Chesapeake VA Adjustment Of Status Lawyer — What Are Your Options?
Adjustment of status is the process to get a green card while in the United States, governed by the Immigration and Nationality Act. A Chesapeake VA adjustment of status lawyer from Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. can guide you through this complex federal procedure.
What Is Adjustment of Status?
Adjustment of status (AOS) is the legal procedure allowing an eligible individual already in the U.S. to apply for lawful permanent resident status (a green card) without having to return to their home country for consular processing. The process is detailed in the Immigration and Nationality Act (8 U.S.C.) and its implementing regulations in Title 8 of the Code of Federal Regulations. It is a critical alternative to consular processing for those who are lawfully present and meet specific criteria.
Last verified: April 2026 | Chesapeake General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, our firm has over 120 years of combined legal experience. Mr. Sris personally handles immigration matters, and his background in accounting and information systems provides a unique advantage in cases involving complex financial documentation.
The Adjustment of Status Process in Chesapeake
For Chesapeake residents, the adjustment of status journey is a federal process managed by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). The key local procedural fact is that applications are filed with and adjudicated by the USCIS Washington District Office located at 2675 Prosperity Avenue in Fairfax, VA. This office handles affirmative applications like Form I-485. If any issues arise that place you in removal proceedings, your case would be heard at the Arlington Immigration Court.
- Determine Eligibility: Confirm you have an approved immigrant petition (like I-130 or I-140) and an immediately available visa number, and that you are physically present in the U.S. in a lawful status.
- File Form I-485: Submit the Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status along with supporting documents, filing fees, and medical examination results to the correct USCIS lockbox.
- Complete Biometrics: Attend a scheduled appointment at a USCIS Application Support Center to provide fingerprints, photos, and a signature.
- Attend the Interview: Most family-based AOS applications require an in-person interview at a USCIS field office, where an officer will verify the information in your application.
- Receive Decision: USCIS will issue a decision—approval, request for evidence, intent to deny, or referral to immigration court.
Potential Outcomes and Considerations
In Chesapeake, a successful adjustment of status results in a green card, while a denial can lead to placement in removal proceedings at the Arlington Immigration Court.
| Application Stage | Primary Concern | Potential Outcome | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Filing | Eligibility & Documentation | Receipt Notice / Rejection | 2-4 weeks |
| Adjudication | Requests for Evidence (RFE) | Approval / Intent to Deny | 8-14 months |
| Interview | Case Verification | Approval / Referral to Court | Scheduled after filing |
| Final Decision | Legal Permanent Residence | Green Card / Removal Proceedings | Varies |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Immigration Case
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. With over 120 years of combined attorney experience and a documented history of favorable outcomes, our firm provides dedicated representation. Mr. Sris, our managing attorney, is a former prosecutor with a multi-state practice. His work has been recognized informally by Indian Consulate officials in Washington, D.C., who consult him on U.S. legal matters affecting Indian nationals.
Case Results and Client Focus
Our firm has 6 total documented case results across all practice areas for Chesapeake, with a 100% favorable outcome rate. Of Counsel attorney Bryan Block, a former Virginia State Trooper with 15 years of law enforcement experience, also assists with specific immigration matters like I-130 petitions and responses to Notices of Intent to Deny (NOID).
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Chesapeake VA Adjustment Of Status Lawyer Near You
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
7400 Beaufont Springs Dr, Ste 300, Rm 395
Richmond, VA 23225
By appointment only.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 | Local: (804)201-9009 — meetings by appointment only.
FAQs: Chesapeake Adjustment of Status
How much does a green card cost?
Yes, there are specific government fees. I-485 adjustment of status costs $1,440. A family petition (I-130) is $675. Biometrics are $85. Total government fees are around $2,200 before attorney fees. Fee waivers on Form I-912 are available for income-eligible applicants.
How long does it take to get a green card?
It depends on the category. For immediate relatives, it typically takes 8-14 months. Family preference categories vary, with some having backlogs of 5-20+ years. Employment-based cases can take 12-36+ months. Applications for Chesapeake residents are processed at the USCIS Washington District Office in Fairfax.
What happens if I get a deportation notice?
Removal proceedings for Chesapeake residents are heard at the Arlington Immigration Court. You have the right to an attorney, but one is not government-provided. Defense options include cancellation of removal, asylum, voluntary departure, or appeal. An immigration attorney can evaluate your best path forward.
Can I travel while my adjustment of status is pending?
No, not without permission. You must apply for and receive advance parole (Form I-131) before leaving the U.S., or your pending application will be considered abandoned. A visa lawyer can advise on the risks and procedures for travel.
What is the difference between adjustment of status and consular processing?
Adjustment of status is done within the U.S. Consular processing requires leaving the U.S. to complete the visa interview at a U.S. embassy or consulate abroad. The right path depends on your current immigration status, location, and specific circumstances.
Related Legal Information
For more information, see our Virginia Immigration Lawyer hub page. Residents may also need a Chesapeake criminal defense lawyer if a past conviction affects immigration status, or a Chesapeake family law attorney for matters related to marriage-based petitions.
Page last verified: 2026-04. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.