How to Assemble An Adjustment of Status Package

Assembling your I-485 Adjustment of Status package correctly ensures ease of processing.

After you receive approval for your immigrant petition to become a permanent resident of the U.S., it is time to adjust your status. This is a crucial step in getting your green card and you must follow filing instructions closely. The key to a smooth and timely adjustment of status processing is to provide all documents initially when you file. Requests for additional information put your case on hold and lengthen the processing time frame. To avoid a rejection or delay, assemble the package in a way that makes it easy to process and ensures no information gets misplaced.

Things You'll Need

• USCIS Form I-485
• USCIS Form I-864
• Mailing envelope
• Paper clips
• Small plastic bag

Instructions

1. Go to the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) website. (See Resources.) Download Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status, and Form I-864, Affidavit of Support. Be sure to download the correct edition; check at the top of the page for the relevant form. Fill in the forms and sign them.

2. Collect all of the required supporting documents. According to USCIS, some of these include copies of the birth certificate, I-94, I-797C Notice of Approval, passport size photos and tax transcripts that meet the financial requirements.

3. Write a check for the required processing fees, payable to the Department of Homeland Security. USCIS publishes current filing fees for immigration forms on its website.

4. Create a cover sheet. List all of the documents you are including in the order they will appear in the package you are sending. Create a separate checklist for your own use and check off documents as you add them to the package.

5. Attach the check to the front of the Form I-485 with a small paper clip. Place your passport photos in a small, clear plastic bag and paper clip it between the check and the Form I-485.

6. Place your Form I-864 and all of the supporting documents behind Form I-485. Put them in the order listed on the cover sheet. Place the cover sheet on top of all the assembled forms and documents and hold everything together with a large paper clip.

7. Put your prepared package in a large mailing envelope. Use the appropriate mailing address, which is based on your state of residence and your method of delivery. Be sure to affix the proper amount of postage.

References

• U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services: I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status

Resources

• U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services: Form I-485