Should I do the AOS after IR-1?

Let”s clarify an important point about United States immigration processes. Often, doubts arise when it comes to understanding the differences between the IR1 visa and Adjustment of Status (AOS). Each procedure serves specific situations and it is essential to understand which is the most appropriate path for each case.

If you obtained the IR1 visa – intended for spouses of U.S. citizens – through the consular process, it is not necessary to undergo AOS. This is because the IR1 is an immigrant visa: upon entering the United States with this visa, you automatically acquire legal permanent resident status (green card).

In other words, the consular processing procedure, once completed with the issuance of the IR1, already concludes your green card acquisition process. However, if you are in the United States and have started a petition process as a spouse of a U.S. citizen without having traveled abroad, Adjustment of Status (AOS) may be a viable option for you to change your situation to legal permanent residence.

In this situation, AOS is the process used to adjust your non-immigrant status to permanent resident status while remaining within the United States. It is crucial to strictly follow U.S. immigration laws throughout this process. Additionally, it is recommended to seek guidance from professionals or reliable sources specialized in immigration to avoid errors that could jeopardize your application.

Be cautious of service offers that promise guaranteed results, as immigration is a complex field subject to various legal nuances. Always ensure that your immigration journey is conducted with caution and with proper support, so that your rights and situation are protected throughout the entire process.

Victoria Harper

Editor-in-Chief

Meet the author

Leading journalism and editorial content at Visto n’ Visa, Victoria helps make immigration topics clear, trustworthy, and easy to understand. Her focus is on delivering useful, human, and relevant content for people exploring new paths abroad.