Rockville Adjustment of Status Lawyers

Passionate Attorneys in Rockville, MD for Immigration Status Adjustments

Immigrants who are living in the United States may need to take steps to secure lawful permanent resident (LPR) status. In many cases, the best way to do so is through an adjustment of status, which will allow an eligible immigrant to receive a Green Card without needing to return to their home country. This process can be complex, since a person will need to meet numerous legal requirements and provide a variety of different forms of documentation. In Rockville, Maryland, immigrants who are looking to adjust their status can benefit greatly from the guidance of a knowledgeable attorney.

Navigating the U.S. immigration system can be challenging. The lawyers at Salvado Law Offices have extensive experience in immigration law, and we can ensure that every step of the process is handled efficiently and effectively. We can help prepare applications, gather the proper documentation, and provide representation when working with immigration officials to address legal concerns. We are committed to making the adjustment of status process as smooth as possible for our clients.

Eligibility Requirements for Adjustment of Status

To apply for adjustment of status, a person must meet certain criteria, which will typically include:

• The person must be physically present in the United States.
• They must have entered the U.S. legally with a valid visa.
• They must be eligible for an immigrant visa that is immediately available.
• They must not have committed certain criminal offenses or immigration violations.

There are several categories under which an immigrant may qualify for adjustment of status:

Family-Based Adjustment of Status

Family sponsorship is one of the most common pathways to a Green Card. Family members in the United States may be able to petition for immigrant visas on behalf of certain relatives. Immediate relatives of U.S. citizens enjoy preferential treatment, with no numerical limits on visas. Other family members, such as married children and siblings of U.S. citizens and immediate relatives of Green Card holders, fall under family preference categories and may face longer wait times due to annual visa caps.

Employment-Based Adjustment of Status

Immigrants who have secured employment with U.S. employers willing to sponsor them for employment-based visas may qualify for adjustment of status. These visas have five preference levels, ranging from priority workers with advanced degrees or extraordinary abilities to certain special immigrants. Each category has its own set of requirements and processing times.

Asylum or Refugees

People who are granted asylum or who enter the United States as refugees may apply for a Green Card one year after their arrival in the country. These applicants must meet additional requirements, such as maintaining continuous physical presence in the U.S. and not having engaged in activities that would disqualify them from asylum or refugee status.

The Adjustment of Status Application Process

When applying for a Green Card through adjustment of status, a person will follow several steps:

1. Determine eligibility: A person must first determine whether they are eligible for a Green Card based on one of the categories outlined above or for other reasons. The attorneys at Salvado Law Offices can help determine whether an applicant meets the necessary criteria.
2. File Form I-485: An application for adjustment of status must be filled out accurately and accompanied by supporting documentation, such as proof of legal entry, visa availability, and eligibility category. Our lawyers can help prepare and submit this form and ensure that all required information and documentation are included.
3. Attend biometrics appointment: An applicant will receive a notice of an appointment at a local Application Support Center. At this appointment, their fingerprints, photograph, and signature will be collected to ensure that a background check can be performed.
4. Interview: A person will usually be required to attend an interview with a U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) officer. During the interview, the officer will verify the information provided in the application and assess the applicant's eligibility for adjustment of status. An attorney from Salvado Law Offices can provide crucial support and representation during this stage.
5. Decision: If the application is approved, the applicant will receive a notice of approval. They will then be sent a Green Card that recognizes them as a lawful permanent resident of the United States.

Overcoming Challenges During the Adjustment of Status Process

The path to obtaining a Green Card through adjustment of status can be complex. Issues such as missing documentation, accusations of immigration violations, or criminal records can complicate the process. The attorneys at Salvado Law Offices have extensive experience handling these issues, and we can present a compelling case to overcome any concerns that may affect a person's ability to maintain residence in the U.S. Our detailed understanding of immigration law ensures that potential obstacles will be addressed correctly.

Contact Our Rockville, Maryland Adjustment of Status Lawyers

The experienced attorneys at Salvado Law Offices can provide invaluable help with Green Card applications and other related immigration issues. Our team is dedicated to providing the legal support needed to help immigrants address any concerns they may encounter. Contact us at 301-933-1814 to arrange a consultation and take the first step towards securing permanent residency in the United States. We assist with issues related to Green Cards and other immigration matters in Maryland and Virginia from our offices in Rockville and Falls Church.