Anaheim Adjustment of Status Lawyer

If you live in the Anaheim area and are thinking about becoming a lawful permanent resident in the United States, pursuing an adjustment of status may be an option for you. Through this process, you can obtain a green card without having to leave the country. A dedicated and empathetic Anaheim adjustment of status lawyer from U.S. Law Center can work closely with you to achieve your immigration goals.

Our Anaheim-based law firm is proud to serve the community, which has a diverse population of over 340,000 residents, with 52.5% identifying as Hispanic or Latino. Our team understands that immigration is a core concern for many families in Anaheim, so we work to find optimal solutions that keep loved ones together and thriving. Contact us today to learn more about how we can resolve your immigration issue.

What Is Adjustment of Status?

The adjustment of status process is for individuals who are already residing in the United States, do not have citizenship, and meet certain requirements. It enables these qualifying individuals to apply for a green card. Green card holders are formally known as lawful permanent residents. Crucially, the adjustment of status process can be completed without requiring the applicant to return to their country of origin and go through consular processing.

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), which is a branch of the Department of Homeland Security, oversees the adjustment of status process.

Steps to Apply for Adjustment of Status in Anaheim

The adjustment of status process can be challenging to maneuver for residents in Anaheim and across the country. As immigration law is constantly evolving – with agencies making unexpected moves – it’s crucial to work with experienced legal professionals who can overcome these obstacles.

A dedicated attorney from our team can help you navigate the following steps:

Determine Eligibility

Your eligibility for an adjustment of status depends on various factors, including your specific immigration category. Categories include:

• Immediate relatives of U.S. citizens
• Refugees
• Asylees
• Those who can be sponsored through employment-based immigration

Furthermore, members of special programs, like U visa holders, may be eligible to apply for a green card. Our legal team can identify which category is the right fit for your case and determine your eligibility.

File Your Immigrant Petition

The person who files your immigrant petition may be you, a family member, or another sponsor, depending on your case circumstances. Relevant petitions could include:

• Form I-130: Petition for Alien Relative
• Form I-140: Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker
• Form I-589: Application for Asylum and Withholding of Removal

You may also qualify for other forms, like I-360 or I-918. Furthermore, you might be eligible to concurrently file, which would allow you to submit both your immigrant petition and Form I-485 (Adjustment of Status) application at the same time.

Check Visa Availability

Before you can file your Form I-485, you must make sure a visa is available in the category you’re applying for. The U.S. Department of State publishes a visa bulletin monthly, which you can refer to. It’s important to note that some categories do not even require a visa availability, such as those for immediate relatives of U.S. citizens.

Submit Form I-485

Fill out your Form I-485 completely and accurately. Then, submit it to the right USCIS address for residents of Anaheim. Your attorney can assist with this process. By correctly completing this step, you can avoid any unnecessary delays or denials.

Attend the Biometrics Appointment

After submitting the form, you’ll be scheduled for a biometrics appointment at the local application support center. There, USCIS will gather your signature, fingerprints, and a photograph.

Monitor Your Case

You can track the status of your Form I-485 online. A skilled attorney from our firm can make sure everything is being efficiently and accurately processed. You may be scheduled to go for an in-person interview at the San Bernardino USCIS Field Office that serves Anaheim. We can help you prepare and assemble everything you need, including identification, prior immigration forms, and supporting evidence.

If you receive a request for evidence while your application is processing, a skilled attorney from our firm can help you quickly respond and get any issues resolved.

Receive Your Decision

If you are approved, you will receive a notice of your approval and then your permanent resident card or green card. If your application is denied, an experienced attorney from our firm can determine your reasons for denial. Then, we can explore your options moving forward, such as a motion to reopen or reconsider.

Why Choose an Anaheim Adjustment of Status Lawyer?

As Anaheim has a diverse population background, including 18.6% Asian, 2.5% Black, and 20.3% multiracial, it is one of the more immigration-conscious cities in California. Immigration concerns in the city require solutions that are legally sound and culturally sensitive. Our dedicated team understands the local immigration system, USCIS office procedures, and regional matters that may affect your case.

FAQs About Anaheim, CA Adjustment of Status Laws

What Is Adjustment of Status?

Adjustment of status is a legal process that allows non-citizens located in the U.S. already to apply for a green card without having to leave the country. Several categories can make an individual eligible for an adjustment of status, such as employment-based options, asylum or refugee status, or being an immediate relative of a U.S. citizen.

How Long Does the Adjustment of Status Process Take in Anaheim?

How long your adjustment of status process may take in Anaheim depends on various factors, including the complexity of your case, your application category, and the USCIS backlog at the San Bernardino office. A skilled and attentive attorney can estimate how long your application may take and make sure the process goes smoothly.

Do I Still Need a COVID-19 Vaccine for My Adjustment of Status Application?

No, as of January 22nd, 2025, USCIS is no longer requiring proof of a COVID-19 vaccination for Form I-693, Report of Immigration Medical Examination and Vaccination Record. As requirements are frequently changing for immigration processes, such as adjustment of status, it is highly advised to work with a knowledgeable and experienced immigration attorney. They can make sure your application reflects recent policy.

Can I Work While My Form I-485 Is Pending?

Yes, you can apply for a work permit concurrently by submitting your Form I-485. The approval process typically lasts a few months, but the exact duration depends on the case’s details. A knowledgeable attorney can show you the right steps to take so you can have the right to work while your other paperwork is in process.

Speak With an Anaheim Adjustment of Status Lawyer Today

You may be looking for an employment-based adjustment of status for work in the Platinum Triangle. Perhaps you are adjusting your status as a spouse of a U.S. citizen in West Anaheim. No matter the situation, we can help you find unique legal solutions. Contact us today to get started.