A Georgia resident with asylum status may qualify for lawful permanent resident status. After one year in the United States, a person with asylum status may file Form I-485 to request an adjustment in status. Many people who file for lawful permanent resident status after a period of asylum are surprised when their application is denied. However, understanding the common reasons for denial can help make an application successful.
An individual with refugee or asylum status may qualify to change their status to that of a lawful permanent resident. In order to qualify for status change, the applicant must be present in the United States for one year after having been granted asylum status. Alternatively, the applicant may be physically present in the United States for one year after admission with refugee status. However, qualifying to file for an I-485 doesn’t necessarily mean that the application is going to succeed.
There are many reasons that an I-485 status adjustment application can be denied. Filers can be surprised and disappointed when an application for asylum adjustment comes back denied, and they may not even be aware of the possible reasons for denial. For example, an I-485 application may be denied because of the criminal record of the applicant or because of security concerns. Previous immigration violations can result in an application denial.
Understanding the reasons for an I-485 application denial can help an applicant make their application successful. Often, missing documentation is avoidable. Failing to attend a meeting or hearing can be another avoidable reason that an application is denied. By understanding the laws and the common reasons for denial, an applicant can prepare the best possible application for status adjustment. An immigration attorney may assist by explaining what an applicant needs to do and what to avoid to make an application successful.