Adjustment of status

Who this pathway suits

Foreign nationals lawfully present in the US with an approved or concurrently filed immigrant petition and a current priority date.

Eligibility at a glance

• Physically present in the United States through lawful admission or parole
• Immigrant visa number immediately available according to the DOS Visa Bulletin
• Maintained lawful non-immigrant status (with specific Section 245(k) exemptions for employment-based applicants)
• Admissible to the United States

How the process works

1. File Form I-485 with USCIS (alongside Form I-765 for EAD work permit and Form I-131 for travel advance parole)
2. Attend biometric service appointment
3. Complete medical examination (Form I-693) by designated Civil Surgeon
4. Interview at USCIS field office (waived in many employment cases)
5. Green Card mailed to US address

Documents you will typically need

• Form I-485, Form I-693 sealed medical report, birth certificate with certified translation, I-94 arrival record, copy of passport and visa stamps

What to keep in mind

Filing Form I-485 grants 'authorized stay' and allows you to apply for an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) and Advance Parole.