
Adjustment of Status
Use this checklist to prepare your Adjustment of Status (Green Card) application based on family, employment, or other eligibility categories.
Forms to Complete
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Form I-485 – Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status
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Form I-130 – Petition for Alien Relative (if not already approved)
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Form I-130A – Supplemental Information for Spouse Beneficiary (if applicable)
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Form I-864 – Affidavit of Support (for family-based applicants)
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Form I-765 – Application for Employment Authorization (optional)
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Form I-131 – Application for Travel Document (Advance Parole, optional)
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Form I-693 – Report of Medical Examination and Vaccination Record (sealed envelope)
Fees
Check the USCIS Fee Calculator for updates
Estimated Turnaround Time
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Initial Receipt Notice (Form I-797C): 2–4 weeks after filing
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Biometrics Appointment: 4–8 weeks after receipt notice
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Work/Travel Authorization (EAD/AP): 3–6 months (if Forms I-765/I-131 filed)
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Interview Notice: Typically 8–16 months after filing (varies by field office)
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Green Card Approval: Average processing time is 12–24 months from submission
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You can check average processing times by USCIS field office at: USCIS Processing Times
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Supporting Documents
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Copy of your passport biographic page
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Copy of your U.S. visa
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Copy of your I-94 Arrival/Departure Record (print from CBP website)
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Two passport-style photos
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Birth certificate (with certified English translation if not in English)
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Marriage certificate/divorce decrees (if applicable)
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Proof of lawful entry (visa stamp, I-94)
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Form I-797 approval notices (for I-130, I-140, or other petitions, if applicable)
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Medical Exam
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Schedule an exam with a USCIS-approved civil surgeon
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Submit Form I-693 in a sealed envelope or bring it to your interview
For Family-Based Applicants
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Proof of bona fide relationship (e.g., photos, joint leases, tax returns)
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Copy of petitioner’s U.S. citizenship or Green Card
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Recent tax returns and W-2s from sponsor (Form I-864)
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Employment verification letter (for sponsor, optional but helpful)
Additional Evidence (as applicable)
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Certified court disposition for any arrests or citations
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Documentation of legal name change(s)
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Proof of continuous presence and lawful status (e.g., visas, renewals)
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Documents supporting eligibility category (e.g., employment offer, asylum approval, etc.)
After Filing
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Receive Form I-797C (Notice of Action)
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Attend biometrics appointment
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Respond to Requests for Evidence (RFEs), if any
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Attend interview (if required)
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Receive decision by mail or check USCIS Case Status
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