Who Qualifies for Adjustment of Status in Illinois?

For many immigrants living in Illinois, applying for adjustment of status is the final step toward permanent residency and a new sense of stability. This process allows you to apply for your green card without leaving the United States, which is a major advantage for those who already live, work, and raise families here.

At Ibrahim Law Global, we know that understanding who qualifies for adjustment of status in Illinois is the first step toward success. While the eligibility requirements are set by federal law, your experience can vary depending on where you live and which USCIS field office handles your case. This guide explains who may qualify, how long the process takes in Illinois, and the most common mistakes to avoid.

Key Eligibility Requirements

To qualify for adjustment of status, you must meet several basic requirements that show you are eligible to apply for permanent residence while staying in the United States. In most cases, applicants must:

• Have been inspected and admitted or paroled into the U.S.
• Have an immigrant visa immediately available in their category when they file
• Be admissible to the United States, meaning there are no legal or medical issues that would prevent approval
• Have a valid basis for applying, such as a family or employment-based petition, refugee or asylee status, or another qualifying category

In Illinois, most applicants file Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status, through the USCIS Chicago Lockbox or have their interviews at the USCIS Chicago Field Office.

Common Adjustment Categories in Illinois

There are several ways to qualify for adjustment of status, depending on how you first came to the United States and your current circumstances. The most common paths for applicants in Illinois include:

• Family-based adjustment: For spouses, parents, or unmarried children of U.S. citizens. Other relatives may also qualify if a visa number is available in their category.
• Employment-based adjustment: For workers whose employer has filed an approved Form I-140 and who meet the required visa availability and job criteria.
• Asylees or refugees: For individuals who were granted asylum or admitted as a refugee at least one year ago.
• Special categories: For applicants in programs such as VAWA self-petitioners, Diversity Visa winners, or other humanitarian or special immigrant cases.

Each category has its own set of rules, deadlines, and required documentation. Before filing, make sure you know which category applies to you so that your application is complete and correctly filed.

Adjustment of Status in Illinois: What Local Applicants Should Know

While the adjustment of status process follows federal law, your experience in Illinois can depend on where you file and how busy your local USCIS office is. Here are a few things to keep in mind:

• Filing location: Most Illinois applicants mail their Form I-485 packet to the USCIS Chicago Lockbox, which handles intake and initial processing for the region.
• Interview location: Adjustment of status interviews are usually held at the USCIS Chicago Field Office. Be sure to bring your appointment notice, identification, and any updated documents.
• Processing times: On average, green card applications in Illinois take 8 to 14 months to process, depending on your case type and USCIS workload. You can check current timelines by selecting “Chicago IL Field Office” on the USCIS Processing Times page.
• Stay organized: Because the Chicago office handles a large volume of applications, submitting a complete, clearly labeled packet helps prevent unnecessary delays.

FAQs About Adjustment of Status in Illinois

1. How long does adjustment of status take in Illinois?
   Most cases take about 8 to 14 months, depending on your category and the workload at the USCIS Chicago Field Office.
2. Do I have to attend an interview?
   Yes. Most applicants are required to attend an interview at the USCIS Chicago Field Office before approval.
3. Can I work while my application is pending?
   Yes. You can apply for a work permit (Form I-765) while your Form I-485 is being processed.
4. Can I travel during the process?
   You can travel only if you have advance parole (Form I-131). Leaving the U.S. without it may cause your application to be denied.
5. Do I need an attorney to file?
   It’s not required, but working with an immigration attorney in Illinois helps prevent mistakes and delays in your case.

Get Help from an Experienced Illinois Immigration Attorney

At Ibrahim Law Global, we help clients across Illinois navigate every stage of the adjustment process, from confirming eligibility to preparing strong applications and representing clients at interviews. Our goal is to make the path to permanent residency clear, confident, and stress-free.

Contact Ibrahim Law Global today to schedule a consultation and take the next step toward securing your green card and your future in the United States.