How to Apply for Adjustment of Status
If you are already in the United States, you may be able to apply for permanent residence through a process known as "adjustment of status." That means, unlike immigrants who apply outside the country, you don't need to go through the U.S. embassy and get a visa. You can do all the paperwork and remain in the States throughout the process.
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Instructions
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Check your legal status in the country. You can apply for adjustment of status only if you are an immediate relative of a U.S. citizen who entered the U.S. legally, you came to the U.S. legally and are still legal, or you qualify for adjustment under an old law.
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Apply for adjustment of status. Use Form I-485: Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status. If you are an immediate relative of a U.S. citizen or if you are otherwise eligible for concurrent filing, you should submit this form at the same time an immigrant petition is filed for you. Otherwise, file it when your petition is approved and you have a visa number available.
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Get your biometrics done. Visit the Application Support Center as instructed by USCIS. Your fingerprints, signature and photo will be taken. Follow the directions exactly and bring whatever paperwork is asked for in the biometrics appointment letter.
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Attend the green card interview. If USCIS has any questions to ask you, you will be scheduled for an interview. Bring original documents with you. Make sure you and other applicants on your application go with you to the interview as well. After the intervivew, you will receive the approval or denial of your green card by mail. Check your card for any errors. The validity date is shown on the front of the card.
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Tips & Warnings
If you think you qualify for more than one immigrant category, you can talk to a lawyer to help decide what's best for you.
Refer to the Visa Bulletin for instructions and information on priority dates and visa numbers. Many applicants cannot apply for adjustment of status until their priority dates are current. This is because the U.S. government limits the number of immigrants in some categories each year.
