To file Form I-485 for Adjustment of Status, essential documents include a valid passport, birth certificate, and Form I-94 Arrival/Departure Record. Applicants must also submit evidence of lawful entry, medical examination results (Form I-693), and proof of eligibility such as an approved immigrant petition (Form I-130 or I-140). Supporting documentation like marriage certificates, financial affidavits, and biometric appointment notices are required to complete the application process.
What Documents Are Needed for I-485 Adjustment of Status?
| Number | Name | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Bona Fide Marriage Evidence | For I-485 Adjustment of Status based on marriage, submitting substantial bona fide marriage evidence is critical, including joint bank account statements, lease agreements, photos together, affidavits from friends or family, and shared insurance policies to prove genuine marital relationship. USCIS evaluates this documentation to confirm the marriage is not solely for immigration benefits. |
| 2 | Continuous Physical Presence Proof | Submitting Form I-485 for adjustment of status requires proof of continuous physical presence in the United States, including documents such as rental agreements, utility bills, employment records, school transcripts, and travel history showing no prolonged absences. These records help demonstrate uninterrupted residence, a critical factor for eligibility in the adjustment process. |
| 3 | Electronic Civil Document (e-doc) | The I-485 Adjustment of Status application requires submission of the Electronic Civil Document (e-doc), which includes digitally verified birth, marriage, or divorce certificates to streamline processing and reduce fraud. This e-doc system enhances USCIS efficiency by allowing applicants to upload certified civil records electronically, ensuring faster validation and approval times. |
| 4 | Everify Identity Verification Letter | The I-485 Adjustment of Status application requires submitting a variety of documents, including the E-Verify Identity Verification Letter, which confirms an applicant's employment eligibility and identity validation through the E-Verify system. This letter supports USCIS's verification process, ensuring accurate identity confirmation alongside other essential documents such as Form I-693, passport, and medical records. |
| 5 | DACA Parole-in-Place Record | For an I-485 Adjustment of Status application, submitting a DACA Parole-in-Place (PIP) record requires proof of continuous presence, such as valid Employment Authorization Documents (EAD) and evidence of PIP approval. Key documents include Form I-797 Notices, valid DACA approval notices, and any USCIS correspondence verifying parole status to establish eligibility for adjustment under parole-in-place provisions. |
| 6 | Medical Referral Sheet (I-693) | The Medical Referral Sheet (Form I-693) is a crucial document for the I-485 Adjustment of Status application, required to prove the applicant has undergone a USCIS-approved medical examination by a designated civil surgeon. This form confirms the applicant is free from any health conditions that could make them inadmissible, including communicable diseases or vaccination deficiencies, and must be submitted sealed and within the validity period specified by USCIS. |
| 7 | CBP Arrival/Departure Record Screenshot | A CBP Arrival/Departure Record screenshot (Form I-94) is crucial for the I-485 Adjustment of Status application as it verifies lawful entry into the United States. This document confirms the applicant's admission date, status, and duration of stay, supporting eligibility for adjustment under USCIS guidelines. |
| 8 | Expungement Certificate for Prior Arrests | An Expungement Certificate is crucial for the I-485 Adjustment of Status application as it demonstrates the official clearing of prior arrests from your criminal record, which immigration officers consider when evaluating your eligibility. Submitting this certificate helps prevent adverse decisions based on past legal issues and supports a more favorable review of your adjustment application. |
| 9 | State-issued REAL ID Copy | A State-issued REAL ID copy is essential for the I-485 Adjustment of Status application as it verifies your identity and residency in the United States, ensuring compliance with DHS requirements. Including a valid REAL ID alongside your Form I-485 and supporting documents streamlines the processing of your adjustment of status request. |
| 10 | I-944 Public Charge Declaration (legacy) | The I-944 Public Charge Declaration (legacy) requires applicants to submit detailed financial information, including assets, employment history, and health insurance coverage, to demonstrate they are unlikely to become a public charge. Supporting documents such as tax returns, bank statements, and proof of current health benefits are essential to complete the I-485 Adjustment of Status application. |
Introduction to I-485 Adjustment of Status
The I-485 Adjustment of Status is a key step for individuals seeking to become lawful permanent residents of the United States without leaving the country. This process allows you to apply for a green card based on eligibility through family, employment, or other categories.
Submitting the correct documents is essential to avoid delays or denials in the application process. Required paperwork typically includes proof of lawful entry, identity, and eligibility for adjustment of status under U.S. immigration law.
Eligibility Criteria for Form I-485
The I-485 Adjustment of Status application requires specific documents to prove eligibility and identity. Key forms include a completed Form I-485, a copy of your birth certificate, and passport-style photos.
Eligibility criteria for Form I-485 involve being physically present in the United States and having an approved immigrant petition such as Form I-130 or Form I-140. You must demonstrate admissibility, meaning no disqualifying criminal or immigration violations. Proof of lawful entry, proof of status, and medical examination results on Form I-693 are also essential for successful submission.
Checklist of Required I-485 Supporting Documents
The I-485 Adjustment of Status application requires specific supporting documents to verify eligibility and identity. Gathering the correct checklist of documents ensures a smoother processing experience.
- Proof of Identity - A valid government-issued photo ID such as a passport or driver's license must be included to confirm identity.
- Birth Certificate - Submit an official birth certificate to establish your date and place of birth.
- Form I-94 Arrival/Departure Record - Provide your I-94 to show your lawful entry into the United States.
- Medical Examination Report - Include a completed Form I-693 from a USCIS-approved civil surgeon to confirm you meet health requirements.
- Proof of Lawful Status - Documentation such as a visa or approved petition verifies your current immigration status.
- Two Passport-Style Photos - Recent photos are required for identification and processing purposes.
- Filing Fee Payment Receipt - Include the receipt confirming payment of the I-485 application fee to avoid processing delays.
- Affidavit of Support - Submit Form I-864 or equivalent to demonstrate financial support and prevent public charge concerns.
- Marriage Certificate (if applicable) - This document is necessary if filing based on a family-based petition through a spouse.
Proof of Lawful Entry and Status
Proof of lawful entry and current status are critical requirements for the I-485 Adjustment of Status application. These documents verify that the applicant entered the U.S. legally and maintains lawful status at the time of filing.
- Form I-94 Arrival/Departure Record - This document shows the date and port of entry, confirming lawful admission into the United States.
- Passport with Visa Stamp - A passport containing a valid visa supports the applicant's lawful entry and authorized stay.
- Admission Stamp - The stamp placed by customs officials upon arrival in the U.S. verifies legal entry and the class of admission.
Submitting evidence of lawful entry and valid status helps USCIS determine eligibility for adjustment of status under immigration law.
Identity and Civil Documents for I-485
Identity and civil documents are essential for the I-485 adjustment of status application to verify eligibility and background. Required documents typically include a valid passport, birth certificate, marriage certificate (if applicable), and any previous immigration records. Ensure all submissions are clear, legible, and accompanied by certified translations if not in English.
Financial Support: Affidavit of Support (Form I-864)
| Document | Description | Purpose | Key Details |
|---|---|---|---|
| Affidavit of Support (Form I-864) | Legally binding contract between petitioner and U.S. government | Demonstrates that the applicant has adequate financial support and is unlikely to become a public charge |
|
Medical Examination and Vaccination Records (Form I-693)
The I-485 Adjustment of Status process requires applicants to submit Form I-693, which documents the medical examination and vaccination records. This form must be completed by a USCIS-approved civil surgeon to verify that the applicant meets health-related requirements.
Medical examinations include screenings for communicable diseases and proof of required vaccinations based on CDC guidelines. Accurate and timely submission of Form I-693 ensures the applicant's eligibility and prevents delays in the adjustment of status process.
Employment Authorization and Advance Parole Applications
What documents are needed for I-485 Adjustment of Status related to Employment Authorization and Advance Parole applications? Submit Form I-765 to apply for Employment Authorization, allowing you to work legally while your adjustment status is pending. File Form I-131 for Advance Parole to travel outside the U.S. without jeopardizing your application status.
Common Document Mistakes to Avoid
Filing the I-485 Adjustment of Status application requires submitting specific documents accurately to avoid delays or denials. Common mistakes in document preparation can hinder the approval process and prolong your immigration journey.
- Incomplete or Illegible Copies - Submitting blurry or partial copies of key documents such as passports and birth certificates can lead to rejection or requests for additional evidence.
- Expired or Invalid Documents - Providing documents that have expired, like visas or work authorization, undermines the credibility of your application and may delay processing time.
- Missing Translations for Foreign Language Documents - Failing to include certified English translations for any documents not in English violates USCIS requirements and can result in application denial.
What Documents Are Needed for I-485 Adjustment of Status? Infographic
