Change of Status refers to
an alien legally entering the United States on a non-immigrant visa
and wishes to change to another non-immigrant visa classification without being required to exit the US during the process.
What is a change of status application?
Adjustment of status is
the process that you can use to apply for lawful permanent resident status
(also known as applying for a Green Card) when you are present in the United States. This means that you may get a Green Card without having to return to your home country to complete visa processing.
What does change of status mean?
Change of Status refers to
an alien legally entering the United States on a non-immigrant visa
and wishes to change to another non-immigrant visa classification without being required to exit the US during the process.
When should you apply for change of status?
Generally, you may apply to change your nonimmigrant status if: You are currently in the United States with a nonimmigrant visa;
Your nonimmigrant status remains valid
; You have not violated the conditions of your status; and.
How long does a change of status take?
Although the adjustment of status process typically takes longer than consular processing, it has its advantages. The adjustment of status timeline is generally
8 to 14 months for family-based applications
(and often longer for other application types).
Who is eligible for change of status?
You must already be eligible for a U.S. green card (lawful permanent or conditional residence), perhaps through a U.S. employer, a family member who is a
U.S. citizen
or permanent resident , or by having received asylum or refugee status at least one year before.
What happens after adjustment of status is approved?
After your adjustment of status (I-485) petition is approved, you
(and your dependents who applied with you) need to go to the nearby U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) local office to get your passport stamped
.
Can you stay in US while change of status pending?
What is My Status While a Change, Extension or Adjustment of Status is Pending? If a nonimmigrant timely applies for an extension of stay or a change of status,
he or she is generally permitted to remain in the United States while the application is pending
, even if his or her I-94 expires during the pending period.
What happens if change of status is denied?
Adjustment of status is granted at the discretion of USCIS. If your application for adjustment of status has been denied,
you can be subject to deportation (removal) proceedings
. Seek the assistance of an experienced U.S. immigration attorney. The attorney can help you decide what to do next.
How much is Adjustment of Status fee?
For most applicants, the fee is
$1,140, plus an $85 biometrics fee
. If you’re under 14 and filing with one of your parents’ I-485s, you’ll pay $950; if you’re under 14 and filing on your own, you’ll pay the full $1,140.
How can I change my status?
If you want to change your status while in the United States, you (or in some cases your employer) must
file a request with the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) on
the appropriate form before your authorized stay expires.
Can I work during adjustment of status?
Can I Work During the Adjustment of Status Process?
Yes
, you can work in the United States while your adjustment of status application is pending if you have a valid Employment Authorization Document (EAD). You can’t work in the United States without an EAD.
Is there an interview for adjustment of status?
All adjustment of status applicants
must be interviewed by an officer unless the interview is waived by USCIS
. The decision to waive the interview should be made on a case-by-case basis. The interview enables USCIS to verify important information about the applicant to determine eligibility for adjustment.
How can I check my visa cancellation status?
- Visit the portal: https://smartservices.ica.gov.ae/echannels/web/client/default.html#/fileValidity.
- Click on the “Passport Information” tab.
- Select “Visa”
- Enter your Passport number and Passport expiry date.
- Select your nationality.
How long does it take to get a work permit after filing for adjustment of status?
In general, it takes
about 150–210 days (5–7 months)
for USCIS to process work permit applications. (Previously, USCIS processed work permit applications within 90 days, but a growing backlog has caused additional delays.)
How long does it takes to change visa status?
Visa processing without security checks can be from 7-21 days
. Security checks can take an additional 3 months. NOTE: Your re-entry date to the U.S. may be up to 30 days prior to your DS-2019 or I-20 start date. If your re-entry date is delayed, notify your department and Berkeley International Office.
