Marriage Green Card via Adjustment of Status
For eligible individuals applying for permanent residence from within the United States
through marriage. Allows adjustment of status under USCIS guidelines while remaining in
the U.S. during processing.
Marriage Green Card via Adjustment of Status
Adjustment of Status: Eligibility Requirements
Include professional roles like teachers, engineers, IT specialists, accountants etc.
For Spouses of U.S. Citizens-
- An applicant’s spouse must be a U.S. citizen.
- An applicant is physically present in the U.S. while filing the application.
- An applicant must have entered the U.S. lawfully or legally.
- An applicant must be admissible to the U.S.
For Spouses of Lawful Permanent Residents-
- An applicant’s spouse must be a green card holder or lawful permanent resident.
- An applicant is physically present in the U.S. while filing the application.
- This category is subject to the ‘Visa Bulletin’ and must be ‘current’ for an applicant to file the I-485 application.
- Applicant’s marriage must be admissible under U.S. immigration laws.
Advantages of the Adjustment of Status
Stay in the United States While Your Case Is Pending
Adjustment of Status allows applicants to remain lawfully in the U.S. throughout the green
card process. There is no need to leave the country or attend visa interviews abroad, helping
couples stay together without disruption.
Authorization to Work and Travel
Applicants may apply for work authorization and advance parole alongside the green card
application. This enables eligible spouses to work legally and travel internationally while
waiting for final approval.
A Streamlined Filing Process
Multiple required forms can be submitted together under Adjustment of Status, creating a
more efficient and coordinated application process that helps reduce delays.
No Visa Backlogs for Immediate Relatives
Spouses of U.S. citizens are classified as immediate relatives and are not subject to annual
visa caps. This often results in a faster route to permanent residence compared to other
family-based categories.
Clear Path to Permanent Residence
Depending on the length of the marriage, applicants may receive conditional or permanent
resident status. In both cases, approval provides lawful status and long-term security in the
United States.
What is Adjustment of Status Processing Time?
The timeline for obtaining a marriage-based green card through Adjustment of Status can
vary, but most cases are completed within 12 to 24 months. The exact processing time
depends on several factors related to the applicant, the sponsoring spouse, and government
workload.
Factors That Affect Processing Time
Processing times may vary based on the USCIS field office handling the case, the
completeness of the application, and whether additional review is required. Cases involving
spouses of U.S. citizens often move faster than those sponsored by lawful permanent
residents.
Work and Travel Authorization Timeline
Many applicants receive employment authorization and advance parole within a few months
of filing. This allows eligible spouses to work and travel while the green card application is
still pending.
Interview and Final Decision
Most applicants are required to attend an in-person interview with USCIS. The timing of the
interview depends on local office availability. After the interview, USCIS may approve the
case shortly thereafter or request additional information before issuing a final decision.
How Can a Marriage Green Card Attorney Support Adjustment of Status?
Filing the Immigrant Petition
An attorney ensures the correct immigrant petition is filed and supported with strong, well-
organized documentation. This step lays the foundation for a successful green card
application.
Preparing and Submitting the Adjustment Application
Adjustment of Status filings involve several forms and supporting evidence. Your attorney
carefully prepares and submits your application to avoid errors, inconsistencies, or missing
information that could delay your case.
Biometrics Appointment Guidance
After filing, USCIS schedules a biometrics appointment. Your attorney explains what to
expect, ensures you are prepared, and confirms that all required notices and deadlines are
properly tracked.
Responding to Requests for Evidence (RFE)
If USCIS issues an RFE, an attorney helps prepare a clear and thorough response. Addressing
USCIS concerns accurately and on time is critical to keeping your case on track.
Interview Preparation and Support
Most Adjustment of Status applicants must attend an interview. Your attorney prepares you
in advance, reviews potential questions, and ensures your case is presented clearly and
confidently.
Green Card Approval and Next Steps
Once your application is approved, your attorney guides you through the final steps,
including understanding your new status, receiving your green card, and planning for future
immigration goals.
Future Eligibility for U.S. Citizenship
After meeting residency and other legal requirements, permanent residents may apply for
U.S. citizenship, allowing families to build a lasting future in the United States.