To complete the Adjustment of Status process using Form I-485, applicants must submit essential documents including a valid passport, birth certificate, and proof of lawful entry into the United States such as Form I-94. Medical examination results on Form I-693, evidence of eligibility like an approved immigrant petition, and financial documents demonstrating support are also required. These documents ensure USCIS can verify identity, immigration status, and eligibility for permanent residency.
What Documents Are Necessary for Adjustment of Status (Form I-485)?
| Number | Name | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Public Charge Rule Evidence | For Adjustment of Status (Form I-485), applicants must provide evidence demonstrating they are not likely to become a public charge, including Form I-944 (Declaration of Self-Sufficiency) or equivalent documentation of income, assets, employment, and health insurance coverage. Supporting documents such as tax returns, pay stubs, employment verification letters, and proof of financial support strengthen compliance with the Public Charge Rule requirements. |
| 2 | I-693 Sealed Medical Exam Packet | The I-693 Sealed Medical Exam Packet, completed by a USCIS-approved civil surgeon, is essential for the Adjustment of Status (Form I-485) as it verifies the applicant meets health-related eligibility requirements. This sealed medical report must be submitted unopened to ensure compliance with USCIS regulations and to prevent delays in the processing of the green card application. |
| 3 | Interfiling Supplement J | Form I-485 requires supporting documents such as a valid passport, birth certificate, and proof of lawful entry, while Interfiling Supplement J specifically facilitates updating or substituting the underlying approved immigrant petition to reflect a change in job offer or employer. Timely submission of Supplement J is crucial to substantiate eligibility for adjustment of status based on an employment-based immigrant petition. |
| 4 | Bona Fide Marriage Evidence | Bona fide marriage evidence for Form I-485 adjustment of status includes joint financial documents such as shared bank statements, lease or mortgage agreements with both spouses' names, and affidavits from friends or family affirming the legitimacy of the marital relationship. Additional crucial documents are photos together, birth certificates of children born into the marriage, and correspondence addressed to both spouses at the same residence. |
| 5 | Vaccination Record Translations | A certified English translation of vaccination records is required for Form I-485 to verify compliance with USCIS immunization requirements. Accurate translation by a qualified professional ensures the medical documentation meets eligibility criteria for adjustment of status. |
| 6 | Advance Parole Combo Card | For Adjustment of Status (Form I-485), key documents include a valid Advance Parole Combo Card, which serves as both a travel document and employment authorization while the application is pending. This card allows applicants to maintain their immigration status and re-enter the U.S. without abandoning their adjustment application. |
| 7 | I-601A Provisional Waiver Approval | For Adjustment of Status (Form I-485), key documents include a valid I-601A Provisional Waiver Approval, which is essential for applicants with unlawful presence seeking to waive inadmissibility grounds. Supporting documents also include a copy of the Form I-797 approval notice for the waiver, evidence of the qualifying relative's U.S. citizenship or lawful permanent residence, and proof of the applicant's eligibility and admissibility. |
| 8 | DACA Work Authorization Evidence | Applicants submitting Form I-485 for Adjustment of Status must provide DACA work authorization evidence, including the Employment Authorization Document (EAD) issued under Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals. Supporting documents such as Form I-766 and any recent employment verification letters help establish continuous lawful presence and eligibility. |
| 9 | Certified Divorce Decree Translations | Certified divorce decree translations are essential for Form I-485 to verify marital status when the original divorce documents are not in English. USCIS requires these translations to be accurate and accompanied by a certification from the translator ensuring completeness and accuracy. |
| 10 | Special Immigrant Juvenile Court Order | The Special Immigrant Juvenile Court Order is essential for Adjustment of Status (Form I-485) applicants who qualify as special immigrant juveniles, providing court findings that the applicant is dependent on the juvenile court, cannot reunify with one or both parents due to abuse, neglect, or abandonment, and that it is not in the child's best interest to be returned to their home country. Along with this order, applicants must submit Form I-485, evidence of eligibility under the special immigrant juvenile category, a copy of the juvenile court order, birth certificate, and any other USCIS-requested supporting documentation to demonstrate continuous physical presence and admissibility. |
Introduction to Adjustment of Status (Form I-485)
Adjustment of Status allows eligible individuals in the United States to apply for lawful permanent resident status without leaving the country. Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status, is the key document for this process. Understanding the necessary supporting documents is crucial for a successful submission.
Eligibility Criteria for Form I-485
What documents are necessary for the adjustment of status using Form I-485? Applicants must provide proof of eligibility such as an approved immigrant petition or a qualifying family relationship. Supporting documents include a government-issued photo ID, birth certificate, and proof of lawful entry into the United States.
What are the eligibility criteria for filing Form I-485? Eligibility requires the applicant to be physically present in the United States and have an approved immigrant visa petition or an immediate relative petition. The applicant must not have any disqualifying criminal convictions or immigration violations that bar adjustment.
Essential Identification Documents
| Essential Identification Documents for Adjustment of Status (Form I-485) |
|---|
| 1. Valid Passport |
| The primary identification document required is a valid passport from your country of origin. This passport must be current and should include any entry stamps into the United States. |
| 2. Birth Certificate |
| A certified copy of your birth certificate is necessary to establish your identity and familial relationships. |
| 3. Government-Issued Photo ID |
| Submission of a government-issued photo identification card such as a driver's license or state ID helps verify your identity within the United States. |
| 4. I-94 Arrival/Departure Record |
| Your I-94 record is essential to prove lawful admission or parole into the United States. |
| 5. Previous Immigration Documents |
| Include copies of all previously issued USCIS documents such as approval notices, employment authorization cards, or any prior I-485 receipts. |
Proof of Lawful Entry and Immigration Status
Proof of lawful entry and current immigration status is essential when filing Form I-485 for Adjustment of Status. These documents verify your eligibility to adjust status within the United States.
- Form I-94 Arrival/Departure Record - Demonstrates your lawful admission to the U.S. and entry date.
- Passport with Visa Stamp - Serves as evidence of your legal entry and authorized stay.
- Previous Immigration Documents - Includes notices or permits showing your current valid immigration status.
Ensure all documents clearly establish your lawful presence and status to prevent delays in processing.
Financial Support Documents: Form I-864 Affidavit of Support
Financial support documents are essential for the Adjustment of Status process using Form I-485. Form I-864, Affidavit of Support, demonstrates the sponsor's ability to support the applicant financially and prevent them from becoming a public charge.
- Form I-864 Submission - The petitioner or sponsor must complete and sign the Affidavit of Support, proving sufficient income or assets.
- Income Evidence - Supporting documents include federal tax returns, W-2 forms, and recent pay stubs to verify financial capacity.
- Household Size Reporting - Accurate household size must be declared to meet the income requirement based on Federal Poverty Guidelines.
Medical Examination and Vaccination Records (Form I-693)
The Medical Examination and Vaccination Records are critical components for the Adjustment of Status process using Form I-485. Form I-693 verifies an applicant's health and vaccination history to meet U.S. immigration requirements.
- Form I-693 Requirement - USCIS mandates a completed Form I-693 from a designated civil surgeon to confirm medical eligibility.
- Vaccination Records - Proof of required vaccinations must be documented as part of Form I-693 to prevent inadmissibility based on health grounds.
- Submission Timing - The sealed Form I-693 should be submitted with or shortly after filing Form I-485 to avoid processing delays.
Criminal History and Police Certificates
When applying for Adjustment of Status using Form I-485, a complete criminal history is crucial. Police certificates serve as official records verifying your background and must be submitted if requested.
Disclosing all arrests, convictions, and encounters with law enforcement maintains transparency in the process. Failure to present accurate criminal history or police certificates may result in application denial or delays.
Photographic Requirements for Form I-485
Photographic requirements for Form I-485 are specific and must meet USCIS standards. A recent color photograph taken within 30 days of filing is mandatory.
The photograph must be 2x2 inches in size, showing a full face, front view with a plain white or off-white background. The image should be clear, in focus, and with no shadows or glare. Glasses, hats, or head coverings are generally not allowed unless worn for religious reasons and must not obscure the face.
Additional Documentation for Special Categories (Asylees, Refugees, etc.)
When filing Form I-485 for adjustment of status, additional documentation is required for special categories such as asylees and refugees. You must include evidence of your asylum or refugee status, such as the approval notice from USCIS or the Department of State. Supporting documents may also consist of Form I-94 arrival/departure record and any relevant court or immigration orders verifying your eligibility.
What Documents Are Necessary for Adjustment of Status (Form I-485)? Infographic
