Adjustment of Status (AOS) is a process in the United States that allows certain eligible foreign nationals already in the U.S. to apply for immigrant status (permanent residency or a green card) without leaving the U.S. Here are some common types of Adjustment of Status categories. Please click each link to learn details about it.

1. Family-Based Adjustment of Status:
   • • Spouse of a U.S. citizen
     • Unmarried child under 21 years of age of a U.S. citizen
     • Parent of a U.S. citizen (if the U.S. citizen is 21 years of age or older)
     • Other family-sponsored preferences (various family relationships)
2. Employment-Based Adjustment of Status:
   • • Employment-based preferences such as EB-1, EB-2, EB-3, EB-4 and EB-5
3. VAWA (Violence Against Women Act) Self-Petitioners:
   • • Certain abused spouses and children of U.S. citizens or permanent residents may self-petition for green cards.
4. Asylee and Refugee:
   • • Individuals granted refugee or asylee status in the U.S. can petition for themselves and their qualifying family members to obtain green cards.
5. Cuban Adjustment Act AOS:
   • • The Cuban Adjustment Act (CAA) is a United States federal law that provides a unique immigration benefit to Cuban nationals. Enacted in 1966, the CAA allows Cuban nationals who have been physically present in the United States for at least one year after being admitted or paroled into the country to apply for lawful permanent resident (LPR) status, also known as a green card.
6. SIJS (Special Immigrant Juvenile Status):
   • • Minors who have been declared dependent on a juvenile court in the U.S. and are eligible for long-term foster care.
7. Diversity Visa Lottery Winners:
   • • Individuals who have won the Diversity Visa Lottery meet the eligibility requirements.
8. Victims of Crime (U Visa):
   • • Certain crime victims who have cooperated with law enforcement may be eligible for U nonimmigrant status and subsequently apply for adjustment of status.