Three Things to Know About Form I-485
Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status, provides a legal pathway for you to become a lawful permanent resident of the United States. If you are already in the country on a non-immigrant visa and are considering permanent residency, Form I-485 is where the green card process starts. By filing this form, you are asking to register as a permanent resident without consular processing and while you are still in the country.
When filing Form I-485, you may have many questions. Below, our Atlanta immigration lawyer outlines three important things to know about this application.
How an Immigration Lawyer Can Help with Form I-485
In the current landscape, adjusting your status is more complex than ever. It is important to know that U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) will scrutinize your application thoroughly to ensure all residence submissions and requirements are met. Missing a deadline or failing to include important information once only caused delays but today, it could result in an outright denial.
USCIS is issuing more Requests for Evidence (RFEs) than ever before, background checks are becoming more thorough, and filing fees are increasing. Due to these factors, it is of the utmost importance that you file Form I-485 correctly. The USCIS website will have the most current version. Still, it is important to work with an immigration lawyer who can ensure you are filing the proper form and that it is filled out correctly.
Documents Needed to File Form I-485
The documents you need to file Form I-485 will depend on your immigration category and the facts of your case. The documentation you may need includes:
- Form I-485, completed
- Form I-693, which is a medical examination and vaccination record
- Form I-94, proof of lawful entry or non-immigrant visa status
- Birth certificate
- Two passport-style photos
- Copy of your government-issued identification
- Marriage certificate, if applicable
In addition to the above documents, you must also pay the filing fee. In 2026, these fees are $1,440 for individuals who are 14 years of age or older and $950 for individuals who are under 14 years old and are filing with a parent. These filing fees are always changing, so it is best to consult with an attorney who can advise on the fees when you file.
What to Expect After Filing Form I-485
If your application is approved, you will receive your green card in the mail. The five-year or three-year clock until you can apply for citizenship will start. You can also update your records with Medicare and Social Security and are eligible to sponsor family members who live abroad.
If your application is denied, it is critical that you speak to an immigration lawyer. You may still have options, such as filing a new application or filing a motion to reconsider or reopen. A lawyer can advise you of these options and help you determine which one is right for you.
Our Immigration Lawyer in Atlanta Can Help
For a consultation to discuss your case and needs with our Atlanta immigration lawyer, please call Shirazi Immigration Law, Inc. today at 404-523-3611. We serve clients in Atlanta, Moultrie, and Dalton, GA and Chattanooga, TN.
Source:
uscis.gov/i-485
