To apply for adjustment of status to permanent resident, you need a valid Form I-485, proof of lawful entry such as a passport with an I-94 arrival record, and evidence of eligibility like an approved immigrant visa petition (Form I-130 or I-140). Supporting documents include birth certificates, medical examination results (Form I-693), and proof of financial support (Form I-864). Identity documents like government-issued photo IDs and two passport-style photos are also required to complete the application process.
What Documents Do You Need for Adjustment of Status to Permanent Resident?
| Number | Name | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Bona Fide Marriage Evidence | To prove bona fide marriage for adjustment of status to permanent resident, submit joint financial documents such as bank statements, tax returns, leases or mortgage agreements, insurance policies, and utility bills showing shared responsibility. Include photos together, affidavits from friends or family, and correspondence addressed to both spouses to further substantiate the genuine marital relationship. |
| 2 | I-693 Sealed Medical Exam Packet | The Form I-693 Sealed Medical Exam Packet is a critical document required for adjustment of status to permanent resident, demonstrating that the applicant meets U.S. health standards. This packet includes the results of a medical examination conducted by a USCIS-designated civil surgeon, ensuring compliance with vaccination and communicable disease requirements. |
| 3 | I-944 Declaration of Self-Sufficiency (now rescinded, but referenced) | The I-944 Declaration of Self-Sufficiency, previously required for Adjustment of Status to Permanent Resident, was rescinded in 2021 and is no longer necessary in USCIS filings. Applicants must now focus on submitting Form I-485, supporting evidence of eligibility, and financial documents demonstrating lawful entry and admissibility. |
| 4 | Affidavit of Support Joint Sponsor | For adjustment of status to permanent resident, an Affidavit of Support (Form I-864) from a joint sponsor is required when the primary sponsor's income does not meet the Federal Poverty Guidelines, demonstrating the financial ability to support the immigrant. The joint sponsor must be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident willing to accept legal responsibility for supporting the applicant to prevent public assistance dependency. |
| 5 | Continuity of Lawful Status Proof | To demonstrate continuity of lawful status for adjustment of status to permanent resident, applicants must provide Form I-94 Arrival/Departure Record, visas, and entry stamps in passports. Additionally, evidence such as employment authorization documents (EAD), I-20 or DS-2019 forms for students and exchange visitors, and prior approval notices from USCIS may be required to confirm lawful presence throughout the stay. |
| 6 | I-601A Provisional Unlawful Presence Waiver | The I-601A Provisional Unlawful Presence Waiver requires submitting Form I-601A along with evidence of eligibility such as proof of extreme hardship to a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident spouse or parent, valid identity documents, and a copy of the approved immigrant visa petition. Supporting documents include passport-style photos, a copy of the waiver receipt notice, biometric appointment notices, and any court or immigration records relevant to the waiver case. |
| 7 | Public Charge Exemption Documentation | To qualify for adjustment of status to permanent resident, applicants must include Public Charge Exemption Documentation such as Form I-944, Declaration of Self-Sufficiency, or evidence demonstrating exemption categories like refugees or asylees. Supporting documents often include proof of government assistance eligibility, affidavits of support, and financial evidence to establish they will not become a public charge. |
| 8 | Advance Parole Combo Card | Applicants seeking adjustment of status to permanent resident must submit Form I-131 to apply for the Advance Parole Combo Card, which serves as both a travel document and an Employment Authorization Document (EAD). The Combo Card facilitates lawful international travel and employment authorization while the adjustment of status application is pending with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). |
| 9 | Automatic Work Authorization Update | To update your automatic work authorization during the Adjustment of Status to Permanent Resident process, you must submit Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization, along with the receipt notice for your Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status. Providing supporting documents such as a copy of your current work permit and a government-issued photo ID helps ensure timely processing and continuous employment authorization. |
| 10 | Updated Travel History Summary | An updated travel history summary is crucial for adjustment of status applications, detailing all international trips taken within the last five years, including dates, destinations, and reasons for travel. This document helps USCIS verify continuous residence and assess eligibility for permanent resident status. |
Understanding Adjustment of Status: An Overview
Adjustment of Status (AOS) allows eligible individuals to apply for permanent resident status without leaving the United States. This process is essential for those seeking to transition from temporary visas to a Green Card.
Key documents required for AOS include Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status, and a valid government-issued photo ID. Supporting evidence such as birth certificates, marriage certificates, and proof of lawful entry strengthens the application.
Eligibility Criteria for Permanent Residency
What documents do you need for adjustment of status to permanent resident? The eligibility criteria for permanent residency require submission of specific forms such as Form I-485 and proof of lawful entry. Supporting documents include birth certificates, passport photos, and financial affidavits to establish eligibility.
Required Forms for Adjustment of Status Application
| Document Name | Description | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status | Main application form for adjusting status to permanent resident | Used to request a change from nonimmigrant to immigrant status in the United States |
| Form I-130, Petition for Alien Relative | Petition filed by a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident relative | Establishes the qualifying relationship to the petitioner |
| Form I-864, Affidavit of Support | Document showing financial support commitment from a sponsor | Proves the applicant will not become a public charge in the U.S. |
| Form I-693, Report of Medical Examination and Vaccination Record | Medical examination report completed by a USCIS-approved physician | Confirms that the applicant meets health requirements |
| Form G-325A, Biographic Information (if applicable) | Provides biographical details about the applicant | Facilitates background checks and identity verification |
| Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization (optional) | Request to obtain a work permit while adjustment application is pending | Allows legal employment during the adjustment process |
| Form I-131, Application for Travel Document (optional) | Request to travel outside the U.S. while adjustment application is pending | Prevents abandonment of the adjustment application due to travel |
| Copy of Passport and Visa | Photocopies of valid passport biographical pages and entry visa | Proves lawful entry and identity |
| Proof of Continuous Residence and Physical Presence | Documents like lease agreements, employment records, and utility bills | Demonstrates the applicant's presence in the United States |
Essential Supporting Documents Checklist
Applying for adjustment of status to permanent resident requires submitting key documents to verify identity, eligibility, and lawful entry. Preparing a thorough set of supporting documents helps prevent application delays and denials.
- Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status - The primary form that initiates the adjustment process.
- Proof of Lawful Entry - Documents like Form I-94 or passport stamps confirming legal entry into the U.S.
- Birth Certificate - An official copy verifying your identity and date of birth.
- Passport-Style Photos - Recent photographs meeting USCIS specifications are mandatory for identification purposes.
- Medical Examination Report (Form I-693) - A sealed report from a USCIS-approved doctor showing you meet health requirements.
- Affidavit of Support (Form I-864) - Evidence of financial support from a sponsor to demonstrate you will not rely on public benefits.
- Employment Authorization Document (EAD) - Provide if already authorized to work while the application is pending.
- Immigration Fee Payment Receipt - Proof of payment for USCIS application fees is necessary for processing.
- Certified Police Records and Court Dispositions - Required if you have any criminal history or conditional status to disclose.
Evidence of Lawful Entry and Visa Status
Evidence of lawful entry is essential for adjustment of status to permanent resident, typically demonstrated by the Form I-94, Arrival/Departure Record, or a valid passport stamp showing admission. Proof of visa status includes the original visa and any approval notices from U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), confirming eligibility for adjustment. These documents verify that the applicant entered the United States legally and maintained lawful status during their stay.
Financial Sponsorship: Affidavit of Support Requirements
To adjust your status to permanent resident, you must submit Form I-864, Affidavit of Support, proving financial sponsorship. The sponsor must demonstrate income at least 125% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines to ensure support. This requirement prevents the immigrant from becoming a public charge and secures government confidence in their financial stability.
Medical Examination and Vaccination Records
The medical examination is a critical requirement for adjustment of status to permanent resident. A licensed civil surgeon must conduct the exam to ensure there are no health conditions that could affect eligibility.
Vaccination records must be complete and up to date according to U.S. immigration guidelines. Proof of immunizations against diseases such as measles, mumps, rubella, and influenza is necessary to meet health standards.
Filing Fees and Payment Procedures
Filing fees are a crucial part of the adjustment of status process to become a permanent resident. Understanding the payment procedures helps avoid delays and ensures proper processing of your application.
- Form I-485 Filing Fee - The primary fee for submitting the Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status must be paid to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
- Payment Methods Accepted - USCIS accepts payments via check, money order, or credit card using Form G-1450 for electronic payment.
- Fee Waivers and Exemptions - In some cases, applicants may qualify for a fee waiver or reduced fee based on financial hardship or specific immigration categories.
Common Filing Mistakes to Avoid
Applying for adjustment of status to permanent resident requires specific documents such as Form I-485, a valid passport, birth certificate, and proof of lawful entry. Missing or incorrect documents can lead to delays or denial of your application.
Common filing mistakes include submitting incomplete forms, providing inaccurate personal information, and failing to include required supporting evidence. Avoid using photocopies instead of originals when originals are requested. Double-check all documents for accuracy and completeness to ensure a smooth application process.
What Documents Do You Need for Adjustment of Status to Permanent Resident? Infographic
