Adjustment of Status in El Paso

Becoming a Permanent U. S. Citizen

Adjustment of status is another way of referring to the application process for changing one’s immigration status from a non-immigrant to a permanent resident. It is also known as obtaining a green card. American immigration law allows individuals who entered the country legally as a visitor, student, or other category and are now seeking to permanently remain in the United States. This process is one of two ways the Immigration and Nationality Act allows an individual to become a permanent resident. 

If you think you qualify for permanent residency, contact an experienced immigration lawyer at The Law Offices of Rios, Parada & Seañez PLLC to get started on the process. Call (915) 532-2333 to schedule a phone consultation today to learn more about an adjustment of status in El Paso.

What Does it Mean to be a Lawful Permanent Resident?

A lawful permanent resident of the United States of America has the right to live and work in the country and also file for petitions for certain family members, including a spouse, unmarried children, and adult sons and daughters. Permanent residents cannot vote in local or federal elections and might have certain restrictions in certain jobs but are otherwise able to live and work in the U.S. with full legal rights. 

How Do I Know if I Qualify for Adjustment of Status?

Several requirements must be met in order to be considered eligible for an El Paso adjustment of status. The first requirement is the fact that Adjustment of Status (AOS) is available only to those who already have a form of permission to be in the United States. An immigration attorney in El Paso can better assist you in understanding the qualifications. 

Here’s an overview of the basic requirements:

• Currently in the U.S. or a resident since or before January 1, 1972
• Have a family member ready to sponsor you
• Have an employer willing to sponsor you
• Engaged to a U.S. citizen or permanent resident
• You are a refugee
• Have a diversity visa

The Adjustment of Status Process in El Paso

The process really depends on your particular situation and your current status. Generally, however, the process requires you to do the following:

1. Determine your reason for immigration
2. File an immigration petition
3. Check for U.S visa availability
4. Fill out Form I-485
5. Make and attend an appointment with the Application Support Center
6. Submit to an interview
7. Await the final decision

Obtaining legal residency is a big deal, as it allows you to enjoy a permanent status in the United States of America and opens the possibility for a path toward citizenship. As experienced El Paso immigration attorneys, we know how hard people work to obtain an adjustment of status. We want to help everyone wanting to contribute to the United States by making their life here safe and legal.