Applying for adjustment of status is the last step in the process of getting a green card and becoming a lawful permanent resident. Adjustment of status provides a better alternative to consular processing if you live within the United States as you await your green card. This way, you will not have to leave the United States to return for the processing of your application to adjust your immigration status. Cynthia R. Lopez can provide you with the assistance you need to determine if you qualify for this process and to complete all required forms.
Adjustment of Status versus Consular Processing
Adjustment of status is one of two primary ways for a person to immigrate to the United States. It literally means your immigration status is adjusted from a non-immigrant or parolee temporary resident to a permanent resident immigrant. This allows you to eventually apply for US citizenship and perhaps even sponsor family of your own later. The other path is consular processing, which makes it possible to obtain the immigrant visa while living abroad. If you are currently in the U.S., the first option is the right choice for you. An El Paso immigration attorney like Cynthia R. Lopez can help you to petition for your adjustment of status.
What is the Application Process?
Form I-485 is the Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status. In some cases, it is possible for you to file your Adjustment of Status and your immigrant petition at the same time. However, whether concurrent processing is possible or not is going to depend upon visa availability in your category. An immigration lawyer can help El Paso residents and those living in surrounding areas to determine if a visa is currently available and can assist with the completion of the adjustment of status petition. Contact Cynthia R. Lopez today to learn more.
