The Green Card Process: ADIT Processing Explained

It seems that many people who go through the Green Card process are confused about ADIT.  Keep reading to learn more about getting a Green Card and to have ADIT Processing explained. 

Confusion About the Meaning of ADIT

Usually, people applying for their Green Card do not hear of the ADIT Processing until the last stages of getting a Green Card.  They see the acronym in email updates that show the current status of their application and the news on what is next on their to do list.  It usually shows up in a message that reads:
 

• “Your new permanent resident card should be mailed within 60 days following this registration or after you complete any ADIT processing referred to in the welcome notice, whichever is later.”

 
This can cause a lot of anxiety:  what is this ADIT processing and what do you have to do to ensure that it is complete so that you get your Green Card in a timely fashion?  The last thing you want to do at the end of this process is to slow it down.

What Does ADIT Stand For?

The acronym ADIT is not clearly explained on the notifications sent to you by the government while you are taking care of your Green Card Process.  ADIT stands for Alien Documentation, Identification & Telecommunications System.  In other words, ADIT is the process of getting you established as a working alien and sets up your contact information and profile.

When the government talks about ADIT processing, they are referring to the process of getting your I-551 stamp in your passport and getting your photos and fingerprints taken for your actual card.  This means you will have to submit your fingerprints and passport-style photographs for your card, and that you have to make sure your passport gets stamped.

What Does ADIT Do for You?

ADIT is a system that is designed to replace the existing alien registration receipt cards and non-resident alien border crossing cards.  These are the cards (I-86) that legal aliens in the United States are supposed to carry.  However, ADIT makes the process simpler by giving an easy passport process, a visa, and automated card. 

There are no new requirements for aliens today under ADIT, it just makes the process more streamlined and effective.  With ADIT, you have a far greater chance that your documents can be confiscated or copied, and telecommunications lines, automated access to documentation files at certain ports of entry, and minicomputers are all set up now because of ADIT to work with these electronic documents to help ease the process of entering the country and staying in the country for work.

Getting Legal Help

If you are confused about any aspect of the green card process, your best bet is to consult with an experienced immigration law attorney who can provide you with guidance throughout the entire immigration and application requirements.