it to a temporary one.
If you are in the U. S. or still in your home country, you can become a permanent U. S. resident by going through the Consular Process. This can include at least two steps that require a Green Card and visas. Work with a lawyer throughout this process because of its complexity.
Adjustment Status Eligibility
To adjust your immigration status, you need to meet the eligibility requirements first. Such requirements include being physically present in the U. S. and entering it legally. Also, your reason for immigrating to the country partly determines your eligibility to change your immigration status. Some of the valid reasons to enter the U. S. include employment, humanitarian purposes, and family relationships.
Assistance for Newly-Married Immigrants and their Kids
Those who entered the United States on a Fiancé Visa or K-1 non-immigrant visa can apply for an Adjustment of Status. These people should have married a U. S. citizen within ninety days of entry. Also, an Adjustment of Status is available for kids who enter the country on a K-2 derivative visa. After a successful status adjustment, the parent and the child will get a Green Card. Then, they will be eligible to become lawful permanent U. S. residents.
Adjustment of Status proceedings are complex and not everybody is eligible. For instance, you can be ineligible if you enter the U. S. without proper entry clearance. To be eligible, you need have current lawful status as an immigrant, have obtained approval of required prerequisite petitions, you do not have pending removal proceedings to go through, and you don’t have a criminal history or a history of unauthorized employment.
What Can an Immigration Attorney Do for You?
Your immigration attorney will orient you with U. S. immigration laws and the way they work. They can answer your questions on issues like gaining legal permanent resident status, and permanent residency requirements. Also, they can guide you through the process of applying for an Adjustment of Status as well as prepare and support you for your official interview with an immigration officer.
Hiring a skilled immigration attorney ensures you do not enter the U. S. unlawfully and face sanctions. If you must adjust your immigration status, apply for a visa petition, register permanent residence, get a Green Card, or apply for an immigrant visa, an immigration attorney can guide you through the process that comes with each application.
