Change of Status

Certain nonimmigrants present in the U.S. may seek to change their status to another nonimmigrant classification if certain requirements are met.

Eligibility

To qualify for a Change of Status in the U.S. you must have been lawfully admitted into the U.S. as a nonimmigrant; have not committed any act that would make you ineligible to receive an immigration benefit; there is no other factor that requires you to depart the U.S. prior to making a reentry based on a different classification, and you must submit an application for a change of status by mail before the expiration date shown on the admission stamp in your travel document on your I-94, Arrival-Departure Record. Your passport must be valid for the entire requested period of stay in the U.S.

Ineligibility

​Certain nonimmigrant categories cannot obtain a Change of Status in the U.S.; therefore, you must depart on or before your I-94 expires. These categories include: C, D, K-1 or K-2, S, TWOV, and WT or WB. There are certain restrictions for particular nonimmigrant categories concerning the ability to request a Change of Status, these categories include: J-1 and M-1.

Application Process

​The application process for a Change of Status depends on the nonimmigrant status to which you want to change. If you want to change your status to be within an employment-based nonimmigrant category, your prospective employer should file a Form I-129, Petition for Nonimmigrant Worker, before your I-94 expires. If you want to change your status to be within a non-employment-based category, you should file Form I-539.

Public Benefits Condition

To ensure that nonimmigrants remain self-sufficient while present in the U.S., applicants seeking a Change of Status are subject to the public benefits condition, unless the status to which you seek to change is statutorily exempt from the public charge ground of inadmissibility. The public benefits condition requires an applicant seeking a Change of Status on or after February 24, 2020 to demonstrate that you have not received, since obtaining the nonimmigrant status you are seeking to change, one or more public benefit, for more than 12 months in the aggregate within any 26-month period.

The public benefit condition does not apply if the nonimmigrant classification you seek to change to is exempt from the public charge inadmissibility ground by law or regulation, the public charge ground of inadmissibility has been waived for purposes of the nonimmigrant status from which youseek to change, or you filed the request before February 24, 2020

If you are interested in changing your status in the U.S. or have any questions about the process, please give us a call.

Cambio De Estatus

Ciertos no inmigrantes presentes en los Estados Unidos pueden intentar cambiar su estatus a otra clasificación de no inmigrante si cumple ciertos requisitos.

Elegibilidad

Para calificar para un cambio de estatus en los Estados Unidos, usted debe haber sido admitido legalmente en los Estados Unidos como no inmigrante; no ha cometido ningún acto que lo haga inelegible para recibir un beneficio de inmigración; no hay otro factor que requiera que usted salga de los Estados Unidos antes de volver a ingresar basado en una clasificación diferente y debe enviar su solicitud de cambio de estatus por correo antes de la fecha de vencimiento que esta en el sello de admisión en su documento de viaje I-94, Registro de Entrada/Salida. Su pasaporte debe ser valido durante todo el periodo de estadía solicitado en los Estados Unidos.

Inelegibilidad

Ciertas categorías de no inmigrantes no pueden obtener un Cambio de Estatus en los Estados Unidos; por lo tanto, deben partir antes de que expire su I-94. Estas categorías incluyen: C, D, K-1 o K-2, TWOV y WT O WB. Existen ciertas restricciones para categorías particulares de no inmigrantes con respecto a la capacidad de solicitar un Cambio de Estatus, estas categorías incluyen: J-1 y M-1.

Proceso de Solicitud

El proceso de solicitud para un Cambio de Estatus depende del estado de no inmigrante al que desea cambiar. Si desea cambiar su estatus para estar dentro de una categoría de no inmigrante basada en el empleo, su futuro empleador debe presentar el Formulario I-129, Petición para Trabajador No Inmigrante, antes que se expire su I-94. Si desea cambiar su estado para estar dentro de una categoría no basada en el empleo, debe presentar el Formulario I-539.

Condición de Beneficios Públicos

Para garantizar que no inmigrantes sigan siendo autosuficientes mientras estén presentes en los Estados Unidos los solicitantes que busquen un Cambio de Estatus están sujetos a la condición de beneficios públicos, al menos de que el estatus que busca cambiar este legalmente exento de la carga publica de inadmisibilidad. La condición de beneficios públicos requiere que un solicitante buscando un Cambio de Estatus el 24 de febrero del 2020 o mas tarde demuestre que no ha recibido uno o mas beneficios públicos desde que obtuvo el estatus de no inmigrante que busca cambiar por mas de 12 meses en el agregado dentro de cualquier periodo de 26 meses.

La condición de beneficio publico no se aplica si la clasificación de no inmigrante que busca cambiar esta exenta de la inadmisibilidad de la carga publica por ley o reglamento, la razón de inadmisibilidad se ha renunciado con respecto al estatus no inmigrante que busca cambiar o presento la solicitud antes del 24 de febrero.

Si usted esta interesado/a en cambiar su estatus en los Estados Unidos o tiene alguna pregunta sobre el proceso, llámenos

Navigating The U.S. Change Of Status Process In Immigration Law

Individuals who are seeking to change their immigration status will need a Los Angeles change of status attorney who can assist with navigating the U.S. change of status process. Our team of experienced attorneys is here to guide you through this intricate process and ensure a smooth transition. In this article, we will provide you with valuable insights into the change of status process in U.S. immigration law.

Understanding Change Of Status

Changing your immigration status in the United States is a significant step in your journey towards achieving your immigration goals. Whether you are on a non-immigrant visa and wish to transition to a different visa category, or you are seeking to adjust your status to permanent residency, the change of status process is a vital aspect of the U.S. immigration system.

Eligibility And Requirements

The eligibility criteria and requirements for changing your immigration status can vary widely depending on your current status, the status you wish to change to, and your specific circumstances. It is crucial to consult with a Los Angeles change of status attorney to assess your eligibility and understand the specific requirements that apply to your case.

Choosing The Right Path

One of the initial challenges you may encounter is determining the most suitable path for changing your immigration status. There are various visa categories and routes available, such as family-based, employment-based, or humanitarian relief options. Your attorney will help you explore the best path that aligns with your goals and immigration history.

Preparing A Strong Application

Once you have identified the appropriate path, the next step is to prepare a robust change of status application. This includes gathering the necessary documentation, filling out the required forms, and ensuring that your application accurately reflects your eligibility. Your attorney will play a pivotal role in this process, helping you compile the right evidence and ensuring that your application is error-free.

Timing And Processing

It’s crucial to be aware of the timing of your change of status application because this can impact your ability to maintain lawful immigration status during the transition. It’s essential to file your application at the right time and be aware of processing times, which can vary depending on the USCIS workload and other factors. Your attorney will help you navigate these considerations.

Adjudication And Potential Challenges

Once your application is submitted, it goes through the adjudication process at U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). During this stage, USCIS reviews your application, conducts background checks, and may request additional documentation or information. It’s important to be prepared for potential challenges or inquiries during this phase, and your attorney will be your advocate throughout.

Maintaining Legal Status

While your change of status application is pending, it’s crucial to maintain your current immigration status or stay within the allowed grace period. Falling out of status can complicate your case and potentially lead to unfavorable outcomes. Your attorney will guide you on how to maintain your legal status during this period.

The Importance Of Legal Representation

Navigating the U.S. change of status process can be a complex and challenging task, and the guidance of an experienced immigration attorney is invaluable. Our team has a deep understanding of immigration law and a proven track record of helping clients successfully change their immigration status. We are here to provide the support and experience you need to achieve your immigration goals.

Closing Thoughts

The U.S. change of status process is a crucial step in your immigration journey, and it requires careful planning, attention to detail, legal knowledge, and experienced guidance. We are committed to helping you navigate this process with confidence. To take the first step towards achieving your immigration objectives, contact our Los Angeles change of status attorney today.

Contact us now to schedule a consultation and let our experienced team at Bolour / Carl Immigration Group, APC, guide you through the U.S. change of status process. Your immigration goals are within reach, and we are here to help you achieve them.