We are Proud Members of the Following
If you wish to convert from a nonimmigrant visa to a green card, your I-485 application requires specific documents. These may include passport-style photos, vaccination records, medical examination results, and an affidavit of support. This affidavit represents the sponsor’s promise that an intending immigrant will not rely on need-based government assistance, commonly referred to as welfare. Other than this, other required documents exist for the I-485 application to register permanent residence or adjust status.
Passport-Style Photographs
Passport-style photographs must follow strict guidelines when taken home or by a hired photographer. These include:
- White or off-white backgrounds with neutral expression and print quality in mind.
- The guidelines stipulate that both eyes must be open
- Clothing resembling uniforms or camouflage must not be worn
- Hats and head coverings are prohibited unless part of your religious attire or for medical reasons (in which case a doctor’s statement must be presented).
The rules surrounding visa photo acceptance may seem complex, but your photos must meet them if you hope for approval of your application. Achieving photo quality that meets these specifications could mean the difference between acceptance or rejection of your visa status application.
Copy of Government-Issued Photo ID
If you are applying for an immigrant visa petition from within the US – also known as adjustment of status – a copy of your government-issued photo ID, such as a valid passport or government ID card bearing your picture, birth date, and other pertinent details must also be submitted as evidence of identification.
You may also need evidence of your family relationships or finances, including a birth and marriage certificate, financial documents, school records, or any other proof that shows the family lives together.
USCIS allows applicants who lack certain supporting documents to submit secondary evidence, such as notarized statements or other documentation, as substitute documents in their adjustment of status case submission.
Copy of Birth Certificate
If you were born outside the US, as proof of your identity, you will need a certified copy of your birth certificate from its office of vital records in your birth country. The Department of State website lists these offices with contact details and associated costs.
If you cannot get your birth certificate, submit a notarized personal affidavit outlining why this documentation is unavailable. Likewise, if any corrections need to be made, ensure the details match those on other documentation, such as passports and driver’s licenses.
Form I-693 (Medical Examination & Vaccination Record)
This form is intended to allow green-card applicants in the US to demonstrate that they do not have any health-related issues that would prevent their acceptance under immigration law, and meet Centers for Disease Control and Prevention vaccination requirements. In particular, it must be completed when seeking to transition from nonimmigrant status into green-card status via the adjustment of status process.
No matter the visa type, your medical exam must be performed by an official designated by USCIS (or, for refugee applicants, a panel physician authorized by the State Department). Once submitted to USCIS, this form remains valid for 60 days from its signature date; accordingly, make sure you schedule your appointment when you intend to file your green card application.
Conclusion
Submitting a complete and accurate I-485 application is crucial for successfully adjusting your status to obtain a green card. Working with an immigration attorney can greatly improve the chances of approval by guiding you through the process, filing instructions, ensuring compliance with regulations, and helping respond to potential requests for further evidence. Proper preparation and attention to detail are key to achieving your goal of becoming a lawful permanent resident in the USA.