I-485: Everything You Need to Know

I-485, known as the "Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status," is the form you need to apply for a green card if you’re already in the United States. In this guide, we'll walk you through what the I-485 is used for, who is eligible, what evidence you'll need to include, and more.

Simon Craven, Manifest Immigration Lawyer

By:

Chelsea Spinos

Chelsea Spinos is a contributing writer for Manifest Law. She covers all topics related to U.S. visas and green cards. She is passionate about helping people navigate their immigration journey with clarity and confidence.

Reviewer:

Simon Craven, Esq.

Simon Craven is an immigration attorney with 11+ years of experience working on thousands of successful immigration cases. Simon is passionate about US immigration and helping people.

9 min read • June 7, 2024

Key takeaways

If you're already in the United States and want to apply for a green card, you'll need to fill out Form i485, also known as the "Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status."

To file Form I-485, you need to meet these requirements: 1) You must be physically present in the U.S., 2) You must have lawfully entered the U.S., and 3) You must have an immigrant visa immediately available.

With the I-485, you will need to include supporting documents, known as "initial evidence," to verify your eligibility.

The processing time for I-485 is between 10-20 months depending on which country you come from. No premium processing is available for this form.

At Manifest Law, we can file your I-485 form for a fixed fee and help you avoid mistakes and delays.

Obtaining a green card and becoming a permanent resident is a major goal for many immigrants in the United States. One of the key forms in this process is filing I-485, the Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status.

This guide covers everything you need to know about Form I-485 — what it is used for, eligibility requirements, instructions for completing it, required supporting documents, where to file, processing times, fees, and answers to frequently asked questions.

Whether you are applying based on family ties, employment, or another eligible category, properly filing the I-485 form is critical for adjusting your immigration status. We'll walk through each section step-by-step so you can submit an accurate and complete application, avoiding potential delays or denials.

What is I-485?

Form I-485, known as the "Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status," is the form you need to apply for a green card if you’re already in the United States. This form is part of the process to adjust your status to that of a lawful permanent resident (green card holder), allowing you to live and work in the U.S. permanently.

What is I-485 used for?

The I-485 form is a critical component in the process of obtaining a green card, which grants you the right to live and work in the U.S. This form can be used for a few different types of visa applications/categories, including:

If you have been asked to assess the work of other people in your field, this might help you qualify for one of the O1 visa criteria. Judging can be in a competitive setting, such as a contest, awards panel, or grants committee. Or, it can be an evaluation of someone’s work, like a scientific paper or presentation, or even a grant application.

The key here is that some organization thought you were the go-to person with ample expertise to assess the work of others. This shows USCIS that you are seen as someone who stands out from others in your work.

If you think you can meet the “judge of others” criteria and at least two other criteria on the list of O1 visa evidence, you could be ready to apply! Reach out to Manifest Law and we can help you put your best case forward.

Family-Based Applications

Employment-Based Applications

Refugees and Asylees

Special Categories

If you’re a close relative of a U.S. citizen or permanent resident, you can use Form I-485 to apply for a green card.

If you have a job offer or are working in the U.S. in a qualifying position, you can adjust your status to permanent resident.

Refugees and asylees in the U.S. can use Form I-485 to apply for a green card after one year of being admitted

Certain individuals, such as those under special immigrant categories, diversity lottery winners, and certain non-immigrant visa holders, may also use Form I-485.

Who can file I-485?

To file form I-485, you will need to meet three key eligibility requirements.

Be physically present in the U.S. — You must be inside the U.S. when filing the adjustment of status application and complete the process within the country.
Have made a lawful entry into the U.S. — Lawful entry means you were admitted or paroled into the U.S. This typically involves entering the U.S. with valid documentation and making face-to-face contact with a U.S. immigration officer who acknowledged your entry.
Have an immigrant visa immediately available — Immediate relatives of U.S. citizens (spouses, parents, and unmarried children under 21) can file Form I-485 together with the I-130 petition, as visas are always available for this category. For other family preference categories, you must ensure a visa is available and your category is "current" according to the visa bulletin before filing Form I-485.

You can check out the latest visa bulletin 2024 updates on our blog here.

Do you meet all of these requirements? If so, then you may be eligible to adjust your status and apply for a green card from within the U.S.

To file form I-485, you will need to meet three key eligibility requirements.

Be physically present in the U.S. — You must be inside the U.S. when filing the adjustment of status application and complete the process within the country.
Have made a lawful entry into the U.S. — Lawful entry means you were admitted or paroled into the U.S. This typically involves entering the U.S. with valid documentation and making face-to-face contact with a U.S. immigration officer who acknowledged your entry.
Have an immigrant visa immediately available — Immediate relatives of U.S. citizens (spouses, parents, and unmarried children under 21) can file Form I-485 together with the I-130 petition, as visas are always available for this category. For other family preference categories, you must ensure a visa is available and your category is "current" according to the visa bulletin before filing Form I-485.

You can check out the latest visa bulletin 2024 updates on our blog here.

Do you meet all of these requirements? If so, then you may be eligible to adjust your status and apply for a green card from within the U.S.

Note: Even if your visa has expired since you first entered the U.S., your entry is considered lawful if it was valid at the time of entry.

Who can’t file I-485?

There are certain situations where filing Form I-485 isn't an option. These include:

Relatives or spouses who are not physically present in the United States cannot file the I-485.
Even if you're physically present in the U.S., there are eligibility exclusions that may prevent you from filing an I-485 application. These include:
- Entering the United States as a crewman.
- Entering the United States for transit purposes, such as being on your way to another country.
- Being admitted to the United States as a witness or informant.
- Being "deportable" due to involvement in terrorist activity or association with a terrorist group.

Additionally, there are "inadmissibility" grounds that may disqualify you from filing an I-485. These include health-related, criminal, security, immigration law or procedure violations, public charge, and other miscellaneous grounds.

However, depending on your family relationship or green card category, waivers may be available to address some of these disqualifications. If you're unsure about your eligibility, reach out to an immigration attorney at Manifest Law.

There are certain situations where filing Form I-485 isn't an option. These include:

Relatives or spouses who are not physically present in the United States cannot file the I-485.
Even if you're physically present in the U.S., there are eligibility exclusions that may prevent you from filing an I-485 application. These include:
- Entering the United States as a crewman.
- Entering the United States for transit purposes, such as being on your way to another country.
- Being admitted to the United States as a witness or informant.
- Being "deportable" due to involvement in terrorist activity or association with a terrorist group.

I-485 instructions to fill the form

This walkthrough will take you through the I-485 form so you know how to completely and correctly fill out the application and get your green card.

1

I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status

2

To view and download a fillable PDF of the form, click on "Form I-485 (PDF, 1.03 MB)"

3

Part 1. Information About You

Here, you will provide some basic biographic information about you, the applicant.

This includes your name, date and place of birth.

Part 1. Information About You

Here, you will provide some basic biographic information about you, the applicant.

This includes your name, date and place of birth.

Form I-1485 Information about you screenshot

It's important to include ALL names you have ever used here, including on all documentation related to you (e.g.: maiden name) and any nicknames.

4

Part 1 (Pg. 2, Cont.)

Place of Birth and Alien Registration Number (read more)

Part 1 (Pg. 2, Cont.)

Place of Birth and Alien Registration Number (read more)

Most people on temporary visas do not yet have an A#, through some F-1 students may

5

Safe Mailing Address. If eligible, provide an alternate address here:

This is only for applicants in the specific categories mentioned.

6

Social Security

Confirm social security information here. If you do not already have a Social Security card, you can request one as part of the application.

7

Last Arrival

Complete the information from your most recent arrival in the US here

Recent Immigration History section of form i485

8

Last Arrival (cont.)

Tip: You can find your latest I-94 arrival record here: https://i94.cbp.dhs.gov/I94/#/home

9

Application Category

Here, you confirm the basis for your green card (family, employment, etc.)

10

Application Category (cont.)

§245(i) is a special section of immigration law that provides certain undocumented immigrants an opportunity to adjust to receive a green card from within the United States. Generally, to qualify for Section 245(i) adjustment, individuals must have had an immigrant visa petition or labor certification application filed on their behalf on or before April 30, 2001. Most people will check "no' here.

11

If you (or your relative) have already filed a petition making you eligible for a green card (e.g. : I-130, I-140), enter information about that petition here

information about immigration category form

💡 Manifest Tip: You can find your latest I-94 arrival record here: https://i94.cbp.dhs.gov/I94/#/home

12

Untitled step

additional information about you of i485 form

13

Address and Employment History

Provide a full 5 years of address and employment history here (along with the last foreign address for over one year if applicable).

14

Information about your parents:

15

Untitled step

Information about your parents form i485 part 2

16

Marriage History

17

Current Marriage

18

Prior Marriages

19

Children

20

Biographic Info.

21

Membership in Organizations

22

Security Questions

It is important to answer all questions honestly. You can explain any of your answers in an addendum. If you are not sure, consult with a qualified immigration attorney for assistance.

23

Part 8 continued General Eligibility

24

General Eligibility continued

25

Part 8 continued General Eligibility

Q61: Most applicants are subject to the public charge grounds of inadmissibility. You can find more information here.

26

Public Charge Continued

27

Eligibility and Inadmissibility grounds

Additional questions to confirm your eligibility for a green card

28

Certifications and Accomodation

29

Certification and Signature

This certification is to confirm that you have read every part of your application and are being truthful, among other declarations. It is very important to make sure to sign the form.

TIP: The form must have an original signature in ink. USCIS will accept a scanned copy of an originally signed document as well. Electronic signatures are not accepted.

30

Interpreter

If you used an interpreter for the application, they will complete this section as well:

31

Preparers

If someone helped you with the application, like an attorney, these sections would be filled out with their information.

Part 13 is only to be completed at the interview

32

Addendum (Additional information)

This is where you would include any information that did not fit into the form fields or additional details and explanations as needed.

33

What to include?

USCIS provides an unofficial list of evidence to include based on your eligibility category. Most applications require a copy of your passport, birth certificate, proof of your eligibility, a medical exam, and passport-style photos, for example: https://www.uscis.gov/forms/filing-guidance/checklist-of-required-initial-evidence-for-form-i-485-for-informational-purposes-only

34

Where to file the I-485 application?

Where to file the application depends on your eligibility category and how your are filing (e.g.: with another petition? Premium Processing?). You can find the filing addresses here:https://www.uscis.gov/forms/all-forms/direct-filing-addresses-for-form-i-485-application-to-register-permanent-residence-or-adjust-status

35

Processing

Processing times can vary widely depending on the type of application and USCIS workload. Usually the whole process takes about 1-2 years, but could take longer.

You can find details on estimated processing times here: https://egov.uscis.gov/processing-times/

Processing times can vary widely depending on the type of application and USCIS workload. Usually the whole process takes about 1-2 years, but could take longer.

You can find details on estimated processing times here: https://egov.uscis.gov/processing-times/

36

Case tracking

Once filed, you can track your I-485 case status online using the receipt number issued by USCIS as confirmation. This can be done here: https://egov.uscis.gov/

37

Decision

The government may request additional information to process the case (an "RFE"). Once they have everything they need, they will make a decision. The notice will come in the mail. If your case is approved, you will get your green card in the mail as well. You can double check the status by using your alien registration number of A-number (instructions here)

For more comprehensive I-485 instructions, you can download them from the USCIS website here.

If you need assistance, don’t hesitate to reach out to an immigration lawyer from Manifest law. They can help prepare your Form I-485 application accurately to help avoid any delays or a denial.

I-485 form PDF

You can download the I-485 form on the USCIS website, or below.

Download form

Initial evidence for your Form I-485

When you're applying for a green card with Form I-485, it's important to include all the necessary supporting documents to prove your eligibility. These documents, called "initial evidence," help USCIS understand your situation and verify that you meet all the requirements. Providing the right initial evidence will help ensure your application is processed smoothly and efficiently.

Here’s a checklist of the key documents you’ll need to include:

Proof of Identity and Status

Proof of Lawful Entry

Proof of Current Status

Two Passport-Style Photos

Birth Certificate

Marriage Certificate (if applicable)

Affidavit of Support (Form I-864)

Medical Examination (Form I-693)

Employment Authorization Document (EAD)

Proof of Relationship (if applicable)

Criminal Records (if applicable)

Other Supporting Documents

Passport: Include a copy of the page with your photo and personal details.

Visa: A copy of the visa you used to enter the U.S.

I-94 Arrival/Departure Record: This document shows when and how you entered the U.S.

Entry Stamp: A copy of the stamp in your passport from your most recent entry into the U.S.

Nonimmigrant Status: Copies of any documents that show your current and previous nonimmigrant status, like the I-20 for F-1 students or the DS-2019 for J-1 exchange visitors.

These photos should be 2x2 inches, with a white background, and taken within the last 30 days.

Provide a copy of your birth certificate with a certified English translation if it's not in English.

If you are applying based on marriage to a U.S. citizen or permanent resident, include a copy of your marriage certificate. Make sure to include a certified English translation if needed.

If you're being sponsored by a family member, include a completed Form I-864 from your sponsor to show they can support you financially.

Have a USCIS-authorized civil surgeon complete Form I-693, Report of Medical Examination and Vaccination Record, and provide it in a sealed envelope.

If you have an EAD, include a copy of it.

If you’re applying based on marriage, provide evidence like joint bank accounts, leases, and other documents that show you share a life together.

If you've ever been arrested or convicted, include copies of any court records.

Include any other documents required for your specific category, such as an approved Form I-130 (Petition for Alien Relative) or Form I-140 (Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker).

Manifest Law©️. Learn more on www.manifestlaw.com

💡 Manifest Tip: If any of your documents are not in English, include a certified translation.

Secondary evidence to include

Sometimes, you might not be able to get a required document for your Form I-485 application. In these cases, you need to provide alternative documents, known as "secondary evidence," so USCIS can still make a decision on your application.

Here are examples of secondary evidence:

If your birth certificate is unavailable…

If your marriage certificate is unavailable…

If your proof of entry is unavailable…

If your proof of legal status is unavailable…

If your criminal records are unavailable…

If your proof of relationship is unavailable…

Provide a statement from the government agency in your home country responsible for issuing birth certificates, certifying its unavailability. Then, submit alternative documents such as:

Baptism records
School records showing your date and place of birth
Census records indicating your date of birth, place of birth, and your parents’ names.

Provide alternative documents like:

Affidavits from witnesses who attended the wedding
Church or temple records
School records showing your marital status.

Provide alternative evidence such as:

Affidavits from people who were with you at the time of entry
Your own detailed statement describing your entry.

Consider alternative evidence like:

Affidavits from employers or landlords attesting to your legal status
School or medical records indicating your presence in the U.S.

Provide alternative evidence like:

Court records or police reports from the relevant jurisdiction
Affidavits from individuals with knowledge of the incident.

Consider alternative evidence such as:

Affidavits from relatives or friends confirming your relationship
Photos or letters showing your relationship over time.

Manifest Law©️. Learn more on www.manifestlaw.com

Remember, secondary evidence should only be used when you genuinely can't get the primary documents. Providing clear and comprehensive documentation strengthens your application and boosts the chances of success.

If you're unsure about which documents to submit or need help with your application, reach out to us at Manifest Law.

I-485 form checklist

Get the PDF checklist that lists the initial evidence needed for Form I-485, along with any additional secondary evidence if required.

Download form

Where to file Form I-485

To send in your Form I-485 application, you'll need to mail it to USCIS — they don't accept applications in person at their offices, and you cannot file online.

USCIS has different mailing addresses for Form I-485, depending on factors like why you're applying and where you live in the U.S.

For the most accurate address, check the USCIS website here.

Keep in mind that even though you'll mail your application to these addresses, USCIS will process it elsewhere. If you have an interview, it'll usually be at a USCIS field office closest to your home address.

💡 Manifest Tip: Before you send in your application, always double-check the mailing address and any specific instructions to make sure everything goes smoothly.

Processing time for Form I-485

The processing time for Form I-485 for family-based applications is currently 10–23 months and 14-20 months for employment-based applications.

It’s important to keep in mind that USCIS receives many applications, and how quickly they can review yours may vary based on factors like the type of adjustment you're applying for, the USCIS office handling your case, and the accuracy of your application.

Other things, like background checks, interviews, and requests for additional information, can also affect processing times. Changes in immigration policy or backlogs in processing can cause delays too.

While USCIS provides estimated processing times on their website, it's essential to be patient and prepared for your application to take some time to process.

Expedited processing for Form I-485

Unfortunately, premium processing isn't an option for Form I-485 applications. Premium processing is a service offered by USCIS for certain employment-related immigration petitions, but it doesn't apply to Form I-485, which is used to adjust your status to a permanent resident.

So, you won't be able to pay extra for faster processing of your Form I-485 application.

How much is Form I-485?

Filing Form I-485 costs $1,440, or $950 if the applicant is under 14 years old.

Remember, USCIS fees can change, so it's crucial to double-check the latest fee schedule on the USCIS website or speak with an immigration attorney to make sure you have the right information before submitting your application.

How to check the status of your I-485 form

To check the status of your Form I-485, you can use the USCIS online case status tool called "Check Case Status." Here's how to do it:

Step 1: Visit the USCIS website

Go to the USCIS Case Status Online page.

Step 2: Enter Your Receipt Number

Input the receipt number or Alien Registration Number provided to you when you submitted your Form I-485 application. This number is typically found on your application receipt notice (Form I-797C).

Step 3: Click "Check Status":

After entering your receipt number, click on the "Check Status" button.

Step 4: Review Your Status

The website will display the current status of your Form I-485 application. It may indicate that your case is pending, approved, or if any action is required from you.

You can also check the status of your I-485 form over the phone by calling USCIS National Customer Service Center at 1-800-375-5283.

Frequently asked questions

Can I file Form I-485 from outside the U.S.?

No, you can't file Form I-485 from outside the United States. This form is for people who are already in the U.S. and want to become permanent residents. If you're outside the country and want to apply for a green card, you'll usually need to go through a different process at a U.S. embassy or consulate in your home country.

Can Form I-485 be filed online?

As of now, Form I-485 cannot be filed online or in-person. You can only mail your I-485 form to a USCIS office.

When should I file the I-485 form?

When to file Form I-485 depends on your situation. If you're seeking a marriage-based green card, you can submit Form I-485 simultaneously with your U.S. citizen spouse's Form I-130.

This applies if you're an immediate relative of the U.S. citizen, like a parent or unmarried child under 21, and they're filing Form I-130 on your behalf.

However, if you're applying for a family-preference or employment-based green card and a visa isn't immediately available, you'll have to wait.

After USCIS approves Form I-130, you'll need to track when an immigrant visa number becomes available. You can monitor this through the monthly visa bulletin from the U.S. Department of State, or the Manifest Law blog. Once a visa number is available, you can proceed with filing your Form I-485.

Can I travel while my I-485 form is being processed?

If you're planning to travel outside the United States while your Form I-485 is still in process, it's important to apply for Form I-131, also known as the "Application for Travel Document."

Sometimes, you can file Form I-131 along with Form I-765, the "Application for Employment Authorization," either together with your Form I-485 or later on.

USCIS will handle these applications together, providing you with a combined work and travel permit known as an Employment Authorization Document (EAD)-Advanced Parole card.

With this card, you can travel abroad and work while waiting for your green card application to be processed.

What if my I-485 form gets denied?

If your Form I-485 is denied, it could be because some required documents were missing. You may be able to appeal the decision or restart your application.

If your I-485 form is denied, seeking guidance from an immigration attorney is recommended. Our team at Manifest Law is here to help you understand why your application was denied and assist you in taking the right steps forward.

How Manifest Law can help

At Manifest Law, we can file your I-485 form for a fixed fee and help you avoid mistakes and delays. Our experienced immigration attorneys can ensure you meet the eligibility requirements, and help collect the initial or secondary evidence if needed.

Book a free consultation today to learn how Manifest Law can help you.

Take the First Step:

Request a free call!

Discuss the visa options of interest to you

General information about timelines, fees, requirements for various visa options

Information on Manifest fees, terms and process

Full clarity and transparency every step along the way

Request an evaluation

* Speak to a member of the Manifest team to discuss how we can help you achieve your immigration goals

Avi Goldenberg

Principal attorney at Manifest Law

Take the First Step:

Request a free call!

Discuss the visa options of interest to you

General information about timelines, fees, requirements for various visa options

Information on Manifest fees, terms and process

Full clarity and transparency every step along the way

Request an evaluation

* Speak to a member of the Manifest team to discuss how we can help you achieve your immigration goals

Avi Goldenberg

Principal attorney at Manifest Law

Take the First Step:

Request a free call!

Discuss the visa options of interest to you

General information about timelines, fees, requirements for various visa options

Information on Manifest fees, terms and process

Full clarity and transparency every step along the way

Request an evaluation

* Speak to a member of the Manifest team to discuss how we can help you achieve your immigration goals

Avi Goldenberg

Principal attorney at Manifest Law

In this blog article:

What is Form I-485?

What is Form I-485 used for?

Who can file Form I-485?

Who can’t file Form I-485?

I-485 form instructions

I-485 form PDF

Initial evidence for your Form I-485

Secondary evidence to include

I-485 form checklist

Where to file Form I-485

Processing time for Form I-485

Expedited processing for Form I-485

How much is Form I-485?

How to check the status of your I-485 form

Frequently asked questions

How Manifest Law can help

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