Adjustment of Status Lawyers
Trust Experienced Immigration Lawyers Cheves Briceno to Handle your Adjustment of Status
Adjusting your residency status in the United States is a crucial legal process that allows certain non-immigrants to become lawful permanent residents without having to leave the country. At Cheves Briceno Immigration Lawyers, with offices strategically located in Columbus, Atlanta, and Braselton, Georgia, we recognize the significance of this journey and are committed to guiding you through every step with expertise and care. We have been successful in hundreds of adjustment of status cases, and are here to help you through it.
What Does "Adjust Status" Mean?
“Adjustment of status” refers to the process by which an individual in the United States changes their immigration status from a non-immigrant (temporary) to an immigrant (permanent) one without having to leave the country. This is typically done through a petition filed with the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
The Steps to Adjust Your Status
1. Eligibility Determination
The first step is to determine if you are eligible to apply for adjustment of status. Eligibility criteria vary based on the type of visa you hold and the circumstances surrounding your stay in the U.S.
2. File the Immigrant Petition
In most cases, someone must file an immigrant petition on your behalf. This could be a family member, employer, or, in some instances, yourself.
3. Wait for a Decision
Once the petition is filed, you must wait for USCIS to make a decision. This involves a thorough review of your eligibility and the provided documentation.
4. Apply to Adjust Status
If the petition is approved, you can then file Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status. This form is the actual application for adjustment of status.
5. Biometrics Appointment
USCIS will schedule a biometrics appointment to collect fingerprints, photographs, and a signature.
6. Interview (if Required)
Depending on the case, you may be required to attend an interview with USCIS to discuss your application in more detail.
7. Receive a Decision
USCIS will issue a decision on your application. If approved, you will receive your green card.
Different Types of Status and When to Adjust
1. Non-immigrant Visas
If you are in the U.S. on a temporary visa, such as an H-1B or F-1, and wish to become a permanent resident, adjusting your status is often the next step.
2. Marriage to a U.S. Citizen
Individuals married to U.S. citizens can often adjust their status through a process known as “marriage-based adjustment of status.”
3. Employment-Based Status
For those with employment-based visas (e.g., H-1B, L-1), adjusting status may be an option to transition from temporary to permanent residency.
Consequences of Living in the USA Without Adjusting Status
1. Unauthorized Stay
Overstaying your authorized period can result in accruing unlawful presence, which may lead to future immigration issues. Even if you are working in the USA with a full time job, this doesn’t lead to a change in your status.
2. Bar from Re-entry
If you leave the U.S. after accruing a certain period of unlawful presence, you may face a bar from re-entering the country for several years.
3. Deportation
Continued presence without legal status can ultimately lead to deportation proceedings.
The Wisdom of Hiring Cheves Briceno Immigration Lawyers
Not all immigration attorneys possess the level of expertise and dedication found at Cheves Briceno Immigration Lawyers. Here’s why choosing our firm is a wise decision:
1. Experience Across All Immigration Issues
The Cheves Briceno team boasts extensive experience in handling a wide range of immigration issues. From adjustment of status to complex visa matters, our firm has consistently delivered successful outcomes for our clients.
2. Personalized Guidance
We understand that every immigration case is unique. Our team provides personalized guidance, taking the time to understand your specific circumstances and tailoring our approach to meet your needs.
3. Meticulous Documentation and Preparation
Adjustment of status requires thorough documentation. Cheves Briceno Immigration Lawyers ensures that every detail is meticulously prepared, minimizing the risk of errors that could jeopardize your application.
4. Effective Communication
Clear and open communication is at the core of our client relationships. We keep you informed at every stage of the process, ensuring you understand the progress of your adjustment of status application.
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Your Immigration Journey Begins with Cheves Briceno Immigration Lawyers
Embarking on the path to adjustment of status is a significant step in your immigration journey, and having the right legal representation with the level of experience, a track record of success, and the resources to handle even those most complex cases can make all the difference.
Contact Cheves Briceno Immigration Lawyers today, and let our experienced team guide you through the complexities of adjusting your status in the United States. Your future in this country is our priority, and with Cheves Briceno by your side, you can navigate the process with confidence and peace of mind.
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