AKN Immigration: Understanding The Adjustment Of Status After Marriage
For many newly married couples, beginning life together in the United States comes with more than just emotional transitions—it also involves navigating complex immigration procedures. At AKN Immigration, we understand that applying for a green card through adjustment of status after marriage can be both exciting and overwhelming. Our mission is to provide clarity, confidence, and compassionate guidance throughout your immigration journey.
What Is Adjustment of Status After Marriage?
Adjustment of status is the process by which a foreign national already in the United States can apply for lawful permanent resident status (commonly referred to as a green card) without having to return to their home country. If you recently married a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident, you may be eligible to apply for a green card through marriage—right from within the U.S.
This process is distinct from consular processing, which requires the applicant to apply for a green card through a U.S. embassy or consulate abroad. For many couples, adjustment of status is the faster and more convenient option, provided all eligibility criteria are met.
Who Is Eligible for Adjustment of Status After Marriage?
The eligibility for adjustment of status after marriage depends on several key factors, including the immigration status of the petitioner (your spouse), your own entry history, and your current presence in the United States.
You may qualify if:
You are married to a U.S. citizen and entered the U.S. lawfully (even on a tourist or student visa).
You are married to a green card holder, although wait times may be longer.
You have not committed certain immigration violations or crimes that could make you inadmissible.
You are physically present in the U.S. at the time of filing.
Each case is unique, and it’s important to have a thorough evaluation by an experienced immigration attorney to avoid delays or denials. That’s where AKN Immigration comes in.
Steps Involved in the Adjustment of Status Process
At AKN Immigration, we guide our clients through each step with a tailored, hands-on approach. Here's a simplified outline of the process:
1. Marriage to a U.S. Citizen or Permanent Resident
The foundation of your adjustment of status process is a legally valid marriage. Civil marriages performed in the U.S. or abroad are typically recognized, as long as they comply with local laws.
2. Filing Form I-130 and Form I-485
The adjustment of status process involves two major forms:
Form I-130 (Petition for Alien Relative): Filed by the U.S. citizen or permanent resident spouse to establish the relationship.
Form I-485 (Application to Register Permanent Residence): Filed by the foreign national spouse to apply for the green card.
In many cases where the sponsoring spouse is a U.S. citizen, both forms can be filed concurrently (this is called concurrent filing).
3. Biometrics Appointment
USCIS will schedule a biometrics appointment where your fingerprints and photographs will be taken for background checks.
4. Adjustment of Status Interview
You and your spouse will attend an in-person interview at your local USCIS office. The purpose is to verify the legitimacy of your marriage and assess your eligibility.
5. Approval and Green Card Issuance
If everything checks out, you’ll receive your green card. If your marriage is less than two years old at the time of approval, you’ll be issued a conditional green card, valid for two years. You will later need to file Form I-751 to remove conditions.
Documents Required
To support your application, you’ll need to submit:
Proof of a bona fide marriage (photos, joint leases, financial records)
Government-issued IDs and passports
Entry records (I-94, visa stamps)
Marriage certificate
Proof of U.S. citizenship or permanent resident status of the sponsor
Financial documents (affidavit of support, tax returns)
Incomplete or incorrect documentation is a common cause of delays. AKN Immigration meticulously reviews every detail to ensure a strong, complete application.
Why Choose AKN Immigration?
At AKN Immigration, our goal is to make your adjustment of status after marriage as stress-free and successful as possible. Led by Attorney Aisha K. Nanyanzi, we combine legal expertise with human empathy—because we know this isn’t just paperwork; it’s your life, your marriage, your future.
We proudly serve clients throughout the United States and internationally, offering services in:
Marriage-based green cards
Family petitions
VAWA and U Visas
Naturalization and citizenship
Asylum and humanitarian cases
Whether you’re just starting the adjustment process or facing a complex issue, AKN Immigration is here to support you with clarity, confidence, and care.
Final Thoughts
Navigating the adjustment of status after marriage can feel overwhelming, but with the right legal partner, the process becomes manageable—and even empowering. At AKN Immigration, we are honored to help families unite and build their lives in the United States.
If you or a loved one is considering applying for a green card through marriage, don’t go it alone. Trust a team that understands the law—and the human heart behind it.
Contact AKN Immigration today for a confidential consultation and let us guide you toward permanent residency and peace of mind.