Form I-485, officially titled “Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status,” is a form used by foreign nationals in the United States to apply for lawful permanent resident status, also known as a green card. This form is typically filed by individuals who are already in the U.S. and are eligible to adjust their status to that of a permanent resident.
The eligibility criteria for filing Form I-485 can vary depending on the specific immigration category and the individual’s circumstances. Common categories include family-sponsored immigration, employment-based immigration, refugee/asylee status, and other special programs.
It’s important to note that filing Form I-485 is generally part of a multi-step immigration process, and individuals may need to have an approved immigrant petition (such as Form I-130 or I-140) before filing Form I-485. The form collects information about the applicant’s background, immigration history, and eligibility for permanent residency.
As immigration processes and forms are subject to change, it is recommended to check the official website of the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) for the most up-to-date information and instructions related to Form I-485.
Who needs to file Form I-485?
Form I-485, the “Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status,” is typically filed by individuals in the United States who meet certain eligibility criteria and wish to obtain lawful permanent resident status, commonly known as a green card. The specific circumstances under which individuals might need to file Form I-485 include:
- Family-sponsored immigration:
- Immediate relatives of U.S. citizens, including spouses, unmarried children under 21 years of age, and parents (if the sponsoring child is at least 21 years old).
- Family-sponsored preference categories, including spouses and unmarried children of green card holders, and siblings of U.S. citizens.
- Employment-based immigration:
- Individuals with an approved employment-based immigrant petition (such as Form I-140) who are eligible to adjust their status to that of a permanent resident.
- Refugee or asylee status:
- Refugees and asylees who have been physically present in the U.S. for the required period and are eligible to apply for permanent residency.
- Special programs:
- Individuals eligible under certain special programs or provisions, such as the Diversity Visa Lottery winners.
It’s important to note that eligibility criteria can vary depending on the specific immigration category, and certain individuals may need to have an approved immigrant petition before filing Form I-485. Additionally, individuals should be in the U.S. at the time of filing and must comply with the instructions provided by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
How to fill out Form I-485?
Filling out Form I-485, “Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status,” involves providing accurate and complete information about your personal and immigration history. Here are general guidelines on how to fill out Form I-485:
- Download the Form and Instructions:
- Obtain the most recent version of Form I-485 and its instructions from the USCIS website.
- Read the Instructions:
- Carefully read the form instructions before you start filling out the form. The instructions provide important information about eligibility criteria, required supporting documents, and specific guidance on each section of the form.
- Complete the Form:
- Type or print legibly in black ink. Complete all sections of the form that are applicable to your situation.
- Provide Personal Information:
- Include your full legal name, address, date of birth, place of birth, gender, marital status, and other personal details as requested.
- Immigration History:
- Provide information about your immigration history, including your current immigration status, past entries to the U.S., and any previous applications for adjustment of status.
- Family Information:
- Include information about your immediate family members, such as your spouse and children.
- Employment History:
- Provide details about your employment history for the past five years.
- Security and Background Information:
- Answer questions related to your background, criminal history, and security information truthfully. If a question does not apply to you, write “N/A” (not applicable).
- Affidavit of Support (Form I-864):
- If required, complete Form I-864, Affidavit of Support, providing information about the petitioner’s financial ability to support you.
- Medical Examination (Form I-693):
- Arrange for a medical examination by an approved civil surgeon and include the completed and sealed Form I-693.
- Photographs:
- Attach the required passport-style photos as specified in the form instructions.
- Signature:
- Sign and date the form where indicated. Ensure that your signature is within the designated space.
- Checklist:
- Review the form instructions and use the provided checklist to make sure you have included all required supporting documents.
- Filing Fee:
- Include the appropriate filing fee with your application. Check the USCIS website for the current fee amount.
- Submission:
- Mail the completed Form I-485 and supporting documents to the address specified in the form instructions.
