Adjustment of Status to Permanent Resident (I-485)

Overview

The Adjustment of Status is the final stage in the green card application process. At this stage the green card application is a personal application and is prepared by the international employee either on their own or with the assistance of an experienced immigration attorney.  International employees may only file their adjustment of status (I-485) application if their priority date is current.  Certain countries face backlogs and must wait and maintain their underlying immigration status while waiting for a green card to become available. 

It is possible to concurrently file for work and travel authorization with the I-485, but there are very specific issues surrounding work and travel at this stage that may require consultation with an immigration attorney. Upon receipt of an approved I-140 International Programs will provide you with more detailed instructions including an outline of the required forms and documentation you must submit. 

Processing Time

The I-485 application can take some time to prepare as it involves gathering documentation of immigration status history, birth and marriage records and biographical information.  It is also required to have a medical exam by a USCIS-approved doctor prior to the submission as well (Civil Surgeon).