Adjustment of Status Processing Times in 2026: What Applicants Should Expect

Adjustment of Status (AOS) allows certain immigrants who are already inside the United States to apply for lawful permanent residence (a green card) without leaving the country. Instead of attending a consular interview abroad, eligible applicants may complete the process through USCIS by filing Form I-485.

Processing times for adjustment of status vary depending on the applicant’s category, USCIS field office workload, background checks, and visa availability. Understanding current timelines can help applicants plan their immigration process and avoid unnecessary delays.

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Current Adjustment of Status Processing Times (2026)

While timelines vary by USCIS field office, the following estimates reflect common processing ranges for adjustment of status applications in 2026.

Marriage-Based Adjustment of Status (U.S. Citizen Spouse)

Most adjustment of status applications based on marriage to a U.S. citizen take approximately:

10–20 months on average

Some USCIS offices may process cases faster, sometimes within 8–12 months, while others may take longer depending on interview scheduling and background checks.

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Marriage-Based Adjustment (Permanent Resident Spouse)

Applicants filing through a lawful permanent resident spouse may experience longer processing times due to visa availability limits.

Typical timeline:

12–24 months

This timeline may increase if the visa category becomes backlogged in the Visa Bulletin.

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Family Preference Categories

Adjustment of status applications filed through family preference categories (such as siblings or adult children of U.S. citizens) often take longer due to visa number limitations.

Typical timeline:

18–36 months or more

The waiting period may vary depending on the applicant’s priority date and country of chargeability.

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Employment-Based Adjustment of Status

Employment-based green card applications generally move faster once the priority date becomes current.

Typical timeline:

6–12 months

Some categories may be processed faster depending on USCIS workload and visa availability.

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Work Authorization (Form I-765)

Applicants who file for adjustment of status can also apply for a work permit.

Typical processing time:

2–5 months

This allows applicants to legally work in the United States while their green card application is pending.

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Advance Parole Travel Document

Applicants may also request permission to travel internationally while their adjustment of status case is pending.

Typical processing time:

4–8 months

Applicants should avoid international travel until advance parole is approved.

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Applicants should always review the official USCIS “Check Case Processing Times” tool for the most up-to-date estimates.

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Factors That May Delay Adjustment of Status Cases

Several issues can extend the processing time of an adjustment of status application. Common causes of delays include:

• Missing or incomplete supporting documents
• Inconsistent information on immigration forms
• Security or background check delays
• Requests for Evidence (RFEs) issued by USCIS
• Prior immigration violations or complicated immigration history
• Medical exam issues or outdated Form I-693
• Insufficient financial documentation for the Affidavit of Support

Many of these delays can be avoided by submitting a complete and well-organized application.

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Tips to Help Avoid Processing Delays

Careful preparation can significantly improve the efficiency of an adjustment of status case.

Helpful tips include:

• Submit a complete and organized application package
• Double-check all names, dates, and form versions
• Include strong supporting documentation with the initial filing
• Complete the immigration medical exam early
• Respond quickly to any USCIS Requests for Evidence
• Keep copies of everything submitted
• Track your case status online through USCIS

Working with an experienced immigration attorney can help reduce errors that may delay a case.

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Adjustment of Status Interview Considerations

Most marriage-based adjustment of status cases require an interview at a local USCIS field office. During the interview, the officer may review the application, confirm eligibility, and ask questions about the relationship and supporting documentation.

Employment-based adjustment cases may sometimes have the interview requirement waived.

Applicants should bring updated relationship evidence, identification documents, and original civil records to the interview to help avoid additional delays.

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Need Help With Adjustment of Status?

Preparing an adjustment of status application involves multiple forms, supporting documents, and strict USCIS requirements. Even small mistakes can lead to Requests for Evidence or delays in the green card process.

If you need assistance preparing your adjustment of status application, reviewing documentation, or preparing for your USCIS interview, Marat Law APC may be able to help guide you through the process.

You can contact our office to schedule a consultation or submit your information using the form below.