Norfolk VA Adjustment Of Status Lawyer — What Is Your Best Path to a Green Card?
Adjustment of Status (AOS) is the process to apply for a green card while lawfully present in the U.S., governed by the Immigration and Nationality Act (8 U.S.C.). A Norfolk VA Adjustment Of Status Lawyer from Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. can help you handle this complex federal procedure.
Last verified: April 2026 | Norfolk (City) General District Court | Virginia Code
What Is Adjustment of Status?
Adjustment of Status (AOS) is a federal immigration process allowing an eligible individual already in the United States to apply for lawful permanent resident status (a green card) without having to return to their home country for consular processing. The legal foundation is the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA), codified at 8 U.S.C. § 1255. To be eligible, you must generally be inspected and admitted or paroled into the U.S., have an immigrant visa immediately available, and be admissible. Common qualifying categories include immediate relatives of U.S. citizens, family-sponsored or employment-based preferences, and certain special immigrants. The process involves filing Form I-485 with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), supporting evidence, a medical exam, and an interview. Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, our firm brings deep experience to these matters.
Official Government Resources
For accurate information, always refer to official government sources. The primary statute is the Immigration and Nationality Act (8 U.S.C.). For local court procedures and filing, you can reference the Executive Office for Immigration Review (EOIR) website for the Arlington Immigration Court, which has jurisdiction over Norfolk-area cases.
Local Process for Adjustment of Status in Norfolk
While Adjustment of Status is a federal process administered by USCIS, cases can be referred to the Arlington Immigration Court if issues arise. Norfolk residents typically file their I-485 application with the appropriate USCIS Lockbox, but any subsequent removal proceedings would be handled federally. An experienced immigration attorney understands this dual-track possibility. Of Counsel Bryan Block, with his extensive background in federal procedure, provides valuable support on complex petitions and responses to USCIS requests.
- Determine your eligibility category (e.g., family-based, employment-based).
- Have your petitioner file the required underlying petition (I-130, I-140, etc.) and wait for approval and visa availability.
- Prepare and file Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status, with all supporting documents and fees to the correct USCIS Lockbox.
- Attend a biometrics appointment and respond promptly to any Requests for Evidence (RFE).
- Attend your scheduled interview at a local USCIS field office, if required.
- Receive a decision from USCIS on your green card application.
In Norfolk, a successful Adjustment of Status application results in a green card, but denial can lead to placement in removal proceedings before an Immigration Judge.
| Application/Filing | Typical Fee | Processing Timeline* | Key Consequence of Denial |
|---|---|---|---|
| Form I-485 (AOS) | $1,440 | 8-14 months (varies) | Placement in removal proceedings |
| Form I-130 (Petition) | $675 | Varies by service center | No basis to adjust status |
| Form I-751 (Removal of Conditions) | $850 | 12-24 months | Termination of conditional status |
| Form N-400 (Naturalization) | $760 | 8-14 months | Continued permanent resident status |
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. Our team brings a combined 120+ years of legal experience to every case. We have a documented record of handling complex immigration matters, including Adjustment of Status. Our approach is built on a deep understanding of both USCIS procedures and the potential intersection with immigration court. We provide clear guidance through each step, from petition to interview.
Case Results and Client Outcomes
Our firm has a firm-wide track record across VA, MD, NJ, NY, and DC of 4,739+ documented results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate in handled cases. In immigration matters, favorable outcomes include successful Adjustment of Status approvals, overcoming requests for evidence, and managing cases that interface with the court system. Of Counsel Bryan Block applies his 15 years as a former Virginia State Trooper and deep knowledge of federal procedure to strengthen petition packages and responses to government actions.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Richmond Location — 7400 Beaufont Springs Dr, Ste 300, Rm 395, Richmond, VA 23225
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (703) 636-5417 | Local: (888) 437-7747
By appointment only.
Our Richmond location serves Norfolk and surrounding communities. We offer 24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only. Seeking a reliable Norfolk VA Adjustment Of Status lawyer near you? Contact us for an immigration consultation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I apply for Adjustment of Status if I entered the U.S. without inspection?
No. Generally, you must have been inspected and admitted or paroled by an immigration officer to be eligible for Adjustment of Status under INA § 245(a). There are very limited exceptions, such as under § 245(i). An immigration attorney can review if any exception applies to you.
How long does the Adjustment of Status process take in Norfolk?
It depends on your category, the USCIS service center handling your case, and whether an interview is required. For immediate relatives of U.S. citizens, it often takes between 8 to 14 months from filing to decision. Employment-based and other categories can take longer. An immigration consultation can provide a more specific timeline estimate.
What happens if my I-485 application is denied?
If your Adjustment of Status is denied, you may be placed in removal (deportation) proceedings before an Immigration Judge. You may have appeal options or the chance to renew the application in court. It is critical to seek immediate immigration help from a visa lawyer to explore all available remedies.
Can I travel outside the U.S. while my Adjustment of Status is pending?
No, not without first obtaining Advance Parole by filing Form I-131. Leaving the U.S. without approved Advance Parole will be considered an abandonment of your AOS application, and it will be denied. A visa lawyer can assist with filing for travel permission.
Do I need a medical exam for Adjustment of Status?
Yes. A designated civil surgeon must complete Form I-693, Report of Medical Examination and Vaccination Record. You must submit it with your I-485 or bring it to your interview. The exam ensures you meet health-related grounds of admissibility.
For more information on immigration matters in Virginia, visit our Virginia Immigration Lawyer hub page. If you are in a nearby area, consider our immigration attorney in Henrico County or immigration attorney in Chesterfield County. For other legal needs in Norfolk, we also assist with reckless driving defense and domestic violence cases.
Last verified: April 2026. Information updated as of 2026-04-02. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.