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Instructions for Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status

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Instructions for Application to Register  
Permanent Residence or Adjust Status  
USCIS  
Form I-485  
OMB No. 1615-0023  
Expires 02/28/2026  
Department of Homeland Security  
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services  
Table of Contents  
Form I-485 Main Instructions  
Page  
2
What Is the Purpose of Form I-485?  
Who May File Form I-485?  
2
Who May Not Be Eligible to Adjust Status?  
When Should I File Form I-485?  
General Instructions  
3
4
4
What Evidence Must You Submit with Form I-485?  
What Is the Filing Fee?  
16  
17  
18  
19  
19  
21  
21  
Where To File?  
Address Change  
Processing Information  
Individuals With Disabilities and/or Impairments  
USCIS Forms and Information  
Penalties  
USCIS Compliance Review and Monitoring  
USCIS Privacy Act Statement  
Paperwork Reduction Act  
Checklist  
Additional Instructions  
Additional Instructions  
22  
22  
24  
25  
26  
32  
33  
Additional Instructions for Family-Based Applicants  
Additional Instructions for Employment-Based Applicants  
Additional Instructions for Special Immigrants  
Additional Instructions for Human Trafficking Victims and Crime Victims  
Additional Instructions for Asylees and Refugees  
Additional Instructions for Applicants Filing Under Special Adjustment Programs  
Additional Categories  
Form I-485 Instructions 02/21/23  
Page 1 of 44  
What Is the Purpose of Form I-485?  
Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status, is used by a person in the United States to  
apply for lawful permanent resident status. Throughout these Instructions, we will sometimes refer to Form I-485 as an  
application for adjustment of status or as an adjustment application.  
Who May File Form I-485?  
The Immigration and Nationality Act (INA) and certain other Federal laws provide many different ways to adjust status to  
that of a lawful permanent resident. This is often informally referred to as applying for a “green card.”  
The eligibility requirements for adjustment of status may vary depending on the immigrant category you are applying  
under. For more information on adjustment of status eligibility and discretion, go to the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration  
Furthermore, you must be physically present in the United States to file this application.  
You may apply as the person who directly qualifies for an immigrant category (“principal applicant”) or, in some cases, as  
a family member of the principal applicant (“derivative applicant”). Whether you are a principal or derivative applicant,  
you must file your own Form I-485.  
1. Principal Applicant  
The principal applicant is usually the individual named as the beneficiary of an immigrant petition or who is otherwise  
qualified to adjust status. A principal applicant must designate which immigrant category he or she is applying under  
by selecting the appropriate box listed on Form I-485, Part 2. Application Type or Filing Category, Item Numbers  
1.a. - 1.g.  
Each category has specific requirements for adjustment of status. In addition to these Instructions, read the  
Additional Instructions (found after the Form I-485 Main Instructions) for your immigrant category to determine  
if any additional requirements apply to you.  
2. Derivative Applicant (files based on a principal applicant)  
A principal applicant’s spouse and children, who are not beneficiaries of their own immigrant petition, may be eligible  
to apply for adjustment under the same immigrant category as the principal applicant. These family members are  
called “derivative applicants.” A derivative applicant must designate which immigrant category he or she is applying  
under by selecting the appropriate box listed on Form I-485, Part 2. Application Type or Filing Category, Item  
Numbers 1.a. - 1.g.  
Some immigrant categories do not allow for derivative applicants, while a few categories allow additional family  
members to apply as derivative applicants. See the Additional Instructions for more details.  
Under U.S. immigration law, you are a “child” if you are unmarried, under 21 years of age, and meet the definition of  
“child” found in the INA and USCIS policy guidance. Visit www.uscis.gov/tools/glossary for more information on  
the definition of “child.” You may still be considered a child for immigration purposes even after turning 21 years of  
age if you qualify under the provisions of the Child Status Protection Act (CSPA). For more information on CSPA,  
3. Other Immigrant Categories  
If you are filing for adjustment of status based on an immigrant category not listed in Part 2., Item Numbers  
1.a. - 1.g., select the “Other Eligibility” box in Item Number 1.g. and type or print the immigrant category you are  
applying under. These immigrant categories include, but are not limited to:  
A. Special immigrants not listed in Part 2., Item Number 1.c. (for example, certain U.S. armed forces members,  
Panama Canal Zone employees, and physicians);  
Form I-485 Instructions 02/21/23  
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B. Polish or Hungarian parolee;  
C. Private immigration bill signed into law; and  
D. Registration of lawful permanent residence status based on a presumption of lawful admission.  
If you would like more information on how to file under any of these categories, call the USCIS Contact Center at  
1-800-375-5283. For TTY (deaf or hard of hearing) call: 1-800-767-1833 or visit www.uscis.gov/green-card/other-  
Who May Not Be Eligible to Adjust Status?  
Bars to Adjustment of Status  
You are generally ineligible for adjustment of status if one or more adjustment bars in INA sections 245(a), (c), (d),  
and/or (e) apply to you. However, adjustment bars do not apply to every type of immigrant category and your category  
might exempt you from certain adjustment bars. For example, certain adjustment bars do not apply to immediate relatives  
of U.S. citizens, Violence Against Women Act (VAWA)-based applicants, or certain special immigrants. In addition, some  
employment-based applicants might be eligible for an exemption to some adjustment bars. For more information, visit  
Exception Under INA section 245(i)  
You may be able to adjust status under INA section 245(i) even if you are subject to one or more adjustment bars and are  
therefore ineligible for adjustment of status under INA section 245(a). See separate instructions for adjusting status under  
INA section 245(i), titled “Instructions for Supplement A to Form I-485, Adjustment of Status Under Section 245(i).”  
INA section 245(i) is not an immigrant category by itself. In order to adjust status using INA section 245(i), you must be  
eligible for an immigrant visa under a family-based, employment-based, special immigrant, or Diversity Visa category.  
You must select one of the immigrant categories listed in Part 2., Item Numbers 1.a. - 1.g. as the basis for your  
application for adjustment of status. See the Additional Instructions for more information on your specific immigrant  
category.  
Grounds of Inadmissibility  
Immigration laws specify acts, conditions, and conduct that can make foreign nationals ineligible for lawful permanent  
resident status. These acts, conditions, and conduct are outlined in INA section 212(a) and are called grounds of  
inadmissibility. For more information, visit https://www.uscis.gov/forms/explore-my-options/green-card-eligibility.  
You are inadmissible to the United States and may not adjust status to a lawful permanent resident if you fall under one  
or more of the grounds of inadmissibility that apply to your immigrant category. Depending on your immigrant category,  
some grounds may not apply to you.  
If you are inadmissible, you may be eligible for a waiver of the ground of inadmissibility or another form of relief. If your  
waiver application or other form of relief is granted, your application to adjust status may be approved.  
Exchange Visitors  
If you are or were a J-1 or J-2 nonimmigrant exchange visitor and are subject to the 2-year foreign residence requirement  
of INA section 212(e), you may not apply to adjust status unless you have complied with the foreign residence  
requirement, have been granted a waiver of that requirement, or were issued a favorable waiver recommendation letter  
from U.S. Department of State (DOS).  
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Certain A, G, and E Nonimmigrants  
If you have A, G, or E nonimmigrant status, or an occupation that would entitle you to such status, and as a result hold  
certain diplomatic rights, privileges, exemptions, and immunities, you are ineligible for adjustment of status unless you  
submit a waiver of those rights, privileges, exemptions, and immunities.  
When Should I File Form I-485?  
This section provides general information on when you should file Form I-485.  
Principal Applicant  
In general, if you are filing as a beneficiary of an immigrant visa petition (such as Form I-130, Form I-140, or Form  
I-360), you may file an adjustment application only after USCIS has approved your petition and an immigrant visa  
number is immediately available. There are, however, some immigrant categories that allow you to file Form I-485 before  
USCIS approves your petition (this is known as “concurrent filing”), provided that approval of the petition would make  
a visa number immediately available and you meet all other filing requirements. See the Additional Instructions for  
category-specific information on when you may file Form I-485.  
priority-dates for information on visa availability and priority dates, and the DOS website at www.travel.state.gov/  
More information about concurrent filing is available at www.uscis.gov/green-card/green-card-processes-and-  
procedures/concurrent-filing and in the instructions for Forms I-130, I-140, and I-360.  
Derivative Adjustment Applicant  
With the exception of U nonimmigrants, asylees, and refugees, USCIS cannot approve your Form I-485 as a derivative  
applicant until the principal applicant has been granted lawful permanent resident status.  
If you are currently the spouse or child (unmarried and under 21 years of age) of a principal applicant, you may file Form  
I-485 if an immigrant visa is immediately available to you and you meet all the filing requirements. You may file at any of  
the following times:  
1. At the same time the principal applicant files Form I-485;  
2. After the principal applicant filed a Form I-485 that remains pending a final decision by USCIS;  
3. After USCIS approves the principal applicant’s Form I-485, if the principal applicant is still a lawful permanent  
resident and if, at the time of the principal applicant’s Form I-485 approval, you were the principal applicant’s spouse  
or child; or  
4. After the principal applicant obtained an immigrant visa and entered the United States as a lawful permanent resident  
if the principal applicant is still a lawful permanent resident and, at the time of the principal applicant’s entry, you  
were the principal applicant’s spouse or child.  
General Instructions  
USCIS provides forms free of charge through the USCIS website. In order to view, print, or fill out our forms, you should  
use the latest version of Adobe Reader, which you can download for free at http://get.adobe.com/reader/. If you do not  
have Internet access, you may call the USCIS Contact Center at 1-800-375-5283 and ask that we mail a form to you. For  
TTY (deaf or hard of hearing) call: 1-800-767-1833.  
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Form G-325A, Biographic Information. Form G-325A is no longer required. You do not need to submit a separate  
Form G-325A with this Form I-485. Parts 1. and 3. of this Form I-485 meet the requirements of 8 CFR 245.2(a)(3)(i) by  
collecting the biographical information formerly required on Form G-325A  
Signature. Each application must be properly signed and filed. For all signatures on this application, USCIS will  
not accept a stamped or typewritten name in place of a signature. If you are under 14 years of age, your parent or  
legal guardian may sign the application on your behalf. (See the Additional Instructions that relates to Individuals  
Born Under Diplomatic Status in the United States, for one exception.) A legal guardian may also sign for a mentally  
incompetent person.  
Filing Fee. Each application must be accompanied by the appropriate filing fee and biometric services fee (if applicable).  
(See the What Is the Filing Fee section of these Instructions.) If you file this application with an agency other than  
USCIS, check with that agency to determine if and when you must submit biometric services fees.  
Evidence. At the time of filing, you must submit all evidence and supporting documentation listed in the What Evidence  
Must You Submit with Form I-485 section of these Instructions. Evidence requirements may vary depending on the  
immigrant category you are applying under. See the Additional Instructions for information on whether any general  
evidence requirements do not apply to you, or if you have other evidence requirements specific to your immigrant  
category.  
Biometric Services Appointment. USCIS may require that you appear for an interview or provide fingerprints,  
photograph, and/or signature at any time to verify your identity, obtain additional information, and conduct background  
and security checks, including a check of criminal history records maintained by the Federal Bureau of Investigation  
(FBI), before making a decision on your application, petition, or request. After USCIS receives your application and  
ensures it is complete, we will inform you in writing if you need to attend a biometric services appointment. If an  
appointment is necessary, the notice will provide you the location of your local or designated USCIS Application Support  
Center (ASC) and the date and time of your appointment. If you are an applicant (principal or derivative) filing Form  
I-485 with an immigration judge, you are required to comply with instructions you will receive during proceedings for  
submitting Form I-485 to USCIS with all relevant fees and for providing biometric and biographic information to USCIS.  
If you are required to provide biometrics, at your appointment you must sign an oath reaffirming that:  
1. You provided or authorized all information in the application;  
2. You reviewed and understood all of the information contained in, and submitted with, your application; and  
3. All of this information was complete, true, and correct at the time of filing.  
If you fail to attend your biometric services appointment, USCIS may deny your application. For applicants and  
derivatives who appear before an immigration judge, failure to attend a biometric services appointment, without good  
cause, may result in the immigration judge finding that your application was abandoned, and USCIS may also deny any  
other application, petition, or request you filed with USCIS.  
Copies. You should submit legible photocopies of documents requested, unless the Instructions specifically state that you  
must submit an original document. USCIS may request an original document at the time of filing or at any time during  
processing of an application, petition, or request. If USCIS requests an original document from you, it will be returned to  
you after USCIS determines it no longer needs your original.  
NOTE: If you submit original documents when not required or requested by USCIS or the Immigration Court, your  
original documents may remain a part of the record, USCIS or the Immigration Court will not automatically return them  
to you, and your original documents may be immediately destroyed upon receipt.  
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Translations. If you submit a document with information in a foreign language, you must also submit a full English  
translation. The translator must sign a certification that the English language translation is complete and accurate, and that  
he or she is competent to translate from the foreign language into English. The certification must include the translator’s  
signature. DHS recommends the certification contain the translator’s printed name and the date and the translator’s  
contact information.  
Selective Service. Most males between 18 and 26 years of age are required by the Military Selective Service Act  
to register with the Selective Service System. Nonimmigrants are not required to register. If USCIS approves your  
application, we will send your name, current address, Social Security number, date of birth, and the date you filed the  
application to the Selective Service System for registration. Men can register at a local post office or at the website,  
If USCIS does not approve your application, you are still required to register with the Selective Service System by  
using another means. If you have already registered, the Selective Service System will check its records to avoid any  
duplication.  
Acknowledgement of Selective Service. Review the Selective Service Acknowledgement in Part 10. The purpose of  
this acknowledgement is to confirm that you understand USCIS will be sending your information to the Selective Service  
System for registration.  
How To Fill Out Form I-485  
1. Type or print legibly in black ink.  
2. If you need extra space to complete any item within this application, use the space provided in Part 14. Additional  
Information or attach a separate sheet of paper; type or print your name and Alien Registration Number (A-Number)  
(if any) at the top of each sheet; indicate the Page Number, Part Number, and Item Number to which your answer  
refers; and sign and date each sheet.  
3. Answer all questions fully and accurately. If a question does not apply to you (for example, if you have never been  
married and the question asks, “Provide the name of your current spouse”), type or print “N/A,” unless otherwise  
directed. If your answer to a question which requires a numeric response is zero or none (for example, “How many  
children do you have” or “How many times have you departed the United States”), type or print “None,” unless  
otherwise directed.  
4. USCIS Online Account Number (if any). If you have previously filed an application, petition, or request using the  
USCIS online filing system (previously called USCIS Electronic Immigration System (USCIS ELIS)), provide the  
USCIS Online Account Number you were issued by the system. You can find your USCIS Online Account Number  
by logging in to your account and going to the profile page. If you previously filed certain applications, petitions,  
or requests on a paper form via a USCIS Lockbox facility, you may have received a USCIS Online Account Access  
Notice issuing you a USCIS Online Account Number. If you received such a notice, your USCIS Online Account  
Number can be found at the top of the notice. If you were issued a USCIS Online Account Number, enter it in the  
space provided. The USCIS Online Account Number is not the same as an A-Number.  
5. Alternate and/or Safe Address. If you are filing an adjustment of status application based on VAWA or as a special  
immigrant juvenile, human trafficking victim (T nonimmigrant), or crime victim (U nonimmigrant) and you do not  
feel safe receiving mail about this application at your home address, provide an alternative, safe mailing address in  
Part 1., Item Numbers 13.a. - 13.f. This address may be a post office box, the address of a friend, your attorney, a  
community-based organization that is helping you, or any other address where you can safely and timely receive mail.  
If you do not provide an alternate, safe address in Part 1., Item Numbers 13.a. - 13.f., USCIS may use the address  
of the preparer you listed on your Form I-485. If you do not use a preparer and do not provide a safe address, then  
USCIS will use the U.S. Mailing Address you provide in Part 1., Item Numbers 12.a. - 12.f.  
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6. Questions regarding Social Security Number (SSN). Part 1., Item Number 14. asks if the Social Security  
Administration (SSA) has ever officially issued you a Social Security Card. If the SSA ever issued a Social Security  
card to you in your name or a previously used name such as your maiden name, then you must enter the SSN from  
your card in Item Number 15.  
If your application is approved, the SSA may assign you an SSN and issue you a Social Security card, or issue you  
a replacement card. If you want the SSA to assign you a Social Security number and issue you a Social Security  
card, or issue you a new or replacement Social Security card, then answer “Yes” to both Item Number 16. and  
Item Number 17.  
You are not required to request an SSN using this application. Completing Item Numbers 14. - 17. is optional.  
However, you must have an SSN properly assigned in your name to work in the United States.  
If your employer uses E-Verify to confirm new employees’ eligibility to legally work in the United States, the  
information you provide on Form I-9, Employment Eligibility Verification, will be compared to data in SSA and  
DHS databases. Employees must have an SSN in order for E-Verify to confirm their eligibility to legally work in the  
United States.  
NOTE: Based on existing confidentiality provisions (see 8 U.S.C. 1255a(c)(5) and Section (c)(5) of Pub. L. 106-  
553), USCIS will not share information with SSA if an applicant files Form I-485 based on the legalization program  
in Section 245A of the INA or the LIFE Act (Pub. L. 106-553), as amended by the LIFE Act Amendments (Pub. L.  
106-544). Applicants covered by these confidentiality provisions may not waive them and should contact SSA after  
the approval of their Form I-485.  
7. Form I-94 Arrival-Departure Record. If U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) or USCIS issued you a Form  
I-94, Arrival-Departure Record, provide your Form I-94 number and date that your authorized period of stay expires  
or expired (as shown on Form I-94). The Form I-94 number also is known as the Departure Number on some versions  
of Form I-94.  
NOTE: If you were admitted to the United States by CBP at an airport or seaport after April 30, 2013, you may have  
been issued an electronic Form I-94 by CBP, instead of a paper Form I-94. You may visit the CBP website at  
www.cbp.gov/i94 to obtain a paper version of an electronic Form I-94. CBP does not charge a fee for this service.  
Some travelers admitted to the United States at a land border, airport, or seaport, after April 30, 2013, with a passport  
or travel document, who were issued a paper Form I-94 by CBP, may also be able to obtain a replacement Form  
I-94 from the CBP website without charge. If your Form I-94 cannot be obtained from the CBP website, it may be  
obtained by filing Form I-102, Application for Replacement/Initial Nonimmigrant Arrival-Departure Record, with  
USCIS. USCIS does charge a fee for this service.  
Passport and Travel Document Numbers. If you used a passport or travel document to travel to the United States,  
enter either the passport or travel document information in the appropriate space on the application, even if the  
passport or travel document is currently expired.  
8. Biographic Information. Provide the biographic information requested in Part 7., Item Numbers 1. - 6. Providing  
this information as part of your application may reduce the time you spend at your USCIS ASC appointment as  
described in the Biometric Services Appointment section of these Instructions.  
A. Ethnicity and Race. Select the boxes that best describe your ethnicity and race.  
Categories and Definitions for Ethnicity and Race  
(1) Hispanic or Latino. A person of Cuban, Mexican, Puerto Rican, South or Central American, or other  
Spanish culture or origin, regardless of race. (NOTE: This category is only included under Ethnicity in  
Part 7., Item Number 1.)  
(2) White. A person having origins in any of the original peoples of Europe, the Middle East, or North Africa.  
(3) Asian. A person having origins in any of the original peoples of the Far East, Southeast Asia, or the  
Indian subcontinent including, for example, Cambodia, China, India, Japan, Korea, Malaysia, Pakistan, the  
Philippine Islands, Thailand, and Vietnam.  
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(4) Black or African American. A person having origins in any of the black racial groups of Africa.  
(5) American Indian or Alaska Native. A person having origins in any of the original peoples of North and  
South America (including Central America), and who maintains tribal affiliation or community attachment.  
(6) Native Hawaiian or Other Pacific Islander. A person having origins in any of the original peoples of  
Hawaii, Guam, Samoa, or other Pacific Islands.  
B. Height. Select the values that best match your height in feet and inches. For example, if you are five feet and  
nine inches, select “5” for feet and “09” for inches. Do not enter your height in meters or centimeters.  
C. Weight. Enter your weight in pounds. If you do not know your weight, or need to enter a weight under 30  
pounds or over 699 pounds, enter “000.” Do not enter your weight in kilograms.  
D. Eye Color. Select the box that best describes the color of your eyes.  
E. Hair Color. Select the box that best describes the color of your hair.  
9. Part 8. General Eligibility and Inadmissibility Grounds. Select the answer you think is correct. If you answer  
Yes” to any questions (or if you answer “No,” but are unsure of your answer), provide an explanation of the  
events and circumstances in the space provided in Part 14. Additional Information.  
If you answer “Yes” to Part 8., Item Number 61., you are required to complete Item Numbers 62. - 68.d. To find  
out whether you are subject to the public charge ground of inadmissibility, see the USCIS Policy Manual Volume 8,  
Part G, Chapter 3 at https://www.uscis.gov/policy-manual/volume-8-part-g-chapter-3.  
For Part 8., Item Number 62., the following individuals are members of your household and should be includes in  
your household size:  
You;  
Your spouse, if physically residing with you;  
Your parents, if physically residing with you;  
Your unmarried siblings under 21 years of age, if physically residing with you;  
Your children as defined in INA 101(b)(1), if physically residing with you;  
Any other individuals (including a spouse or child not physically residing with you) who are listed as dependents  
on your federal income tax return; and  
Any other individuals who list you as a dependent on their federal income tax return.  
For Part 8., Item Number 63., please check the appropriate box for your household’s annual income. You may  
include income provided to your household from sources who are not members of your household, including but  
not limited to alimony or child support. You must exclude any income from Supplemental Security Income (SSI);  
Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF); State, Tribal, territorial, or local cash benefit programs for income  
maintenance (often called “General Assistance” in the State context, but which also exist under other names). You  
must also exclude any income from illegal activities or sources such as proceeds from illegal gambling or drug sales.  
For Part 8., Item Number 64., please check the appropriate box for the total value of your household assets. You  
must exclude any assets from illegal activities or sources such as proceeds from illegal gambling or drug sales. You  
may not include assets that are not owned by the members of your household.  
For Part 8., Item Number 65., please check the appropriate box for the total value of your household liabilities  
(including both secured and unsecured liabilities). Only include liabilities owed by members of your household.  
For Part 8., Item Number 67., please list all of your certifications, licenses, skills obtained through work experience,  
and educational certificates. This includes but is not limited to your workforce skills, training, licenses for specific  
occupations or professions, foreign language skills, and certificates documenting mastery or apprenticeships in skilled  
trades or professions. Educational certificates are issued by an educational institution (or a training provider) and  
certify that an occupation specific program of study was completed.  
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If you answer “Yes” to Part 8., Item Number 68.a., complete the table in Part 8., Item Number 68.c., showing the  
dates of receipt and dollar amount received of public cash assistance for income maintenance: Supplemental Security  
Income (SSI); Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF); State, Tribal, territorial, or local cash benefit  
programs for income maintenance (often called “General Assistance” in the State context, but which also exist under  
other names).  
NOTE: Item Numbers 68.a. - 68.d. are only asking about public benefits (in other words, public cash assistance  
for income maintenance and long-term institutionalization at government expense) you received in the past or are  
currently receiving at the time the Form I-485 is filed, and where you were/are a listed beneficiary. Do not include  
any public benefits for which you are not listed as a beneficiary, even if you assisted with the application. Do not  
include benefits that you only applied for, or were approved to receive in the future but have not received in the past  
and/or are not currently receiving. Do not include public benefits you received only on behalf of another individual.  
If you answer “Yes” to Part 8., Item Number 68.b., complete the table Part 8., Item Number 68.d. showing the  
name, city, and state of each institution in which you received long-term institutionalization at government expense.  
Do not include imprisonment for conviction of a crime or institutionalization for short periods for rehabilitation  
purposes. If you believe that your institutionalization violated Federal law, including the American Disabilities Act or  
the Rehabilitation Act, you must submit documentation to support your claim.  
For more information on the receipt of public benefits and its impact on public charge  
inadmissibility determinations, please see USCIS Policy Manual Volume 8, Part G, at  
10. Part 10. Applicant’s Statement, Contact Information, Declaration, Certification, and Signature. Select the  
appropriate box to indicate whether you read this application yourself or whether you had an interpreter assist you.  
If someone assisted you in completing the application, select the box indicating that you used a preparer. Further,  
you must sign and date your application and provide your daytime telephone number, mobile telephone number (if  
any), and email address (if any). Every application MUST contain the signature of the applicant (or parent or legal  
guardian, if applicable). A stamped or typewritten name in place of a signature is not acceptable.  
11. Part 11. Interpreter’s Contact Information, Certification, and Signature. If you used anyone as an interpreter  
to read the Instructions and questions on this application to you in a language in which you are fluent, the interpreter  
must fill out this section, provide his or her name, the name and address of his or her business or organization (if any),  
his or her daytime telephone number, his or her mobile telephone number (if any), and his or her email address (if  
any). The interpreter must sign and date the application.  
12. Part 12. Contact Information, Declaration, and Signature of the Person Preparing this Application, if Other  
Than the Applicant. This section must contain the signature of the person who completed your application, if  
other than you, the applicant. If the same individual acted as your interpreter and your preparer, that person should  
complete both Part 11. and Part 12. If the person who completed this application is associated with a business or  
organization, that person should complete the business or organization name and address information. Anyone who  
helped you complete this application MUST sign and date the application. A stamped or typewritten name in place  
of a signature is not acceptable. If the person who helped you prepare your application is an attorney or accredited  
representative, he or she may be obliged to also submit a completed Form G-28, Notice of Entry of Appearance as  
Attorney or Accredited Representative, along with your application.  
We recommend that you print or save a copy of your completed application to review in the future  
and for your records. We recommend that you review your copy of your completed application  
before you come to your biometric services appointment at a USCIS ASC. At your appointment,  
USCIS will permit you to complete the application process only if you are able to confirm, under penalty  
of perjury, that all of the information in your application was complete, true, and correct at the time of  
filing. If you are not able to make that attestation in good faith at that time, USCIS will require you to  
return for another appointment.  
Form I-485 Instructions 02/21/23  
Page 9 of 44  
What Evidence Must You Submit with Form I-485?  
The specific evidence you are required to submit with your application may vary depending on the immigrant category  
you are filing under. Read about each type of evidence below to see if it applies to you; see also the Additional  
Instructions for more category-specific information.  
You must submit all evidence requested in these Instructions with your application. If you fail to submit required  
evidence, USCIS may reject or deny your application for failure to submit requested evidence or supporting documents in  
accordance with 8 CFR 103.2(b)(1) and these Instructions.  
Failure to submit all required evidence and documentation when filing Form I-485 may also delay processing of  
your application and any related applications based on Form I-485, such as Form I-765, Application for Employment  
Authorization, or Form I-131, Application for Travel Document.  
If you are unable to submit the required primary evidence (for example, a birth certificate or marriage certificate), you  
may provide secondary evidence (for example, church or school records) instead if you can explain why the primary  
evidence is unavailable. If you are unable to submit secondary evidence, you may submit two or more affidavits, sworn to  
or affirmed by individuals who are not parties to the immigration benefit sought and who have direct personal knowledge  
of the event and circumstances. You must also explain why primary and secondary evidence are unavailable.  
1. Photographs  
You must submit two recent identical color passport-style photographs of yourself. The photos must have a white to  
off-white background, be printed on thin paper with a glossy finish, and be unmounted and unretouched.  
The two recent identical color passport-style photos must be 2 by 2 inches. The photos must be in color with full face,  
frontal view on a white to off-white background. Head height should measure 1 to 1 3/8 inches from top of hair to  
bottom of chin, and eye height is between 1 1/8 to 1 3/8 inches from bottom of photo. Your head must be bare unless  
you are wearing headwear as required by a religious denomination of which you are a member. Using a pencil or felt  
pen, lightly print your name and A-Number (if any) on the back of the photo. Visit the following DOS website at or  
2. Government-Issued Identity Document with Photograph  
All Form I-485 applicants should submit a photocopy of a government-issued identity document that has their  
photograph. Typically, this will be your passport or similar document, even if the passport is now expired. It can also  
be any other government-issued identity document such as a driver’s license or military identification document.  
3. Birth Certificate  
All Form I-485 applicants, except refugees and asylees, must submit a photocopy of their birth certificate issued by  
the appropriate civil authority from the country of birth. Although refugees and asylees are not required to submit a  
photocopy of their birth certificate, if the birth certificate is available, refugees and asylees should submit a copy of the  
birth certificate. USCIS will only accept a long-form birth certificate which lists at least one parent.  
If your birth certificate is unavailable or does not exist, you must prove its unavailability or nonexistence and provide  
acceptable alternative evidence of birth. (Refugees and asylees do not need to prove unavailability or nonexistence  
of their birth certificate.) You can look up your country of birth on the following website, https://travel.state.gov/  
known to be unavailable or nonexistent in that country.  
If this resource shows that birth certificates from your country of birth are generally unavailable or nonexistent, you  
do not need to do anything to prove that your birth certificate is unavailable or nonexistent.  
If this resource does not show that birth certificates from your country of birth are generally unavailable or  
nonexistent, you must submit an original document from the relevant governmental authority explaining why your  
birth record does not exist and indicate whether similar records for the time and place are available.  
Form I-485 Instructions 02/21/23  
Page 10 of 44  
 
When your birth certificate is not available or does not exist, you must submit other acceptable evidence relating to  
the facts of your birth, such as church or school records, hospital or medical records, personal affidavits, or similar  
evidence.  
4. Inspection and Admission or Inspection and Parole  
Unless applying under INA section 245(i), most Form I-485 applicants must submit photocopies of documentation  
showing they were inspected by an immigration officer and either admitted or paroled into the United States. The  
following types of applicants do NOT need to submit documentation of inspection and admission or parole: registry  
applicants, asylees, VAWA self-petitioners, special immigrant juveniles, T nonimmigrants applying under INA section  
245(l), U nonimmigrants applying under INA section 245(m), and individuals born under diplomatic status in the  
United States.  
You must establish any claim that you were admitted or paroled into the United States.  
This evidence must relate to your most recent arrival into the United States. Submit copies of the following  
documents, if available:  
A. Passport page with admission or parole stamp (issued by a U.S. immigration officer);  
B. Passport page with nonimmigrant visa; and  
C. Form I-94 Arrival-Departure Record (See Form I-94 Arrival-Departure Record in the General Instructions  
section of these Instructions).  
If you cannot produce this primary evidence, and DHS has no record of the admission or parole, USCIS will presume  
that you came into the United States without admission or parole.  
You may, however, provide secondary evidence (records maintained in the ordinary course of business by any  
individual or organization other than DHS) to support your claim that you were admitted or paroled.  
If no secondary evidence is available, you may submit separate written statements, signed under penalty of perjury  
under United States law, from yourself and from any other individuals who have personal knowledge of the  
circumstances of your claimed admission or parole. Any statement should explain in detail when and where you came  
into the United States; what travel documents you had, if any; whether you showed them to the immigration inspector;  
any questions the immigration inspector asked; and any other details about your claimed admission or parole.  
5. Documentation of Your Immigrant Category (see Part 2., Item Numbers 1.a. - 1.g. of Form I-485)  
All Form I-485 applicants must submit evidence showing that they are eligible for adjustment of status in a particular  
immigrant category.  
Filing as a Beneficiary of an Immigrant Petition  
If you are filing as a beneficiary of an immigrant petition, you generally must submit a photocopy of Form I-797,  
Approval Notice, for your petition (or the principal applicant’s petition, if you are a derivative applicant), as  
appropriate.  
If you are filing as a principal applicant and your immigrant category allows you to file Form I-485 before your  
petition is approved, you may submit your Form I-485 together with:  
A. Your immigrant petition; or  
B. A photocopy of Form I-797, Receipt Notice, for your immigrant petition.  
If you are filing as a derivative applicant based on the principal applicant’s petition, you may submit your Form I-485  
together with a photocopy of:  
A. Form I-797, Approval or Receipt Notice, for the principal applicant’s immigrant petition (if applicable); and  
Form I-485 Instructions 02/21/23  
Page 11 of 44  
B. Form I-797, Approval or Receipt Notice, for the principal applicant’s Form I-485 (if applicable) or a copy of the  
principal applicant’s Form I-551 (Green Card) (if applicable).  
Filing Your Form I-485 Based on a Category That Does Not Require an Underlying Petition  
If you are filing your Form I-485 based on a category that does not require an underlying immigrant petition, you must  
submit other documentation. See the Additional Instructions for more category-specific information.  
6. Marriage Certificate and Other Proof of Relationship  
If you are filing Form I-485 as the derivative applicant spouse of the principal applicant, you generally must submit  
a photocopy of your marriage certificate issued by the appropriate civil authority where the marriage took place.  
Refugee derivative applicant spouses do not need to submit a photocopy of the marriage certificate. There are also  
some immigrant categories that require the principal applicant to submit a marriage certificate (for example, K-1  
nonimmigrants (person admitted to the United States as a fiancé(e)), abused spouses and children under the Cuban  
Adjustment Act (CAA), Haitian Refugee Immigration Fairness Act (HRIFA) dependents, and abused spouses and  
children under HRIFA). See the Additional Instructions for more category-specific information.  
If either party to this marriage was previously married, you must also submit evidence to prove the legal termination  
of any prior marriages, typically a divorce certificate or death certificate. If a required marriage certificate (or divorce  
certificate or death certificate) is unavailable or does not exist, you must demonstrate its unavailability/nonexistence  
and provide other acceptable evidence as explained above for birth certificates.  
If you are filing as the derivative applicant child of the principal applicant and your birth certificate does not show  
that the principal applicant is your parent, you must submit a photocopy of your parents’ marriage certificate, your  
adoption certificate, or other proof of your parent-child relationship with the principal applicant. Refugee derivative  
applicant children, however, do not need to submit proof of the parent-child relationship with the principal applicant.  
7. Evidence of Continuously Maintaining a Lawful Status Since Arrival in the United States  
Anyone applying under the following immigrant categories must submit evidence to show they have continuously  
maintained lawful immigration status while in the United States and are therefore not barred from adjustment by INA  
section 245(c)(2): applicants applying under a family-based preference category or an employment-based preference  
category; special immigrant religious workers, Afghan or Iraqi nationals, and international broadcasters; and selectees  
under the Diversity Visa Lottery program.  
Acceptable evidence may include, but is not limited to, copies of the following documents:  
A. Form I-797 approval notices for all extensions and changes of nonimmigrant status;  
B. Form I-94 Arrival-Departure Record, including printouts of paperless I-94 admissions;  
C. Form I-20, Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant (F-1) Student Status - For Academic and Language  
Students, or Form I-20, Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant (M-1) Student Status - For Vocational  
Students, including all pages containing notations by authorized school officials;  
D. Form DS-2019 (formerly IAP 66), Certificate of Eligibility for Exchange Visitor (J-1) Status, including all pages  
containing notations by authorized exchange visitor program officials; or  
E. Passport page with an admission or parole stamp (issued by a U.S. immigration officer).  
Include evidence for every time you entered the United States and for the time periods spent in the United States. See  
the Additional Instructions for information on whether your specific immigrant category requires this evidence.  
If you are applying as an employment-based first preference, second preference, or third preference applicant or as a  
fourth preference special immigrant religious worker and you believe you are exempted from this bar by INA section  
245(k), you should submit evidence to prove you qualify for this exemption. For more information, see  
Form I-485 Instructions 02/21/23  
Page 12 of 44  
8. Affidavit of Support/Confirmation of Bona Fide Job Offer or Request for Job Portability Under INA Section  
204(j) (Supplement J)  
A. Affidavit of Support  
Submit an Affidavit of Support (Form I-864) if your Form I-485 is based on your entry as a fiancé(e), a relative  
visa petition (Form I-130) filed by your relative, or an employment-based visa petition (Form I-140) related to a  
business that is five percent or more owned by your family.  
B. Confirmation of Bona Fide Job Offer or Request for Job Portability Under INA Section 204(j)  
(Supplement J)  
If your Form I-485 is related to an employment based visa petition (Form I-140) filed in an employment-based  
immigrant visa category that requires a job offer, and you are filing Form I-485 after the employer filed the Form  
I-140 on your behalf, you must file Form I-485 Supplement J, Confirmation of Bona Fide Job Offer or Request for  
Job Portability under INA Section 204(j) (Supplement J), together with your Form I-485. For more information  
about this requirement, please read the instructions to Supplement J. If you are filing Form I-485 together with  
a Form I-140 filed on your behalf, you do not need to file Supplement J at this time. At any time during the  
adjudication process, USCIS may request that you file Supplement J.  
NOTE: Individuals seeking or granted a National Interest Waiver of the job offer requirement and individuals  
seeking or granted classification as an alien of extraordinary ability under INA section 203(b)(1)(A) do not need to  
file Supplement J. Because these employment-based immigrant visa categories are not tied to a specific job offer,  
individuals seeking or granted classification as an alien of extraordinary ability, or seeking or granted a National  
Interest Waiver of the job offer requirement, do not have to file Supplement J when filing Form I-485 or to request job  
portability under INA section 204(j).  
If you filed Form I-140 as a self-petitioner, you must intend to work in the occupational field specified in the Form  
I-140. You must provide a signed statement confirming this intent, unless you are filing Form I-485 together with  
your Form I-140.  
Job Portability. If you properly filed Form I-485 and it remains pending with USCIS for 180 days or more after  
filing, you may be eligible to “port” to a job other than the one offered in the Form I-140. The new job offer must be  
for a permanent, full-time position in the same or similar occupational classification as the job offered in the Form  
I-140 that is the basis of your Form I-485. You must file Supplement J in order to request such job portability. For  
more information, please read the instructions to Supplement J. You may also visit the USCIS website at  
9. Evidence of Financial Support  
In general, you must demonstrate that you are not likely to become a public charge. This means you must show that  
you will be able to financially support yourself as a lawful permanent resident living indefinitely in the United States.  
Generally, all immediate relative and family-based adjustment applicants (beneficiaries of Form I-129F, Petition  
for Alien Fiancé(e), and Form I-130, Petition for Alien Relative) must have a Form I-864. Some employment-  
based applicants must also have a Form I-864, Affidavit of Support Under Section 213A of the Act (whether they  
are beneficiaries of a Form I-140, Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker, or a Form I-360, Petition for Amerasian,  
Widow(er), or Special Immigrant, if filed in relation to certain employment-based immigrant visa classifications).  
See the Instructions for Form I-864 to determine when Form I-864 is required and whether an exemption may be  
available. If you are exempt from the Affidavit of Support requirement, you may need to file Form I-864W, Intending  
Immigrant’s Affidavit of Support Exemption.  
For more information about Form I-864 requirements, visit www.uscis.gov/i-864. For more information about the  
Form I-864W, visit www.uscis.gov/i-864w. For more information on how receiving public benefits may impact how  
USCIS determines if you are likely to become a public charge, visit www.uscis.gov.  
Form I-485 Instructions 02/21/23  
Page 13 of 44  
10. Report of Immigration Medical Examination and Vaccination Record (Form I-693)  
Form I-485 applicants for adjustment of status are required to have a medical examination to show that they are free  
from health conditions that would make them inadmissible. This does not apply to registry applicants and individuals  
born under diplomatic immunity in the United States. If you are filing Form I-485 under the nonimmigrant fiancé(e),  
asylee, or refugee category, see the Form I-693, Report of Immigration Medical Examination and Vaccination Record,  
Instructions for more information on whether you need to submit the full Form I-693 or only certain parts because you  
already had a medical examination overseas.  
Only a USCIS designated civil surgeon can perform this medical examination in the United States. The civil surgeon  
must document the results of your medical examination on Form I-693. For more information on the medical  
examination, see the Form I-693 Instructions.  
You are NOT required to submit Form I-693 at the time you file your adjustment application, but may do so if you  
wish. Because of the time-limited validity of Form I-693, you may choose to submit your Form I-693 after you file  
your Form I-485. You may also submit Form I-693 in person at an interview in a USCIS field office, if an interview is  
required. By waiting to submit Form I-693, you may avoid having to repeat the immigration medical examination.  
For more information about Form I-693 requirements, visit www.uscis.gov/i-693.  
11. Certified Police and Court Records of Criminal Charges, Arrests, or Convictions  
You must submit certified police and court records for any criminal charges, arrests, or convictions you may have.  
A. If you were EVER arrested or detained by a law enforcement officer for any reason anywhere in the world,  
including the United States, and no criminal charges were filed, you must submit:  
(1) An original or certified copy of the complete arrest report; and  
(2) Either an official statement by the arresting or detaining agency or prosecutor’s office OR an applicable court  
order that indicates the final disposition of your arrest or detention;  
B. If you were EVER charged for any reason (even if you were not arrested) anywhere in the world, including the  
United States, you must submit:  
(1) An original or certified copy of the complete arrest report; and  
(2) Certified copies of BOTH the indictment, information, or other formal charging document AND the final  
disposition of each charge (for example, a dismissal order or acquittal order);  
C. If you were EVER convicted or placed in an alternative sentencing or rehabilitative program (such as probation,  
drug treatment, deferred adjudication, or community service program) anywhere in the world, including the  
United States, you must submit:  
(1) An original or certified copy of the complete arrest report;  
(2) Certified copies of the following: the indictment, information, or other formal charging document; any plea  
agreement, whether in the form of a court filing or recording in a hearing transcript; and the final disposition  
for each incident (for example, conviction record, deferred adjudication order, probation order); and  
(3) Either an original or certified copy of your probation or parole record showing that you completed the  
mandated sentence, conditions set for the deferred adjudication, or rehabilitative program OR documentation  
showing that you completed the alternative sentencing or rehabilitative program; or  
D. If you EVER had any arrest or conviction vacated, set aside, sealed, expunged, or otherwise removed from your  
record anywhere in the world, you must submit:  
(1) An original or certified copy of the complete arrest report; the indictment, information, or other formal  
charging document; any plea agreement, whether in the form of a court filing or recording in a hearing  
transcript; and the final disposition for each incident (for example, conviction record, deferred adjudication  
order, probation order); and  
Form I-485 Instructions 02/21/23  
Page 14 of 44  
(2) A certified copy of the court order vacating, setting aside, sealing, expunging, or otherwise removing the  
arrest or conviction.  
You must disclose all arrests and charges, even if the arrest occurred when you were a minor. An adjudication of  
juvenile delinquency is not a “conviction” under U.S. immigration law, but a juvenile can be charged as an adult for  
an offense committed while a juvenile. If you were convicted as an adult, there is a conviction, regardless of whether  
you were tried before a criminal court or a juvenile court. An adjudication of juvenile delinquency could also be  
relevant to the exercise of discretion. If you claim that an arrest resulted in adjudication of delinquency, and not in a  
conviction, you must submit a copy of the court document that establishes this fact.  
In general, you do not need to submit documentation relating to traffic fines and incidents that did not involve an  
actual physical arrest if the penalty was only a fine of less than $500 or points on your driver’s license. However,  
you must submit such documentation if the traffic incident resulted in criminal charges or involved alcohol, drugs, or  
injury to a person or property.  
If you are not able to obtain certified copies of any court disposition relating to Items 11.A. - 11.D., please submit:  
A. An explanation of why the documents are not available, including (if possible) a certificate from the custodian of  
the documents explaining why the documents are not available;  
B. Any secondary evidence that shows the disposition of the case; or  
C. If secondary evidence is also not available, one or more written statements, signed under penalty of perjury under  
28 U.S.C. section 1746, by someone who has personal knowledge of the disposition.  
12. Waiver of Inadmissibility  
If you are inadmissible to the United States based on one or more grounds of inadmissibility outlined in INA section  
212(a), you cannot adjust status unless you qualify for a waiver of inadmissibility or other form of relief. Whether or  
not you qualify for a waiver or other form of relief depends on the grounds of inadmissibility that apply to you and the  
specific immigrant category you are applying under.  
If USCIS (or the Immigration Court, if you are in deportation, exclusion, or removal proceedings) determines that  
none of the grounds of inadmissibility apply to you, then you are admissible to the United States and there is no need  
for you to file a waiver of inadmissibility or other form of relief.  
If USCIS (or the Immigration Court, if you are in deportation, exclusion, or removal proceedings) determines that  
a ground of inadmissibility does apply to you, you may need to seek a waiver or other form of relief that would  
eliminate the inadmissibility.  
You can learn more about waivers and other forms of relief by reading the Instructions for Form I-601, Application  
for Waiver of Grounds of Inadmissibility, at www.uscis.gov/I-601, and Form I-212, Application for Permission to  
Reapply for Admission into the United States After Deportation or Removal, at www.uscis.gov/I-212. Refugee and  
asylee applicants for adjustment of status should also see Form I-602, Application by Refugee for Waiver of Grounds  
of Excludability, at www.uscis.gov/I-602.  
13. Documentation Regarding J-1 or J-2 Exchange Visitor Status  
If you previously held or currently hold J-1 (principal) or J-2 (dependent) nonimmigrant exchange visitor status,  
you must submit copies of all relevant Forms IAP-66 and/or Forms DS-2019, Certificate of Eligibility for Exchange  
Visitor (J-1) Status, ever issued to you (if available). You must also submit copies of all available J-1 or J-2  
nonimmigrant visas issued to you, and copies of all available Form I-94 and passport pages with entry stamps  
showing your admission to the United States in J-1 or J-2 status.  
In addition, if your J status made you subject to the 2-year foreign residence requirement of INA section 212(e), you  
must submit documentation to show that you complied with the foreign residence requirement, have been granted a  
waiver of the requirement before filing Form I-485, or were issued a favorable waiver recommendation letter from  
DOS before filing Form I-485. You can show you complied with the requirement by submitting evidence to prove  
you resided in the appropriate home country for at least two years since your exchange visitor program ended. For  
information about waiver of the requirement, see the Instructions for Form I-612, Application for Waiver of the  
Foreign Residence Requirement.  
Form I-485 Instructions 02/21/23  
Page 15 of 44  
14. Waiver of Diplomatic Rights, Privileges, Exemptions, and Immunities  
If you currently hold A, G, or E nonimmigrant status and you enjoy certain diplomatic privileges and immunities  
as a result of that status, you must submit Form I-508, Application for Waiver of Rights, Privileges, Exemptions  
and Immunities (and Form I-508F for French nationals) with your Form I-485. In addition, if you have A, G, or  
NATO nonimmigrant status, you must file Form I-566, Interagency Record of Request - A, G or NATO Dependent  
Employment Authorization or Change/Adjustment to/from A, G or NATO Status, with your Form I-485.  
15. Evidence relating to the Public Charge Ground of Inadmissibility  
Applicants, with one exception, are not required to provide any initial evidence relating to the public charge ground of  
inadmissibility with their adjustment of status application. If you believe that your institutionalization violated federal  
law, including the American Disabilities Act or the Rehabilitation Act, you must submit documentation to support  
your claim. If USCIS requires additional evidence to determine if you are inadmissible under the public charge  
ground of inadmissibility, it will issue a Request for Evidence and consider all evidence that you provide in response.  
What Is the Filing Fee?  
The filing fee for Form I-485 is $1,140.  
If you are 13 years of age or younger and:  
1. Are filing with a parent’s Form I-485, the filing fee for Form I-485 is $750; or  
2. Are filing without a parent’s Form I-485, the filing fee for Form I-485 is $1,140.  
A biometric services fee of $85 is also required for applicants between 14 and 79 years of age.  
If you are 79 years of age or older, you do not need to pay a biometric services fee. However, you still must appear for  
your scheduled biometrics collection appointment.  
If you are 13 years of age or younger, you do not need to pay a biometric services fee. However, you still must appear  
for your scheduled biometrics collection appointment. If you turn 14 years of age while your application is pending, you  
will then have to pay an $85 biometric services fee before USCIS will adjudicate your application.  
You do not need to pay either the Form I-485 filing fee or biometric services fee if:  
1. You are a refugee adjusting status under INA section 209(a). Refugees are automatically exempt from paying the  
Form I-485 filing fee and biometric services fee and are not required to demonstrate an inability to pay;  
2. You qualify for and receive a fee waiver based on your inability to pay. If you believe you are eligible for a fee  
waiver under 8 CFR 103.7(c), complete Form I-912, Request for Fee Waiver (or a written request), and submit it  
and any required evidence of your inability to pay the filing fee with this application. You can review the fee waiver  
guidance at www.uscis.gov/feewaiver; or  
3. You are in deportation, exclusion, or removal proceedings before an Immigration Judge, and the Immigration  
Judge waives your application fee. See 8 CFR 1003.24. If you believe you are eligible for a fee waiver, file a  
written request with the Immigration Judge, along with any required evidence of your inability to pay the filing  
fee. For additional information on filing a request for a fee waiver, see the Immigration Court Practice Manual  
NOTE: The filing fee and biometric services fee are not refundable, regardless of any action USCIS (or an Immigration  
Judge if you are in deportation, exclusion, or removal proceedings) takes on this application. DO NOT MAIL CASH.  
You must submit all fees in the exact amounts.  
Use the following guidelines when you prepare your checks or money orders for the Form I-485 filing fee and  
biometric services fee:  
1. The check or money order must be drawn on a bank or other financial institution located in the United States and must  
be payable in U.S. currency; and  
Form I-485 Instructions 02/21/23  
Page 16 of 44  
2. Make the checks or money orders payable to U.S. Department of Homeland Security.  
NOTE: Spell out U.S. Department of Homeland Security; do not use the initials “USDHS” or “DHS.”  
Notice to Those Making Payment by Check. If you send us a check, USCIS will convert it into an electronic funds  
transfer (EFT). This means we will copy your check and use the account information on it to electronically debit your  
account for the amount of the check. The debit from your account will usually take 24 hours and your bank will show it  
on your regular account statement.  
You will not receive your original check back. We will destroy your original check, but will keep a copy of it. If USCIS  
cannot process the EFT for technical reasons, you authorize us to process the copy in place of your original check. If your  
check is returned as unpayable, USCIS will re-submit the payment to the financial institution one time. If the check is  
returned as unpayable a second time, we will reject your application and charge you a returned check fee.  
How To Check If the Fees Are Correct  
Form I-485’s filing fee and biometric services fee are current as of the edition date in the lower left corner of this page.  
However, because USCIS fees change periodically, you can verify that the fees are correct by following one of the steps  
below.  
1. Visit the USCIS website at www.uscis.gov, select “FORMS,” and check the appropriate fee; or  
2. Call the USCIS Contact Center at 1-800-375-5283 and ask for fee information. For TTY (deaf or hard of hearing)  
call: 1-800-767-1833.  
Filing Form I-485 with Forms I-765 and I-131  
If you properly file Form I-485 and pay the required fees, you may file Form I-765 and Form I-131 without paying  
additional fees. You may file these forms together, or if you choose to file Form I-765 or Form I-131 separately, you must  
also submit a copy of your I-797C, Notice of Action, receipt as evidence that you filed and paid for Form I-485.  
Where To File?  
Please see our website at www.uscis.gov/i-485 or call the USCIS Contact Center at 1-800-375-5283 for the most current  
information about where to file this application. For TTY (deaf or hard of hearing) call: 1-800-767-1833.  
If you are in proceedings in Immigration Court (that is, if you have been served with Form I-221, Order to Show  
Cause and Notice of Hearing; Form I-122, Notice to Applicant for Admission Detained for Hearing Before an  
Immigration Judge; Form I-862, Notice to Appear; or Form I-863, Notice of Referral to Immigration Judge, that  
U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) filed with the Immigration Court), you should file this application  
with the appropriate Immigration Court. The DHS attorney will provide you with Pre-Order Filing Instructions  
regarding background and security investigations. You must also submit a copy to USCIS. Please see our website  
at www.uscis.gov/laws/immigration-benefits-eoir-removal-proceedings or call the USCIS Contact Center for the  
most current information about where to file the copy of the application that you file with the Immigration Court.  
Address Change  
An applicant who is not a U.S. citizen must notify USCIS of his or her new address within 10 days of moving  
from his or her previous residence. For information on filing a change of address, go to the USCIS website at  
www.uscis.gov/addresschange or contact the USCIS Contact Center at 1-800-375-5283. For TTY (deaf or hard  
of hearing) call: 1-800-767-1833.  
If you are already in proceedings in Immigration Court, you must also notify the Immigration Court on EOIR  
Form 33/IC, Alien’s Change of Address Form/Immigration Court, of any changes of address within five days of the  
change in address. The EOIR Form 33/IC is available on the EOIR website at www.justice.gov/eoir/formslist.htm.  
Form I-485 Instructions 02/21/23  
Page 17 of 44  
 
NOTE: Do not submit a change of address request to the USCIS Lockbox facilities because the Lockbox does not  
process change of address requests.  
Processing Information  
You must be physically present in the United States and provide a United States address to file this application.  
USCIS will reject any application that is not signed or accompanied by the correct filing fee and will send you  
a notice that your Form I-485 is incomplete. You may fix the problem and resubmit Form I-485. Form I-485 is not  
considered properly filed until USCIS accepts it.  
Initial Processing. Once USCIS accepts your application we will check it for completeness. If you do not completely fill  
out this application, you will not establish a basis for your eligibility and USCIS may reject or deny your application.  
Requests for More Information. We may request that you provide more information or evidence to support your  
application. We may also request that you provide the originals of any copies you submit. If USCIS or the Immigration  
Court requests an original document from you, it will be returned to you after USCIS or the Immigration Court determines  
it no longer needs your original.  
Requests for Interview. We may request that you appear at a USCIS office for an interview based on your application.  
At the time of any interview or other appearance at a USCIS office, we may require that you provide your fingerprints,  
photograph, and/or signature to verify your identity and/or update background and security checks.  
Decision. The decision on Form I-485 involves a determination of whether you have established eligibility for the  
immigration benefit you are seeking. USCIS will notify you of the decision in writing.  
If You Leave the United States While Your Application Is Pending  
If you are applying for adjustment of status under INA section 245, and you travel anywhere outside the United States  
(including brief visits to Canada or Mexico) while your application is pending, USCIS will deny your Form I-485 unless:  
1. Before you leave the United States, you obtain a grant of advance parole by filing Form I-131, you depart and return  
to a U.S. port of entry while the Advance Parole Document is valid, and you are paroled into the United States upon  
your return; or  
2. You are an H, L, V, or K3/K4 nonimmigrant who is maintaining lawful nonimmigrant status and you return with a  
valid H, L, V, or K3/K4 nonimmigrant visa.  
If you are applying for adjustment of status under INA section 209 because you were admitted as a refugee or granted  
asylum, you may travel abroad and return to the United States with a refugee travel document. You may obtain a refugee  
travel document by filing Form I-131 as specified in the Form I-131 Instructions. However, see Form I-131 Instructions  
for a travel warning regarding voluntary re-availment.  
If you are applying for registry under INA section 249 and 8 CFR 249, you do not abandon your registry application  
by traveling abroad while it is pending. However, if you do not obtain an Advance Parole Document, you may not be able  
to return lawfully to the United States. You may obtain an Advance Parole Document by filing Form I-131 as specified in  
the Form I-131 Instructions.  
Form I-485 Instructions 02/21/23  
Page 18 of 44  
Individuals With Disabilities and/or Impairments  
USCIS is committed to providing reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities and/or  
impairments that will help them fully participate in USCIS programs and benefits. Reasonable accommodations vary with  
each disability and/or impairment. They may involve modifications to practices or procedures. There are various types of  
reasonable accommodations that USCIS may offer. Examples include but are not limited to:  
1. If you are deaf or hard of hearing, USCIS may provide you with a sign-language interpreter at an interview or other  
immigration benefit-related appointment;  
2. If you are blind or have low vision, USCIS may permit you to take a test orally rather than in writing; or  
3. If you are unable to travel to a designated USCIS location for an interview, USCIS may visit you at your home or a  
hospital.  
If you believe that you need USCIS to accommodate your disability and/or impairment, select “Yes” and then any  
applicable box in Part 9., Item Numbers 2.a. - 2.c. that describes the nature of your disabilities and/or impairments.  
Also, describe the types of accommodations you are requesting on the lines provided. If you are requesting a sign-  
language interpreter, indicate for which language. If you need extra space to complete this section, use the space provided  
in Part 14. Additional Information.  
NOTE: All domestic USCIS facilities meet the Accessibility Guidelines of the Americans with Disabilities Act, so you  
do not need to contact USCIS to request an accommodation for physical access to a domestic USCIS office. However, in  
Part 9. of this application, you can indicate whether you use a wheelchair. This will allow USCIS to better prepare for  
your visit.  
NOTE: USCIS also ensures that limited English proficient (LEP) individuals are provided meaningful access at an  
interview or other immigration benefit-related appointment, unless otherwise prohibited by law. LEP individuals may  
bring a qualified interpreter to the interview.  
USCIS considers requests for reasonable accommodations on a case-by-case basis, and we will make our best efforts to  
reasonably accommodate your disabilities and/or impairments. USCIS will not exclude you from participating in USCIS  
programs or deny your application because of your disabilities and/or impairments. Requesting and/or receiving an  
accommodation will not affect your eligibility for an immigration benefit.  
For hearings before the Immigration Court: The Immigration Court is committed to addressing the needs of  
individuals with disabilities and/or impairments. If your case is pending before the Immigration Court, you should notify  
the court of any such need before your first hearing with an immigration judge. The Immigration Court considers all  
requests to address such needs on a case-by-case basis.  
Interpreters are provided at government expense to individuals whose command of the English language is inadequate to  
fully understand and participate in removal proceedings. In general, the Immigration Court endeavors to accommodate  
the language needs of all respondents and witnesses. The Immigration Court will arrange for an interpreter both during  
the individual calendar hearing and, if necessary, the master calendar hearing.  
USCIS Forms and Information  
To ensure you are using the latest version of this application, visit the USCIS website at www.uscis.gov where you  
can obtain the latest USCIS forms and immigration-related information. If you do not have Internet access, you may  
order USCIS forms by calling the USCIS Contact Center at 1-800-375-5283. For TTY (deaf or hard of hearing)  
call: 1-800-767-1833.  
Instead of waiting in line for assistance at your local USCIS office, you can schedule an appointment online at  
www.uscis.gov. Select “Tools,” then under “Self Service Tools,” select “Appointments” and follow the screen prompts to  
set up your appointment. Once you finish scheduling an appointment, the system will generate an appointment notice for  
you.  
Form I-485 Instructions 02/21/23  
Page 19 of 44  
Penalties  
If you knowingly and willfully falsify or conceal a material fact or submit a false document with your Form I-485, we will  
deny your Form I-485 and may deny any other immigration benefit. In addition, you will face severe penalties provided  
by law and may be subject to criminal prosecution.  
USCIS Compliance Review and Monitoring  
By signing this application, you have stated under penalty of perjury (28 U.S.C. section 1746) that all information and  
documentation submitted with this application are complete, true, and correct. You also authorize the release of any  
information from your records that USCIS may need to determine your eligibility for the immigration benefit you are  
seeking and consent to USCIS verifying such information.  
DHS has the authority to verify any information you submit to establish eligibility for the immigration benefit you are  
seeking at any time. USCIS’ legal authority to verify this information includes, but is not limited to, 8 U.S.C. 1101 et seq,  
8 CFR parts 1.1 et seq, as amended, and the related public laws and regulations. To ensure compliance with applicable  
laws and authorities, USCIS may verify information before or after your case is decided.  
Agency verification methods may include, but are not limited to: review of public records and information; contact via  
written correspondence, the Internet, facsimile, other electronic transmission, or telephone; unannounced physical site  
inspections of residences and locations of employment; and interviews. USCIS will use information obtained through  
verification to assess your compliance with the laws and to determine your eligibility for an immigration benefit.  
Subject to the restrictions under 8 CFR 103.2(b)(16), USCIS will provide you with an opportunity to address any  
adverse or derogatory information that may result from a USCIS compliance review, verification, or site visit after a  
formal decision is made on your case or after the agency has initiated an adverse action which may result in rescission or  
termination of lawful permanent resident status.  
USCIS Privacy Act Statement  
AUTHORITIES: The information requested on this application, and the associated evidence, is collected under INA  
sections 101 et seq., as amended, and related public laws and regulations.  
PURPOSE: The primary purpose for providing the requested information on this application is to determine if you have  
established eligibility to adjust status to that of a permanent resident of the United States or register permanent residence.  
DHS will use the information you provide to grant or deny your application to adjust status to lawful permanent resident.  
DISCLOSURE: The information you provide is voluntary. However, failure to provide the requested information, and  
any requested evidence, may delay a final decision in your case or result in denial of your application.  
ROUTINE USES: DHS may share the information you provide on this application with other Federal, state, local,  
and foreign government agencies and authorized organizations. DHS follows approved routine uses described in the  
associated published system of records notices [DHS/USCIS-007 - Benefits Information System and DHS/USCIS-001  
- Alien File, Index, and National File Tracking System of Records] which you can find at www.dhs.gov/privacy. DHS  
may also share the information, as appropriate, for law enforcement purposes or in the interest of national security.  
Form I-485 Instructions 02/21/23  
Page 20 of 44  
 
Paperwork Reduction Act  
An agency may not conduct or sponsor an information collection, and a person is not required to respond to a collection  
of information, unless it displays a currently valid Office of Management and Budget (OMB) control number. The public  
reporting burden for this collection of information is estimated at 7 hours and 10 minutes per response, including the time  
for reviewing instructions, gathering the required documentation and information, completing the application, preparing  
statements, attaching necessary documentation, and submitting the application. The collection of biometrics is estimated  
to require 1 hour and 10 minutes. Send comments regarding this burden estimate or any other aspect of this collection  
of information, including suggestions for reducing this burden, to: U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, Office of  
Policy and Strategy, Regulatory Coordination Division, 5900 Capital Gateway Drive, Mail Stop #2140, Camp Springs,  
MD 20588-0009; OMB No. 1615-0023. Do not mail your completed Form I-485 to this address.  
Checklist  
I have signed Form I-485 in Part 10., Item Number 6.a.  
I have included the appropriate filing fee and biometric services fee (if applicable), if not exempted or waived.  
I have read these Instructions and the following Additional Instructions (if any) relating to my specific immigrant  
category.  
I have included all of the required documentation listed in these Instructions and in the following Additional  
Instructions (if any) relating to my specific immigrant category.  
Form I-485 Instructions 02/21/23  
Page 21 of 44  
Additional Instructions  
The purpose of these additional instructions is to provide more specific information on each immigrant category. You  
must read the additional instructions that apply to your specific immigrant category as well as the previous main  
instructions for Form I-485. If your immigrant category is not discussed here, it is because there are no additional  
instructions for that category.  
Additional Instructions for Family-Based Applicants  
Immediate relative of a U.S. citizen (Form I-130, Petition for Alien Relative)  
Immediate relatives of U.S. citizens include the following relatives of U.S. citizens: spouses, unmarried children under 21  
years of age, and parents (if the U.S. citizen is 21 years of age or older).  
Immediate relatives do not have to wait until Form I-130 is approved to file Form I-485. You may file your Form I-485  
together with your Form I-130, while Form I-130 is pending, or after your Form I-130 is approved. Immediate relatives  
always have a visa available once Form I-130 is approved.  
Derivative applicants are not allowed in this category.  
Other relative of a U.S. citizen or relative of a lawful permanent resident under the family-based  
preference categories (Form I-130)  
Family-based preference categories include: unmarried sons and daughters (21 years of age and older) of U.S. citizens;  
spouses, unmarried children (under 21 years of age) and unmarried sons and daughters (21 years of age and older) of  
lawful permanent residents; married sons and daughters of U.S. citizens; and brothers and sisters of U.S. citizens (if the  
U.S. citizen is 21 years of age or older).  
If a visa is immediately available, applicants filing under a family-based preference immigrant category do not have to  
wait until Form I-130 is approved to file Form I-485. If a visa is immediately available, you may file your Form I-485  
together with your Form I-130, while Form I-130 is pending, or after your Form I-130 is approved. Otherwise, you may  
file your Form I-485 only after your Form I-130 is approved and a visa is immediately available. See the When Should I  
File Form I-485 section for more information.  
Person admitted to the United States as a fiancé(e) or child of a fiancé(e) of a U.S. citizen (Form I-129F)  
(K-1/K-2 nonimmigrant)  
Nonimmigrant fiancé(e) beneficiaries of Form I-129F always have a visa available, but may file Form I-485 only after  
marrying the U.S. citizen (Form I-129F petitioner) within the requisite 90-day period after admission to the United States  
on a K-1 visa.  
In addition to the evidence listed in the What Evidence Must You Submit with Form I-485 section, you must submit  
a copy of the marriage certificate to show that the K-1 nonimmigrant fiancé(e) married the U.S. citizen (Form I-129F  
petitioner) in the 90-day period. This additional requirement applies to both K-1 principal and K-2 derivative applicants.  
Form I-485 Instructions 02/21/23  
Page 22 of 44  
Widow or widower of a U.S. citizen  
If you are the widow(er) of a deceased individual who was a U.S. citizen at the time of death, you may be eligible to file  
Form I-485.  
If your deceased citizen spouse did not file Form I-130 for you before dying, you may file Form I-360 as long as you file  
Form I-360 no more than two years after the date your spouse died. You do not have to wait until Form I-360 is approved  
to file Form I-485. You may file your Form I-485 together with your Form I-360, while your Form I-360 is pending, or  
after your Form I-360 is approved. Widow(er)s always have a visa available once Form I-360 is approved.  
Your deceased citizen spouse may have filed Form I-130 for you before dying. In this case, you may file Form I-485  
while Form I-130 is pending or after it is approved. If Form I-130 is approved, it will be considered an approved Form  
I-360.  
When filing your Form I-485, you should provide a copy of the Form I-797 Approval Notice or Receipt for the Form  
I-130 filed on your behalf or the Form I-360 you filed (unless you are filing Form I-360 together with your Form I-485).  
See the When Should I File Form I-485 section above for more information.  
VAWA self-petitioner (Form I-360)  
You may file under this category if you are the victim of battery or extreme cruelty by a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent  
resident who is your spouse (or former spouse) or parent, OR if you are the victim of battery or extreme cruelty by a  
U.S. citizen who is your son or daughter and is at least 21 years of age. Special confidentiality protections (described at  
8 U.S.C. section 1367) apply to you as the VAWA self-petitioner. 8 U.S.C. section 1367 provides two forms of critical  
protection for VAWA self-petitioners. The first form of protection is a prohibition on adverse determinations against  
the victim based on information provided solely by their abuser and other prohibited sources. The second form of  
protection is a prohibition on disclosure of any information about the victim to third parties, except in certain very limited  
circumstances.  
If a visa is immediately available, applicants filing as VAWA self-petitioners do not have to wait until Form I-360 is  
approved to file Form I-485. If a visa is immediately available, you may file your Form I-485 together with your Form  
I-360, while your Form I-360 is pending, or after your Form I-360 is approved. Otherwise, you may file your Form I-485  
only after your Form I-360 is approved and a visa is immediately available. See the When Should I File Form I-485  
section above for more information.  
NOTE: VAWA-based applicants for adjustment of status are exempt from Affidavit of Support requirements; however,  
each applicant must include Form I-864W with the adjustment application.  
NOTE: USCIS will not accept requests for Change of Address submitted online, mailed to USCIS Lockbox facilities, or  
by telephonic requests at the USCIS Contact Center for adjustment of status applications filed by VAWA self-petitioners.  
For information on filing a change of address go to the USCIS website at www.uscis.gov/addresschange or contact the  
USCIS Contact Center at 1-800-375-5283. For TTY (deaf or hard of hearing) call: 1-800-767-1833.  
Derivative Applicants  
Children of principal applicants may file as derivative applicants. However, you may not file as a derivative if the  
principal applicant is a self-petitioning parent of an abusive U.S. citizen son or daughter.  
Form I-485 Instructions 02/21/23  
Page 23 of 44  
Additional Instructions for Employment-Based Applicants  
Alien worker (Form I-140, Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker)  
This category applies to the following employment-based immigrant preference classifications: first preference --  
including foreign nationals with extraordinary ability, outstanding professors and researchers, or certain multinational  
executives and managers; second preference -- members of the professions holding advanced degrees or foreign nationals  
of exceptional ability; and third preference -- skilled workers, professionals, and other workers.  
If a visa is immediately available, an applicant in the employment-based preference immigrant category does not have to  
wait until Form I-140 is approved to file Form I-485. If a visa is immediately available, you may file your Form I-485  
together with your Form I-140, while your Form I-140 is pending, or after your Form I-140 is approved. Otherwise, you  
may file your Form I-485 only after your Form I-140 is approved and a visa is immediately available. See the When  
Should I File Form I-485 section above for more information.  
Evidence of Financial Support  
In general, if you are filing Form I-485 based on employment, you do not need to submit Form I-864, Affidavit of Support  
Under Section 213A of the Act. However, you must file Form I-864 if your Form I-140 was filed by a relative who is  
a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident or by a for-profit entity if 5% or more of the ownership interest is held by  
a relative who is a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident. In this context, “relative” means a U.S. citizen or lawful  
permanent resident who is your husband, wife, father, mother, child, adult son, adult daughter, or a U.S. citizen who is  
your brother or sister.  
Request for Job Portability  
If you properly filed Form I-485 and it remains pending with USCIS for 180 days or more after filing, you may be eligible  
to “port” to a job other than the one offered in Form I-140, under the authority of INA section 204(j). The new job offer  
must be for a permanent, full-time position in the same or similar occupational classification as the job offered in the Form  
I-140 that is the basis of your Form I-485. You may request such job portability by sending a typed or printed request to  
USCIS which includes a letter from the new employer providing details about the new job and any other documentation  
needed to establish eligibility for portability. For more information, visit the USCIS website at www.uscis.gov.  
National Interest Waiver (NIW) Physicians  
You may qualify for a National Interest Waiver if you worked full time as a physician for a total of five years (not  
including work while in J-1 status) in a designated medical shortage area or at a Veterans Administration healthcare  
facility, and a Federal agency or state department of public health has determined such work is in the public interest.  
USCIS will not approve your Form I-485 as an NIW physician until you submit evidence showing you have completed  
the full five years of required employment. You must submit evidence within 120 days of completing the five years of  
required employment. USCIS will consider your Form I-485 ready for final processing and adjudication once you submit  
this evidence.  
Alien entrepreneur (Form I-526, Immigrant Petition by Alien Entrepreneur)  
Alien entrepreneurs are foreign nationals who have invested, or are actively in the process of investing, $1 million (or  
$500,000 in a rural or high unemployment area) in a new commercial enterprise which will benefit the U.S. economy and  
create at least 10 full-time jobs for U.S. citizens, lawful permanent residents, and certain other authorized workers.  
If you are filing your Form I-485 under the alien entrepreneur (immigrant investor) category, you may not file your Form  
I-485 until USCIS first approves your Form I-526, Immigrant Petition by Alien Entrepreneur, and a visa is immediately  
available.  
Form I-485 Instructions 02/21/23  
Page 24 of 44  
Evidence of Financial Support  
If you are filing Form I-485 as an immigrant investor, you do not need to submit evidence of financial support.  
Additional Instructions for Special Immigrants  
Religious worker (Form I-360)  
Special immigrant religious workers are members of a religious denomination who will be working as a minister or in  
another professional capacity in a religious vocation or occupation for the denomination’s bona fide nonprofit religious  
organization in the United States.  
If you are filing your Form I-485 under the special immigrant religious worker category, you may not file your Form I-485  
until USCIS first approves your Form I-360, and a visa is immediately available.  
Except for ministers, all other religious workers and their derivatives must have their Form I-485 approved on or before  
the end date of this program (sunset date). Statutory amendments may extend this date. For information on the sunset  
Special immigrant juvenile (Form I-360)  
Special immigrant juveniles are unmarried, under 21 years of age at the time of filing Form I-360, and have a qualifying  
order from a state juvenile court (see 8 CFR 204.11(a) for the definition of a juvenile court) that makes the findings  
required under INA section 101(a)(27)(J).  
If an employment-based fourth preference (EB-4) immigrant visa is immediately available, applicants filing as special  
immigrant juveniles do not have to wait until Form I-360 is approved to file Form I-485. If a visa is immediately  
available, you may file your Form I-485 together with your Form I-360, while your Form I-360 is pending, or after your  
Form I-360 is approved. Otherwise, you may file your Form I-485 only after your Form I-360 is approved and a visa is  
immediately available. See the When Should I File Form I-485 section above for more information.  
NOTE: USCIS considers anyone granted special immigrant juvenile classification to have been paroled into the United  
States for the purpose of special immigrant juvenile based adjustment, regardless of how you actually arrived in the  
United States. When filling out Part 1. Information About You of the Form I-485, please list how you actually arrived  
in the United States.  
Derivative applicants are not allowed in this category.  
Evidence of Financial Support  
If you are filing Form I-485 as a special immigrant juvenile, you do not need to submit evidence of financial support.  
Certain Afghan or Iraqi national (Form I-360)  
Special immigrant Afghan or Iraqi nationals are: nationals of Afghanistan or Iraq who worked with the U.S. armed forces  
or U.S. Coast Guard as translators; Iraqi nationals who were employed by or on behalf of the U.S. Government; or Afghan  
nationals who were employed by or on behalf of the U.S. Government in Afghanistan, in the International Security  
Assistance Force (ISAF), or in a successor mission to ISAF.  
If you are filing your Form I-485 under the special immigrant Afghan or Iraqi national category, you may not file your  
Form I-485 until USCIS first approves your Form I-360 and a visa is available immediately.  
Form I-485 Instructions 02/21/23  
Page 25 of 44  
Certain G-4 international organization or NATO-6 employee or family member (Form I-360)  
Special immigrant G-4 or NATO-6 employees or family members include: retired officers or employees of an  
international organization or NATO (and spouses), surviving spouses of deceased officers or employees of an international  
organization or NATO, and unmarried sons or daughters of current or retired officers or employees of an international  
organization or NATO.  
If a visa is immediately available, a special immigrant G-4 international organization or NATO-6 employee or family  
member does not have to wait until Form I-360 is approved to file Form I-485. If a visa is immediately available, you  
may file your Form I-485 together with your Form I-360, while your Form I-360 is pending, or after your Form I-360 is  
approved. Otherwise, you may file your Form I-485 only after your Form I-130 is approved and a visa is immediately  
available. See the When Should I File Form I-485 section above for more information.  
Additional Evidence Requirements  
As a special immigrant G-4 international organization or NATO-6 employee or family member, you must submit evidence  
showing you meet certain requirements specific to this immigrant category. Therefore, in addition to the evidence listed in  
the What Evidence Must You Submit with Form I-485 section, the principal applicant must also submit:  
1. A copy of every page of your passport and any other document showing residence and physical presence in the U.S.  
for the required time period (see www.uscis.gov/greencard for more information); and  
2. Evidence that you maintained your G-4, N, or NATO-6 nonimmigrant status since your last entry into the United  
States.  
Additional Instructions for Human Trafficking Victims and Crime Victims  
Human trafficking victim (T Nonimmigrant, Form I-914) or derivative family member (Form I-914A)  
You may apply to adjust status under INA section 245(l) if you are a victim of human trafficking who was admitted to  
the United States in T nonimmigrant status, maintained continuous physical presence for the required period of time, are  
a person of good moral character, and have complied with reasonable requests to assist law enforcement authorities in  
the investigation or prosecution of acts of trafficking, would suffer extreme hardship involving unusual and severe harm  
upon removal from the United States or were under 18 years of age at the time of the victimization that qualified you for  
T nonimmigrant status. Special confidentiality protections (described at 8 U.S.C. section 1367) apply to you as a human  
trafficking victim. 8 U.S.C. section 1367 provides two forms of critical protection for human trafficking victims. The first  
form of protection is a prohibition on adverse determinations against the victim based on information provided solely by  
their abuser and other prohibited sources. The second form of protection is a prohibition on disclosure of any information  
about the victim to third parties, except in certain very limited circumstances.  
If you are a principal applicant (T-1 nonimmigrant), you may file Form I-485 only after you have been in the United States  
for the following time period, whichever is less:  
1. A continuous period of at least three years since you were first admitted as a T-1 nonimmigrant; or  
2. A continuous period during the investigation or prosecution of acts of trafficking, and the Attorney General has  
determined the investigation or prosecution is complete.  
If you are a derivative applicant (T-2 through T-6 nonimmigrant), you may file Form I-485 only once the principal  
applicant has met the above physical presence requirement.  
Evidence of Financial Support  
If you are filing Form I-485 as a T nonimmigrant, you do not need to submit evidence of financial support.  
Form I-485 Instructions 02/21/23  
Page 26 of 44  
Additional Evidence Requirements  
As a human trafficking victim, you must submit evidence showing you meet certain requirements specific to this  
immigrant category. Therefore, in addition to the evidence listed in the main instructions, principal and derivative  
applicants must also submit:  
1. Evidence you were lawfully admitted in T nonimmigrant status and continue to hold such status at the time you file  
Form I-485; and  
2. Evidence that adjustment of status is warranted as a matter of discretion.  
In addition, principal applicants must also submit:  
1. Evidence of continuous physical presence;  
2. Evidence of good moral character; and  
3. Evidence you complied with reasonable requests for assistance in the investigation or prosecution of the acts of  
trafficking or evidence that you would suffer extreme hardship involving unusual and severe harm upon removal from  
the United States or evidence that you were under 18 years of age at the time of the victimization that qualified you  
for T nonimmigrant status.  
Evidence of Continuous Physical Presence  
You do not need to submit documentation showing that you were present in the United States on every single day during  
the requisite period of physical presence, but you should not have significant chronological gaps in your documentation.  
To show continuous physical presence, you must submit Items 1. - 3. below.  
1. Copies of every page of your passport or equivalent travel document (or valid explanation of why you do not have  
such a document).  
2. Documentation of any departure from, and return to, the United States while in T-1 nonimmigrant status, including:  
A. Date of departure;  
B. Place of departure;  
C. Length of departure;  
D. Manner of departure (plane, boat, etc.);  
E. Date of return;  
F. Place of return; and  
G. Affidavit  
3. Evidence establishing continuous physical presence, which may include, but is not limited to:  
A. Documentation issued by any governmental or nongovernmental authority, provided the documentation contains  
your name, was dated at the time it was issued, and contains the normal signature, seal, or other authenticating  
instrument of the authorized representative of the issuing authority;  
B. Educational documents;  
C. Employment records;  
D. Certification that you filed Federal or state income tax returns showing that you attended school or worked in the  
United States throughout the entire continuous physical presence period;  
E. Documents showing installment payments, such as a series of monthly rent receipts or utility bills;  
F. A list of the type and date of documents already contained in your DHS file that establishes physical presence,  
such as, but not limited to, a written copy of a sworn statement given to a DHS officer, a document from the  
law enforcement agency attesting to the fact that you have continued to comply with requests for assistance, the  
transcript of a formal hearing, and Form I-213, Record of Deportable-Inadmissible Alien; or  
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G. Your own affidavit attesting to your continuous physical presence.  
NOTE: If you do not have documentation to establish continuous physical presence, you must explain why in an affidavit  
and provide additional affidavits from others with first-hand knowledge who can attest to your continuous physical  
presence with specific facts. Your affidavit alone is not sufficient to show continuous physical presence.  
NOTE: Generally, if you departed from the United States for any trip that lasted longer than 90 days or for multiple trips  
that together exceeded 180 days, you failed to maintain continuous physical presence unless you can establish that:  
1. Your absence was necessary to assist in the investigation or prosecution of acts of trafficking; or  
2. An official involved in the investigation or prosecution of acts of trafficking certifies that the absence was otherwise  
justified.  
NOTE: If you have less than three years of continuous physical presence since you were first admitted as a T-1  
nonimmigrant, you must submit a document signed by the Attorney General of the United States (or designee) stating that  
the investigation or prosecution is complete.  
Evidence of Good Moral Character  
Before USCIS can approve your application, USCIS must find that you are a person of good moral character according to  
INA section 101(f).  
In order to demonstrate good moral character, you must submit:  
1. Your own affidavit attesting to your good moral character; and  
2. A local police clearance or a state-issued criminal background check from each locality or state in the United States  
that you have resided in for six or more months while you were in T-1 nonimmigrant status. If local police clearances,  
criminal background checks, or similar reports are not available for any location where you resided, you may include  
an explanation and submit other evidence about your good moral character while you resided at that location.  
You may also submit other credible evidence of good moral character, such as affidavits from responsible persons who can  
knowledgeably attest to your good moral character.  
If you are under 14 years of age, you do not need to submit evidence of good moral character. However, if there is reason  
to believe that you may lack good moral character, USCIS may require evidence of good moral character.  
Evidence of Compliance with Reasonable Requests for Assistance in the Investigation or Prosecution OR Evidence  
That You Were Under 18 Years of Age at the Time of the Victimization OR Evidence of Extreme Hardship  
Involving Unusual and Severe Harm  
You must submit evidence that shows you:  
1. Complied with any reasonable request for assistance in the investigation or prosecution of acts of trafficking;  
2. Were under 18 years of age at the time of the victimization that qualified you for T nonimmigrant status; or  
3. Would suffer extreme hardship involving unusual and severe harm if removed from the United States.  
Evidence of Compliance with Reasonable Requests for Assistance  
Evidence that you continue to comply with any reasonable request for assistance in the investigation or prosecution of  
trafficking in persons includes, but is not limited to:  
1. Your own affidavit describing how you continue to comply with any reasonable requests;  
2. A statement from a Federal, state, or local law enforcement official describing how you complied with any reasonable  
requests;  
3. A re-signed and dated Form I-914, Supplement B;  
4. Trial transcripts;  
5. Court documents;  
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6. Police reports; and  
7. News articles.  
If you assisted law enforcement when you received your T-1 nonimmigrant status and are no longer assisting law  
enforcement, you should describe in a written statement why you are no longer assisting. Reasons may include, but are  
not limited to:  
1. The investigation or prosecution is complete;  
2. Your T-1 nonimmigrant status is based on your willingness to assist but you were not needed, and you continue to be  
willing to assist but your assistance is still not needed;  
3. You were not asked to assist after being granted T-1 nonimmigrant status; or  
4. A request for assistance was not reasonable (See 8 CFR Section 214.11(a) for more information).  
USCIS may consult the Attorney General of the United States if appropriate.  
NOTE: If you were not required to comply with any reasonable requests for assistance in the investigation or prosecution  
when you received your T-1 nonimmigrant status (because you were under 18 years of age or suffered trauma at the time  
of victimization that excepted you from the compliance requirement), you should include an affidavit stating that you were  
not subject to the compliance requirement.  
Evidence of Extreme Hardship Involving Unusual and Severe Harm  
Alternatively, you may also submit evidence that you will suffer extreme hardship involving unusual and severe harm if  
you are removed from the United States. Proving extreme hardship involving unusual and severe harm requires you to  
meet a higher standard of proof than other extreme hardship standards in immigration law. The extreme hardship cannot  
be based on current or future economic harm, or the lack of or disruption to social or economic opportunities. USCIS may  
consider both traditional extreme hardship factors and the factors associated with having been a victim of a severe form of  
trafficking in persons, as well as relevant country condition reports or any other public or private sources of information.  
However, USCIS will only consider factors that show hardship to you, not to other people or your family members.  
See 8 CFR 214.11(i) for a list of factors.  
You should include evidence to document all factors that are relevant to you. However, if the basis of your current  
extreme hardship claim is a continuation of the extreme hardship claimed in your application for T-1 nonimmigrant status,  
you do not need to re-document the entire claim. Instead, submit evidence to establish that your previously established  
extreme hardship is ongoing.  
NOTE: USCIS is not bound by its previous extreme hardship determination.  
Discretion  
Adjustment of status based on T nonimmigrant status is not an automatic benefit, so you bear the burden of showing that  
USCIS should use its discretion to approve your adjustment of status application. When making a discretionary decision  
on your application, USCIS may take into account all factors, including those acts that would otherwise make you  
inadmissible.  
Generally, favorable factors such as family ties, hardship, and length of residence in the United States, may be sufficient  
for USCIS to use its discretion to approve your application. However, when adverse factors are present in your case, you  
may offset these by submitting supporting documentation of favorable factors you wish USCIS to consider. See 8 CFR  
245.23(e)(3).  
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Crime victim (U Nonimmigrant, Form I-918), derivative family member (Form I-918A), or qualifying  
family member (Form I-929)  
You may apply to adjust status under INA section 245(m) if you are a victim of certain specified crimes who was admitted  
to the United States in U nonimmigrant status, maintained continuous physical presence for the required period of time,  
and have complied with reasonable requests to assist law enforcement authorities in the investigation or prosecution of  
the criminal activity. Special confidentiality protections (described at 8 U.S.C. section 1367) apply to you as a crime  
victim. 8 U.S.C. section 1367 provides two forms of critical protection for crime victims. The first form of protection is  
a prohibition on adverse determinations against the victim based on information provided solely by their abuser and other  
prohibited sources. The second form of protection is a prohibition on disclosure of any information about the victim to  
third parties, except in certain very limited circumstances.  
Both principal and derivative applicants may file Form I-485 only after they have been physically present in the United  
States for a continuous period of at least three years since being admitted as a U nonimmigrant. Applicants must continue  
to be physically present through the date that USCIS makes a decision on this application.  
Additionally, certain qualifying family members may also apply for adjustment of status. Your approved Form I-929,  
Petition for Qualifying Family Member of a U-1 Nonimmigrant, confirms that you are a qualifying family member who  
may file Form I-485. You must also show that the qualifying family relationship that formed the basis of your Form I-929  
approval exists at the time the principal applicant (U-1 nonimmigrant) becomes a lawful permanent resident and continues  
to exist until USCIS makes a decision on your Form I-485.  
Evidence of Financial Support  
If you are filing Form I-485 as a U nonimmigrant, you do not need to submit evidence of financial support.  
Additional Evidence Requirements  
As a U nonimmigrant, you must submit evidence showing you meet certain requirements specific to this immigrant visa  
category. Therefore, in addition to the evidence listed in the main instructions, principal and derivative applicants must  
also submit:  
1. Evidence of continuous physical presence; and  
2. Evidence that adjustment of status is warranted as a matter of discretion.  
In addition, principal applicants must also submit evidence that they complied with reasonable requests for assistance in  
the investigation or prosecution of the qualifying criminal activity.  
Evidence of Continuous Physical Presence  
You do not need to submit documentation showing that you were present in the United States on every single day of the  
three-year U nonimmigrant status period, but you should not have significant chronological gaps in your documentation.  
To show continuous physical presence, you must submit Items 1. - 4. below:  
1. Copies of every page of your passports or equivalent travel documents (or valid explanation of why the applicant does  
not have such a document);  
2. Documentation of any departure from, and return to, the United States while in U nonimmigrant status, including:  
A. Date of departure;  
B. Place of departure;  
C. Length of departure;  
D. Manner of departure (plane, boat, etc.);  
E. Date of return; and  
F. Place of return;  
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3. Evidence establishing continuous physical presence, including but not limited to:  
A. Documentation issued by any governmental or nongovernmental authority as long as the documentation contains  
your name, was dated at the time it was issued, and contains the normal signature, seal, or other authenticating  
instrument of the authorized representative of the issuing authority;  
B. Educational documents;  
C. Employment records;  
D. Certification that you filed Federal or state income tax returns showing that you attended school or worked in the  
United States throughout the entire continuous physical presence period;  
E. Documents showing installment payments, such as a series of monthly rent receipts or utility bills; or  
F. A list of the type and date of documents already contained in your DHS file that establishes physical presence,  
such as, but not limited to, a written copy of a sworn statement given to a DHS officer, a document from the  
law enforcement agency attesting to the fact that you have continued to comply with requests for assistance, the  
transcript of a formal hearing; and Form I-213, Record of Deportable-Inadmissible Alien; and  
4. Your own affidavit attesting to your continuous physical presence.  
If you do not have documentation to establish continuous physical presence, you must explain why in an affidavit and  
provide additional affidavits from others with first-hand knowledge who can attest to your continuous physical presence  
with specific facts. Your affidavit alone is not sufficient to show continuous physical presence.  
Generally, you have failed to maintain continuous physical presence if you departed from the United States for any  
trip that lasted longer than 90 days or for multiple trips that together exceeded 180 days. To show that you maintained  
continuous physical presence despite taking these trips, you must submit a certification from the agency that signed Form  
I-918, Supplement B, in support of your U nonimmigrant status stating that:  
1. Your absence was necessary in order to assist in the investigation or prosecution of the qualifying criminal activity; or  
2. Your absence was otherwise justified.  
Evidence of Compliance with Reasonable Requests for Assistance in the Investigation or Prosecution of the  
Qualifying Criminal Activity  
You are required to provide ongoing assistance, as needed, to law enforcement agencies involved in the investigation or  
prosecution of the qualifying criminal activity. 8 CFR 245.24(a)(5) defines “refusal to provide assistance in a criminal  
investigation or prosecution” as a refusal by the U nonimmigrant to provide assistance to law enforcement authorities after  
being granted U nonimmigrant status.  
To show you have met this requirement, you must submit evidence that, from the time you filed for U nonimmigrant status  
until you file Form I-485, you have complied with (or did not unreasonably refuse to comply with) reasonable requests  
for assistance in the investigation or prosecution of the qualifying criminal activity. You are required to provide ongoing  
assistance until USCIS adjudicates your Form I-485.  
The evidence may include:  
1. A newly executed Form I-918, Supplement B, U Nonimmigrant Status Certification;  
2. A photocopy of the original Form I-918, Supplement B, with a new date and signature from the certifying agency;  
3. Documentation on official letterhead from the certifying agency stating that you have not unreasonably refused to  
cooperate in the investigation or prosecution of the qualifying criminal activity;  
4. An affidavit describing any efforts you made to obtain a newly executed Form I-918, Supplement B, or other evidence  
describing whether you received any requests to provide assistance in the criminal investigation or prosecution of the  
qualifying criminal activity, and your response to these requests; or  
5. Court documents, police reports, news articles, copies of reimbursement forms for travel to and from court, and  
affidavits of other witnesses or officials.  
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If you submit an affidavit, it must include:  
1. A description of all instances when you were requested to provide assistance in the criminal investigation or  
prosecution of persons in connection with the qualifying criminal activity after you were granted U nonimmigrant  
status and how you responded to such requests;  
2. Any identifying information you have about the law enforcement personnel involved in the case;  
3. Any information you have about the status of the criminal investigation or prosecution, including any charges filed  
and the outcome of any criminal proceedings, or whether the investigation or prosecution was dropped and the  
reasons why; and  
4. If you have refused a request for assistance in the investigation or prosecution, you must provide a detailed  
explanation of why you refused to comply with requests for assistance and why you believed that the requests for  
assistance were unreasonable.  
NOTE: In certain cases, this requirement of ongoing assistance may require someone other than the principal applicant  
to provide evidence to USCIS. For example, in some U nonimmigrant cases, the U-1 petitioner was a child (or  
incompetent or incapacitated) and was not directly required to provide the assistance in an investigation or prosecution  
of the qualifying criminal activity. In these cases, someone other than the child, such as a parent, guardian, or next  
friend provided the assistance. This person may need to provide evidence of continued assistance (or that there was no  
unreasonable refusal to comply) with an investigation or prosecution of the qualifying criminal activity.  
Discretion  
Adjustment of status based on U nonimmigrant status is not an automatic benefit, so you bear the burden of showing that  
USCIS should use its discretion to approve your adjustment of status application. When making a discretionary decision  
on your application, USCIS may take into account all factors, including those acts that would otherwise make you  
inadmissible.  
Generally, favorable factors such as family ties, hardship, and length of residence in the United States, may be sufficient  
for USCIS to use its discretion to approve your application. However, when adverse factors are present in your case, you  
may offset these by submitting supporting documentation of favorable factors you wish USCIS to consider. See 8 CFR  
245.24(d)(11).  
Additional Instructions for Asylees and Refugees  
If you are an asylee, you may be eligible to adjust status under INA section 209(b) if you have been physically present in  
the United States for one year after your grant of asylum, your status has not been terminated, and you still qualify as an  
asylee or the spouse or child of an asylee.  
Derivative Applicants  
Asylee derivative applicants may file Form I-485 with the principal applicant or independently from the principal  
applicant. However, asylee derivative applicants should submit proof of relationship to the principal applicant. See the  
Marriage Certificate and Other Proof of Relationship section in the What Evidence Must You Submit with Form  
I-485 section.  
Evidence of Financial Support  
If you are filing Form I-485 as an asylee, you do not need to submit evidence of financial support.  
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Additional Evidence Requirements  
As an asylee, you must submit evidence showing you meet certain requirements specific to this immigrant category.  
Therefore, in addition to the evidence listed in the What Evidence Must You Submit with Form I-485 section, principal  
and derivative applicants must also submit evidence of asylum status (such as a copy of the asylum approval notice from  
USCIS or the immigration court order granting you asylum).  
Refugee Status  
If you were admitted as a refugee, you may be eligible to adjust status under INA section 209(a) once you have been  
physically present in the United States for one year after being admitted to the United States in refugee status and if your  
status has not been terminated.  
Derivative Applicants  
Refugee derivative applicants may file Form I-485 with the principal applicant or independently from the principal  
applicant.  
Evidence of Financial Support  
If you are filing Form I-485 as a refugee, you do not need to submit evidence of financial support.  
Additional Evidence Requirements  
As a refugee, you must submit evidence showing you meet certain requirements specific to this immigrant category.  
Therefore, in addition to the evidence listed in the What Evidence Must You Submit with Form I-485 section, principal  
and derivative applicants must also submit evidence of refugee status, such as a Form I-94 or a Refugee Travel Document  
(Form I-571).  
Additional Instructions for Applicants Filing Under Special Adjustment Programs  
Cuban Adjustment Act (CAA)  
You may apply for adjustment of status if you are a native or citizen of Cuba who was inspected and admitted or paroled  
into the United States after January 1, 1959, and you have been physically present in the United States for at least one year  
or if you are a spouse or unmarried child of a Cuban described above (regardless of your nationality or place of birth) who  
was inspected and admitted or paroled after January 1, 1959, and you have been physically present in the United States for  
at least one year.  
Derivative Applicants  
As a spouse or child of a qualifying CAA applicant, you may file to adjust status as a derivative applicant under the CAA  
regardless of your nationality or place of birth. Furthermore, you may apply under the CAA regardless of how long your  
relationship with the qualifying CAA applicant has existed. Whether your relationship began before or after your Cuban  
spouse or parent became a lawful permanent resident does not matter.  
Evidence of Financial Support  
If you are filing Form I-485 based on the CAA, you do not need to submit evidence of financial support.  
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Additional Evidence Requirements  
As a CAA applicant, you must submit evidence showing you meet certain requirements specific to this immigrant  
category. Therefore, in addition to the evidence listed in the What Evidence Must You Submit with Form I-485  
section, principal applicants must also submit:  
1. Evidence of being a native or citizen of Cuba; and  
2. Evidence that you have been physically present in the United States for at least one year.  
Evidence of Being a Cuban Native (If You Were Born in Cuba)  
Examples of evidence submitted by principal applicants that demonstrates being a Cuban native can include but are not  
limited to:  
1. An expired or unexpired Cuban passport (Pasaporte de la Republica de Cuba) that lists the holder’s place of birth as  
being Cuba; and  
2. A Cuban birth certificate issued by the appropriate civil registry in Cuba. (Note: A Cuban birth certificate  
acknowledging a birth outside of Cuba or Cuban consular birth record issued for a principal applicant who was not  
born in Cuba is not sufficient to prove Cuban citizenship.)  
Evidence of Cuban Citizenship (If You Were Born Outside of Cuba)  
Examples of evidence submitted by principal applicants that demonstrates Cuban citizenship can include but are not  
limited to:  
1. An unexpired Cuban passport (Pasaporte de la Republica de Cuba);  
2. Nationality Certificate (Certificado de Nacionalidad); and  
3. Citizenship Letter (Carta de Ciudadania).  
In addition to the evidence listed in the What Evidence Must You Submit with Form I-485 section, derivative  
applicants must submit:  
1. Evidence you have been physically present in the United States for at least one year; and  
2. Evidence that you reside with the principal applicant.  
If you are a derivative applicant, you do not need to submit evidence of Cuban birth or citizenship. As mentioned above,  
you may file to adjust status as a derivative applicant under the CAA regardless of your nationality or place of birth.  
Evidence of Physical Presence and Inspection and Admission or Inspection and Parole  
CAA adjustment is available only to applicants who have been inspected and admitted or inspected and paroled into the  
United States. If you are present in the United States without inspection, you are not eligible for CAA adjustment unless  
you first present yourself to USCIS and USCIS paroles you under INA section 212(d)(5)(A), pending a final determination  
of your admissibility.  
If you are a Cuban native or citizen who has already been physically present in the United States for at least one year at  
the time DHS paroles you, then you may apply for adjustment of status immediately after being paroled. The law does  
not require the one-year period of physical presence to occur after your parole.  
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CAA for Abused Spouses and Children  
You may apply for adjustment of status if you are an abused spouse or child of a CAA-eligible spouse or parent. Special  
confidentiality protections (described at 8 U.S.C. section 1367) apply to you as the abused spouse or child of a principal  
CAA-eligible spouse or parent. 8 U.S.C. section 1367 provides two forms of critical protection. The first form of  
protection is a prohibition on adverse determinations against the victim based on information provided solely by their  
abuser and other prohibited sources. The second form of protection is a prohibition on disclosure of any information  
about the victim to third parties, except in certain very limited circumstances.  
You may apply under the CAA for abused spouses and children regardless of how long your relationship existed. It also  
does not matter whether your relationship began before or after your Cuban spouse or parent became a lawful permanent  
resident.  
Derivative applicants are not allowed in this category.  
Evidence of Financial Support  
If you are filing Form I-485 as an abused spouse or child under the CAA, you do not need to submit evidence of financial  
support.  
Additional Evidence Requirements  
As a CAA abused spouse or child, you must submit evidence showing you meet certain requirements specific to this  
adjustment program. Therefore, in addition to the evidence listed in the What Evidence Must You Submit with Form  
I-485 section, you must also submit:  
1. Evidence that you resided with your abusive Cuban spouse or parent at some point during the qualifying relationship  
as a spouse or child;  
2. Evidence that you have been physically present in the United States for at least one year;  
3. Evidence of battery or extreme cruelty;  
4. Evidence that the termination of your marriage was connected to the abuse (if applicable); and  
5. Evidence that the abusive Cuban spouse died within two years of when you filed an application for adjustment of  
status (if applicable).  
Evidence of Physical Presence and Inspection and Admission or Inspection and Parole  
The law does not require the one-year period of physical presence to occur after your parole.  
Abused spouses and children of CAA-eligible applicants must have been inspected and admitted or inspected and  
paroled into the United States. If you are present in the United States without inspection, you are not eligible for CAA  
adjustment unless you first present yourself to DHS and DHS paroles you under INA section 212(d)(5)(A), pending a final  
determination of your admissibility.  
Evidence of Battery or Extreme Cruelty  
Evidence of battery should show that your spouse or parent committed an intentional, non-consensual, harmful, or  
offensive physical act of violence towards you or your child. Some examples include, but are not limited to, rape,  
molestation, forced prostitution, punching, biting, kidnapping, kicking, choking, and sexual abuse.  
Evidence of extreme cruelty should show that your spouse or parent committed non-physical acts of violence or threats  
of violence demonstrating a pattern or intent to control you or gain your compliance. Some examples include, but are  
not limited to, controlling what you do and who you see and talk to; denying access to food, family, or medical treatment;  
threats of physical harm to you or your family; threats to commit suicide; or threats of deportation.  
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You must submit documentation demonstrating your CAA-eligible spouse or parent subjected you to battery or extreme  
cruelty during the qualifying relationship. Evidence may include:  
1. Reports and affidavits from police, judges, or other court officials;  
2. Copies of legal documents related to orders of protection or other legal processes that address the abuse;  
3. Affidavits from persons who witnessed or have knowledge of the abusive acts;  
4. Reports or affidavits from medical personnel, school officials, and clergy;  
5. Reports or affidavits from social workers or other social service agency personnel;  
6. Documentation to show you sought safe haven in a family violence shelter or similar place; or  
7. Photographs of injuries.  
USCIS will consider any credible evidence, as defined in INA 204(a)(1)(J), that is relevant to the application. USCIS has  
the sole discretion to determine what evidence is credible and what weight to give that evidence.  
Evidence of Death of the Cuban Spouse (if applicable)  
If your abusive Cuban spouse has died, you may file Form I-485 within two years of your abusive Cuban spouse’s death,  
as long as you lived with your abusive Cuban spouse at some point during the qualifying relationship. You must submit  
evidence of the death (such as a death certificate).  
Evidence of Termination of the Marriage (if applicable)  
If the marriage ended in divorce or was annulled, you may file Form I-485 within two years of the termination of the  
marriage as long as you demonstrate that:  
1. You lived with your abusive Cuban spouse; and  
2. The battery or extreme cruelty by your Cuban spouse and the termination of your marriage are connected.  
Dependent Status under Haitian Refugee Immigrant Fairness Act (HRIFA)  
Although the qualifying period has closed for principal HRIFA applicants, dependents of those principal applicants may  
still file for adjustment of status if they meet certain requirements. You may apply if you are a Haitian national residing  
in the United States who is a dependent spouse, child, or unmarried son or daughter of a HRIFA applicant. In addition,  
your relationship to the principal must have existed at the time the principal applicant was granted adjustment of status  
and must continue to exist at the time you are granted adjustment of status. You may not file under this category if you are  
eligible for adjustment of status under any other provision of law.  
Evidence of Financial Support  
If you are filing Form I-485 as a dependent under the HRIFA, you do not need to submit evidence of financial support.  
Additional Evidence Requirements  
As a HRIFA dependent, you must submit evidence showing you meet certain requirements specific to this immigrant  
category.  
In addition to the evidence listed in the What Evidence Must You Submit with Form I-485 section, unmarried sons or  
daughters (21 years of age or older) applying as HRIFA dependents must also submit:  
1. Evidence of Haitian nationality;  
2. Evidence that the qualifying relationship to the principal existed at the time the principal was granted adjustment of  
status and that the relationship still exists;  
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3. Evidence you have been physically present in the United States for a continuous period starting no later than  
December 31, 1995, and continuing until you are granted adjustment of status; and  
4. A statement that lists, and evidence of, all departures from and arrivals in the United States since December 31, 1995.  
Evidence of Nationality  
If you acquired Haitian nationality other than through birth in Haiti, provide a copy of the certificate of naturalization or  
certificate of citizenship issued by the Haitian government.  
Evidence of Continuous Physical Presence  
If you are an unmarried son or daughter (21 years of age or older), you must submit evidence that you were physically  
present in the United States for a continuous period since December 31, 1995. USCIS considers your physical presence to  
be “continuous” despite: any absences from the United States that totaled 180 days or less in the aggregate; any absences  
for which you received advance parole before departing the United States and you returned to the United States according  
to the conditions listed on the advance parole document; or any absences from the United States occurring after October  
21, 1988, and before July 12, 1999, provided you departed the United States before December 31, 1988.  
HRIFA Eligibility for Abused Spouses and Children  
You may apply to adjust status if you are an abused spouse or child of a HRIFA-eligible spouse or parent. Furthermore,  
you may apply for adjustment of status as an abused spouse or child even if your principal HRIFA-eligible spouse or  
parent has not filed for adjustment of status. Special confidentiality protections (described at 8 U.S.C. section 1367)  
apply to you as the abused spouse or child of a qualifying HRIFA principal. 8 U.S.C. section 1367 provides two forms  
of critical protection. The first form of protection is a prohibition on adverse determinations against the victim based on  
information provided solely by their abuser and other prohibited sources. The second form of protection is a prohibition  
on disclosure of any information about the victim to third parties, except in certain very limited circumstances.  
Derivative applicants are not allowed in this category.  
Evidence of Financial Support  
If you are filing Form I-485 as an abused spouse or child under the HRIFA, you do not need to submit evidence of  
financial support.  
Additional Evidence Requirements  
As an abused spouse or child under the HRIFA, you must submit evidence showing you meet certain requirements specific  
to this immigrant category. Therefore, in addition to the evidence listed in the What Evidence Must You Submit with  
Form I-485 section, you must also submit evidence of:  
1. Haitian nationality; and  
2. Evidence of battery or extreme cruelty.  
Evidence of Nationality  
You must submit evidence of your Haitian nationality. If you acquired Haitian nationality other than through birth in  
Haiti, provide a copy of the certificate of naturalization or certificate of citizenship issued by the Haitian government.  
Evidence of Battery or Extreme Cruelty  
Evidence of battery should show that your spouse or parent committed an intentional, non-consensual, harmful, or  
offensive physical act of violence towards you or your child. Some examples include, but are not limited to, rape,  
molestation, forced prostitution, punching, biting, kidnapping, kicking, choking, and sexual abuse.  
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Evidence of extreme cruelty should show that your spouse or parent committed non-physical acts of violence or threats  
of violence demonstrating a pattern or intent to control you or gain your compliance. Some examples include, but are  
not limited to, controlling what you do and who you see and talk to; denying access to food, family, or medical treatment;  
threats of physical harm to you or your family; threats to commit suicide; or threats of deportation.  
You must submit documentation demonstrating your HRIFA-eligible spouse or parent subjected you to battery or extreme  
cruelty during the qualifying relationship. Evidence may include:  
1. Reports and affidavits from police, judges, or other court officials;  
2. Copies of legal documents relating to orders of protection or other legal processes addressing the abuse;  
3. Affidavits from persons who witnessed or have knowledge of the abusive acts;  
4. Reports or affidavits from medical personnel, school officials, and clergy;  
5. Reports or affidavits from social workers or other social service agency personnel;  
6. Documentation to show you sought safe-haven in a family violence shelter or similar place; or  
7. Photographs of injuries.  
Former Soviet Union and Indochinese Parolee (Lautenberg Parolees)  
If you are or were a national of the former Soviet Union, Vietnam, Cambodia, or Laos who was previously denied refugee  
status but then was inspected and paroled into the United States for humanitarian reasons before September 30, 2012,  
you may apply for adjustment of status if you have been physically present in the United States for one year after being  
paroled.  
Derivative applicants are not allowed in this category.  
Evidence of Financial Support  
If you are filing Form I-485 as a Lautenberg parolee, you do not need to submit evidence of financial support.  
Report of Immigration Medical Examination and Vaccination Record (Form I-693)  
You only need to submit the full Form I-693 if your medical examination was not completed overseas or you had a Class  
A condition at the time of the overseas exam. If your medical examination was completed overseas, you did not have a  
Class A condition at the time of the exam, and you are applying for adjustment within two years of parole into the United  
States, then you only need to submit the vaccination portion of Form I-693. (You may submit Form I-693 with your Form  
I-485 or at a later time. See the Report of Immigration Medical Examination and Vaccination Record (Form I-693)  
section in the What Evidence Must You Submit with Form I-485 for more information.)  
Additional Evidence Requirements  
As a Lautenberg parolee, you must submit evidence showing you meet certain requirements specific to this immigrant  
category. Therefore, in addition to the evidence listed in the What Evidence Must You Submit with Form I-485  
section, you must also submit evidence that:  
1. You are or were a national of the former Soviet Union (including nationals of any of the currently independent  
countries that formerly were members of the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics, as well as Estonia, Latvia, and  
Lithuania), Vietnam, Laos, or Cambodia, if not contained in your birth certificate; and  
2. You were denied refugee status.  
Denied Refugee Status  
Under the Lautenberg program, applicants must first have been denied refugee status before their parole into the United  
States. Provide evidence of denied refugee status, if available.  
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Diplomats or High Ranking Officials Unable to Return Home (Section 13 of the Act of September 11, 1957)  
You may apply for adjustment of status if you are a foreign national who entered the United States under diplomatic or  
semi-diplomatic status and then failed to maintain lawful status, and you can demonstrate compelling reasons why you  
cannot return to the country represented by the government which accredited you. Such persons are sometimes referred to  
as Section 13 applicants.  
Derivative Applicants  
You may apply as a derivative if you are the immediate family member of a Section 13 applicant. The DOS definition  
of immediate family member is broader for A and G nonimmigrants than other nonimmigrant classifications. Immediate  
family members are described in 22 CFR 41.21(a)(3) as the spouse and unmarried sons and daughters (whether by  
blood or adoption) who are not members of some other household, and who will reside regularly in the household of the  
principal. Furthermore, immediate family members also include individuals who:  
1. Are not members of some other household;  
2. Will reside regularly in the principal applicant’s household;  
3. Are recognized by the sending government as immediate family members of the principal applicant as demonstrated  
by eligibility for rights and benefits, such as the issuance of a diplomatic or official passport, travel or other  
allowances; and  
4. Are individually authorized by DOS.  
Additional Evidence Requirements  
As a Section 13 applicant, you must submit evidence showing you meet certain requirements specific to this immigrant  
category. Therefore, in addition to the evidence listed in the What Evidence Must You Submit with Form I-485 section,  
principal applicants must also submit:  
1. Evidence that you were admitted into the United States in A-1, A-2, G-1, or G-2 nonimmigrant status;  
2. Evidence that you performed diplomatic or semi-diplomatic duties (custodial, clerical, or menial duties are not  
sufficient);  
3. Evidence of compelling reasons why you or a member of your family is unable to return to the country represented by  
the government which accredited you;  
4. Evidence establishing that granting your adjustment of status would be in the national interest of the United States;  
5. Form I-508, Waiver of Rights, Privileges, Exemptions and Immunities under INA section 247(b) (and Form I-508F, if  
you are a French national); and  
6. Form I-566, Interagency Record of Request.  
In addition to the evidence listed in the What Evidence Must You Submit with Form I-485 section, derivative  
applicants must also submit:  
1. Evidence that you were admitted into the United States in A-1, A-2, G-1, or G-2 nonimmigrant status;  
2. Evidence establishing that granting your adjustment of status would be in the national interest of the United States;  
3. Form I-508, Waiver of Rights, Privileges, Exemptions and Immunities under INA section 247(b) (and Form I-508F, if  
you are a French national); and  
4. Form I-566, Interagency Record of Request.  
Failing to Maintain Status  
If you were admitted to the United States as an A or G nonimmigrant, you will maintain an A or G nonimmigrant status  
as long as the U.S. Secretary of State recognizes you as being entitled to such status. Therefore, you maintain your status  
until DOS terminates your diplomatic status.  
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DOS is responsible for terminating an individual’s diplomatic status and for determining the date of an individual’s  
termination of status. DOS requires foreign missions to submit Form DS-2008 (Notice of Termination of Diplomatic,  
Consular, or Foreign Government Employment) to DOS, without delay, when employees of foreign missions terminate  
their employment status. For further information regarding termination of diplomatic status, please contact DOS.  
DOS Consultation  
After your adjustment of status interview with USCIS, USCIS will consult with DOS. DOS will make a recommendation  
on the merits of your application. Once USCIS receives the recommendation, we will make a decision on your  
application.  
Visa Availability  
Only 50 adjustments under this category are allowed per year. You may wish to consider applying under another  
immigrant category, if possible, due to this category’s numerical limitation.  
Indochinese Parole Adjustment Act of 2000  
You may apply to adjust status if you are a national of Vietnam, Cambodia, or Laos who was inspected and paroled into  
the United States before October 1, 1997 from Vietnam under the Orderly Departure Program (ODP), a refugee camp in  
East Asia, or a displaced person camp administered by the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) in  
Thailand.  
Derivative applicants are not allowed in this category.  
Evidence of Financial Support  
If you are filing Form I-485 under the Indochinese Parole Adjustment Act, you do not need to submit evidence of financial  
support.  
Additional Evidence Requirements  
You must submit evidence showing you meet certain requirements specific to this immigrant category. Therefore, in  
addition to the evidence listed in the What Evidence Must You Submit with Form I-485 section, you must also submit:  
1. Evidence of Vietnamese, Cambodian, or Laotian citizenship or nationality; and  
2. Evidence of physical presence in the United States before and on October 1, 1997.  
Additional Categories  
Diversity Visa Program  
Certain foreign nationals who were selected in the Diversity Visa (DV) lottery (“selectee”) for the current fiscal year  
may apply for adjustment of status. Your selection letter, provided by DOS, confirms that you may qualify to apply for  
adjustment under this category.  
Derivative applicants may file in this category only if they were listed as derivative family members in the principal’s DV  
lottery application.  
You may file Form I-485 only when a visa is immediately available. For information on visa availability for DV  
applicants, visit the USCIS website at www.uscis.gov/greencard.  
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You and your derivatives may only receive a DV through the end of the specific fiscal year for which you were selected.  
USCIS cannot approve any DV adjustment application after September 30 of the relevant fiscal year. Beginning  
October 1, USCIS must deny any DV adjustment application that remains pending from the prior fiscal year.  
USCIS cannot guarantee that it will be able to adjudicate your application before the end of a fiscal year. Therefore, you  
are encouraged to file as soon as you are eligible.  
Evidence of Financial Support  
If you are filing Form I-485 as a DV applicant, you do not need to submit evidence of financial support.  
Additional Evidence Requirements  
As a DV applicant, you must submit evidence showing you meet certain requirements specific to this immigrant category.  
Therefore, in addition to the evidence listed in the What Evidence Must You Submit with Form I-485 section, principal  
and derivative applicants must also submit:  
1. Evidence of the principal applicant’s selection in the DV lottery; and  
2. Evidence that any derivative applicants were originally included in the DV lottery entry (if applicable).  
In addition, principal applicants must also submit evidence of the required education or work experience to qualify for  
adjustment as a DV applicant.  
Evidence of Selection in DV Lottery  
You must provide a copy of the principal applicant’s DOS Selection Letter for the DV lottery and a copy of the receipt  
from DOS for the DV lottery processing fee.  
Evidence of Relationship  
If derivative applicants are filing Form I-485 based on the principal applicant’s Selection Letter, you must provide  
evidence that the principal applicant included the derivative applicants in the entry when entering the DV lottery for the  
current fiscal year.  
If the DV selectee becomes a spouse or parent (whether of a natural, adopted, or stepchild) after submitting the qualifying  
online DV lottery entry, the spouse and children are eligible for derivative status for immigration purposes. However, the  
qualifying marriage, birth, or adoption must occur before the DV selectee becomes a lawful permanent resident. If the  
qualifying marriage, birth, or adoption occurs after the DV selectee becomes a lawful permanent resident, then the DV  
selectee may petition for eligible family members in an appropriate family-based category.  
Evidence of Education or Work Experience  
Principal applicants must provide one of the following:  
1. A high school diploma or its equivalent (Successful completion of a 12-year course of elementary and secondary  
education in the United States or successful completion of a formal course of elementary and secondary education in  
another country that is comparable to a high school education in the United States. Only formal courses of study meet  
this requirement. Correspondence programs or equivalency certificates, such as the General Equivalency Diploma  
(GED), are not acceptable); or  
2. Two years of work experience within the past five years in an occupation requiring at least two years of training or  
experience.  
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Continuous Residence in the United States Since Before January 1, 1972 (Registry)  
Certain foreign nationals who entered the United States prior to January 1, 1972 and have maintained continuous U.S.  
residence since then may apply to register their lawful permanent resident status.  
Derivative applicants are not allowed in this category.  
Evidence of Financial Support  
If you are filing Form I-485 as an applicant for Registry, you do not need to submit evidence of financial support.  
Additional Evidence Requirements  
As a Registry applicant, you must submit evidence showing you meet certain requirements specific to this registration  
category. Therefore, in addition to the evidence listed in the What Evidence Must You Submit with Form I-485  
section, you must also submit:  
1. Evidence you entered the United States before January 1, 1972; and  
2. Evidence establishing continuous residence since entry.  
Evidence of Entry Before January 1, 1972  
You may show evidence of entry by submitting at least one document showing presence in the United States before  
January 1, 1972. You may submit as many documents as necessary.  
Evidence of Continuous Residence  
You may establish continuous residence even if you have made numerous brief departures from the United States.  
You may submit as many documents as necessary to establish continuous residence during the period of time since your  
claimed date of entry. Examples of the types of evidence you may submit include:  
1. Copy of passport pages with nonimmigrant visa, admission, or parole stamps;  
2. Form I-94 Arrival-Departure Record;  
3. Income tax records;  
4. Mortgage deeds or leases;  
5. Insurance premiums and policies;  
6. Birth, marriage, and death certificates of immediate family members;  
7. Medical records;  
8. Bank records;  
9. School records;  
10. All types of receipts that contain identifying information about you;  
11. Census records;  
12. Social Security records;  
13. Newspaper articles concerning you;  
14. Employment records;  
15. Military records;  
16. Draft records;  
17. Car registrations;  
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18. Union membership records; and  
19. Affidavits from credible witnesses having a personal knowledge of your residence in the United States, submitted with  
the witness’ contact information.  
Although you may submit affidavits, you should provide some type of additional evidence to support the application.  
Individual Born under Diplomatic Status in the United States  
You may apply to register your lawful permanent resident status if you are a foreign national born in the United States to  
a foreign diplomatic officer accredited to the United States (listed in DOS’s Diplomatic List (“Blue List”)) and you have  
maintained continuous residence in the United States since birth.  
If you are under 18 years of age, your parent or legal guardian must prepare and sign Form I-485 on your behalf.  
Derivative applicants are not allowed in this category.  
Evidence of Financial Support  
If you are filing Form I-485 as an individual born under diplomatic status in the United States, you do not need to submit  
evidence of financial support.  
Additional Evidence Requirements  
As an individual born in diplomatic status, you must submit evidence showing you meet certain requirements specific to  
this registration category. Therefore, in addition to the evidence listed in the What Evidence Must You Submit with  
Form I-485 section, you must also submit:  
1. Official confirmation of the diplomatic classification and occupational title of your parent at the time of your birth;  
2. A list of all your arrivals in and departures from the United States;  
3. Proof of your continuous residence in the United States; and  
4. Form I-508, Waiver of Rights, Privileges, Exemptions and Immunities under INA section 247(b) (and Form I-508F, if  
you are a French national).  
Evidence of Diplomatic Status  
International law states that individuals born in the United States to a foreign diplomatic officer accredited to the United  
States are not subject to the jurisdiction of the United States. You are also not a U.S. citizen under the Fourteenth  
Amendment to the Constitution. However, you may be considered a lawful permanent resident at birth.  
If one of your parents was listed on the Blue List at the time you were born in the United States, you may file Form I-485  
in this category. Both parents do not have to be listed on the Blue List. The Blue List is available at  
citizen at the time of your birth, then you are already a U.S. citizen from birth and do not need to file this application.  
Evidence of Continuous Residence  
You must establish that you have not abandoned your residence in the United States. One of the tests for whether you  
retained lawful permanent resident status is your continuous residence in the United States.  
You may establish continuous residence in the United States since entry even if you have made numerous brief departures  
from the United States. You may submit as many documents as necessary to establish continuous residence in the United  
States. Examples of the types of evidence you may submit include:  
1. Copy of passport pages with nonimmigrant visa, admission, or parole stamps;  
2. Form I-94 Arrival-Departure Record;  
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3. Income tax records;  
4. Mortgage deeds or leases;  
5. Insurance premiums and policies;  
6. Birth, marriage, and death certificates of immediate family members;  
7. Medical records;  
8. Bank records;  
9. School records;  
10. All types of receipts that contain identifying information about you;  
11. Census records;  
12. Social Security records;  
13. Newspaper articles concerning you;  
14. Employment records;  
15. Military records;  
16. Draft records;  
17. Car registrations;  
18. Union membership records; and  
19. Affidavits from credible witnesses having a personal knowledge of your residence in the United States, submitted with  
the witness’ contact information.  
Although you may submit affidavits, you should provide some type of additional evidence to support the application.  
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