What is the I-485?

Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status, is used to apply for a green card from inside the United States. This process is called “adjustment of status,” and it allows eligible immigrants to become lawful permanent residents without having to leave the country.

If approved, you will receive a green card and gain the right to live and work permanently in the U.S.

Who Can Apply for a Work Permit?

You may be eligible to file Form I-485 if:

• You are already in the U.S. and entered legally (with a visa or inspection)
• You have an approved immigrant petition (like Form I-130 or I-140)
• A visa number is available for your category and country
• You meet all admissibility and eligibility requirements

Some common situations include:

• Spouses, children, or parents of U.S. citizens (Immediate Relatives)
• Family preference categories (e.g., siblings of U.S. citizens, spouses of green card holders)
• Asylees or refugees who have been in the U.S. for over 1 year
• Employment-based categories

Not sure if you qualify? We can help you check your eligibility.

Steps in the Adjustment of Status Process

Determine Your Eligibility
– You must confirm that your immigration category allows you to adjust status.

File Form I-485 (with Supporting Forms)
– Most cases also require additional forms such as:
– I-130 (family-based petition)
– I-765 (work permit)
– I-131 (travel document – Advance Parole)
– I-864 (Affidavit of Support)

Biometrics Appointment
– USCIS will schedule you for fingerprinting and a photo.

Attend Your Interview
– Most applicants will be required to attend a green card interview at a USCIS office.

Receive Your Decision
– If approved, you’ll receive your green card in the mail!

Documents You’ll Need

When filing Form I-485, you’ll need to submit:

• Completed Form I-485
• Two passport-style photos
• Copy of your birth certificate and valid ID
• I-94 travel record (if applicable)
• Marriage certificate (for spouse-based cases)
• Proof of your current immigration status
• Medical exam report (Form I-693)
• Affidavit of Support (Form I-864 from your sponsor)
• Filing fees or fee waiver (if eligible)

Important: Required documents may vary depending on your situation. We’ll guide you based on your specific case.

How Long Does the Process Take?

Processing times vary by category and USCIS field office, but you can generally expect:

• Biometrics: within 1 month of filing
• Interview: in 6–12 months (sometimes longer depending on backlog)
• Green card approval: varies by case and category

You can also apply for a work permit and travel document while your I-485 is pending. These typically take 3–7 months to process.

How We Help at IMG Services LLC

Applying for a green card is a major step, and one that must be done correctly. At IMG Services LLC, we:

✔️ Help you complete Form I-485 and all related forms
✔️ Review your documents to avoid delays or rejections
✔️ Assist with gathering proof and medical exams
✔️ Guide you through the interview process
✔️ Provide ongoing support as your case moves forward

We’re committed to making your adjustment of status as smooth and stress-free as possible.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I stay in the U.S. while my I-485 is pending?
A: Yes. As long as your I-485 is pending and you maintain eligibility, you can stay legally in the U.S. during the process.

Q: Can I travel outside the U.S. while waiting?
A: Only if you’ve applied for and received Advance Parole (Form I-131). Traveling without it may cancel your application.

Q: Do I need an interview?
A: Most I-485 applicants are required to attend an in-person interview, especially for family-based cases.

Need Help Applying for a Green Card?

Let us help you file your I-485 the right way. IMG Services LLC is here to guide you from start to finish.

---

USCIS: I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status