Immigration Regularization in the US: Can I Adjust My Status Without Leaving the Country?

"I've been in the United States for years, I have my family here, my job... do I really have to return to my country to fix my papers?"

This is one of the most frequent and distressing questions in our community. The good news is that in many cases, YES, it is possible to adjust your immigration status without having to leave the United States.

At RISE Immigration Services, we have helped hundreds of people regularize their situation through processes that avoid family separation and the risk of not being able to return.

Understanding Adjustment of Status vs. Consular Processing

To understand if you can "fix your papers" without leaving, you must first know these two paths:

• Adjustment of Status (within the USA): This is the process by which a person who is already in the United States can obtain permanent residency (Green Card) without having to leave the country.

• Consular Processing (outside the USA): This requires the person to leave the United States to complete the immigration process at a consulate or embassy in their home country.

The key is knowing if you qualify for Adjustment of Status.

Who Can Qualify to Adjust Their Status Without Leaving?

Here are some situations where it might be possible:

1. Through a U.S. Citizen or Lawful Permanent Resident Family Member

• Spouse of a U.S. citizen

• Minor children of a U.S. citizen

• Parents of a U.S. citizen over 21

• In some cases, other close relatives

2. Through a Job Offer

• When an employer sponsors your work visa and you meet the specific requirements.

• Professionals with university degrees or exceptional abilities.

3. Special and Humanitarian Cases

• Victims of crimes (U visa)

• Victims of human trafficking (T visa)

• Abused, abandoned, or neglected minors (SIJS)

• Asylum beneficiaries

4. Other Qualified Cases

• Diversity Visa Winners (Green Card Lottery winners)

• Investors in some specific cases

The 3/10 Year Bar: What Happens If I Leave the Country?

This is the MOST IMPORTANT point you need to understand:

If you have been in the U.S. without legal status for more than 180 days and you leave the country, you could face:

• 3-year bar: If your unlawful presence was 180 to 365 days

• 10-year bar: If your unlawful presence was 1 year or more

That's why it's crucial to have legal advice before making any decision about leaving the country.

And If I Don't Qualify for Adjustment of Status? Are There Other Options?

Yes! There are alternatives we can evaluate:

• Immigration waivers in specific cases

• Deferred Action and temporary work permits

• Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for certain countries

• Humanitarian visas for qualifying cases

The Step-by-Step Process with RISE Immigration

When you trust us, this is our commitment:

• Honest Evaluation: We tell you from the beginning if you qualify and what your real options are.

• Meticulous Preparation: We gather all necessary evidence and documentation.

• Filing and Follow-up: We handle the entire process with USCIS.

• Continuous Support: We are with you until the end.

Why Is It Dangerous to Try This Alone or with Notarios?

• Forms change constantly and one mistake can mean your case gets rejected

• Every situation is unique - what worked for an acquaintance may not work for you

• Notarios are NOT lawyers and cannot represent you legally

• A mistake can lead to deportation and separation from your family

Your Future in the U.S. Deserves a Real Opportunity

Many people live for years in fear, thinking there's no solution to their situation. The truth is, there are more legal options than you imagine, but you need someone to explain them to you with honesty and experience.

At RISE Immigration Services, we have seen how lives change when people discover that there IS a legal path for them.