Visa Adjustment of Status (AOS) is a process that allows an eligible individual to become a lawful permanent resident (obtain a green card) without having to leave the United States to apply for an immigrant visa at a U.S. consulate or embassy.
This process is especially beneficial for those already in the U.S. on a nonimmigrant visa and wishing to change their status to that of a permanent resident.

If you live in Chicago or anywhere in Cook County and are seeking an adjustment of status
our immigration and nationality law attorney and firm founder, Shobhana Kasturi, at Kasturi Law LLC, has over 27 years of legal experience and a decade of experience representing individuals and families in Illinois and nationwide and can help you understand the AOS process, and how we can help.
What are the Eligibility Requirements and Next Steps for Adjustment of Status in Chicago, Illinois?
To be eligible for Adjustment of Status, you must:
- Be Physically Present in the U.S.: The applicant must be physically present in the U.S. when applying.
- Have Entered the U.S. Legally: Generally, the applicant must have entered the U.S. legally, typically with a valid visa or through the Visa Waiver Program.
- Be Eligible for a Green Card: The applicant must qualify for a green card under one of the immigrant categories, such as family-based, employment-based, asylum, refugee, or other special immigrant categories.
If you are eligible to apply for a green card through AOS, the following steps include:
- File Form I-485: Submit Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status, along with the required documentation and fees to S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
- Concurrent Filing: In specific categories (like family-based petitions), you may be able to file Form I-130, Petition for Alien Relative, or Form I-140, Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker, concurrently with Form I-485.
- Biometrics Appointment: Attend a biometrics appointment where your fingerprints, photograph, and signature will be collected.
- Interview: If required, attend an interview at a USCIS office. Some applicants may be waived from the interview requirement.
- Additional Requests: Respond to any Requests for Evidence (RFEs) or additional documentation requests from USCIS.
The AOS process allows you to remain in the U.S. while processing your green card application. It provides the benefit of applying for an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) to work legally in the U.S. during this time. Additionally, you can apply for Advance Parole, which permits you to travel outside the U.S. and return while your AOS application is pending, ensuring you do not risk abandoning your application.
Adjustment of Status is a valuable process for eligible individuals in the U.S. to become lawful permanent residents without leaving the country. Understanding the eligibility requirements, steps involved, and benefits can help ensure a smoother application process. Consulting with our experienced immigration attorney in Illinois can provide personalized guidance and increase the likelihood of a successful outcome.
Contact our Immigration Law Firm Today to Schedule a Consultation that Suits your Needs.
Whether you prefer an in-person meeting, a phone call, or a Zoom session, we are here to accommodate you. You can even schedule a consultation directly using our online calendar, choosing between 30-minute or 60-minute timeframes. We value your time and want to ensure that your immigration questions receive the attention they deserve, helping you move forward confidently.
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