Ready To Adjust Status To Permanent Residency?
If you entered the U.S. with a nonimmigrant status and now you are ready to adjust your status to permanent residency, you will need to apply for an adjustment of status with the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
Jason Karavias, Esq., is a valuable resource for aspiring immigrants seeking adjustment of status from nonimmigrant to permanent residency in the Pittsburgh area and beyond. I am attorney Jason Karavias, and I have successfully helped many clients through this process.
Get It Right Or Make It Right
The necessary application forms on the USCIS website look simple. However, a mistake could cause costly delays or even denial of your application. Your immigration story is unique. With my qualified legal counsel, I will help you avoid or solve problems by understanding all important aspects of your application, including:
- How to determine whether you are eligible for green card status based on family relationships or other reasons
- How to demonstrate eligibility to the satisfaction of USCIS
- How to complete the application correctly
- How to present your supporting documentation effectively
- How to meet required timelines (such as applying based on a marriage that should have occurred within 90 days after you entered the U.S. on a fiance(e) visa)
- How to get conditions removed from your permanent residency status
- Exactly what fees you should pay (since errors can delay or derail your application)
- How to prepare for an interview with an immigration officer
After a careful evaluation of your facts and objectives, I can alert you to any obstacles you may face, such as potential problems related to inadmissibility on public charge grounds. The sooner I am at work on your case, the more timely advice I will be able to give you. If the USCIS asks for more evidence after you apply, I can help ensure that you promptly supply exactly what the agency is asking for.
I will do all that I can to help you avoid or fix problems that may stand in your way.
FAQs About Adjustment Of Status
In my experience, families adjusting their status often have questions about timelines, work eligibility, required documents and next steps after a denial. Here are some key answers:
What is the typical timeline for family-based Adjustment of Status applications?
Processing times vary based on USCIS workload, visa availability and individual case circumstances. On average, family-based Adjustment of Status applications take between eight to 14 months. Delays may occur if USCIS requests additional evidence or an interview is required.
Can family members work or study while their Adjustment of Status application is pending?
Yes, but they must apply for and receive work authorization and/or travel permission first. While waiting for their green card, Adjustment of Status applicants can file Form I-765 (Application for Employment Authorization) to obtain a work permit and Form I-131 (Application for Travel Document) for advance parole.
● Employment authorization document (EAD): Once approved, this document allows applicants to work legally in the U.S. while their case is pending. Without it, working could jeopardize their green card eligibility.
● Advance parole: If an applicant leaves the U.S. without advance parole, their green card application may be considered abandoned.
Students on visas such as F-1 may still maintain their student status while applying for Adjustment of Status, but they should consult with their school’s designated official to better ensure compliance with immigration regulations.
What documentation is needed for a family-based Adjustment of Status application?
Applicants must submit several key documents, including:
● Form I-485 (Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status)
● Proof of lawful entry into the U.S. (such as an I-94 arrival record)
● Birth certificate, passport and government-issued ID
● Affidavit of Support (Form I-864) from the sponsoring family member
● Medical examination report (Form I-693)
● Marriage certificate (if applying based on marriage)
● Any additional USCIS-requested supporting evidence
Having a complete and well-organized application can help avoid unnecessary delays.
What steps should families take if their Adjustment of Status application is denied?
A denial does not necessarily mean the end of the process. Depending on the reason for denial, applicants may be able to:
● File a motion to reopen or reconsider the case
● Submit a new application with corrected information
● Address inadmissibility issues, such as unlawful presence or prior visa violations
● Pursue other legal pathways to permanent residency
If you receive a denial, it is essential to seek legal guidance as soon as possible to determine the best course of action.
Learn How To Expedite Your Adjustment Of Status Application
I am ready to advise you and position you for success if you are eligible for adjustment of status. Request a free initial consultation by calling 412-223-7924 or completing an easy online form on this website to get the conversation started.