To file an Adjustment of Status application, key documents include a completed Form I-485, proof of lawful entry such as a valid visa or I-94, and evidence of eligibility like a family relationship or employment offer. Applicants must also submit a medical examination report (Form I-693) and credible identification documents, including a birth certificate and passport photos. Supporting documentation showing financial stability or a sponsor's affidavit of support (Form I-864) is essential to demonstrate the applicant will not become a public charge.
What Documents Are Necessary for an Adjustment of Status Application?
| Number | Name | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Birth Certificate Apostille | A certified birth certificate with an apostille is crucial for an adjustment of status application, as it verifies the authenticity of the document for immigration authorities. The apostille ensures the birth certificate is recognized internationally and meets the legal requirements set by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). |
| 2 | Form I-693 Sealed Medical Examination | Form I-693 Sealed Medical Examination is a critical document required for an adjustment of status application, verifying that the applicant meets U.S. health standards to prevent inadmissibility on medical grounds. The completed Form I-693 must be submitted in a sealed envelope by a designated civil surgeon to ensure the confidentiality and authenticity of the medical evaluation. |
| 3 | Public Charge Declaration (Form I-944, withdrawn but referenced) | The Adjustment of Status application requires submitting Form I-485 along with evidence such as a valid passport, birth certificate, and proof of lawful entry. Although Form I-944, the Public Charge Declaration, was withdrawn in 2021, applicants should still provide comprehensive financial documentation demonstrating their ability to avoid becoming a public charge. |
| 4 | I-601A Provisional Unlawful Presence Waiver Approval Notice | The I-601A Provisional Unlawful Presence Waiver Approval Notice is essential for applicants seeking adjustment of status to demonstrate that their unlawful presence waiver has been provisionally approved, allowing them to proceed with consular processing abroad without prolonged separation from family in the U.S. Supporting documents typically include the approval notice itself, Form I-485, proof of eligibility, identity documents, and evidence of hardship to qualifying relatives. |
| 5 | Certified Police Clearance Letters | Certified police clearance letters are essential documents for an Adjustment of Status application, providing official verification that the applicant has no criminal record in their country of residence. These clearance letters must be obtained from all places where the applicant has lived for six months or more since turning 16 and must be officially translated if not in English. |
| 6 | Certified Court Disposition Records | Certified court disposition records are essential for an adjustment of status application as they provide official documentation of the outcome of any criminal cases, which USCIS reviews to assess eligibility and admissibility. Applicants must submit these certified records directly from the court to ensure authenticity and compliance with immigration regulations. |
| 7 | Proof of Lawful Entry (I-94 Travel History Printout) | An I-94 Travel History Printout is essential for an adjustment of status application as it provides official proof of lawful entry into the United States, documenting arrival and departure dates. This record, obtained from U.S. Customs and Border Protection, verifies a nonimmigrant's status and is critical for USCIS to confirm eligibility for status adjustment. |
| 8 | I-864A Household Member Contract | The I-864A Household Member Contract is essential for adjustment of status applications when a household member agrees to contribute income to meet the affidavit of support requirements. This legally binding agreement supplements the primary sponsor's financial evidence, ensuring the intending immigrant meets USCIS income thresholds for admission. |
| 9 | Certified English Translations (with Translator’s Certification) | Certified English translations with a translator's certification are essential for any foreign language documents submitted in an adjustment of status application to USCIS, ensuring accuracy and compliance with immigration requirements. The translator's certification must affirm the completeness and truthfulness of the translation, including the translator's name, signature, and date, which helps prevent processing delays or denials. |
| 10 | Financial Sponsor’s Tax Transcript (Direct IRS Download) | The financial sponsor's tax transcript, obtained via direct IRS download, is a crucial document for an adjustment of status application to verify income and ensure the sponsor meets the necessary affidavit of support requirements. This transcript typically includes IRS Form 1040 data, providing the immigration authorities with accurate and official financial information. |
Introduction to Adjustment of Status Application
An Adjustment of Status application allows eligible individuals to become lawful permanent residents without leaving the United States. Understanding the required documents is essential to ensure a smooth and successful application process.
- Form I-485 - The primary application form for requesting a change of status to permanent resident.
- Proof of Eligibility - Documents such as an approved immigrant petition or qualifying family relationship demonstrating eligibility.
- Supporting Evidence - Includes identity documents, medical examination results, and financial sponsorship to verify applicant qualifications.
Key Eligibility Requirements for Adjustment of Status
An adjustment of status application requires specific documents to verify eligibility and identity. Key eligibility requirements focus on lawful entry and a qualifying immigrant petition.
- Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status - This is the primary form needed to begin the adjustment of status process.
- Proof of lawful entry - Documents such as Form I-94 or a valid visa confirm you entered the U.S. legally.
- Approved immigrant petition - An approved Form I-130, Form I-140, or other qualifying petition is necessary to establish eligibility.
Submitting complete and accurate documentation supports a smooth adjustment of status application process.
Essential Immigration Forms for Adjustment of Status
Filing an Adjustment of Status application requires submitting specific immigration forms to USCIS for lawful permanent residency consideration. Properly preparing these essential documents ensures a smoother and more efficient adjustment process.
- Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status - This primary form is used to apply for lawful permanent resident status from within the United States.
- Form I-130, Petition for Alien Relative - Filed by a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident to establish a qualifying family relationship for adjustment eligibility.
- Form I-864, Affidavit of Support - A sponsorship form demonstrating the petitioner's financial ability to support the applicant and prevent public charge.
Required Supporting Documents for Green Card Application
An adjustment of status application requires specific supporting documents to prove eligibility for a green card. These documents verify identity, immigration status, and eligibility criteria.
Essential documents include a valid passport, birth certificate, and Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status. Additional evidence, such as Form I-94, medical examination results (Form I-693), and proof of financial support, must also be submitted.
Proof of Lawful Entry and Inspection
What documents prove lawful entry and inspection for an Adjustment of Status application? You must provide Form I-94, Arrival/Departure Record, which confirms your initial entry into the United States. A valid passport with an entry stamp or visa supporting inspection by a U.S. immigration officer also serves as critical evidence.
Evidence of Valid Relationship for Family-Based Applications
Proof of a bona fide relationship is essential for family-based adjustment of status applications. Documents such as marriage certificates, joint financial statements, and photos together help establish validity. Affidavits from friends or family confirming the genuine relationship further support the application.
Financial Support: Affidavit of Support and Income Documentation
Financial support is a critical aspect of the adjustment of status application. The Affidavit of Support (Form I-864) demonstrates that the intending immigrant will not become a public charge.
The sponsor must provide proof of income by submitting recent tax returns, W-2 forms, and employment verification letters. These documents ensure the sponsor meets or exceeds 125% of the federal poverty guidelines. Proper financial documentation helps USCIS evaluate the applicant's ability to sustain themselves without government assistance.
Medical Examination and Vaccination Records
| Document | Description | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Medical Examination Report (Form I-693) | Completed by a USCIS-designated civil surgeon after a thorough medical exam. | Confirms absence of health conditions that may disqualify applicants from adjusting status. |
| Vaccination Records | Official immunization records showing compliance with CDC vaccination requirements. | Ensures protection against communicable diseases as mandated for adjustment of status. |
| Proof of Vaccination | Documentation such as vaccination cards, school records, or medical provider notes. | Verifies that necessary vaccines have been administered according to public health guidelines. |
Your adjustment of status application cannot proceed without submitting a complete medical examination report and accurate vaccination records. Medical findings protect public health and support eligibility verification during the immigration process.
Additional Evidence for Employment-Based Adjustment
For an employment-based adjustment of status application, specific additional documents are essential to support your case. These include a valid job offer letter, certified labor certification (PERM), and proof of employer's ability to pay the offered wage. Submission of recent pay stubs, tax returns, and an approved immigrant petition (Form I-140) is critical for a successful adjustment process.
What Documents Are Necessary for an Adjustment of Status Application? Infographic
