If you are lawfully in the United States, you may qualify to file USCIS Form I-485 for adjustment of status. After you file USCIS Form I-485 for Adjustment of Status, there are several things to keep in mind while you wait for your final interview. It is important to keep copies of any submissions and I-797 notices for your records and to respond in a timely manner to any USCIS requests. We review the adjustment of the status process and what to expect below.
What is USCIS Form I-485 Adjustment of Status?
Adjustment of status is the process of going from a nonimmigrant visa to US permanent resident status (Green Card) while remaining inside the United States. This process allows you to stay inside the US and obtain a Green Card without having to return to your home country.
How do I qualify to file USCIS Form I-485?
There are several ways to apply for a Green Card through adjustment of status. The requirements for adjustment of status vary depending on the immigrant category you apply under. Before you file USCIS Form I-485 you must first verify that fit into a specific immigrant category. Immigrant categories include:
- Green Card Through Family
- Green Card Through Employment
What happens after I file Form I-485 Adjustment of Status?
After you file Form I-485 with USCIS, they will confirm receipt of the case for processing by issuing a Form I-797 Receipt Notice. This notice will include important information including, your USCIS receipt number that can be used to track the progress of your case. Every petition or application filed with USCIS will receive a separate I-797 Receipt Notice. Keep any notices you receive from USCIS for your records.
When is my Biometrics Appointment?
After you have filed an application, petition, or other benefit requests with US Citizenship and Immigration Services, USCIS schedules a biometrics appointment at a local Application Support Center (ASC). During a biometrics appointment, USCIS may take your photo, signature, and index fingerprint for purposes of a background and security check. Failure to attend your biometrics will result in a denial of your case.
Do I need a Medical Examination by a Designated Civil Surgeon?
If you did not include a medical examination with your application, you will receive a deficiency notice with instructions on how to obtain a medical examination from a designated civil surgeon. Only medical examinations performed by designated civil surgeons will be accepted.
What is a Request for Additional Evidence (RFE)?
If USCIS finds a missing document or needs further clarification on your case, they can issue a requestion for additional evidence, commonly referred to as an RFE. It is important to carefully review any RFE requests and reply within the timeframe given to avoid a denial in your case.
When will I have my final interview at USCIS?
Many cases require a final interview with a USCIS Officer before approval. In some cases, the interview can be waived. In either case, you will receive an I-797 Notice of Action from USCIS notifying you of either an interview or waiver of interview. It is important to bring any original biographic documents as well as updated evidence to the interview. Failure to appear for your interview will result in a denial of your case.
How do I keep my address current with USCIS?
Throughout the immigration process, USICS will send notices and requests via US Mail. It is important that you keep your address current with USCIS so that you do not miss any notices or requests. Failure to maintain your address could result in you missing key information and/or appointments which can result in denial. You should update your address with USICS and USPS within 10 days of a change of address.
The immigration process can be stressful and overwhelming. It is important to understand each step of the process and what is required. Failing to properly follow the steps in the process and failure to reply to agency requests could result in denial in your case.
What do the different USCIS Form I797 notices mean? What should I expect during my USCIS biometrics appointment? How do I find a doctor to perform my immigration medical exam and what should I expect? How do I change my address with USCIS?
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