To file for adjustment of status, applicants must submit Form I-485 along with supporting documents such as a valid passport, birth certificate, and proof of lawful entry into the United States. Evidence of eligibility, including a Form I-94 arrival/departure record, medical examination results, and any applicable affidavits of support, is also required. Providing accurate and complete documentation helps ensure the timely and successful processing of the adjustment of status application.
Overview of Adjustment of Status Documentation
| Document Type | Description | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status | Primary form used to apply for adjustment of status to permanent resident | Initiates the adjustment of status process |
| Form I-130, Petition for Alien Relative | Petition filed by a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident relative | Establishes familial relationship and eligibility |
| Form I-94, Arrival/Departure Record | Records the individual's lawful entry into the United States | Confirms legal admission and nonimmigrant status |
| Birth Certificate | Official document proving birth details | Verifies identity and age |
| Passport | Government-issued travel document from applicant's country | Supports identity and nationality claims |
| Medical Examination Report (Form I-693) | Report completed by a USCIS-approved civil surgeon | Confirms applicant meets health requirements |
| Proof of Lawful Entry | Documents such as visa stamps or I-94 records | Demonstrates lawful presence in the U.S. |
| Financial Support Evidence (Form I-864) | Affidavit of Support filed by petitioner to prove financial ability | Ensures applicant will not become a public charge |
| Employment Authorization Document (EAD) | Work permit issued during processing | Allows applicant to work lawfully while application is pending |
| Photographs | Passport-style photos meeting USCIS requirements | Used for identification purposes |
| Supplemental Evidence | Additional documents such as marriage certificates, divorce decrees, or police records | Supports eligibility and addresses specific case circumstances |
Key Eligibility Documents for Adjustment of Status
Adjustment of status requires submitting specific key eligibility documents to prove your identity and admissibility. These documents include a valid passport, birth certificate, and proof of lawful entry into the United States.
Additional critical documents include Form I-485, medical examination results, and evidence of financial support or an affidavit of support. Employment authorization and proof of continuous residence may also be necessary depending on your immigration category.
Required Forms for Adjustment of Status Applications
The adjustment of status process requires submitting specific forms to USCIS. The primary form is Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status.
Supporting documents include Form I-797, Notice of Action for your petition approval, and Form I-130, Petition for Alien Relative, if applicable. Biometric services require Form I-864, Affidavit of Support, to demonstrate financial stability.
Proof of Identity and Nationality for Immigration
Proof of identity and nationality is essential for adjustment of status applications in immigration. Key documents include a valid passport, birth certificate, and national identification card. These documents verify the applicant's identity and confirm their country of origin, supporting eligibility for legal residency status.
Evidence of Lawful Entry and Status Maintenance
To apply for Adjustment of Status, evidence of lawful entry into the United States is essential. You must provide documents such as your Form I-94, arrival/departure record, or a valid visa stamp displaying your initial lawful admission. Maintaining your status is demonstrated through proof like recent pay stubs, school enrollment records, or tax returns that confirm continuous compliance with immigration laws.
Financial Support Documents: Affidavit of Support
Financial support documents are critical for the adjustment of status application, ensuring the applicant will not become a public charge. The Affidavit of Support, Form I-864, demonstrates the sponsor's commitment to financially support the immigrant.
- Affidavit of Support Form I-864 - This legally binding document requires the sponsor to prove adequate income or assets to support the applicant above the federal poverty guidelines.
- Proof of Income - Recent tax returns, W-2s, and pay stubs must be submitted to verify the sponsor's current financial status.
- Evidence of U.S. Citizenship or Status - The sponsor must provide proof of their lawful permanent residency or citizenship as part of the affidavit requirements.
Medical Examination and Vaccination Records
What documents are required for the medical examination in the Adjustment of Status process? The applicant must submit Form I-693, completed by a USCIS-designated civil surgeon. This form includes the results of the medical examination and vaccination records.
Are vaccination records mandatory for Adjustment of Status applicants? Yes, applicants must provide proof of vaccinations that meet the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) requirements. These records are reviewed to ensure compliance with immigration health standards.
Supporting Documents for Family-Based Applications
Supporting documents are crucial for family-based adjustment of status applications to verify eligibility and relationship. Applicants must submit evidence that clearly demonstrates their qualifying family relationship.
Required documents include a completed Form I-485, proof of the petitioner's U.S. citizenship or lawful permanent resident status, and a valid Form I-130 petition approval. Evidence such as birth certificates, marriage certificates, and joint financial records help establish family ties. Medical examination reports and affidavit of support (Form I-864) must also be provided to satisfy health and financial requirements.
Employment-Based Adjustment: Document Checklist
Employment-based adjustment of status requires specific documents to prove eligibility and identity. Proper submission of these documents ensures a smooth review process by USCIS.
- Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status - The primary form filed to request adjustment of status within the United States.
- Employment Verification Letter - A letter from the employer confirming the job offer and employment details to establish eligibility under the employment-based category.
- Proof of Lawful Entry - Documents such as Form I-94 or visa stamps demonstrating lawful admission to the U.S.
What Documents Are Required for Adjustment of Status? Infographic
