The forms and supporting documents to submit with Form I-485 (Application to Adjust Status) to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) can vary significantly based on the basis of your application. Family-based application packages are different than employment-based or asylum-based applications. For a overview, see the typical forms and fees for adjustment of status.
USCIS Forms
Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status, is rarely filed by itself. Generally, USCIS requires several other forms to be included with Form I-485 at the time of filing. A family-based adjustment of status package will typically include:
- Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status — This is a required form used to claim the immigrant visa and adjust status to that of a permanent resident (green card holder).
- Form I-130, Petition for Alien Relative — This is a required form for family-based applications. If an I-130 petition has not already been filed and approved (and a visa number is available), it should be filed concurrently with Form I-485.
- Form I-130A, Supplemental Information for Spouse Beneficiary — This is a required form only if the I-130 petition is for a spouse. The form contains additional information about the spouse beneficiary.
- Form I-864, Affidavit of Support — This is a required form if your application is based a family-based petition (including K-1 fiancés). It may also be required if your application is based on an employment petition related to a business that is five percent or more by your family. It’s used to show that the adjustment of status applicant has adequate means of financial support and is not likely to rely on the U.S. government for financial support.
- Form I-693, Report of Medical Examination and Vaccination Record — This is a required form used to establish that the adjustment applicant is not inadmissible to the United States on public health grounds. Your USCIS doctor will provide it.
- Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization — This is an optional form used to request permission to work in the United States. An adjustment of status applicant is eligible to request work authorization.
- Form I-131, Application for Travel Document — This is an optional form used to request an advance parole travel document that can be used to re-enter the United States after travel abroad. The advance parole is required if you plan to travel abroad.
The forms listed above are for a typical family-based adjustment of status package. You situation could vary. For example, spouses of U.S. citizens adjusting status on the basis of a K-1 visa entry do not need Form I-130 or Form I-130A.
RECOMMENDED: K-1 Visa to Green Card Application
Supporting Documents to Submit with Form I-485
The descriptions above only provide a brief overview. A birth certificate, copy of your passport, photos and a Notice of Action may also be required with your application. The forms and documents to submit with Form I-485 vary based on your answers in the application. Please consult the USCIS website or your CitizenPath instructions for additional details.
CitizenPath provides simple, affordable, step-by-step guidance through adjustment of status applications. Upon completion we also provide a simple set of filing instructions customized just for you. Individuals, businesses and even attorneys use our online service to prepare Form I-485 and all other required immigration forms accurately, avoiding costly delays. CitizenPath allows users to try the service for free and guarantees that USCIS will approve the application or your money back. Learn more >>
RECOMMENDED: Reasons for a Green Card Application Denial