To request adjustment of status, the primary document required is Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status, which must be accurately completed and submitted to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). Supporting documents include proof of lawful entry, an approved immigrant petition such as Form I-130 or I-140, and evidence of eligibility, such as medical examinations and financial support forms. Ensuring all required documents are included and properly prepared significantly improves the chances of a successful adjustment of status application.
Overview of Adjustment of Status Process
The adjustment of status process allows eligible individuals to become lawful permanent residents without leaving the United States. The key document required for this request is Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status. Supporting evidence, such as a valid visa or proof of eligibility, is essential to complete your application successfully.
Key Eligibility Criteria for Adjustment of Status
For adjustment of status requests, the primary document required is Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status. Your eligibility must align with specific legal criteria to qualify for this process.
- Lawful Entry - You must have been inspected and admitted or paroled into the United States to apply for adjustment of status.
- Eligibility Category - Your application should fall under an eligible category, such as family-based, employment-based, asylum, or special immigrant classifications.
- Admissibility - You must not be inadmissible due to criminal history, immigration violations, or health-related issues unless a waiver is granted.
Submitting accurate documentation and meeting these key eligibility criteria enhances the chances of approval for your adjustment of status request.
Primary Identification Documents Needed
When applying for an adjustment of status, primary identification documents are essential to verify the applicant's identity and eligibility. The most crucial document is a valid passport or a government-issued photo ID from the applicant's home country.
Other required documents include a birth certificate and, if applicable, a marriage certificate to establish family relationships. Providing these primary documents helps USCIS confirm the applicant's identity and supports the accuracy of the adjustment request.
Evidence of Lawful Entry and Status
To request an adjustment of status, applicants must provide evidence of lawful entry into the United States. This typically includes Form I-94, Arrival/Departure Record, or a valid visa entry stamp. Proof of lawful status at the time of application is essential to demonstrate eligibility for adjustment.
Financial Support and Affidavit of Support Requirements
For adjustment of status requests, the primary document required to demonstrate financial support is the Affidavit of Support (Form I-864). This form proves that the applicant will not become a public charge by showing sufficient income or assets to support themselves in the United States.
The petitioner must provide evidence of their income, such as recent tax returns and employment verification. Your ability to meet these financial requirements ensures the petition's approval during the immigration adjustment process.
Medical Examination and Vaccination Records
The medical examination is a crucial part of the adjustment of status process. It ensures that applicants meet health requirements set by immigration authorities.
You must submit a completed Form I-693, which includes the medical examination results and vaccination records. Only a designated civil surgeon can perform the medical exam and certify the form. Vaccination records must meet the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) immunization requirements to be accepted.
Criminal History and Background Check Documentation
| Document Type | Description | Relevance to Adjustment of Status | Additional Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| FBI Criminal History Report | Official report from the Federal Bureau of Investigation detailing any criminal records within the United States. | Required to verify the applicant's criminal background as part of the security and eligibility review. | Must be obtained via fingerprint submission; processed through USCIS or authorized channels. |
| State and Local Police Clearance Certificates | Certificates from law enforcement agencies where the applicant has resided, showing absence or presence of criminal records. | Supplement background check to provide a comprehensive criminal history. | Obtaining these certificates may vary by state; some states require in-person requests. |
| Certified Court Disposition Records | Official documentation of any court proceedings and their outcomes related to criminal charges. | Necessary to clarify details about any arrests or convictions disclosed in FBI or police reports. | Should be certified and translated if not in English. |
| Fingerprinting Receipt | Proof that the applicant has completed fingerprinting for background checks. | Required to initiate the FBI background check process. | Usually obtained at USCIS Application Support Centers. |
| Form I-485 Supplement J | Employment verification form that can include questions about criminal history. | Helps USCIS assess admissibility and eligibility. | While not exclusively for criminal history, accurate disclosure is mandatory. |
Proof of Relationship for Family-Based Applications
What document is required as proof of relationship for family-based adjustment of status applications?
Applicants must submit evidence such as a birth certificate, marriage certificate, or adoption decree to prove the qualifying family relationship. These documents verify the familial connection necessary for USCIS to approve the adjustment of status request.
Supplementary Forms and Supporting Evidence
When filing an adjustment of status request, submitting the correct supplementary forms and supporting evidence is crucial for a successful application. Proper documentation helps verify eligibility and ensures your petition is thoroughly reviewed.
- Form I-485 - The primary application form required to apply for adjustment of status to permanent residence.
- Supplementary Forms - Forms such as I-864 (Affidavit of Support) and I-693 (Medical Examination Report) may be necessary depending on your case specifics.
- Supporting Evidence - Documentation including proof of lawful entry, identity, and eligibility such as birth certificates, immigration records, and financial documents are essential to accompany your application.
What Document Is Required for Adjustment of Status Requests? Infographic
