Angelica Pichardo | Adjustment of Status & Naturalization | Tampa Bay & Nationwide

There are two main paths in this part of my practice: adjustment of status, a USCIS process for obtaining permanent residence when someone qualifies under specific categories of immigration law; and naturalization, the final step in becoming a U.S. citizen after holding lawful permanent residence.

Each case depends on your eligibility under the law, your immigration history, and the specifics of your situation. Before talking process, we evaluate together whether this path applies to your case.

Adjustment of Status

Adjustment of status is the USCIS process for obtaining lawful permanent residence (a green card) when someone qualifies under specific categories of immigration law.

The most common bases include:

Immediate relative of a U.S. citizen: spouse, unmarried child under 21, or parent (if the citizen is 21 or older).
Beneficiary of a family petition with a current visa number: for cases with a current priority date.
Asylees after one year and other humanitarian categories.

Not everyone with a relative in the U.S. qualifies for adjustment of status. Your entry into the country, your immigration history, and other factors determine whether this path applies. If it doesn't, I'll tell you clearly.

Naturalization

Naturalization is the process by which a permanent resident becomes a U.S. citizen. For many clients, it's the last step of a long road.

To apply for naturalization, you generally must:

Be at least 18 years old
Have been a permanent resident for a certain period, usually 5 years, or 3 years if married to a U.S. citizen
Have lived in the U.S. continuously and been physically present for the required time
Demonstrate good moral character
Pass the English and civics test (with some exceptions)

These are the basics. Every situation is different, some people qualify earlier than they think; others need to address issues before applying.

Before You Apply, What Matters

Both adjustment of status and naturalization require careful preparation. USCIS reviews your immigration and criminal history, so it's worth making sure everything is in order before filing.

Criminal record: Even old arrests, dismissed charges, or minor offenses can come up. I review your record and explain how it may affect your case.
Long trips abroad: These can affect required physical presence or continuous residence. We calculate together whether it's the right time to apply.
How you obtained your residence: If there were complications with your original application, we review them so there are no surprises.
Tax filings: USCIS checks whether you've filed your taxes. If there are gaps, we address them before applying.
Immigration history: Prior entries, departures, prior removal orders, all of it is considered before filing.

If any of this sounds familiar, a consultation can help you understand your options and apply with confidence.

What Working Together Looks Like

We start with a conversation: I listen to your story, your immigration history, and why you want to move forward now.
I evaluate your eligibility: I explain whether this path applies, the specific requirements, and any obstacles to address.
We prepare your case: I help you gather the right documents, complete the application, and avoid common mistakes.
I guide you through the process: From filing through interview, I walk with you at every step.

Is This You?

This path may apply if:

You have a family-based or humanitarian basis that qualifies for adjustment of status
You're a permanent resident and ready to apply for citizenship
You want to know whether you're truly ready before filing
You have concerns about your record and need guidance before moving forward