Understanding Adjustment of Status: A Pathway to the Green Card Without Leaving the U.S.

When it comes to obtaining a green card, one of the most practical and commonly used pathways is known as adjustment of status. If you're currently living in the U.S. under a valid visa and become eligible for permanent residency, this process allows you to apply for a green card without leaving the country. At Khanections Law PLLC, we help clients understand and navigate this process as part of employment-based, family-based, or investment-based immigration strategies.

What Is Adjustment of Status?

Adjustment of status, often abbreviated as AOS, is the process of applying for a green card (lawful permanent resident status) from within the United States. It is an alternative to consular processing, which requires applicants to return to their home country and complete an interview at a U.S. consulate or embassy.

To adjust your status, you must file Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status, once an immigrant visa becomes available to you based on your category and country of chargeability.

AOS is particularly appealing because it allows you to remain in the U.S. during the process. In many cases, applicants can also apply for work authorization (EAD) and advance parole (travel permission) while their green card is pending.

Who Is Eligible for Adjustment of Status?

Adjustment of status is not limited to EB-5 or EB-2 NIW applicants. It is available to individuals in multiple green card categories, provided they meet the following general criteria:

• You are physically present in the U.S.

• You have lawfully entered the United States (typically with inspection at a port of entry)

• You are eligible to apply for a green card based on an approved petition and visa availability under the U.S. Department of State’s Visa Bulletin

Common categories that use adjustment of status include:

• EB-5 immigrant investors

• EB-1 and EB-2 employment-based applicants (including NIW)

• Family-based green card applicants (spouses, parents, and children of U.S. citizens or permanent residents)

• Asylees or refugees (after one year of presence in the U.S.)

• Certain humanitarian programs

How We Help at Khanections Law

Our firm assists clients through every step of the adjustment of status process. This includes:

• Filing Form I-485 and all supporting documentation

• Coordinating concurrent filing when eligible (such as I-140 or I-526/I-526E with I-485)

• Managing biometrics appointments and USCIS interviews

• Including eligible dependents (spouse and children under 21)

• Advising on work and travel authorization while the case is pending

We also advise on whether AOS or consular processing is the better route for your situation. If you are already in the U.S., AOS may offer more stability and fewer logistical headaches.

Ready to Make Your Status Permanent?

If you're currently in the United States on a temporary visa and believe you're eligible for a green card, adjustment of status may be the smoothest path forward. Whether you’re applying through EB-5, EB-2 NIW, or another category, Khanections Law PLLC can guide you through every step with personalized attention and legal clarity.

Schedule a consultation today to discuss your adjustment of status eligibility and next steps: www.khanectionslaw.com