If a person was born in another country and is residing in Georgia or elsewhere the U.S. without a green card, it may be possible for them to remain in the country if they meet the requirements for an adjustment of status. Basically, this qualifies them to pursue a green card that will allow them to remain in the country as a lawful permanent resident. There are several requirements that must be met to qualify for an adjustment of status.
First, those seeking an adjustment of status need to have come to the U.S. through legal means and must be physically present in the nation. The basis upon which one is immigrating to the U.S. will factor into whether a person is able to obtain an adjustment of status. In addition, if a person is qualified to seek an adjustment of status, there are certain steps they must take to obtain that goal. Keep in mind that this information is only a general guideline, and your specific case may take a different trajectory.
First, a petition must be filed along with an Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status. Then, the applicant must determine whether the type of visa they are basing their application on is available. This is because many categories of visas limit how many may be issued each year. Following that, the applicant must provide biometrics data. For example, they will have to go to their area Application Support Center to submit to fingerprinting and have their photograph taken. After that, some applicants may need to go through an interview. When all necessary steps are completed, the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services will issue a decision.
Keep in mind that most immigration processes are complicated, and an adjustment of status is no different, especially since those pursuing one are generally in a risky situation. Without a lawful visa or green card, immigrants generally cannot stay in the country. Therefore, those seeking an adjustment of status will want to make sure they understand exactly what is required of them, to increase their chances of success.
