U.S. Visas: Form I-485

Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status

Form I-485 is the form used by an individual in the U.S. to apply to the USCIS to register permanent residence or to adjust status. Form I-485 is regarded as the final step in the “green card process”.

What are the Requirements for Filing Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status?

VISANOW can prepare and submit the I-485 application if the I-485 applicant is presently in the U.S.

Employment-Based Green Card Applications

You may file Form I-485, based on an underlying employment-based petition, if an immigrant visa number is immediately available to you.

In an employment-based context, an immigrant number is immediately available in the following scenarios:

1. The employment-based petition does not require a labor certification i.e. EB-1 category (priority workers): Aliens of Extraordinary Ability (EB-1A); Outstanding Researchers or Researchers (EB-2B); and, Multinational Executives or Managers (EB-1C); or,
2. The individual has a current priority date based on the date the labor certification was filed or on the date the I-140 filed.

Typically, an Adjustment of Status Interview is not required for employment-based immigrant visa applications but, on occasion, the USCIS does require such applicants to undergo an interview.

How Long is the Approved I-485 Valid?

When the I-485 application is approved, the USCIS will send the applicant their “green card “. The permanent residence status is valid as long as it is not abandoned by the individual or revoked by the USCIS.

Are Dependents Eligible to File Form I-485?

Spouses and dependent children are eligible to adjust their status through the primary applicant however, each individual that desires permanent residency must file a separate I-485 application.