Adjustment of Status (Form I-485) for Green Card

The Adjustment of Status (AOS) process—filed using Form I-485—allows eligible individuals already in the United States to apply for lawful permanent residency (a Green Card) without leaving the country. This pathway helps qualified non-immigrants transition to permanent resident status while maintaining their stay in the U.S.

Key Aspects of the Adjustment of Status Process:

• Eligibility: Applicants must be physically present in the United States and have an approved immigrant petition—such as Form I-130 (family-based), Form I-140 (employment-based), or Form I-360 (special immigrant categories)—along with a current priority date as per the Visa Bulletin.
• Adjustment Pathways: AOS may be pursued through various categories, including family-based, employment-based, refugee/asylee, and special immigrant programs. Each path has its own eligibility rules and documentation requirements.
• Filing Form I-485: The main step is submitting Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status, along with supporting evidence such as identity documents, medical exams, financial affidavits, and required fees.
• Biometrics Appointment: USCIS schedules applicants for a biometrics appointment to collect fingerprints, photos, and signatures for background and security checks.
• Interview Requirement: Many applicants are required to attend an in-person interview at a local USCIS field office. During the interview, officers verify the information provided and assess the applicant’s admissibility.
• Work and Travel Authorization: While the I-485 is pending, applicants may apply for:
  • Form I-765 – Employment Authorization Document (EAD)
  • Form I-131 – Advance Parole Travel Document
  These allow applicants to legally work and travel during processing.
• Decision and Green Card Issuance: If approved, USCIS will issue a Green Card, granting the applicant lawful permanent resident status. If denied, USCIS will provide the reasons and guidance on available appeal or motion options.
• Conditional Residency: Certain categories (such as marriage-based Green Cards) may be issued on a conditional basis. Conditional residents must later file Form I-751 or I-829 to remove conditions and obtain full permanent residency.

The Adjustment of Status process is a vital step toward achieving permanent residency in the United States. At Visa2Migrate, we assist applicants in preparing comprehensive documentation, avoiding common errors, and ensuring compliance with all USCIS requirements for a successful transition to Green Card status.