What Is Adjustment of Status?
If you’re already in the United States and want to become a lawful permanent resident, you may be eligible for Adjustment of Status (AOS). Instead of leaving the country to complete visa processing at a U.S. embassy or consulate abroad, Adjustment of Status allows certain eligible individuals to apply for a green card from within the United States.
For many immigrants, Adjustment of Status is the final step toward obtaining permanent residence. Whether you’re applying through marriage to a U.S. citizen, a family petition, employment, asylum, or another qualifying category, understanding the process can help you avoid delays and costly mistakes.
This guide explains who qualifies for Adjustment of Status, how the application works, the required forms, filing fees, processing times, work authorization, travel rules, and what to expect after filing.
What Is Adjustment of Status?
Adjustment of Status is the legal process that allows eligible individuals who are physically present in the United States to apply for lawful permanent resident status (a green card) without leaving the country.
The primary application is Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status, filed with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
Who Is Eligible for Adjustment of Status?
Eligibility depends on the immigration category and individual circumstances.
Common applicants include:
- Immediate relatives of U.S. citizens
- Certain family-preference beneficiaries
- Employment-based immigrants
- K-1 fiancé visa holders who married the petitioning U.S. citizen
- Refugees and asylees who qualify
- Certain special immigrant categories
Eligibility also depends on factors such as lawful entry, visa availability (when required), admissibility, and compliance with applicable immigration laws.
Common Ways to Qualify
Many Adjustment of Status applications are based on:
Marriage to a U.S. Citizen
Immediate relatives of U.S. citizens are often eligible to adjust status if they meet all legal requirements.
Family-Based Petitions
Eligible family members sponsored by qualifying relatives may apply when an immigrant visa becomes available.
Employment-Based Immigration
Workers sponsored by employers may qualify after approval of the appropriate employment-based petition and visa availability.
K-1 Fiancé Visa
Individuals admitted on a K-1 visa generally apply for Adjustment of Status after marrying the petitioning U.S. citizen within the required timeframe.
Refugees and Asylees
Certain refugees and individuals granted asylum may become eligible to apply for permanent residence after meeting statutory requirements.
What Forms Are Required?
The forms required depend on your case.
Common filings include:
- Form I-485
- Form I-130 (family-based cases)
- Form I-140 (employment-based cases)
- Form I-864, Affidavit of Support (when required)
- Form I-765 (Employment Authorization)
- Form I-131 (Advance Parole), when applicable
- Form I-693 (Medical Examination), when required
USCIS may also request additional evidence during processing.
Step-by-Step Adjustment of Status Process
Step 1: Determine Eligibility
Before filing, confirm that you qualify under the applicable immigration category.
Step 2: Prepare the Application
Gather supporting documentation, complete all required forms, and organize evidence before submitting your package.
Step 3: File with USCIS
Submit the application and required filing fees to USCIS.
Step 4: Attend Biometrics
USCIS generally schedules a biometrics appointment to collect fingerprints, a photograph, and a signature.
Step 5: Respond to Any Requests for Evidence
If USCIS needs additional information, it may issue a Request for Evidence (RFE). Responding completely and