After you file your application, USCIS will mail you an appointment notice for a biometric screening. This is a relatively quick appointment at a USCIS Application Support Center to obtain your photo, fingerprints and signature. USCIS uses the biometric data to conduct a mandatory criminal background check.

Several months later, USCIS will likely require you to attend an adjustment interview. In many cases, USCIS may also require the relative who filed Form I-130 to attend. USCIS has the ability to waive an interview for certain individuals. They will notify you of the time, date, and location for an interview. USCIS uses the adjustment of status interview to confirm the information you and your petitioner have provided on the petition and the adjustment application. It’s also an opportunity for them to see if circumstances have changed that may make you ineligible. Generally, this is a quick interview that only lasts 20 to 30 minutes.

The entire adjustment process may take 8 to 14 months for most applicants. The most important thing you can do to ensure the best processing times is to submit a complete and thorough application package.