Marriage to a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident offers a direct pathway to securing a Green Card, allowing you to live and work in the United States permanently. If you are currently in the U.S. and married to a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident, you may be eligible for Adjustment of Status (AOS). This process allows you to apply for a Green Card without leaving the U.S., making it a convenient option for many couples.
Our experienced immigration law firm is here to guide you through every step of the adjustment of status process, ensuring that you and your spouse navigate the requirements smoothly and efficiently. With our assistance, you can feel confident knowing that your case is in the hands of experienced professionals who understand the complexities of U.S. immigration law.
What is Adjustment of Status Through Marriage?
Adjustment of Status allows individuals already in the U.S. to apply for a Green Card (lawful permanent residency) without returning to their home country. This option is available to spouses of U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents who entered the U.S. legally.
Through this process, you will file several forms and provide supporting evidence to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) to prove the legitimacy of your marriage and your eligibility for a Green Card. If approved, you will become a lawful permanent resident without having to leave the U.S. for consular processing.
Who is Eligible for Adjustment of Status Through Marriage?
To qualify for adjustment of status through marriage, you must meet the following criteria:
- Be married to a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident
If you are married to a U.S. citizen, you are considered an “immediate relative” and can apply for AOS at any time. If you are married to a lawful permanent resident, you may need to wait for a visa number to become available under the family preference category. - Be physically present in the United States
You must have entered the U.S. lawfully (even if your visa has since expired). If you entered without inspection or are otherwise out of status, additional waivers may be required, which we can help you navigate. - Demonstrate that your marriage is bona fide
USCIS requires proof that your marriage is legitimate and not entered into for immigration purposes. Evidence of a good-faith marriage will be a key component of your application.
How We Can Help You with Your Adjustment of Status Application
At our law firm, we have years of experience helping couples navigate the adjustment of status process. We understand how important it is for you and your spouse to stay together in the U.S. and are dedicated to making the process as smooth and stress-free as possible. Here’s how we can assist you:
1. Initial Consultation and Eligibility Assessment
The first step is to evaluate your eligibility for adjustment of status. During your initial consultation, we’ll review your immigration history, your marriage, and your current status to ensure you qualify. We’ll also identify any potential obstacles and develop a strategy for overcoming them.
2. Complete Preparation of Your Adjustment of Status Application
We will guide you through the entire application process, including the preparation and submission of the following key forms:
- Form I-130 (Petition for Alien Relative): This form is filed by the U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident spouse to establish the relationship.
- Form I-485 (Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status): This is your application for the Green Card.
- Form I-864 (Affidavit of Support): This form is submitted by the petitioner to prove they can financially support you.
- Form I-765 (Application for Employment Authorization): If you want to work while your AOS is pending, we can assist with obtaining work authorization.
- Form I-131 (Application for Advance Parole): If you need to travel outside the U.S. while your AOS is pending, we will help you apply for advance parole.
3. Gathering Strong Evidence of Your Marriage
One of the most critical aspects of the adjustment of status process is proving that your marriage is genuine. USCIS will want to see evidence that you and your spouse are in a bona fide marriage, not one entered into solely for immigration purposes. We’ll help you gather and organize the necessary documentation, including:
- Joint financial records (bank accounts, credit cards, insurance policies)
- Proof of shared residence (leases, mortgages, utility bills)
- Photographs of you and your spouse together
- Evidence of joint travel, social media records, and correspondence
- Affidavits from friends and family members who know about your relationship
Our team will ensure that all the necessary documents are presented clearly and persuasively to strengthen your case.
4. Interview Preparation and Legal Representation
Most adjustment of status applications require an interview with USCIS. During this interview, both you and your spouse will be questioned about your relationship to verify that your marriage is legitimate. We will prepare you for the types of questions you might be asked, ensure you are ready with the appropriate documentation, and provide you with tips for a successful interview.
In some cases, USCIS may issue a Request for Evidence (RFE) or additional documents. If this happens, we will respond promptly on your behalf and ensure your case stays on track.
5. Legal Support from Start to Finish
From the initial application to the final Green Card approval, we provide comprehensive legal support throughout the entire adjustment of status process. We are always available to answer your questions, provide updates, and address any concerns that arise along the way.
Why Choose Us?
At our immigration law firm, we understand how important it is for you and your spouse to build a life together in the U.S. We are committed to providing personalized, compassionate service to every client, and we work tirelessly to ensure your case is handled with care and professionalism.
Here’s why you should trust us with your adjustment of status case:
- Experienced with Marriage-Based Green Cards
We have successfully helped countless couples navigate the adjustment of status process, and we are well-versed in the nuances of U.S. immigration law. Our experience enables us to anticipate and overcome any challenges that may arise. - Personalized Attention to Your Case
We know that no two marriages are the same, and we take the time to understand the unique details of your relationship. We will tailor our approach to your specific circumstances to ensure the best possible outcome. - Comprehensive Support
From gathering evidence to preparing for your USCIS interview, we provide full-service legal representation every step of the way. You can count on us to be there for you throughout the entire process.
Schedule a Consultation Today
If you are ready to adjust your status through marriage, our experienced immigration attorneys are here to help. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward securing your Green Card and building a future with your spouse in the U.S. Let us handle the legal complexities while you focus on what matters most—your life together.