Approved U Visa Adjustment of Status — From Survivorship to a Green Card

Our client’s U visa adjustment of status was approved, transforming years of courage and cooperation into the stability of lawful permanent residence. This approval recognizes the client’s role as a crime victim who assisted law enforcement, and it demonstrates how a carefully prepared record—paired with genuine rehabilitation and community ties—meets USCIS’s statutory and discretionary standards.

Why the case qualified

• Time in U status: The client maintained at least three years of continuous U status before filing Form I-485.
• Good moral character: We documented tax compliance, steady employment, education, and a clean post-victimization record.
• Ongoing cooperation: Letters from detectives and advocates confirmed the client’s assistance and continued willingness to help if needed.
• Admissibility/waivers: Where minor issues existed, we presented a narrow, well-supported inadmissibility waiver strategy, anchored in equities and public interest.

Evidence that made the difference
Our packet included: certified court dispositions, I-94/U approval history, an up-to-date I-693 medical, therapy and treatment summaries, employer letters, school records, and community declarations. A concise legal brief mapped each exhibit to the U-based adjustment criteria and anticipated discretionary concerns.

What “green card” approval delivers

• The client may live and work anywhere in the U.S. without renewing interim EADs.
• Travel is permitted with a valid passport and green card; we advised on prior issues that can affect reentry and recommended pre-travel screenings.
• Family unity: We outlined next steps for eligible derivative U family members to pursue their own adjustments.

Practical next steps

1. Update I-9 with the employer using the green card.
2. Keep taxes current, avoid arrests, and retain copies of all approvals.
3. Preserve community ties—volunteering, education, and steady work bolster future applications.
4. Start a citizenship plan now: most LPRs may apply for naturalization after meeting residence and good moral character requirements.

Bottom line: With meticulous documentation, strategic waivers, and survivor-centered advocacy, a U visa can be the bridge to permanent residence—and a fresh chapter of safety and opportunity.