Compare your options
DIY, AOSvisa, or an immigration attorney?
There are three honest ways to prepare a marriage-based Adjustment of Status. This page lays out what each path costs, what each one includes, and who each one is right for — so you can pick the path that actually fits your case.
At a glance
Doing it yourself (DIY)
Free in software, but you'll spend significant time researching USCIS requirements. Best for organized couples with straightforward cases who are comfortable reading USCIS instructions and managing the package themselves.
Using AOSvisa
Software that guides you through every USCIS form, validates your answers, organizes your evidence, and produces a filing-ready package. $399 self-service or $599 full-service. Best for straightforward cases that want the structure of software without paying attorney prices.
Hiring an immigration attorney
A licensed attorney prepares the package and gives legal advice tailored to your case. Typical pricing $5,000–$8,000. Best for complex cases (prior deportations, criminal history, fraud findings, unlawful entry, prior denials) or couples who want a professional alongside them through the interview.
Side by side
| Dimension | DIY | AOSvisa | Immigration attorney |
|---|---|---|---|
| Preparation cost | $0 | $399 (self-service) or $599 (full-service) | $5,000–$8,000 typical |
| USCIS fees (separate) | Approximately $3,005 | Approximately $3,005 | Approximately $3,005 |
| Forms covered | You decide — typically I-130, I-130A, I-485, I-864, I-765, I-131 | All six (I-130, I-130A, I-485, I-864, I-765, I-131) by default | All required forms; attorney decides what to file |
| Evidence organization | You build the index yourself | Software produces an evidence index per form | Attorney's paralegal organizes |
| Cover letter | You write it (USCIS doesn't require one) | Generated for you, following USCIS conventions | Attorney writes it (often on firm letterhead) |
| Legal advice on your specific case | None | None — AOSvisa is software, not a law firm | Yes — that is what you are paying for |
| USCIS interview representation | You attend alone (most couples do) | You attend alone (most couples do) | Attorney attends with you when retained for this |
| Time to prepare the package | Weeks of research, variable | Typically 3–6 hours over a weekend | Attorneys typically deliver in 2–8 weeks |
| Best for | Comfortable readers with simple cases and plenty of time | Straightforward marriage-based AOS cases wanting guided structure | Complex cases or couples who want a professional present |
USCIS fees change periodically; verify current amounts at uscis.gov. No service of any kind — DIY, AOSvisa, or attorney — can guarantee USCIS approval; USCIS decides every case on its merits.
Which path fits your case?
Choose DIY if…
You have time to read USCIS instructions carefully, your case is straightforward, and you're confident filling out government forms without guided validation. The cost is your time — and any Requests for Evidence caused by avoidable mistakes.
Choose AOSvisa if…
Your case is straightforward — you're inside the U.S., entered legally, no prior deportations or serious criminal history, no prior fraud findings — and you want guided structure, validated answers, and an organized package at a fraction of attorney pricing. Start with our free 5-question eligibility check.
Choose an immigration attorney if…
Your case has any of these: prior deportation or removal order, criminal history (especially serious offenses), unlawful entry or extended overstay, prior visa or AOS denials, USCIS findings of misrepresentation, or a very recent marriage with little shared history. An attorney's judgment in these situations is worth what they charge.
Not sure if this is right for you?
Whether you want to check if you qualify, learn more about how our service works, or just have questions — we're here to help. Call or email us and we'll walk you through it.
Not sure where your case fits?
Our free 5-question eligibility check tells you in about a minute whether AOSvisa is a good match for your situation — or whether you should consult an attorney first.
Check eligibility