Form I-485 is used by individuals in the United States to apply for lawful permanent resident status, also known as a green card. It allows eligible applicants to adjust their immigration status without leaving the country.
Who Can File Form I-485
Applicants may file Form I-485 if they:
- Are physically present in the U.S.
- Have an approved or concurrently filed immigrant petition (Form I-130, I-140, I-360, etc.)
- Have a current priority date, if in a visa-limited category
- Were lawfully admitted or paroled into the U.S.
- Are not inadmissible or qualify for a waiver
Common Categories Eligible for Adjustment
- Immediate relatives of U.S. citizens
- Spouses, unmarried children under 21, and parents
- Family-based preference categories
- Subject to annual visa limits
- Employment-based categories
- EB-1, EB-2, EB-3 after I-140 approval or concurrent filing
- Other categories
- Asylees and refugees (after one year)
- Diversity visa lottery winners
- Special immigrants (VAWA, U or T visa holders, Afghan or Iraqi nationals)
Required Forms and Documents
- Form I-485
- Form I-693 (Medical exam)
- Form I-765 (Optional work permit)
- Form I-131 (Optional travel permit)
- Form I-864 (Affidavit of Support, if required)
- Passport, I-94, birth certificate, visa, immigration status proof
- Two passport-style photos
Filing Fee (2025)
- Standard fee: $1,140
- Biometrics: $85 (if required)
- No fee for certain refugees and minors
Processing Steps
- Submit I-485 package to USCIS
- Receive receipt notice
- Attend biometrics appointment
- Optional work/travel permits issued
- Interview (if required)
- Receive green card upon approval
Key Points to Remember
- Visa must be available at time of filing (check the monthly Visa Bulletin)
- Employment-based applicants must usually maintain valid non-immigrant status
- Travel abroad without advance parole may cancel your application
- Work and travel permits are available while I-485 is pending
- Interviews are common for family-based and some employment-based cases
How Immigration Fleet Can Help
At Immigration Fleet, we help individuals and employers navigate the green card process with precision and care. Whether you are applying through a job, family, or humanitarian path, our team provides:
- Personalized case strategy
- Document preparation and review
- Interview support
- Response to USCIS requests or delays
We guide you through every step toward permanent residency with professional support and clear communication.
Contact Immigration Fleet today to schedule a consultation.
