Top Mistakes That Lead to Adjustment of Status Denial — And How an Immigration Lawyer in Texas Can Protect You
Few things are more discouraging than finding out your green card application has been denied. For families in Texas, an adjustment of status denial can mean lost time, extra costs, and uncertainty about the future. The good news? Many denials are preventable with the right guidance.
Here are the top mistakes that cause adjustment of status denials — and how working with an experienced immigration lawyer in Texas can help you avoid them.
Mistake #1: Filing Without Confirming Eligibility
Not everyone qualifies for adjustment of status. You must have entered the U.S. lawfully (with a visa or parole) and have an immediate relative petition available, such as marriage to a U.S. citizen.
Those who entered without inspection or who need waivers often file too soon, only to face a denial later.
👉 Learn more: Adjustment of Status After Entry Without Inspection in Texas
Mistake #2: Submitting Incomplete or Incorrect Documents
Missing or outdated documents are among the most common reasons for denial. USCIS frequently rejects cases missing:
- Certified birth or marriage certificates
- Properly translated foreign documents
- Updated medical exam (Form I-693)
- Financial evidence for Form I-864 (Affidavit of Support)
👉 See our Adjustment of Status Interview Checklist for a full document guide.
Mistake #3: Ignoring Prior Immigration Violations
Overstays, unauthorized work, or past removal orders can affect eligibility. Failing to disclose this information — or misunderstanding how it impacts your case — can lead to denial.
In some cases, you may need a waiver of inadmissibility before filing.
👉 Read our guide: What Is a Waiver of Unlawful Presence (I-601A)?
Mistake #4: Submitting Weak Evidence of a Real Marriage
For marriage-based cases, USCIS wants to see a bona fide relationship. Couples who submit few joint documents, inconsistent information, or staged photos often face requests for evidence or denial.
Strong evidence includes joint leases, shared bills, joint bank accounts, insurance policies, and genuine family photos.
Mistake #5: Trusting a Notario or Unqualified Preparer
Each year, many Texas families lose their chance at a green card because of bad advice from notarios. These individuals are not licensed attorneys and often file cases incorrectly, omit key forms, or miss deadlines that could have saved the case.
If you suspect your case was mishandled, you still have options — but you need professional help quickly.
👉 Schedule a consultation with Gilda Immigration to review your denial and explore next steps.