Form I-485 — Adjustment of Status

What is it?

Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status, is filed by eligible immigrants already in the US to apply for a green card without having to return to their home country for consular processing. It is typically filed together with I-864 (Affidavit of Support), I-765 (work permit), and I-131 (travel permit).

Who needs it?

People in the US on a nonimmigrant visa (or other eligible status) who have an approved immigrant petition (I-130, I-140, etc.) and want to become lawful permanent residents without departing the US.

Required Documents

• Form I-485
• Approved I-130 or I-140 (or concurrent filing)
• Form I-864 Affidavit of Support from petitioner
• Valid passport
• Two passport-style photos
• Birth certificate with certified translation
• Form I-94 Arrival/Departure record
• Medical examination (Form I-693, sealed envelope from civil surgeon)
• Police clearance certificates from each country lived in for 6+ months
• Evidence of legal entry (visa stamp, I-94)
• Form G-1145 (e-notification, optional)

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Filing when there is no visa number available (priority date not current)
• Incorrect I-94 or evidence of unlawful presence
• Missing police clearance from all required countries
• I-693 medical exam expired (valid for 2 years from civil surgeon signature)
• Incorrect fee — USCIS fees change; verify on uscis.gov before sending
• Filing before I-130 is approved (unless concurrent filing is allowed)

Approval Tips

• Check the Visa Bulletin at travel.state.gov monthly to confirm your priority date is current
• Attend biometrics (ASC) and interview appointments — missing them causes denial
• Keep copies of everything you send to USCIS
• Respond to any RFE (Request for Evidence) promptly and completely
• Track your case at egov.uscis.gov using the receipt number