Adjustment of status meaning:
Adjustment of status is a legal process practiced in the United States and specifically designed for its immigration system. It allows an individual already residing in the country to change their status from temporary resident to legal permanent resident. In other words, foreign nationals with a certain type of visa or temporary status can obtain a green card without having to leave the country.
To be eligible for this American legal mechanism, applicants must meet the following requirements :
- Be physically present in the USA
- Fulfill the eligibility criteria for the green card
- Have a valid visa
- Be in lawful status
Eligible individuals can submit an adjustment of status application to the USCIS (United States Citizenship and Immigration Services). Once approved, the person becomes a legal permanent resident of the United States. They may even pursue American citizenship if they meet the necessary requirements for that status.
It’s important to note that the adjustment of status process can be complex, and it’s advisable to consult with an immigration attorney specializing in this field to obtain appropriate guidance and assistance.
Etymology of Adjustment of Status
Derived from the Latin “adiustare,” meaning to adjust or regulate, the term “adjustment” implies an adaptation or rectification. As for “statut,” it originates from the Latin “status,” a term that conveys a legal context or the social position of an individual.
When these two terms are combined, they hold significant importance in the American immigration system. They form the term “adjustment of status,” referring to a process by which an individual’s immigration status is regularized or modified.