McBean Immigration Law

St. Lucian Client Approved for Green Card After I-485 Denial

We have another great uplifting story for you! It’s about our client who lived in the United States for nearly 25 years, only to have her green card case denied because of filing errors and affidavit of support issues.

She entered the United States from St. Lucia in 2001 on a visitor visa and remained in the U.S. without lawful status for many years. 

A family-based petition had been filed for her years earlier by her brother, but the case became complicated after his passing, along with issues involving filing deadlines and eligibility. 

In 2023, her U.S. citizen daughter filed a new I-130 petition on her behalf, and it was approved at the end of 2023. 

The client and her daughter then filed the I-485 Adjustment of Status application on their own. 

Unfortunately, the case was later denied due to affidavit of support problems and filing errors, even though USCIS did not issue a NOID (Notice of Intent to Deny). 

Our firm reviewed the denial and quickly identified something important: the decision was based on procedural and documentary deficiencies, not the merits of the case. 

So we took action.  

We filed a Motion to Reopen/Reconsider, challenging the denial and requesting that the adjustment application be reopened. 

In June 2025, USCIS reopened the case, giving our client a renewed opportunity to pursue permanent residency after decades of uncertainty

Following the reopening, USCIS scheduled her for an in-person interview in October 2025. 

After the interview, USCIS issued a Request for Evidence for a birth certificate, which our office promptly and thoroughly responded to. 

And finally, after nearly 25 years in the United States, her I-485 was approved in January 2026. 

Today, our client is a lawful permanent resident, with her green card issued,  marking the successful conclusion of a long and complex immigration journey. 

This case is a powerful reminder: when a denial happens because of errors, not eligibility, careful review, strategic motions, and persistence can still get you to the finish line. 

If your case was denied and you’re not sure what your options are, contact McBean Law so we can help you build a strong legal plan. 

Call us at (914) 898-9488 to schedule a private consultation. 

P.S. Every case is different. Prior results do not guarantee similar outcomes. Always consult with a licensed immigration attorney about your specific situation.

About the Author

mcbeanlawfirm

McBean Law, PLLC is a New York immigration law firm and your trusted partner in navigating the complexities of immigration law in the United States. From family-based visas to employment-based green cards, we specialize in guiding clients through every aspect of the immigration process with expertise and compassion. We help clients with obtaining waivers, removal defense, motions and appeals, humanitarian requests, consular processing, and naturalization and citizenship. With a focus on personalized support and a proven track record of success, our experienced team of New York immigration lawyers is here to help you achieve your dreams of a brighter future in the United States.

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