Applicants seeking adjustment of status must typically submit Form I-485 along with proof of lawful entry, such as a valid visa or I-94 arrival/departure record. Supporting documents include a government-issued identity document, birth certificate, medical examination report (Form I-693), and evidence of eligibility like an approved immigrant petition (Form I-130 or I-140). Financial support forms, such as Form I-864 (Affidavit of Support), are also required to demonstrate the ability to avoid public charge.
What Documents are Needed for Adjustment of Status (Green Card Application)?
| Number | Name | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | I-944 (Declaration of Self-Sufficiency) | The I-944 form, Declaration of Self-Sufficiency, was required to demonstrate an applicant's financial independence when applying for Adjustment of Status (Form I-485) but has been discontinued as of March 9, 2021, following the federal court ruling and subsequent policy changes. Applicants now primarily need to submit Form I-485 along with supporting documents such as Form I-864 (Affidavit of Support), proof of lawful entry, medical examination results (Form I-693), and identity documents, while the I-944 is no longer a mandatory component of the green card application process. |
| 2 | Bona Fide Relationship Evidence | Evidence of a bona fide relationship for adjustment of status typically includes joint financial documents, lease or mortgage agreements showing cohabitation, photos together over time, affidavits from friends and family affirming the relationship's authenticity, and communication records such as emails or text messages. USCIS scrutinizes these documents to verify the legitimacy of the marital or partnership bond as part of the green card application process. |
| 3 | Certified Police Clearance Letters | Certified police clearance letters are essential for adjustment of status applications as they verify an applicant's criminal history or lack thereof, ensuring compliance with U.S. immigration eligibility requirements. These documents must be obtained from all countries where the applicant has resided for six months or more since turning 16, and must be official, issued by authorized law enforcement agencies, and translated into English if originally in another language. |
| 4 | Affidavit of Support (I-864) Joint Sponsor Packet | The Affidavit of Support (Form I-864) is a critical document for adjustment of status, requiring the petitioner to demonstrate sufficient income to support the intending immigrant. When the primary sponsor's income is insufficient, a joint sponsor must submit a complete I-864 Joint Sponsor Packet, including proof of income, tax returns, and a signed affidavit agreeing to financially support the applicant until they become a U.S. citizen or can be credited with 40 quarters of work. |
| 5 | Unexpired Advance Parole Document | An unexpired Advance Parole document is essential for adjustment of status applicants to re-enter the United States without abandoning their green card application. Other required documents typically include Form I-485, a valid passport, birth certificate, and proof of lawful entry or immigration status. |
| 6 | Certified USCIS Fingerprints Report | A Certified USCIS Fingerprints Report, obtained through biometrics appointment, is a crucial document required for the Adjustment of Status application to verify identity and conduct background checks. This report helps ensure eligibility and security clearance by confirming the applicant's fingerprints against FBI and immigration databases. |
| 7 | Medical Examination Report (I-693) in Sealed Envelope | The Medical Examination Report (Form I-693) must be completed by a USCIS-approved civil surgeon and submitted in a sealed envelope to confirm the applicant meets health requirements for adjustment of status. This sealed I-693 form ensures confidentiality and verifies the applicant is free from communicable diseases, vaccination deficiencies, and other health-related inadmissibility factors. |
| 8 | EAD Combo Card Evidence | The Employment Authorization Document (EAD) Combo Card serves as crucial evidence when applying for an Adjustment of Status, combining work authorization and advance parole travel permission in a single form. Essential documents for this process include Form I-485, Form I-765 for the EAD, Form I-131 for advance parole, a copy of the applicant's passport, birth certificate, and proof of lawful entry, all supporting the validity of the Combo Card application. |
| 9 | Social Media Activity Disclosure | Applicants for Adjustment of Status must submit Form I-485 along with supporting documents including a government-issued photo ID, birth certificate, and Form I-94. USCIS also requires disclosure of all social media handles used within the last five years to evaluate an applicant's identity and background during the green card application process. |
| 10 | Certified Translations with Translator Certification Letter | Certified translations with a translator certification letter are required when submitting foreign language documents for adjustment of status applications to ensure USCIS understands the content completely. The translator's certification must explicitly state their competence in both languages and affirm the accuracy and completeness of the translation, which is essential for documents such as birth certificates, marriage licenses, and police records. |
Overview of Adjustment of Status for Green Card Applicants
| Overview of Adjustment of Status for Green Card Applicants | |
|---|---|
| Definition | Adjustment of Status (AOS) is the process that allows an eligible individual present in the United States to apply for lawful permanent resident status (Green Card) without leaving the country. |
| Purpose | To transition from a temporary visa or nonimmigrant status to permanent residency through USCIS adjudication. |
| Eligibility | Applicants must meet specific categories including family-based, employment-based, asylum, or other qualifying cases. Physical presence in the U.S. and lawful entry often required. |
| Key Documents Needed for Adjustment of Status Application | |
| Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status | The primary USCIS form required to initiate the adjustment of status process. |
| Form I-130, Petition for Alien Relative (If applicable) | Required when applying based on a family relationship; establishes the qualifying relationship with a U.S. citizen or permanent resident. |
| Form I-864, Affidavit of Support | Demonstrates the petitioner's ability to financially support the applicant to prevent public charge. |
| Form I-693, Report of Medical Examination and Vaccination Record | Completed by a USCIS-designated civil surgeon after a medical examination to confirm applicant meets health requirements. |
| Proof of Lawful Entry | Copies of Form I-94 Arrival/Departure Record, visa stamps, or other evidence that the applicant entered the U.S. legally. |
| Identification Documents | Passport, birth certificate, and any government-issued photo identification to establish identity. |
| Evidence Supporting Eligibility | Depending on the category, documents such as marriage certificates, employment letters, asylum approval notices, or other proof relevant to the basis for adjustment. |
| Additional Considerations | |
| Biometrics Appointment | Applicants must attend a biometrics appointment for fingerprinting and photographing as part of identity verification. |
| Interview | USCIS may require an in-person interview to assess the application's eligibility and genuineness. |
| Fees | Filing fees for Form I-485 and any related forms must be paid; fee waivers may be available in certain situations. |
| Processing Time | Adjustment of Status processing times vary, generally ranging from several months to over a year depending on USCIS workload and case complexity. |
Eligibility Criteria for Adjustment of Status
To apply for Adjustment of Status (Green Card), applicants must be physically present in the United States and eligible under specific immigrant categories such as family-based, employment-based, or refugee status. Essential documents include a Form I-485 (Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status), a valid passport, proof of lawful entry, and an approved immigrant petition like Form I-130 or I-140. Demonstrating eligibility requires submission of supporting evidence, including medical examination results, birth certificates, and affidavits of support when applicable.
Key Steps in the Adjustment of Status Process
What documents are needed for the adjustment of status to obtain a Green Card? Key documents include Form I-485, a government-issued photo ID, and proof of lawful entry into the United States. Medical examination results and evidence of financial support are also essential to complete the application process.
What are the key steps involved in the adjustment of status process? The process starts with submitting Form I-485 along with the required supporting documents and fees. Applicants must then attend a biometrics appointment, followed by an interview with a USCIS officer before receiving a final decision on their Green Card application.
Essential Forms Required for Green Card Application
Filing for Adjustment of Status requires submitting key documents to USCIS to prove eligibility for a Green Card. Your application must include specific forms to ensure a smooth review process.
- Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status - This primary form initiates the Green Card application by providing personal and immigration details.
- Form I-797, Notice of Action - This document serves as proof of prior immigration petition approval, a critical step in the adjustment process.
- Form I-864, Affidavit of Support - Required to demonstrate the sponsor's financial ability to support you and prevent public charge issues.
Providing accurate and complete essential forms is vital for the timely processing of your Green Card application.
Supporting Documentation for Identity and Eligibility
Supporting documentation for identity and eligibility is crucial in the adjustment of status process for a Green Card application. These documents verify who you are and prove your eligibility under U.S. immigration laws.
Common documents include a valid passport, birth certificate, and government-issued photo ID. Evidence of lawful admission to the United States, such as an I-94 arrival/departure record, is also necessary to support your application.
Proof of Lawful Entry and Immigration Status
Proof of lawful entry and immigration status is essential for your Adjustment of Status application. These documents verify authorization to remain in the U.S. legally.
- Form I-94, Arrival/Departure Record - This form confirms your date of entry and admission status when you arrived in the United States.
- Passport with Visa Stamp - A valid passport containing a visa stamp provides evidence of lawful admission into the country.
- Departure Record or Entry Stamp - An official immigration stamp in your passport validates your lawful inspection and entry by U.S. Customs and Border Protection.
Financial Support Evidence: Affidavit of Support
When applying for adjustment of status, one essential document is the Affidavit of Support, which demonstrates the applicant's financial stability. This form, typically submitted using Form I-864, is a legally binding contract ensuring that the applicant will not rely on government welfare programs.
The sponsor must provide proof of income, such as recent tax returns, pay stubs, and employment verification. These financial documents are critical to establish the sponsor's ability to support the immigrant financially throughout the green card process.
Medical Examination and Vaccination Records
When applying for Adjustment of Status, a crucial requirement is the medical examination conducted by a USCIS-approved civil surgeon. This exam verifies that you do not have any health conditions that may affect your eligibility for a green card.
The medical examination includes a physical check-up, chest X-ray, and tests for communicable diseases. Vaccination records must be submitted to demonstrate immunity against diseases specified by USCIS, such as measles, mumps, rubella, and polio. Your civil surgeon will complete Form I-693, which must be sealed and submitted with the green card application package.
Common Mistakes to Avoid in Document Submission
Submitting accurate and complete documents is critical for a successful Adjustment of Status application. Understanding common mistakes can prevent costly delays or denials in the green card process.
- Incomplete Forms - Failing to provide fully completed forms such as Form I-485 often results in rejection or requests for additional information.
- Missing Supporting Evidence - Omitting essential documents like birth certificates, marriage certificates, or proof of lawful entry can lead to application denial.
- Poor Quality Copies - Submitting illegible or photocopied documents instead of clear, certified copies can cause processing errors and unnecessary delays.
What Documents are Needed for Adjustment of Status (Green Card Application)? Infographic
