I-485 – Adjustment of Status

Apply to become a lawful permanent resident (green card holder) without leaving the United States.

Our Fee

$149

USCIS Fee

~$1,440

Est. Completion

25–35 min

Processing Time

8–24 months

⚠️ ImmigrationSmile.com is not a law firm. We prepare forms only. USCIS fees are paid separately.

About Form I-485

Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status, allows eligible individuals who are already inside the United States to apply for lawful permanent resident (LPR) status — commonly known as a green card — without returning to their home country for a consular interview. This is the key advantage of adjustment of status over consular processing. You must have an approved immigrant petition (such as I-130 or I-140) and a visa number must be immediately available.

Who Can File I-485?

✓ Individuals inside the U.S. with an approved I-130, I-140, or other immigrant petition

✓ A visa number is immediately available in your preference category

✓ You entered the U.S. lawfully (with limited exceptions under INA 245(i))

✓ You are not subject to any bars to adjustment of status

Documents Required

✓Approved immigrant petition receipt/approval notice (I-797)
✓Valid passport (unexpired, or explain if expired)
✓Copy of I-94 Arrival/Departure Record
✓Birth certificate with certified English translation
✓Two passport-style photos (2"x2")
✓Form I-693 Medical Examination (completed by a USCIS-designated civil surgeon)
✓Form I-864 Affidavit of Support from the petitioner
✓Proof of lawful entry (visa stamp, I-94, etc.)
✓Any prior immigration documents (EAD, prior green cards, etc.)
✓Police clearances or court records if applicable

Steps to File

1
Confirm you have an approved immigrant petition and your priority date is current on the Visa Bulletin
2
Schedule a medical examination with a USCIS-designated civil surgeon for Form I-693
3
Complete the I-485 questionnaire using our software
4
Prepare and organize all supporting documents into one packet
5
Pay USCIS filing fees (I-485 + biometrics) by check or money order
6
Mail the complete packet to the correct USCIS lockbox facility
7
Attend biometrics appointment (fingerprints, photo, signature)
8
Attend interview at your local USCIS field office if scheduled

FAQs – I-485

Q: Can I work while my I-485 is pending?

A: Yes — if you file Form I-765 (EAD) concurrently with your I-485, you can receive a work permit. Many applicants file I-765 and I-131 together with the I-485.

Q: Can I travel internationally while my I-485 is pending?

A: You must have Advance Parole (Form I-131) approved before leaving the U.S. Departing without it will typically be considered abandonment of your I-485.

Q: What is the Visa Bulletin?

A: The Visa Bulletin, published monthly by the U.S. State Department, shows which priority dates are current for each preference category. Your priority date must be current to file or be approved for I-485.

Q: How long is the medical exam valid?

A: Form I-693 results are generally valid for 2 years from the date of the civil surgeon's signature. Do not submit I-693 if it was signed more than 2 years ago.

Ready to Start?

Complete the continuous questionnaire to generate your print-ready packet.