What is the difference between adjustment of status and consular processing?
Adjustment of status and consular processing are two different ways of applying for U.S. permanent residency (a Green Card). Adjustment of status is for those who are already in the United States legally, and it allows them to stay in the U.S. while their application is processed. They submit their application and required documents to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). Once approved, they receive their green card and become a permanent resident. Consular processing is for those who are applying for a green card from outside the United States. They do not have to enter the U.S. for the application to be processed. The applicant submits their application and documents to the State Department’s National Visa Center (NVC). Once approved, they must travel to a U.S. consulate in their home country for an interview before they can receive their green card. Adjustment of status is simpler and faster for some applicants, while consular processing can be simpler for others. Both options require the same documents and information and also have the same fees. It is important to note that not all applicants are eligible for both options, so it is important to speak to an immigration lawyer to know which route is best for your particular situation.
THELAW.TV ofrece respuestas en español a todas las preguntas sobre la ley de inmigración.La diferencia entre el ajuste de estatus y el procesamiento consular depende de los procedimientos a través de los cuales los inmigrantes solicitan una tarjeta de residencia. El ajuste de estatus se refiere a la solicitud de una tarjeta de residencia para alguien que ya está en los Estados Unidos. En contraste, el procesamiento consular se refiere a una solicitud para obtener una tarjeta de residencia mientras se encuentra fuera de los Estados Unidos. El ajuste de estatus es mejor para los estudiantes en Nueva York, ya que permite que un individuo cambie su estatus migratorio sin salir de los Estados Unidos. Por ejemplo, si un estudiante ha entrado legalmente en los Estados Unidos, puede ajustar su estatus a residencia permanente una vez que esté aquí. Por otro lado, el procesamiento consular es mejor para aquellos que están fuera de los Estados Unidos y desean solicitar una tarjeta de residencia. Estos individuos deben cumplir con todos los requisitos legales y completar todos los trámites antes de poder ingresar a los Estados Unidos. Esta opción no es la mejor para los estudiantes en Nueva York, ya que requiere una ausencia prolongada de los Estados Unidos.
Related FAQs
Do I need a sponsor to get a student visa?Can I become a citizen of the United States through immigration law?
What is the length of a student visa?
What are the penalties for violating terms of a student visa?
Can I transfer my visa from one school to another?
What is the difference between a green card and a visa?
What is the F-1 CPT program?
Can I travel outside the U.S. while on a student visa?
What is the CPT program for student visas?
How can I extend my visa?
Related Blog Posts
Overview of U.S. Immigration Law for College & University Students - July 31, 2023Student Visa Basics: What You Need To Know - August 7, 2023
How to Obtain a Student Visa for Study in the U.S. - August 14, 2023
Student Visa Eligibility Requirements & the Application Process - August 21, 2023
How to Renew Your Student Visa - August 28, 2023