Proof of a bona fide family relationship, such as birth certificates, marriage certificates, or adoption records, is essential for family-based adjustment of status. Applicants must also submit Form I-485, a valid passport, and a medical examination report from an approved physician. Supporting evidence like financial documents, Form I-864 (Affidavit of Support), and proof of lawful entry into the United States help demonstrate eligibility for adjustment of status.
What Documents Are Required for Family-Based Adjustment of Status?
| Number | Name | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Bona Fide Marriage Evidence Packet | The Bona Fide Marriage Evidence Packet for family-based adjustment of status requires documents proving the authenticity of the marital relationship, such as joint bank account statements, shared lease agreements, photos together, affidavits from friends and family, and correspondence reflecting daily life as a couple. USCIS uses these materials to verify the bona fide nature of the marriage and ensure the marriage wasn't entered solely for immigration benefits. |
| 2 | Public Charge Rule Documentation | For family-based adjustment of status, applicants must submit Form I-944, Declaration of Self-Sufficiency, detailing financial status under the Public Charge Rule, including evidence of income, assets, liabilities, health insurance, and receipt of public benefits. Supporting documents such as IRS tax transcripts, pay stubs, and bank statements are crucial to demonstrate the applicant will not become a public charge during the adjustment process. |
| 3 | I-944 Declaration of Self-Sufficiency | The I-944 Declaration of Self-Sufficiency is a critical document for family-based adjustment of status, requiring detailed information on an applicant's financial status, assets, liabilities, and receipt of public benefits to determine the likelihood of becoming a public charge. Alongside Form I-944, applicants must submit evidence such as Form I-485, proof of family relationship, valid passport, birth certificate, and certified police clearances to complete the adjustment of status application. |
| 4 | Joint Sponsor Supporting Documents | Joint sponsors must provide proof of U.S. citizenship or lawful permanent resident status, recent federal income tax returns, Form I-864 (Affidavit of Support), and evidence of current employment or income to demonstrate the ability to financially support the intending immigrant without public assistance. Supporting documents may also include W-2 forms, pay stubs, and proof of assets if income alone does not meet the minimum requirements set by the Department of Homeland Security. |
| 5 | Online Relationship Proof (Social Media Records) | Online relationship proof such as social media records, including Facebook messages, Instagram interactions, and shared photos, is increasingly accepted as supplementary evidence in family-based adjustment of status cases by USCIS. These digital communications help establish the authenticity of the relationship alongside traditional documents like affidavits, joint financial records, and correspondence. |
| 6 | Retroactive Health Insurance Coverage Proof | For family-based adjustment of status, proving retroactive health insurance coverage often involves submitting policy documents or official statements confirming continuous coverage from the date of application. USCIS typically requires detailed evidence such as insurance cards, premium payment receipts, or letters from insurance providers to validate compliance with health care requirements. |
| 7 | I-693 COVID-19 Vaccination Documentation | For family-based adjustment of status, applicants must submit Form I-693, including COVID-19 vaccination documentation, to demonstrate compliance with health requirements set by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). This medical examination report must be completed by a designated civil surgeon and include proof of all required vaccinations, particularly the updated COVID-19 vaccine series. |
| 8 | Digital Financial Evidence Submission | For family-based adjustment of status, digital submission of financial evidence requires IRS tax transcripts, recent pay stubs, and Form I-864 affidavit of support, all scanned in clear, legible formats such as PDF or JPEG. USCIS recommends uploading documents through the online account portal to ensure timely processing and avoid delays associated with physical mail. |
| 9 | Remote Notarized Affidavits | Remote notarized affidavits are increasingly accepted for family-based adjustment of status applications when in-person notarization is not feasible, provided they comply with USCIS guidelines and state laws. Essential documents include the affidavit itself, government-issued photo identification of the affiant, and a clear notarization certificate that confirms the remote notarization process. |
| 10 | DACA-Eligible Family Member Evidence | For family-based adjustment of status, DACA-eligible family members must submit evidence including a valid Employment Authorization Document (EAD), proof of continuous residence in the U.S. since June 15, 2007, and documentation of good moral character. Additional required documents include a completed Form I-485, Affidavit of Support (Form I-864), birth certificates, and proof of the qualifying family relationship. |
Overview of Family-Based Adjustment of Status
Family-based adjustment of status allows eligible immigrants to become lawful permanent residents while remaining in the United States. This process requires submitting specific documents to prove eligibility and relationship to a qualifying family member.
Essential documents include Form I-485, proof of the petitioner's U.S. citizenship or permanent residency, and evidence of the family relationship, such as marriage or birth certificates. Additional supporting materials may involve medical examination results, Affidavit of Support, and identity verification documents.
Eligibility Criteria for Family Sponsorship
Eligibility for family-based adjustment of status requires proof of a qualifying family relationship with a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident. Key documents include a Form I-130, Petition for Alien Relative, and evidence of the sponsor's citizenship or permanent resident status. You must also submit proof of the beneficiary's lawful entry and continuous residence in the United States.
Proof of Family Relationship Documentation
What documents are required to prove family relationship for a family-based adjustment of status? Proof of family relationship is essential to establish eligibility and must be supported by official documents. Commonly accepted evidence includes birth certificates, marriage certificates, and adoption records that clearly link the applicant to the sponsoring family member.
Required Forms for Adjustment of Status
| Form Name | Description | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status | Main form used to apply for adjustment of status to lawful permanent resident | To apply for a green card while staying in the United States |
| I-130, Petition for Alien Relative | Filed by the U.S. citizen or permanent resident relative | To establish the qualifying family relationship for adjustment of status eligibility |
| G-325A, Biographic Information | Required to provide personal background details (may be included in I-485 for most applicants) | To assist USCIS in background and security checks |
| I-864, Affidavit of Support | Form completed by the petitioner to demonstrate financial support | To prove the petitioner can support the immigrant and prevent public charge issues |
| I-693, Report of Medical Examination and Vaccination Record | Submitted by a USCIS-designated civil surgeon after medical examination | To establish the applicant meets health requirements |
| Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization (Optional) | Allows applicants to request permission to work while adjustment is pending | To obtain employment authorization document (EAD) |
| Form I-131, Application for Travel Document (Optional) | Allows applicants to request advance parole for travel outside the U.S. | To maintain adjustment application eligibility while traveling |
Identity and Civil Status Documents
Identity and civil status documents are essential for family-based adjustment of status applications to verify the applicant's background. These documents establish personal identity, family relationships, and legal eligibility for adjustment.
- Passport or Government-Issued Photo ID - Provides official proof of identity and nationality needed for the application.
- Birth Certificates - Confirms the applicant's birth details and familial connections required for family-based petitions.
- Marriage Certificate or Divorce Decree - Verifies current or previous civil status to determine eligibility and relationship validity.
Financial Support Evidence (Affidavit of Support)
The Affidavit of Support is a key document required for family-based adjustment of status to prove financial support for the immigrant. It demonstrates Your sponsor's commitment to financially support You and prevent reliance on public benefits.
- Form I-864, Affidavit of Support - The primary legal contract signed by the sponsor to accept financial responsibility.
- Proof of Income - Recent tax returns, W-2s, or pay stubs showing the sponsor's ability to meet the income requirements.
- Evidence of U.S. Citizenship or Residency - Documents such as a passport, green card, or naturalization certificate establishing the sponsor's status.
Medical Examination and Vaccination Records
For family-based adjustment of status, a completed medical examination conducted by a USCIS-approved civil surgeon is mandatory. This exam verifies your health status and checks for any communicable diseases that could affect public safety.
Vaccination records must align with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) vaccination requirements. These documents confirm that you have received the necessary immunizations to be eligible for adjustment of status.
Proof of Lawful Entry and Status Maintenance
Proof of lawful entry is a crucial requirement for family-based adjustment of status in U.S. immigration. Applicants must submit Form I-94, Arrival/Departure Record, or a valid immigrant visa showing their legal entry into the United States. Maintaining lawful status involves providing documents such as valid passports, I-20 forms for students, or employment authorization cards that demonstrate continuous compliance with visa conditions.
Additional Supporting Evidence for Special Cases
Family-based adjustment of status requires specific documents to prove eligibility. Some applicants, depending on their circumstances, must provide additional supporting evidence to strengthen their application.
Special cases may include applicants with criminal records, previous immigration violations, or adoption situations. Evidence such as court records, waivers, or adoption decrees are necessary to address these complexities. Submitting comprehensive documentation helps avoid delays and supports a favorable decision from immigration authorities.
What Documents Are Required for Family-Based Adjustment of Status? Infographic
