Florida Adjustment of Status Lawyer
Adjustment of status is the process that lets noncitizens already in the United States apply for a green card without leaving the country. It helps those who meet the eligibility requirements and have an immigrant visa achieve lawful permanent resident status.
At Immigration Law Group of Florida, P.A., our St. Petersburg-based practice is devoted exclusively to U.S. immigration law. With decades of combined experience serving clients throughout Florida, our lawyers focus on careful eligibility analysis and strategic case preparation. We identify potential issues early, prepare thorough applications and stand beside you throughout the USCIS process.
Who Is Eligible for Adjustment of Status in Florida?
Adjustment of status allows certain individuals already inside the United States to apply for lawful permanent residence without leaving the country for consular processing. It is often used by individuals who entered lawfully on a visa or were paroled into the United States and later became eligible for a green card.
Key requirements include:
- Lawful entry: You must have been admitted or paroled into the United States.
- Visa availability: Your immigrant category must have a current priority date under the Visa Bulletin, whether family-sponsored or employment-based.
- No bars to admissibility: Criminal issues, prior unlawful presence, misrepresentation or public charge concerns may affect eligibility.
- Physical presence: You must be physically present in the United States at the time Form I-485 is filed.
- Specific categories: Family-based petitions, employment sponsorship, asylum adjustments, VAWA, SIJS, T visas, U visas and Cuban Adjustment Act cases each have distinct criteria.
Each of these elements must be carefully evaluated before moving forward with an adjustment of status case.
What Does the Adjustment of Status Process Involve?
The process begins with prefiling preparation. During your consultation our lawyers can help confirm eligibility, review immigration history and gather required documentation.
Next, the I-485 package is filed with supporting forms, documents and fees. USCIS then schedules a biometrics appointment for fingerprints and photographs.
An interview is often required, particularly in marriage-based cases. During the interview, officers verify eligibility and review documentation. Preparation with an attorney can help you retispond clearly and consistently.
USCIS will either approve the application or issue a Request for Evidence if additional documentation is required.
Speak With an Adjustment of Status Lawyer Today
If you are considering applying for permanent residence from within the United States, contact Immigration Law Group of Florida, P.A., at CALL in Florida or complete our online contact form.