Form I-485, officially known as the "Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status," is used by individuals in the United States to apply for a green card (permanent residency). This form allows eligible applicants to adjust their status from temporary visa holders to lawful permanent residents without having to return to their home country to complete visa processing.
Who is eligible?
-Individuals who are immediate relatives of U.S. citizens (spouses, unmarried children under 21, and parents) or have a family preference category petition approved can apply for a green card.
-Workers who have an approved employment-based immigrant petition (such as EB-1, EB-2, or EB-3) can file for adjustment of status.
-Individuals granted asylum or refugee status in the U.S. can apply for a green card after one year of residence.
-Winners of the Diversity Visa Lottery who are in the U.S. can use Form I-485 to adjust their status.
-Certain special immigrant categories, such as VAWA self-petitioners, U visa holders, and others, may also be eligible to file Form I-485.
What are the requirements for an I-485 Green card?
Form I-485: The completed and signed application form.
-Proof of Eligibility: This could include a copy of the approved immigrant petition (Form I-130 or I-140), asylum approval notice, or Diversity Visa notification.
-Identity and Civil Documents: A copy of your passport, birth certificate, marriage certificate (if applicable), and any previous immigration documents.
-Medical Examination: Form I-693, Report of Medical Examination and Vaccination Record, completed by a USCIS-authorized civil surgeon.
-Affidavit of Support: If applying based on a family petition, Form I-864, Affidavit of Support, may be required to prove that you will not become a public charge.
-Photos: Passport-style photographs meeting USCIS specifications.
-Filing Fee: The required fee for Form I-485 may vary based on age and category. Fee waivers are available for eligible applicants.
What are the benefits of Filing I-485:
-Adjustment of Status: Allows you to stay in the U.S. while your green card application is being processed.
-Work and Travel Authorization: You may apply for employment authorization (EAD) and advance parole (travel document) while your I-485 is pending.
-Family Members: Eligible family members may also file their own I-485 applications as derivative beneficiaries.
- Submit Form I-485 and the required documentation to the appropriate USCIS service center.
-USCIS will schedule a biometrics appointment where your fingerprints, photograph, and signature will be taken for background checks.
-USCIS will require an in-person interview at a local office to verify the information in your application. They may ask questions about your eligibility, background, and intent to remain in the U.S.
-After reviewing your application, USCIS will issue a decision. If approved, you will receive your green card in the mail.
