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Understanding Adjustment of Status

June 10, 20242 min read

The adjustment of status process allows eligible individuals to become permanent residents of the United States without having to return to their home country. This guide provides an overview of the process and how Merit Solutions assists clients through each step.

What is Adjustment of Status?

Adjustment of status is a process through which individuals in the United States can apply to become lawful permanent residents (green card holders). It is applicable to various categories, including family-based, employment-based, humanitarian-based, and investment-based applicants.

Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for adjustment of status, applicants must:

  • Be physically present in the United States.

  • Have entered the U.S. lawfully.

  • Have an approved immigrant petition (e.g., Form I-130 or I-140).

  • Be admissible to the U.S. or eligible for a waiver of inadmissibility.

Required Documentation

The adjustment of status application requires:

  • Form I-485 (Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status).

  • Proof of lawful entry (e.g., visa stamp, I-94 form).

  • Medical examination report (Form I-693).

  • Supporting evidence (e.g., proof of relationship for family-based applications, job offer for employment-based applications).

Common Challenges

Applicants often face challenges such as:

  • Documentation Accuracy: Incomplete or inaccurate forms can lead to delays or denials.

  • Timing Issues: Understanding and adhering to application timelines is crucial.

  • Legal Hurdles: Navigating complex immigration laws and policies can be overwhelming.

How Merit Solutions Can Help

Merit Solutions offers comprehensive support for the adjustment of status process:

  • Form Preparation: We ensure all required forms and supporting documents are correctly prepared.

  • Case Management: For extended scope cases, we manage all aspects of the process, including correspondence with USCIS and tracking important deadlines.

  • Legal Expertise: Our team provides expert guidance to help you overcome any legal challenges and ensure a smooth application process.

With Merit Solutions, you can confidently navigate the adjustment of status process and achieve your goal of becoming a permanent resident of the United States.

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