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Showing posts with the label adjustment of status

How to Legally Fight an Eviction in Your State

 Being served an eviction notice doesn’t mean you have to leave immediately. You have legal rights, and here’s how to protect them: ✅ 1. Understand the Eviction Type Pay-or-quit notice : For unpaid rent Cure-or-quit notice : For lease violations No-fault notice : For owner use, renovations, etc. ✅ 2. Review the Lease and Notice Check the lease terms and whether the landlord followed the proper legal process. Any violation on their part can help your case. ✅ 3. Respond on Time In most states, you have 3 to 10 days to respond. If you ignore the notice, you could lose automatically. ✅ 4. Prepare for Court You may have a hearing in housing court. Bring: The lease Rent receipts Photos/emails proving your claims ✅ 5. Legal Defenses to Eviction Landlord did not maintain habitable conditions Retaliatory eviction Discrimination ✅ 6. Seek Legal Aid Look for local tenant advocacy organizations or free legal clinics. Conclusion: Evictions c...

The Path from Asylum to Green Card: A Step-by-Step Guide

 If you were granted asylum in the U.S., you can apply for a green card (permanent residency) one year after receiving asylum . Here's a step-by-step overview: ✅ 1. Meet Eligibility Criteria You must: Have been physically present in the U.S. for at least one year after asylum was granted Still qualify as an asylee or a derivative Not have resettled in another country Be admissible to the U.S. ✅ 2. Prepare Form I-485 Complete Form I-485 (Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status). Include: Proof of asylum status (I-94 or asylum approval notice) Passport-sized photos Government-issued ID Medical exam report (Form I-693) ✅ 3. Pay the Fees As of 2025, the I-485 fee is approximately $1,225 , which includes biometric services. ✅ 4. Submit Your Application Send your complete package to the address listed on the USCIS website for asylum-based green card applicants. ✅ 5. Biometrics Appointment USCIS will schedule a fingerprintin...

What Is Adjustment of Status and Who Qualifies?

 Adjustment of Status (AOS) is the legal process by which a noncitizen already in the United States can apply for lawful permanent residency (green card) without leaving the country . This differs from consular processing, where applicants must attend interviews abroad. Who qualifies for AOS? Immediate relatives of U.S. citizens Certain employment-based categories Refugees or asylees (after 1 year of residence) Diversity visa lottery winners To apply, individuals must submit Form I-485 and maintain lawful status. However, those with unlawful presence may still qualify under exceptions like 245(i) or through a waiver . Conclusion: Adjustment of Status offers a path to a green card from within the U.S., but requires accurate eligibility analysis and documentation.

Adjustment of Status vs. Consular Processing: What’s the Difference?

  🟢 Introduction If you're applying for a green card , you have two main options: Adjustment of Status (AOS) or Consular Processing . Both lead to lawful permanent residence—but the process, timing, and location differ. This guide breaks down the differences so you can choose the right path for your situation. 🏠 1. What Is Adjustment of Status? Adjustment of Status is the process of applying for a green card from within the United States , without leaving the country. You may be eligible if: You're already in the U.S. on a valid visa You meet the requirements for a green card category (e.g., family, employment, asylum) A visa is immediately available for your category Benefits: You stay in the U.S. during the process You can apply for work authorization (EAD) and advance parole (travel permit) No embassy interviews in most cases ✈️ 2. What Is Consular Processing? Consular Processing means applying for your green card at a U.S. embassy or ...

Adjustment of Status vs. Consular Processing: What's the Difference?

  🟢 Introduction If you're applying for a Green Card, one of the first questions you'll face is: Should I apply from within the United States or from my home country? This comes down to two legal procedures: Adjustment of Status (AOS) Consular Processing (CP) Each has its pros and cons. In this article, we'll break down the differences so you can make the best choice for your situation. 🔹 What Is Adjustment of Status? Adjustment of Status is the process of applying for a Green Card from within the United States . You file Form I-485 with USCIS while remaining legally in the country. Common AOS scenarios: You entered the U.S. on a valid visa (e.g., tourist, student, work) and now qualify for a Green Card You're married to a U.S. citizen You’re an asylee or refugee who has been in the U.S. for at least one year 🔹 What Is Consular Processing? Consular Processing is the method used when the applicant is outside the U.S. . You go through the...

How to Apply for a Green Card in 2025

 Applying for a green card in 2025 still follows the same primary pathways: family sponsorship, employment, refugee/asylee status, and the diversity visa lottery . The process is long but manageable if you understand the steps. Key Steps: Determine your category (e.g., family, work) File I-130 or I-140 petition Wait for a visa number (if applicable) Submit I-485 (Adjustment of Status) Attend biometrics and interview Tip: Always check the latest Visa Bulletin and consult with an immigration lawyer before submitting forms.