Adjustment of Status

Adjustment of Status

Your Path to a Green Card: Without Leaving the US.

You’ve built a life here. Maybe you fell in love. Maybe you’ve been working or studying. Maybe your family needs you close. Whatever brought you to the United States, if you’re ready to take the next step toward lawful permanent residency, adjustment of status could be your opportunity to stay.

At The Rochester Law Firm, we help individuals across the US adjust their immigration status and obtain green cards without the uncertainty of leaving the country. We focus on getting it right the first time,  so you can stop worrying about what’s next and start planning your future with confidence.

What Is Adjustment of Status?

Some people who are currently in the US can apply for a green card through a legal process called Adjustment of Status (AOS) without having to return to their home country. It can be used as a substitute for consular processing for the following purposes:

  • Spouses of the US citizens or green card holders
  • Immediate relatives (parents, unmarried children under 21)
  • Asylees, refugees, and humanitarian applicants
  • Individuals with approved employment or special immigrant petitions

Whether you’re here on a visa, overstayed your entry, or have a pending asylum case, we assess your eligibility and build a personalized adjustment strategy.

Who Qualifies for Adjustment of Status?

To apply for adjustment of status, you have to meet certain conditions. Most applicants must:

  • Be physically present in the US.
  • Have lawful entry (i.e., entered with a visa or parole)
  • Have an approved immigrant petition (Form I-130, I-140, I-360, etc.)
  • Not be inadmissible due to criminal, medical, or immigration violations,  though waivers may be available.

     

In some cases, individuals who entered unlawfully may still be eligible if they qualify under VAWA, are married to US. Citizens are applying as SIJ (Special Immigrant Juveniles).

We don’t believe in one-size-fits-all immigration plans. Our job is to understand your unique journey and map out a path that’s both legal and achievable.

What’s Involved in the Process?

Here’s what to expect during the Adjustment of Status process, and how we help at every step:

  1. Petition Filing

    We file the initial family or employment-based petition (usually Form I-130 or I-140) if it hasn’t already been approved.

  2. Green Card Application (Form I-485)

    This includes background information, immigration history, biometrics, and more. Accuracy here is everything.

  3. Work and Travel Permits

    We help you apply for employment authorization (Form I-765) and advance parole (Form I-131) while your AOS is pending.

  4. Interview Preparation

    You’ll likely be required to attend a USCIS interview. We conduct mock interviews and help gather documentation to ensure you’re fully prepared.

  5. Approval and Green Card Issuance

    You will formally become a permanent resident of the United States and receive your green card in the mail if everything goes according to plan.

Mistakes That Can Ruin Your Case

Adjustment of Status is a great opportunity, but it can be challenging too. Common mistakes involve:

  • Applying without confirming visa availability (priority dates matter)
  • Forgetting to include required medical exam results
  • Submitting incomplete or inconsistent documentation
  • Attending an interview unprepared
  • Traveling without advance parole,  which can void your AOS application

As your legal team, we make sure that nothing is neglected. We can help you with follow-ups and forms.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, if you meet the eligibility criteria and have an immigrant petition filed, you may adjust status without leaving the US.
Without advance parole, your application can be considered abandoned. We help secure travel permits when needed.
It depends on your category and USCIS backlog. Typically, 8–14 months for most family-based cases.
Yes. After submitting Form I-765, you’ll receive a work permit (EAD), usually within 4–6 months.

You’re Here. Let’s Help You Stay.

You’ve made it this far. Don’t let paperwork, guesswork, or fear of making a mistake stop you from claiming the life you’ve built. At The Rochester Law Firm, we walk with you step-by-step through the Adjustment of Status process. With our help, you won’t just submit your application; you’ll stand a real chance of seeing it approved.

  • Personalized legal strategy
  • Complete form preparation and tracking
  • Ongoing updates and full transparency
  • Trusted support from start to green card
Office

75 S Broadway, Suite 400, White Plains, NY 10601