USCIS green card applications require several key documents, including a valid passport, birth certificate, and proof of lawful entry into the United States. Applicants must also submit Form I-485, evidence supporting eligibility such as family or employment-based petitions, and medical examination results. Financial documents demonstrating the ability to support oneself without public assistance are essential to complete the application package.
What Documents are Required for USCIS Green Card Application?
| Number | Name | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | I-485 Supplement J | The I-485 Supplement J form is required to confirm the validity of a job offer for employment-based adjustment applicants and must be submitted along with IRS Form I-485 to USCIS. This document verifies that the applicant's prospective employer can provide the offered position, which is critical for maintaining the eligibility criteria for green card approval. |
| 2 | Civil Surgeon's Medical Examination Report (Form I-693) | The Civil Surgeon's Medical Examination Report (Form I-693) is a mandatory document required by USCIS for green card applications, verifying the applicant's medical history and vaccination records to ensure they meet health standards. This form must be completed by a designated civil surgeon and sealed in an envelope to maintain confidentiality before submission. |
| 3 | Employment Offer Letter Verification | The USCIS green card application requires a verified Employment Offer Letter as critical evidence to demonstrate the bona fide job offer from a U.S. employer, specifying the job title, duties, salary, and start date. This document must be authentic, signed by the employer, and may require supporting proof such as company business licenses or tax filings to substantiate the employer's ability to pay the offered wage. |
| 4 | Bona Fide Marriage Evidence Packet | The Bona Fide Marriage Evidence Packet for a USCIS Green Card application must include joint financial documents such as bank statements, lease agreements, and insurance policies that demonstrate shared responsibilities. Photographs, affidavits from friends and family, and correspondence between spouses further substantiate the authenticity of the marital relationship. |
| 5 | Certified Translation Statement | A Certified Translation Statement must accompany any foreign language documents submitted with a USCIS Green Card application, confirming the translator's competence and accuracy of the translation. USCIS requires this statement to ensure that all submitted documents, such as birth certificates or police records, are accurately translated into English for proper evaluation. |
| 6 | Priority Date Evidence | Priority date evidence for a USCIS Green Card application typically includes the approved Form I-140, Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker, or Form I-130, Petition for Alien Relative, with the official receipt notice indicating the filing date. Supporting documents may also encompass labor certification approval and any correspondence from USCIS that confirms the priority date establishment. |
| 7 | Continuity of Lawful Status Documentation | Continuity of lawful status documentation for a USCIS Green Card application includes Form I-94 Arrival/Departure Record, employment authorization cards, and valid visa stamps showing legal entry and status maintenance. These documents prove uninterrupted lawful presence in the United States, essential for adjustment of status eligibility and avoiding application denial. |
| 8 | Financial Sponsorship Evidence (Form I-864) | Evidence of financial sponsorship for a USCIS Green Card application requires Form I-864, Affidavit of Support, demonstrating the sponsor's income meets or exceeds 125% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines based on household size. Supporting documents include the sponsor's federal tax returns, W-2s, pay stubs, and proof of lawful status to validate financial ability and responsibility. |
| 9 | Relationship Affidavits (Sworn Statements) | Relationship affidavits, also known as sworn statements, are critical supporting documents for USCIS Green Card applications that provide third-party verification of the bona fide nature of the applicant's relationship. These affidavits must be detailed, signed under penalty of perjury, and typically include the affiant's full name, contact information, relationship to the applicant, and specific observations that demonstrate the authenticity and duration of the relationship. |
| 10 | Receipt Notice for I-130/I-140 Approval | The USCIS Green Card application requires the Receipt Notice for I-130 or I-140 approval as a critical document to confirm petition filing and acceptance. This notice serves as proof of the petition's processing status and is essential for tracking the application's progress within the immigration system. |
Overview of USCIS Green Card Application
| Overview of USCIS Green Card Application | |
|---|---|
| Purpose | To obtain lawful permanent resident status in the United States |
| Application Form | Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status |
| Filing Fee | Varies based on applicant's age and category; ranges from $750 to $1,225 |
| Required Documents for USCIS Green Card Application | |
| Identity Proof | Valid passport, birth certificate, and government-issued photo ID |
| Immigration Status | Current visa documents, Form I-94 Arrival/Departure Record |
| Photographs | Two recent passport-style photos meeting USCIS criteria |
| Proof of Eligibility | Marriage certificate, employment offer letter, or other category-specific evidence |
| Medical Examination | Form I-693, Report of Medical Examination and Vaccination Record |
| Financial Support | Form I-864, Affidavit of Support to demonstrate the applicant will not become a public charge |
| Civil Documents | Police clearance certificates, court records if applicable |
| Additional Evidence | Any other documents supporting the application such as employment history, military records |
Importance of Proper Documentation
Proper documentation is crucial for a successful USCIS Green Card application. It ensures that Your eligibility and identity are clearly established to USCIS officials.
- Proof of Identity - Documents like a birth certificate and passport verify Your identity and citizenship status.
- Proof of Eligibility - Evidence such as marriage certificates or employment letters confirm the basis of Your Green Card application.
- Financial Records - Tax returns and affidavits of support demonstrate Your financial stability and prevent public charge concerns.
Primary Identification Documents
When applying for a USCIS Green Card, providing primary identification documents is essential to verify your identity. These documents serve as the foundation for your eligibility and background checks.
- Valid Passport - A current passport from your country of citizenship establishes your nationality and identity.
- Birth Certificate - This document confirms your date and place of birth, which is crucial for USCIS records.
- Government-Issued Photo ID - State identification cards or driver's licenses offer additional proof of your identity and residence.
Ensuring these primary identification documents are accurate and up-to-date streamlines the Green Card application process.
Proof of Immigration Status
Proof of immigration status is a crucial document for your USCIS Green Card application. It verifies your current legal presence in the United States and eligibility to apply.
Commonly required documents include a valid visa, Form I-94 (Arrival/Departure Record), or an approved immigrant petition. Submitting accurate and up-to-date proof can prevent application delays or denials.
Supporting Civil Documents
Supporting civil documents play a crucial role in the USCIS Green Card application process. These documents verify personal information and establish eligibility for permanent residency.
Applicants must provide birth certificates, marriage certificates, and divorce decrees to confirm their civil status. Police clearance certificates and court records may be required to prove good moral character. Translating these documents into English with certified translations is essential for USCIS review.
Employment and Financial Records
For a USCIS Green Card application, employment records such as job offer letters, pay stubs, and employer affidavits are essential to prove lawful employment and job stability. Financial documents including recent tax returns, bank statements, and proof of assets demonstrate the applicant's ability to support themselves without public assistance. These documents help verify eligibility and ensure compliance with USCIS requirements for employment-based green cards.
Medical Examination Documentation
Medical examination documentation is a critical component of the USCIS Green Card application process. You must submit a completed Form I-693, Report of Medical Examination and Vaccination Record, signed by a USCIS-approved civil surgeon. This document verifies that you meet the health requirements set by immigration authorities and is essential for the approval of your application.
Special Documentation for Family-Based Applicants
Family-based applicants for a USCIS Green Card must provide specific documentation to establish the qualifying relationship. Key documents include a valid birth certificate, marriage certificate, or adoption decree as proof of the family connection.
Applicants should also submit Form I-130, Petition for Alien Relative, along with proof of the petitioner's U.S. citizenship or lawful permanent resident status. Evidence of any prior name changes, photos, and proof of bona fide marriage may also be required to support the application.
Checklist for Required Forms and Fees
What documents are required for the USCIS Green Card application? A complete checklist includes all necessary forms and associated fees to avoid delays. Ensuring that your submission is accurate and thorough increases the chances of approval.
Which forms must be included in the Green Card application package? Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status, is essential. Supporting forms like I-130, Petition for Alien Relative, or I-140, Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker, may also be required depending on eligibility category.
What fees must be paid for the Green Card application? The filing fee for Form I-485 ranges based on age and category, typically between $750 and $1,140. Biometric services fees of approximately $85 apply to applicants aged 14 to 78 years.
What evidence should accompany the forms to USCIS? Proof of identity, such as a copy of your passport, birth certificate, and immigration documents, is necessary. Additionally, recent photographs meeting USCIS specifications must be submitted.
Are medical examination reports part of the required documents? Yes, a completed Form I-693, Report of Medical Examination and Vaccination Record, signed by a USCIS-approved civil surgeon, must be included. This document verifies that health requirements have been met.
What Documents are Required for USCIS Green Card Application? Infographic
