What is the I-485 adjustment of status?

Form I-485 (Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status) is the form used by foreign nationals already inside the United States to apply for a green card without leaving the country. It is filed with USCIS once a visa number becomes available for the applicant's immigrant visa category, or immediately for immediate relatives of US citizens.

The I-485 package typically includes the main application, Form I-864 (Affidavit of Support), Form I-693 (medical examination), civil documents, photos, and fees. USCIS also usually requires concurrent filing of I-765 for work authorization and I-131 for advance parole (travel permission while the green card is pending). Filing all together speeds up the process.

After filing, USCIS schedules a biometrics appointment to collect fingerprints and photos. Most applicants also attend an in-person interview at a local USCIS office, though some employment-based and derivative cases may be interview-waived. If approved, the applicant receives their green card (initially valid 2 years for conditional residents, 10 years for permanent residents).

This is general information only, not legal advice. Consult a qualified immigration lawyer or registered migration agent for your specific situation.