How Life Circumstances Can Impact Your Adjustment of Status Application?

Planning to apply for a green card while staying in the U.S.? The Adjustment of Status (AOS) process makes that possible without having to leave the country. But what happens when life throws you a curveball—like getting married, switching jobs, or moving? These changes, while sometimes unavoidable, can have a significant impact on your application. If you’re wondering how different life events might affect your AOS journey, you’re not alone. Understanding how to navigate these situations is crucial for keeping your application on track.

What Is an Adjustment of Status?

So, what is adjustment of status? An Adjustment of Status (AOS) is the process that allows eligible noncitizens already in the United States to apply for lawful permanent resident status, commonly known as a green card, without having to return to their home country for consular processing. This pathway is often used by individuals with family-based, employment-based, or humanitarian eligibility. To qualify, you must meet specific criteria, including being physically present in the U.S. and having entered the country legally. The process typically involves submitting Form I-485, attending a biometrics appointment, undergoing a medical examination, and participating in an interview with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). While the process may seem straightforward, various personal and professional life changes can influence how smoothly—or how complicated—it becomes.

Changes in Marital Status

Marriage or divorce is one of the most significant life changes that can affect an AOS application. If you’re applying based on marriage to a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident, your marital status is central to your eligibility.

Marriage after filing

If you marry a U.S. citizen after submitting another type of petition, you may need to update your application. Depending on the timing, it could speed up or complicate your case.

Divorce during the process

Divorce during an AOS application based on marriage can lead to denial unless you qualify for certain waivers, like in cases of abuse or good faith marriage claims.

Separation

Even if you’re legally married but separated, it can raise questions during your interview. Honesty and documentation are crucial to demonstrate the genuine nature of your relationship.

Employment Changes

For those applying through employment-based categories, job changes can significantly affect the process.

• Switching employers – If your green card application is based on a job offer, changing employers may jeopardize your application unless certain portability provisions apply.
• Job loss – Losing your job before receiving permanent residency can be a setback. Some categories allow flexibility, but immediate action is essential to avoid delays or denials.
• Promotions or role changes – Even internal job shifts can matter. Significant changes in job duties or location might require updated documentation to stay compliant.

Address Changes

It’s easy to overlook, but moving without notifying the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) can cause major issues. Not receiving critical documents like appointment notices or requests for evidence (RFEs) can result in missed deadlines and application denials. Make sure to file a change of address promptly to avoid unnecessary complications.

Health and Medical Issues

Your medical examination is a required part of the AOS process. Health-related issues can influence your application if:

• A communicable disease is detected during the medical exam
• You fail to complete vaccination requirements
• You have a history of drug abuse or certain mental health conditions that raise public safety concerns

While many health issues are manageable with proper documentation and follow-up, some can delay or hinder your application’s approval.

Criminal Charges or Legal Troubles

Any encounter with the criminal justice system can impact your adjustment of status. Even minor offenses should be reported accurately on your application. Failure to disclose criminal history, even if charges were dropped, can lead to serious consequences, including denial or future complications.

Financial Changes

Financial stability is a key component of the AOS application. Significant changes in income or employment status can affect your ability to meet the public charge requirements.

Sponsor’s income drop – If your sponsor’s income falls below the required threshold, you may need a joint sponsor.

Unexpected financial burdens – Medical bills, legal fees, or sudden expenses could raise concerns about becoming a public charge.

Staying proactive and providing updated financial documents can help mitigate these issues.

Travel Outside the U.S.

Traveling while your AOS application is pending requires caution. Without the proper travel documents (like Advance Parole), leaving the country can be seen as abandoning your application. If unexpected travel is necessary, make sure to obtain the correct permissions to avoid setbacks.

Tips to Handle Life Changes During Your Application

While life changes are often unavoidable, handling them correctly can help keep your application on track. Here’s how you can manage these shifts effectively:

• Stay informed – Understand how changes in your personal or professional life can affect your specific immigration category.
• Notify USCIS promptly – Whether you move, change jobs, or experience other shifts, informing USCIS quickly can prevent delays.
• Keep documents organized – Save copies of all correspondence, receipts, and notices related to your application.
• Seek professional guidance – If you’re unsure how a life event affects your case, consider consulting an experienced immigration professional.
• Prepare for interviews – Life changes can come up during your AOS interview, so be ready to explain them clearly with proper documentation.

Why Being Proactive Matters

Navigating the adjustment of status process can feel overwhelming, especially when life throws curveballs. However, staying proactive, organized, and informed makes all the difference. Simple steps like keeping your information up to date and understanding how certain events impact your application can help prevent unnecessary stress. Remember, each adjustment of status application is unique. While some life events can cause complications, many can be managed with timely action and the right resources.

Staying on Top of the Process

Life happens—sometimes in ways we don’t expect. But that doesn’t mean your adjustment of status journey has to be derailed. By staying proactive, informed, and organized, you can handle life’s twists and turns while keeping your application on track. Whether you’re dealing with a job change, a new address, or unexpected personal events, how you respond makes all the difference. Keep your documents updated, communicate with USCIS, and stay prepared for every step along the way.

Biswajit Raskhit

Biswajit Rakshit is a professional blogger and writer. He loves to write on various topics.