Adjusting status refers to the process by which a non-immigrant individual in the United States changes their immigration status to that of a permanent resident, commonly known as obtaining a green card. This process allows eligible individuals who have been admitted or paroled into the U.S. to apply for permanent residency without having to leave the country.
The term "adjust status" is primarily used in immigration law. It is relevant for individuals seeking to transition from non-immigrant statuses, such as student or temporary worker visas, to immigrant status. This process often involves submitting specific forms and documentation, which can be managed using legal templates provided by services like US Legal Forms. Users can navigate this process themselves or seek professional legal assistance if needed.
Here are a couple of examples of abatement:
Example 1: A student on an F-1 visa marries a U.S. citizen. They can apply to adjust their status to become a permanent resident without leaving the country.
Example 2: A temporary worker on an H-1B visa receives a job offer from their employer for a permanent position and decides to apply for adjustment of status. (hypothetical example)
The adjustment of status process is governed by the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA), specifically under 8 U.S.C. § 1255. This statute outlines the eligibility criteria and procedures for individuals wishing to change their immigration status to that of a permanent resident.
| Term | Definition | Key Differences |
|---|---|---|
| Adjustment of Status | Process to change from non-immigrant to immigrant status. | Applies to those already in the U.S. on a non-immigrant visa. |
| Consular Processing | Applying for an immigrant visa from outside the U.S. | Requires leaving the U.S. to complete the process. |
If you believe you may be eligible to adjust your status, start by gathering necessary documentation, such as proof of your current status, eligibility criteria, and any supporting evidence. You can explore US Legal Forms for templates to help you with the application process. If your situation is complex, consider consulting with an immigration attorney for personalized guidance.
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| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Typical Fees | Fees vary, typically around $1,225 for the application. |
| Jurisdiction | Federal immigration law applies. |
| Possible Penalties | Denial of application, potential removal from the U.S. |
It is the process of changing from a non-immigrant status to a permanent resident status in the U.S.