Adjustment of Status (I-485)

Adjustment of Status (AOS) is the process that allows certain nonimmigrants already in the United States to apply for lawful permanent residence (green card) without having to leave the country. This process is managed by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) and is commonly used by individuals who are eligible for a green card through family sponsorship, employment, refugee/asylum status, or other qualifying categories.

Step 1: Determine Eligibility & File an Immigrant Petition

Before applying for Adjustment of Status, most applicants need an approved immigrant petition, such as:

Form I-130 (Petition for Alien Relative) for family-based immigrants.
Form I-140 (Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker) for employment-based immigrants.
Form I-526 (EB-5 Investors Petition) for investor immigrants.

Once the petition is approved, applicants can proceed with AOS if their priority date is current.

Step 2: File Form I-485 (Application for Adjustment of Status)

Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status is the main form required for AOS.
Applicants must submit supporting documents, such as birth certificates, marriage certificates (if applicable), medical examination results, and evidence of lawful entry (e.g., I-94 record).

Step 3: Obtain Employment Authorization Document & Travel Authorization (Optional)

While the I-485 application is pending, applicants can apply for:

Employment Authorization Document (EAD) – Form I-765 (to legally work in the U.S.).
Advance Parole – Form I-131 (to travel internationally while waiting for green card approval).

(These documents allow applicants to continue their daily activities while their case is being processed.)

Step 4: Attend Biometrics Appointment

USCIS schedules a biometrics appointment to collect fingerprints, photographs, and signatures.

Step 5: Attend the Green Card Interview (if required)

USCIS may require an interview at a local USCIS field office to verify the information in the application.
Interviews are common for family-based green card applicants but may be waived for employment-based applicants.
The officer reviews the case and approves or denies the application.

Step 6: Receive the Decision & Green Card Issuance

If approved, the applicant receives an Approval Notice, followed by the physical green card in the mail.
If denied, USCIS provides reasons for denial, and the applicant may file an appeal or motion to reconsider.

Need Help with Adjustment of Status?

Our experienced immigration attorneys provide comprehensive AOS support, including case evaluation, document preparation, interview preparation, and USCIS follow-ups. With a proven track record and deep expertise, we ensure your case is handled with precision and care.

Form I-485 (Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status):

General Filing: $1,440
If under 14 years of age and submitting Form I-485 concurrently with the Form I-485 of one parent: $950

USCIS periodically adjusts the filing fees, check with your immigration attorney for the new filing fees before you file.