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What is Form I-485?
Form I-485, officially known as the “Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status,” is a document used by foreign nationals in the United States to apply for lawful permanent resident status, commonly known as a green card. This form is filed with the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) and is a critical step in the process of obtaining a green card.
Form I-485 is typically used in various immigration scenarios, including:
- Family-based green card applications: When a foreign national is eligible for a green card through a close family member who is a U.S. citizen or a permanent resident, they can file Form I-485 to adjust their status to that of a lawful permanent resident.
- Employment-based green card applications: Foreign workers with certain employment-based visas, such as H-1B or L-1 visas, can use Form I-485 to apply for a green card through their employment.
- Diversity Visa (DV) Lottery winners: Individuals who have won a green card through the Diversity Visa Lottery program can file Form I-485 to adjust their status and become permanent residents.
- Refugees and asylees: Some individuals who were granted asylum or refugee status in the United States may use Form I-485 to apply for permanent resident status after meeting certain requirements.
Form I-485 requires applicants to provide detailed personal information, immigration history, employment history, and other relevant details. Additionally, applicants must include supporting documents, such as birth certificates, marriage certificates, and evidence of eligibility. There is also a required filing fee, and applicants may need to attend an in-person interview as part of the process.
How to fill out Form I-485?
Filling out Form I-485, the Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status, is a crucial step in the process of obtaining a green card in the United States. Here is a general overview of how to fill out Form I-485:
- Download the Form: You can download the most up-to-date version of Form I-485 from the official U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) website. Make sure you are using the correct version of the form, as USCIS updates forms periodically.
- Read the Instructions: Before you begin filling out the form, carefully read the instructions provided with Form I-485. These instructions will guide you through the form-filling process and provide important information about eligibility requirements, supporting documents, and filing fees.
- Complete the Biographic Information Section: Start by providing your biographic information, including your name, address, date of birth, place of birth, nationality, and other personal details. Ensure that the information is accurate and matches your supporting documents.
- Choose Your Eligibility Category: Depending on your specific immigration situation, you will select an eligibility category on the form. Common categories include family-based, employment-based, diversity visa lottery, and humanitarian programs (e.g., refugees, asylees). Make sure to choose the correct category that applies to your situation.
- Provide Information About Your Spouse and Children (if applicable): If you have a spouse and/or children accompanying you on your green card application, you will need to provide their information in the relevant sections of the form.
- Include Supporting Documents: Attach all required supporting documents to your Form I-485. These may include birth certificates, marriage certificates, passport-style photos, proof of legal status, and other documents that demonstrate your eligibility. Refer to the form instructions for a list of required documents.
- Complete the Accommodation Request (if applicable): If you have a disability or need accommodations during the application process, you can request them by completing the appropriate section of the form.
- Sign and Date the Form: After completing all sections of the form, make sure to sign and date it where required. If the applicant is under 14 years old, a parent or legal guardian should sign on their behalf.
- Pay the Filing Fee: Include the appropriate filing fee along with your application. USCIS accepts various forms of payment, including checks, money orders, and credit cards. Check the USCIS website or the form instructions for the current fee amount.
- Mail the Application: Mail your completed Form I-485 and supporting documents, along with the fee payment, to the address provided in the form instructions. Make sure to use the correct mailing address based on your eligibility category.
- Attend the Biometrics Appointment and Interview (if required): After submitting your application, USCIS may schedule you for a biometrics appointment to collect fingerprints, photographs, and other biographical information. If USCIS requires an interview as part of your application process, be prepared to attend the interview at the designated location.
