Adjustment of Status (AOS) – Apply for a Green Card from Inside the U.S.
What Is Adjustment of Status?
Adjustment of Status (AOS) is the process that allows eligible individuals already in the United States to apply for a green card (lawful permanent residence) without having to leave the country.
It’s a powerful immigration benefit for those who qualify — and a critical legal process that must be handled correctly.
At Veritas Immigration Law, P.A., we guide clients through the entire AOS process — from determining eligibility to preparing for the green card interview.
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Who Is Eligible to Apply for Adjustment of Status?
You may qualify for adjustment of status if:
- You are physically present in the United States
- You entered the U.S. lawfully (with inspection at a port of entry or parole)
- You are the beneficiary of an approved immigrant petition (e.g., I-130 or I-140)
- A visa number is available for your category (immediate relatives are always current)
- You are not barred due to immigration violations, crimes, or unlawful presence (unless waived)
Common Adjustment of Status Applicants Include:
- Spouses, parents, or children of U.S. citizens
- K-1 fiancé visa holders who married within 90 days
- VAWA petitioners, asylees, U visa holders, or special immigrant juveniles (SIJS)
- Employment-based applicants with lawful status
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Step-by-Step Adjustment of Status Process
Understanding the process can help you feel prepared and confident as you move forward. Here’s what typically happens during an Adjustment of Status case and how each step brings you closer to obtaining your green card.
Determine Eligibility
File the Adjustment Packet (Form I-485 and Supporting Forms)
Receive Receipt Notices and Biometrics Appointment
Receive EAD / Travel Permit (Optional)
Attend Green Card Interview
Receive Your Green Card
1. Determine Eligibility
We first evaluate whether you meet the legal criteria for adjustment and whether any waivers or exceptions are needed.
2. File the Adjustment Packet (Form I-485 and Supporting Forms)
Next, we prepare and file Form I-485 along with all required supporting forms and evidence. This packet establishes your eligibility and begins the official process toward obtaining a green card.
3. Receive Receipt Notices and Biometrics Appointment
USCIS will issue receipt notices and schedule a biometrics appointment to collect fingerprints, photos, and a background check.
4. Receive EAD / Travel Permit (Optional)
If you filed Form I-765 and I-131, you may receive a combo card allowing you to work and travel while your green card application is pending.
5. Attend Green Card Interview
Most applicants will attend an interview at a USCIS field office. You’ll need to bring originals of supporting documents and be prepared to answer questions about your application.
6. Receive Your Green Card
If approved, you’ll receive either:
- A 2-year conditional green card (if your marriage is under 2 years old), or
- A 10-year permanent green card (if eligible)
Documents Typically Required
- Birth certificate and passport
- Marriage certificate (if family-based)
- I-94 record of entry or parole
- Prior immigration applications, if any
- Two passport-style photos
- Financial documents from the sponsor (W-2s, tax returns, proof of income)
- Medical exam results (Form I-693)
- Criminal or court records, if applicable
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Consultation Today!
What If You're in Removal Proceedings or Have Past Issues?
We can still help you pursue adjustment of status in court (via EOIR), or we may need to file a waiver of inadmissibility (Form I-601 or I-601A) if you have prior unlawful presence, misrepresentation, or other grounds of ineligibility.
Important Considerations
- Unauthorized Entry or visa overstays may affect eligibility unless you qualify under certain exceptions (e.g., spouse of a U.S. citizen, VAWA, or parole).
- Leaving the U.S. while your AOS is pending without advance parole can result in denial.
- Travel or Work Authorization is optional, but helpful if your case is pending for many months.
- If your marriage is under 2 years old, you’ll receive a conditional green card and must later file Form I-751 to remove conditions.
How Veritas Immigration Law Can Help
We help you avoid mistakes, delays, and denials — and bring clarity to every step of your case. We provide full-service support for adjustment of status cases, including:
- Preparing and filing all required USCIS forms and documents
- Reviewing eligibility and any risks or red flags
- Accompanying you to your green card interview (where available)
- Responding to USCIS requests or delays
- Filing waivers if needed
