The primary source document necessary for Adjustment of Status filings is the Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status. Applicants must also provide a valid, government-issued identification, proof of lawful entry into the United States, and an approved immigrant petition such as Form I-130 or Form I-140. Supporting documents like birth certificates, marriage certificates, and medical examination results are crucial to verify eligibility and complete the application process.
Importance of Source Documents in Adjustment of Status
Source documents play a crucial role in adjustment of status filings by providing verified proof of identity, legal entry, and eligibility. Essential documents include birth certificates, passports, and I-94 arrival/departure records. Accurate and complete source documents ensure timely processing and reduce the risk of application denial.
Primary Identification Documents Required
When filing for Adjustment of Status, submitting the correct primary identification documents is essential to verify identity and eligibility. These key documents ensure the application is processed efficiently by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
- Form I-94 Arrival/Departure Record - This form demonstrates lawful entry into the United States and is required to establish a legal presence.
- Passport - A valid, unexpired passport from the applicant's country of origin serves as the primary proof of identity and nationality.
- Birth Certificate - This document is necessary to confirm personal details such as date of birth and parentage for eligibility verification.
Providing accurate and original primary identification documents helps prevent delays or denials in the Adjustment of Status process.
Proof of Lawful Entry and Immigration Status
Proof of lawful entry is a crucial source document required for adjustment of status filings. This typically includes Form I-94, Arrival/Departure Record, or a stamped passport showing an entry date and port of entry.
Providing evidence of lawful immigration status is essential to demonstrate eligibility for adjustment of status. Supporting documents may include valid visas, Form I-797 approval notices, or Employment Authorization Documents (EAD). These documents confirm that the applicant entered the United States legally and maintained proper status before filing for adjustment.
Evidence of Relationship to Petitioner
Evidence of relationship to the petitioner is a critical source document for Adjustment of Status filings. Commonly accepted proof includes marriage certificates for spouses, birth certificates for children, and adoption decrees for legally adopted family members. USCIS requires these documents to establish eligibility and verify the bona fide nature of the familial relationship.
Financial Support and Affidavit of Support Requirements
Which source document is necessary to prove financial support for adjustment of status filings? The primary document required is the Affidavit of Support, Form I-864, completed by the sponsor to demonstrate sufficient income or assets. This form ensures the applicant will not become a public charge and must include recent tax returns and evidence of employment.
Medical Examination Documentation
The medical examination documentation is a critical source document required for Adjustment of Status filings. This documentation verifies that an applicant meets the health standards set by U.S. immigration authorities.
The medical report must be completed by a USCIS-approved civil surgeon or panel physician and submitted with Form I-485.
- Completed Form I-693 - This form documents the results of the medical examination and vaccination history required by USCIS.
- Valid Civil Surgeon Certification - The medical report must bear the signature and seal of an authorized civil surgeon to be accepted.
- Updated Vaccination Records - Proof of required vaccinations must be included to comply with health regulations for status adjustment.
Employment Authorization and Related Forms
For Adjustment of Status filings, the primary source document required is Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status. Alongside this, employment authorization plays a crucial role, allowing applicants to work legally while their case is pending.
Applicants must submit Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization, to receive an Employment Authorization Document (EAD). This form is essential for those seeking work authorization during the Adjustment of Status process and helps maintain lawful employment status.
Criminal History and Background Check Documents
For Adjustment of Status filings, submitting accurate criminal history and background check documents is crucial. These records provide essential information to immigration authorities for evaluating eligibility and admissibility.
Required documents often include police clearance certificates, court dispositions, and certified arrest records. Your complete and truthful disclosure of any criminal history helps prevent delays or denials in the application process.
Common Pitfalls and Document Submission Errors
| Source Document | Common Pitfalls | Document Submission Errors |
|---|---|---|
| Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status | Incomplete or inaccurate information; failure to sign the form | Submitting outdated versions of the form; missing required supporting evidence |
| Passport and Visa Copies | Expired passports; missing visa pages or stamps | Low-quality or unreadable copies; failure to provide all entry records |
| Birth Certificate or Civil Documents | Non-certified translations; missing official seals or signatures | Submitting photocopies instead of certified copies; failure to translate foreign documents properly |
| Form I-94, Arrival/Departure Record | Incorrect or expired I-94 arrival number; failure to include electronic I-94 printout | Omitting the most recent I-94; submitting incomplete records |
| Medical Examination Report (Form I-693) | Using forms older than USCIS validity period; incomplete medical exams | Failure to submit sealed medical report; submitting damaged or unsealed documents |
| Proof of Affidavit of Support (Form I-864) | Missing required financial evidence; underestimating income requirements | Incomplete signatures; failure to submit tax returns or pay stubs |
| Employment Authorization Document (EAD), if applicable | Expired EAD at time of filing; failure to provide work authorization evidence | Not including copies of the latest EAD; submitting unclear photocopies |
| Photographs | Incorrect size or background color; using outdated photos | Submitting unprofessional photos; failing to provide the required number of photos |
Which Source Document Is necessary for Adjustment of Status Filings? Infographic
