AC21, an abbreviation for the American Competitiveness in the 21st Century Act, is a United States federal law enacted in 2000. Among other provisions, it allows certain nonimmigrant workers in the United States to change their nonimmigrant status to that of a permanent resident without having to leave the country. This process is commonly referred to as “adjusting status.”
There are several benefits to applying for AC21. First, it allows individuals to remain in the United States while their application is being processed. This can be a significant advantage for those who would otherwise have to return to their home country and wait for their application to be approved before returning to the United States. Second, AC21 can help individuals avoid the time and expense of having to apply for an immigrant visa at a U.S. consulate abroad. Third, AC21 can help individuals maintain their current employment and avoid losing their job due to a change in immigration status.
