Adjustment Of Status/Lawful Permanent Residency/The “Green Card”

The Green Card allows noncitizens to live and work permanently in the U.S., and may lead to citizenship through several eligible immigration paths.

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Adjustment of Status / Lawful Permanent Residency / The Green Card

Adjustment of status allows individuals already in the U.S. to apply for lawful permanent resident status without returning to their home country. This process is commonly used by those eligible through family, employment, asylum, or other special categories.

What is a Green Card?

A Green Card, or lawful permanent residency, grants a noncitizen the right to live and work permanently in the United States. It also serves as a critical step toward U.S. citizenship. Green Card holders may sponsor eligible family members and access certain government benefits.

Paths to Permanent Residency

There are several ways to obtain a Green Card, including:

Family Sponsorship: Immediate relatives of U.S. citizens or permanent residents (IR, CR categories)
Employment-Based Immigration: Sponsored by a U.S. employer (EB1, EB2, EB3)
Asylum or Refugee Status: Adjusting status after being granted protection in the U.S.
Diversity Visa Lottery
Special Programs: Including T Visa (trafficking victims), U Visa (crime victims), VAWA (domestic abuse victims), EB2-NIW, EB1C, and others

Filing for Adjustment of Status

If you are in the U.S. and your immigrant petition is approved, you may apply for adjustment of status. In many cases, Form I-485 (Adjustment of Status) can be filed at the same time as the immigrant petition if a visa number is available.

Key steps include:

Completing Form I-485
Filing Form I-765 (Employment Authorization) and Form I-131 (Travel Document) to work and travel while the I-485 is pending
Submitting all required documents and fees to USCIS
Attending the required biometrics appointment

Applicants may include qualifying spouses and children under 21 in their application. Address updates with USCIS are essential to ensure delivery of the Green Card.

Special Self-Petition Categories

Some individuals may qualify to apply for a Green Card without a sponsor. Common self-petition categories include:

VAWA applicants (battered spouses or children)
Religious workers
Afghan or Iraqi nationals who assisted the U.S. government
International organization employees
Broadcasters
Physicians applying under the National Interest Waiver

Applying for a Green Card from within the U.S. is a complex process that depends on the applicant’s unique circumstances and eligibility. Accurate documentation and legal support are essential for a successful outcome.

If you’re facing one of these bars or fear you might be, don’t wait.
Speak with a member of our team and find out what options may be available to you.

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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Q1: Can US Immigration Counsel help me get a green card through family or marriage?
Yes. Whether you’re married to a U.S. citizen, have a relative sponsoring you, or need to adjust your status, we handle family-based green card cases with care and precision.

Q2: I’m facing deportation—can US Immigration Counsel defend me?
Absolutely. We fight deportation and removal cases in immigration court, build strong defenses, and pursue every legal option to protect your right to stay.

Q3: I’m applying for asylum or a humanitarian visa. Can she help?
Yes. We represent clients in asylum, VAWA, U Visa, and TPS cases—providing strong legal and emotional support throughout the process.

Q4: I want to become a U.S. citizen. Can US Immigration Counsel help me with naturalization?
Definitely. We guide clients through every step of the naturalization process, from preparing documents to interview coaching.

Q5: Can US Immigration Counsel help with immigration waivers or appeals?
Yes. If your case was denied or you need a waiver to move forward, we’ll review your options and build the strongest possible application or appeal.

Q6: I’m an employer looking to sponsor a foreign worker. Can you help?
Yes. We assist businesses and individuals with employment-based immigration, including work visas and green card sponsorship.

Q: Can US Immigration Counsel help me bring a spouse, child, or parent to the U.S.?
Yes. Family-based immigration is one of our core strengths. Whether your loved one is already in the U.S. or abroad, we’ll guide you through every step to bring them home legally and securely.

Q: What if I already filed something on my own or with another lawyer?
No problem. We frequently help clients who started elsewhere or alone. We’ll review everything and let you know the smartest next step.

Q: Can I petition for family if I’m not a U.S. citizen?
Depending on your current status, you may still qualify. During your consultation, we’ll explore all your options and determine the best path forward.

Q: I got a court notice—what should I do?
Contact us right away. Time is critical. We’ll review your case and act fast to protect your rights and build the strongest possible defense.

Q: Can US Immigration Counsel represent me if I’m in another state or in detention?
Yes. We represent clients across the U.S. and even those currently in immigration custody. Wherever you are, we’re ready to help.

Q: What if I already lost my case?
There may still be legal options. Appeals, motions, or reopening your case could be possible—we’ll analyze everything and guide you on your next move.

Q: Do I have to be in Florida to work with US Immigration Counsel?
Not at all. Immigration law is federal, which means we can represent you whether you’re in another state or anywhere in the world. Our clients come from across the U.S. and beyond.

Q: Can we do everything remotely?
Yes. From virtual consultations to secure document sharing, our firm is fully equipped to support you no matter where you are. You’ll receive the same care and expertise as if you were sitting in our office.