Comprehensive Overview of Immigration Law (COIL) Practice Exam 2025 – The All-in-One Guide to Mastering Immigration Law!

Mateus and Giselle's ineligibility to adjust under INA § 245(a) is rooted in the requirement that applicants must have maintained lawful immigration status throughout their time in the United States. INA § 245(a) provides a pathway for individuals to adjust their status to that of a lawful permanent resident, but certain conditions must be met. If individuals do not maintain their lawful status, they lose eligibility for this adjustment.

In the context of this situation, if Mateus and Giselle have been in the country unlawfully or have violated the terms of their status, this directly impacts their ability to apply for adjustment of status. Immigration laws are structured in a way to reward those who comply with legal immigration frameworks, making continual lawful presence a key factor in eligibility.

While other options may seem relevant in certain contexts, the specific requirement of maintaining lawful status is the fundamental reason for their ineligibility under the cited statute.