Green Cards & Adjustment of Status
Obtaining a Green Card, becoming a lawful permanent resident of the United States, is one of the most important steps in building a secure future in this country. For many people, it means stability, opportunity, and the ability to be with their family without fear.
But the process can be complex, and filing incorrectly can lead to long delays, denials, or even placement in removal (deportation) proceedings. Having an experienced immigration attorney by your side can make all the difference.
With more than 24 years of exclusive experience in U.S. immigration law, I have helped thousands of individuals and families successfully obtain permanent residency through family, employment, marriage, humanitarian programs, and other eligible categories.
Go to the following webpage for all USCIS forms including form I-485 Application for Adjustment of Status https://www.uscis.gov/forms/forms
Who Can Apply for a Green Card? (Main Categories)
Green Card eligibility comes from different legal categories, including:
Family-Based Immigration
- Spouses of U.S. citizens
- Parents of U.S. citizens
- Children of U.S. citizens or permanent residents
- Certain adult sons and daughters
- Certain siblings of U.S. citizens
Marriage-Based Immigration
One of the most common paths. Requires a good-faith marriage, strong documentation, and proof of eligibility.
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Employment-Based Categories
- Workers with permanent job offers
- Skilled workers or professionals
- Individuals with extraordinary ability
- Investors (EB-5)
- Multinational managers or executives
Special & Humanitarian Categories
- Asylees and refugees
- VAWA applicants
- U visas
- Special Immigrant Juveniles (SIJ)
- Certain religious workers
Every category has different requirements, timelines, and evidence needs. An experienced attorney ensures the case is built correctly from the beginning.
Adjustment of Status vs. Consular Processing
There are two pathways to obtain a green card:
1. Adjustment of Status (AOS) — Filing Inside the U.S.
You apply directly with USCIS and usually do not need to leave the country. This is a great option for people who are:
- Already in the U.S.
- Eligible to adjust based on their category
- Not barred from adjusting (e.g., unlawful entries, certain violations)
2. Consular Processing — Filing Outside the U.S.
If you are not eligible to adjust inside the U.S., you may complete the process at a U.S. consulate abroad.
Choosing the wrong path can cause major problems. That’s why legal guidance is essential.
Go to the following page to get more information about consular processing: https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/us-visas/immigrate/the-immigrant-visa-process/step-1-submit-a-petition/step-2-begin-nvc-processing.html
Costs & Filing Fees
USCIS fees vary by category, but in general:
Government fees change frequently. I always review current costs with clients before filing.
Go to the following page to calculate the fee you must pay for your green card: https://www.uscis.gov/feecalculator
Supporting Documents (What You Need)
Most adjustment of status cases require:
Identity & Eligibility
- Passport and birth certificate
- I-94 or proof of lawful entry
- Prior visas or documents
- Marriage or family relationship proof
- Divorce decrees (if applicable)
Financial Support Documents
- Form I-864 Affidavit of Support
- Sponsor’s tax returns, W-2s, pay stubs
- Proof of current income
Medical Exam
- Form I-693 from a USCIS-approved civil surgeon
Background & Clearance
- Police certificates (in some cases)
- Criminal records (if any)
- Court dispositions
Additional Evidence
- Photos
- Joint documents for marriage cases
- Employment letters
- Country-specific documents
Every case is different, and missing even one required document can cause delays, RFEs, or denials.
Common Pitfalls & Dangers to Avoid
Applying for a green card might seem straightforward, but there are serious risks if done incorrectly:
- Entering Without Inspection (EWI)
- Criminal Issues
- Past Immigration Violations
- Visa overstays
- Unauthorized employment
- Fraud or misrepresentation
- Prior removal orders
These issues require careful legal analysis before filing.
Unfortunately, many people file applications on their own or use unlicensed “immigration consultants,” resulting in:
- Denials
- Accusations of fraud
- Court hearings
- In some cases, being placed into removal proceedings
My job is to prevent these outcomes by preparing the case correctly from the beginning.
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The Adjustment of Status Process
- 1. Initial Consultation & Eligibility Review
We examine your immigration history, family situation, and any risk factors.
- 2. Petition Filing (I-130 or Other Category)
We prove the qualifying relationship or category.
- 3. Submission of Adjustment Packet (I-485)
Includes all supporting documents, medical exam, declarations, and evidence.
- 4. Biometrics Appointment
Fingerprints and background check.
- 5. Work & Travel Authorization (Optional)
While waiting, you may receive permission to work and travel.
- 6. Interview
USCIS may require an interview for marriage and many family cases. I prepare you thoroughly and, when allowed, attend the interview with you.
- 7. Decision
If approved, you receive your Permanent Resident Card. However, you have to understand that now days a decision may take a long time to be made. Moreover, before a decision is made, you may receive other correspondence from USCIS, such as a Request for Evidence, or a Notice of Intent to Deny, giving you the opportunity to submit additional documents and also to prove your qualifications. That is why it is of outmost importance to make sure that during the process, while your application is pending, USCIS has your current mailing address and that your name and last name is printed on your mailbox.
Go to the following webpage to check the status of your case: https://egov.uscis.gov/
If you received a negative decision, your application has been denied go to the following website to see if you were placed in removal proceedings: https://acis.eoir.justice.gov/en/caseInformation/
How I Can Help You
With more than 24 years devoted exclusively to immigration law, I bring:
- Deep knowledge of adjustment requirements
- Careful review of your history to avoid hidden dangers
- Strong preparation for your interview
- Experience handling difficult cases, waivers, and complex backgrounds
- Representation before USCIS, Immigration Court, the BIA, and the U.S. Circuit Courts
Over the years, I have helped thousands of people obtain their green cards and build secure lives here in the United States. My clients trust me because I take the time to understand their story and protect them from unnecessary risks.
Start Your Green Card Journey with Confidence
The process may feel complicated, but you don’t need to do it alone. With the right guidance, a green card is not just possible, it can be a smooth and secure path toward a stable future.
If you’re ready to begin your application or want to understand your options, I am here to help.