Change of Status in the USA

Change of Status (COS) is a process that allows foreign nationals with a nonimmigrant visa to change their status to another nonimmigrant category while in the United States. For example, a non-immigrant in B-2 tourist status may be able to change their status to F-1 student status.  

Changing non-immigrant status can be a complex process.

The timing of the change is critical and must be done with care to avoid falling out of status during the transition. 

Adjustment of Status allows a nonimmigrant visa holder who is in the United States to apply for and obtain lawful immigrant status (a green card) without having to leave the country.

For example, a non-immigrant in F-1 student status gets married to a US citizen.