Applying for a Green Card is a major milestone—but it’s also a process where small mistakes can lead to big consequences.
At the Law Office of Carrie Nguyen, we’ve helped hundreds of families navigate the Adjustment of Status process. We have seen firsthand how easily preventable errors can delay or derail an application.
The good news? Most mistakes are avoidable with the right guidance. Here are the most common errors we see—and how you can avoid them.
Mistake #1: Filing When You Are Not Eligible
One of the most heartbreaking errors is applying for Adjustment of Status when you actually require Consular Processing.
- The Trap: Assuming that marriage to a U.S. citizen automatically fixes all immigration violations.
- The Reality: If you entered the U.S. without inspection (crossed the border without a visa), filing for Adjustment of Status will likely lead to a denial and could alert ICE to your presence.
How to avoid this: We carefully review your entry history and immigration record before you file anything.
Mistake #2: Traveling Without “Advance Parole”
Once you file your I-485 (Adjustment of Status), you cannot simply leave the U.S. and come back, even if you still have a valid tourist visa.
- The Consequence: If you leave the U.S. before your Travel Document (Form I-131) is approved, USCIS will consider your application abandoned. You will be stuck outside the U.S. and have to start over from scratch.
Our promise: We advise every client on travel restrictions and help you apply for emergency travel documents if a crisis arises.
Mistake #3: Insufficient Affidavit of Support (Form I-864)
USCIS is strict about financial sponsorship. Common I-864 mistakes include:
- Miscalculating household size.
- Providing gross income instead of “Total Income” from tax returns.
- Missing W-2s or 1099s.
How to fix it: We meticulously review your sponsor’s tax history. If they don’t qualify, we help you identify and vet a suitable joint sponsor.
Mistake #4: Inconsistent Information
Your forms (I-130 and I-485) tell a story. If the dates of your employment, addresses, or marriage history don’t match across different forms, it raises red flags.
- Example: Listing one address on your medical exam and a different one on your application.
At the Law Office of Carrie Nguyen, we review every page of your application for consistency to ensure your story is clear and accurate.
Mistake #5: Not Preparing for the Marriage Interview
For marriage-based cases, the interview is the final test. Failing to prepare can lead to suspicion of fraud.
- Red Flags: Not knowing your spouse’s work schedule, inconsistent answers about how you met, or having no joint financial evidence.
You Don’t Have to Go Through This Alone
If you have complications—prior arrests, visa overstays, or tax issues—trying to go it alone can be risky. We guide families through every stage with compassion, clarity, and persistence.
Let Us Help You Avoid These Mistakes.
Call us: 817-330-9734
Email us: info@carrielegal.com
Visit us: 721 N Fielder Rd., Suite C, Arlington, TX 76012
