Adjustment of Status
Experienced immigration attorneys helping families and individuals across Louisiana
New Orleans Adjustment of Status Lawyers
At the Rousell Law Firm, our New Orleans immigration attorneys help foreign nationals navigate the complex process of obtaining lawful permanent resident status, also known as a green card.
If you are already in the United States, typically on a temporary visa, you may be eligible to adjust your status without returning to your home country. If you are applying from abroad, green cards are obtained through consular processing in your home country.
We guide our clients step-by-step, explaining every requirement and anticipating the challenges that can arise during the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) process.
Am I Eligible for Adjustment of Status in New Orleans?
Eligibility for a green card depends on your immigration category and your ability to meet the specific requirements. Common categories include:
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Family-based green cards (spouse, parent, or unmarried child under 21 of a U.S. citizen)
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Employment-based visas
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Special immigrants
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Refugees and asylees
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Victims of human trafficking or crime
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Victims of abuse
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Other eligible categories
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Registry
To apply through adjustment of status, you must be physically present in the U.S. and either already have an immigrant visa or an approved immigrant petition.
Who Can File the Petition?
Typically, a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident (LPR) sponsor files the petition on behalf of the applicant. In some cases, the applicant may also be eligible to file independently.
The application process generally involves:
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Immigrant Petition – Forms vary depending on your category:
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I-130: Petition for Alien Relative (family-based)
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I-140: Petition for Alien Worker (employment-based)
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I-730: Refugee/Asylee Relative Petition
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I-589: Application for Asylum
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I-360: Petition for Amerasian, Widow(er), or Special Immigrant
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I-526: Immigrant Petition by Alien Entrepreneur
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I-918 / I-929: U Non-immigrant petitions
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Adjustment of Status – Form I-485, filed after approval of your immigrant petition and once a visa is available. Visa availability is subject to annual quotas and country limits.
Our attorneys help you understand your eligibility, track visa availability, and prepare your petitions to avoid common pitfalls.
Biometrics and Application Support Center (ASC) Appointment
After filing Form I-485, USCIS will schedule a biometrics appointment at a local Application Support Center (ASC). You will provide fingerprints, photographs, and a signature, which are used for identity verification and background checks.
If you cannot attend, we will assist in rescheduling your appointment to prevent delays or denial of your petition.
Interviews and Additional Evidence
USCIS may require an interview to verify the information on your application. You and your sponsor will answer questions under oath and must bring all original supporting documents, including passports, travel documents, and Form I-94.
Additional evidence may be requested if:
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Required documentation was missing
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Submitted evidence has expired
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USCIS needs clarification to determine eligibility
We assist you in gathering and submitting any additional evidence requested.
Checking Your Application Status
You can monitor your adjustment of status application online, by phone, or via TTY if you have a disability. Have your receipt number, name, A-Number, and date of birth ready.
USCIS will notify you in writing of the outcome:
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Approved: You will receive your green card for lawful permanent residency.
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Denied: USCIS will explain the reasons. In some cases, you may request reconsideration or reapply from abroad.
Common Documentation Needed
Requirements vary depending on your immigration category. Typical documents include:
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Completed USCIS forms
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Application fees
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Birth certificate
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Passport-style photos
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Non-immigrant visa copy
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Biographical information
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Medical examination results and vaccination history
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Form I-94 (arrival/departure record)
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Marriage certificate (for family-based petitions)
EB-5 Immigrant Investor Program
For foreign nationals seeking permanent residency through business investment, the EB-5 program provides conditional residence for two years, followed by eligibility for permanent residence. Requirements include:
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Minimum Investment – Typically $1,000,000, or $500,000 in targeted employment areas.
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Actual Commitment of Capital – Funds must be invested and at risk. Loans or future promises alone do not qualify.
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Lawful Means – Investment funds must be legally obtained, documented, and, if borrowed, guaranteed by the investor.
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New Enterprise or Troubled Business – Investment must create a new business, restructure an existing company, or rescue a struggling business.
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Job Creation – Typically, at least 10 full-time jobs must be created or preserved.
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Management – Investors must be involved in managing the business.
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Family Eligibility – Immediate family members must also meet requirements for permanent residency.
At Rousell Law Firm, we provide comprehensive guidance throughout the adjustment of status process, from eligibility evaluation to petitions, biometrics, and interviews. We help families and individuals confidently pursue permanent residency in the United States.
Requirements vary depending on your immigration category. Typical documents include:
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Completed USCIS forms
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Application fees
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Birth certificate
-
Passport-style photos
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Non-immigrant visa copy
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Biographical information
-
Medical examination results and vaccination history
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Form I-94 (arrival/departure record)
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Marriage certificate (for family-based petitions)
EB-5 and Adjustment of Status Fees
Step | Service | Attorney’s Fees | USCIS / Government Fees | Optional |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Step 1: Immigration Petition | EB-5 Immigrant Petition | $8,000 | $11,160 | |
Step 2: Adjustment of Status (If in the U.S.) | Principal Applicant | $2,500 | $1,440 | EAD: $260, Advance Parole: $630 |
Step 2: Adjustment of Status (If in the U.S.) | Family Member | $1,500 | $1,440 | EAD: $260, Advance Parole: $630 |
Step 2: Consular Processing (If Outside the U.S.) | Principal Applicant | $1,500 | $325 | Permanent Resident Card: $220 |
Step 2: Consular Processing (If Outside the U.S.) | Family Member | $4,000 | $325 | Permanent Resident Card: $220 |
Step 3: Removal of Conditions | Principal Applicant | $5,000 | $9,525 |
Notes:
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EAD = Employment Authorization Document
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Advance Parole = Permission to travel outside the U.S. while adjustment is pending
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Fees are per individual unless otherwise noted
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Family members include spouse and children eligible for derivative status
The Rousell Law Firm's Team
Clarity in Counsel. Results-Driven Solutions. An Open, Honest Process.
At Rousell Law Firm, we blend compassionate guidance with thoughtful legal strategy. Our attorneys take the time to understand your individual needs, craft a customized plan, and deliver a clear path forward — offering straightforward expectations, transparent pricing, and practical timelines.
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Serving Greater New Orleans Metro & Surrounding Areas
Joelann S. Rousell, J.D., MBA
Managing Attorney
Attorney Rousell is a dedicated and skilled legal professional committed to providing exceptional representation for clients facing family law, immigration, personal and other legal matters.
Arielle M. Lewis, J.D.
(Of Counsel)
Attorney Lewis (Of Counsel) assists the Rousell Law Firm with all family matters, such as: divorce, child custody, child support, and community property matters.
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Heather Rousell
Social Media/Marketing Consultant
Heather Rousell serves as the firm’s Social Media and Marketing Consultant, overseeing digital strategy, brand presence, and client engagement across all platforms.
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