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The Adjustment of Status (AOS) process is essential for many immigrants seeking to establish a permanent home in the United States. Here, at the Law Office of Olena Manilich, we provide a more in-depth guide to each stage of this process, demystifying its complexities.

Step 1: Determine Your Eligibility

The AOS process is predicated on the premise of eligibility. This means that you must fit into a category of individuals eligible to apply for a green card (permanent residence). You may be eligible through family, including being an immediate relative of a U.S. citizen or a preference relative of a U.S. citizen or permanent resident. Alternatively, eligibility might stem from employment, being a special immigrant, or another category. Understanding your eligibility is the first and crucial step.

Step 2: File an Immigrant Petition

Once you’ve established your eligibility, an immigrant petition needs to be filed. This petition is usually filed by someone else (a sponsor) on your behalf and needs to be approved by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). For instance, in family-based immigration, Form I-130, Petition for Alien Relative, is used. In employment-based cases, the employer would file Form I-140, Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker.

Step 3: Check Visa Availability

You must then check if a visa is available for your category. Due to annual limits on the number of visas given out in certain categories, sometimes applicants must wait until a visa becomes available. The Department of State’s Visa Bulletin is updated monthly and is an important tool for checking visa availability.

Step 4: File Form I-485

The cornerstone of the AOS process is Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status. It’s vital to complete this form meticulously, providing precise and accurate information. Supporting documentation must also accompany this form, including birth certificates, passport photos, a copy of your passport, medical examination records, and an Affidavit of Support in certain cases.

Step 5: Attend Biometrics Appointment

After filing the application, USCIS will schedule a biometrics appointment. During this appointment, your fingerprints, photo, and signature will be collected. USCIS uses this information to confirm your identity and perform background and security checks.

Step 6: Prepare for and Attend your AOS Interview

USCIS typically requires an interview to confirm the information you provided in your application. The interviewing officer will assess your eligibility for a green card. It’s important to be prepared for this interview, providing honest responses and having the original versions of all the documents you previously submitted with your application.

Step 7: Wait for a Decision

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Once all the previous steps are completed, your application will be reviewed by USCIS. Their decision will be sent to you by mail. If approved, you will receive your green card in the mail shortly after.

The AOS process is detailed and intricate, highlighting the importance of each step being performed accurately and completely. Mistakes can lead to delays or even denials, which can drastically affect your journey to permanent residency.

Navigating these complexities alone can be overwhelming. At the Law Office of Olena Manilich, we understand the stakes are high. Our experienced team is dedicated to supporting you through every stage of the process, from determining eligibility to preparing for the interview. Our expertise in immigration law allows us to provide clear, precise guidance, ensuring your application is as strong as possible.

Securing a future in the United States is a life-changing opportunity, and we realize that every detail matters in the pursuit of this goal. The AOS process might be filled with legal jargon and procedural requirements, but we’re committed to making it less intimidating for you. We aim to provide a thorough understanding of what the process entails and how each stage connects to the next, so you’re never left in the dark.

We also believe that proactive preparation is vital for success. We guide you in organizing necessary documents, filling forms, preparing for your interview, and addressing any potential issues that might arise.

But our services don’t stop at guidance. At the Law Office of Olena Manilich, we are ready to stand by your side throughout this journey, offering personal attention and dedicated support. We take pride in our commitment to help our clients navigate the immigration system successfully. Our professional satisfaction comes from seeing you achieve your dream of living and working permanently in the United States.

When it comes to your path towards a secure future in the U.S., don’t leave it to chance. Professional legal assistance can make a significant difference in the AOS process. Reach out to us today if you’re ready to embark on this journey. We’re prepared to help you take each step with confidence, understanding, and the legal expertise you need.

Remember, understanding the Adjustment of Status process is the first step in your journey towards permanent residency. With the right guidance and assistance, you can navigate the complexities of immigration law with confidence and peace of mind.