Key Takeaways
• Form I-485 filing fee increased to $1,440 as of April 1, 2024.
• Applicants must include fees for Forms I-765 ($260) and I-131 ($630) if filed together.
• Use the USCIS Fee Calculator and submit all required documents to avoid delays.
Applying for a green card in the United States 🇺🇸 is a big step toward building a new life. One of the most important parts of this process is filing Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status. This form lets you apply for lawful permanent resident status, which is often called getting a green card. Because the process can be confusing and costly, it’s important to know exactly what to do, how much it costs, and how to avoid common mistakes.
This guide will walk you through every step of filing Form I-485, including the current filing fee, payment methods, recent changes, and tips to help you avoid problems. By following these steps, you can make your application process smoother and increase your chances of success.
Step 1: Understand the Purpose and Importance of Form I-485
Form I-485 is the official application used to request a green card while you are already in the United States 🇺🇸. This process is called “adjustment of status.” It is different from applying for a green card from outside the country, which is called “consular processing.”
Why is Form I-485 important?
– It is the main way to become a lawful permanent resident if you are already in the United States 🇺🇸.
– Approval means you can live and work in the country permanently.
– It is often the last step in a long immigration journey.
Who can file Form I-485?
– People who are eligible through family, employment, refugee or asylum status, or other special programs.
– You must have an approved immigrant petition (like Form I-130 or Form I-140) or qualify under a special category.
Key Point: Always check your eligibility before starting. Filing when you are not eligible can lead to denial and loss of fees.
Step 2: Gather Required Documents and Evidence
Before you fill out Form I-485, collect all the documents you need. Missing paperwork is a common reason for delays or denials.
You will usually need:
– A copy of your birth certificate (with a certified English translation if not in English)
– A copy of your passport page with your visa and entry stamp
– Two passport-style photos
– Proof of your current immigration status (such as Form I-94, Arrival/Departure Record)
– Approved immigrant petition notice (for example, Form I-130 or Form I-140 approval notice)
– Medical examination report (Form I-693, completed by a USCIS-approved doctor)
– Marriage certificate or divorce decree (if applying based on marriage)
– Police clearance certificates or court records (if you have a criminal record)
Tip: Use the checklist in the Form I-485 instructions to make sure you have everything.
Step 3: Calculate the Filing Fee and Related Costs
3.1. Know the Current Filing Fee
As of April 1, 2024, the filing fee for Form I-485 is $1,440. This is a recent increase from the previous fee of $1,225. The fee covers the cost of processing your application, but it does not guarantee approval.
Important: The filing fee is non-refundable. If your application is denied or you withdraw it, you will not get your money back.
3.2. Additional Fees for Related Forms
Many applicants file other forms at the same time as Form I-485. These forms now have their own fees:
- Form I-765 (Application for Employment Authorization): $260
- Lets you work while your green card application is pending.
- Form I-765 official page
- Form I-131 (Application for Travel Document): $630
- Lets you travel outside the United States 🇺🇸 while your application is pending.
- Form I-131 official page
Previously, these forms were free when filed with Form I-485. Now, each has a separate fee.
3.3. Use the USCIS Fee Calculator
To make sure you pay the correct amount, use the USCIS Fee Calculator. This tool helps you avoid mistakes that could delay your application.
3.4. Fee Waivers and Reductions
Some people may qualify for a fee waiver or reduction. Check the Form I-485 instructions for details. You may qualify if you:
- Receive public benefits (like Medicaid or SNAP)
- Have a very low income
- Are applying as a refugee or asylee
To request a fee waiver, file Form I-912, Request for Fee Waiver with your application.
Step 4: Pay the Filing Fee Correctly
4.1. Accepted Payment Methods
You can pay the filing fee using one of these methods:
- Money order
- Personal check
- Cashier’s check
- Credit card or debit card (using Form G-1450, Authorization for Credit Card Transactions)
Checks must be made payable to:
U.S. Department of Homeland Security
Do not abbreviate (don’t write “USDHS” or “DHS”).
4.2. Tips for Payment
- Never send cash.
- If you pay by check, write your name and “Form I-485” in the memo line.
- If you pay by credit or debit card, fill out Form G-1450 and place it on top of your application packet.
- Double-check the amount. Overpaying or underpaying can cause your application to be rejected.
Step 5: Complete and Review Form I-485
5.1. Download the Latest Form
Always use the most recent version of Form I-485 from the official U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services website.
5.2. Fill Out the Form Carefully
- Use black ink if filling out by hand.
- Answer every question. If a question does not apply, write “N/A” (not applicable).
- Sign and date the form. Unsigned forms will be rejected.
5.3. Double-Check for Mistakes
- Review all answers for accuracy.
- Make sure your name and other personal information match your supporting documents.
- Check that all required documents are included.
Step 6: Assemble and Submit Your Application Packet
6.1. Organize Your Packet
- Place your Form I-485 on top.
- Attach the filing fee (check, money order, or Form G-1450).
- Add supporting documents in the order listed in the instructions.
- Include passport photos in a small envelope labeled with your name and A-number (if you have one).
6.2. Where to File
Check the USCIS Direct Filing Addresses for Form I-485 to find the correct mailing address. The address depends on your eligibility category and where you live.
Tip: Use a trackable mailing service (like USPS Priority Mail or FedEx) to send your packet. Keep the receipt for your records.
Step 7: After You File – What Happens Next?
7.1. Receive a Receipt Notice
USCIS will send you a Form I-797C, Notice of Action to confirm they received your application. This usually arrives within 2–4 weeks.
7.2. Attend Biometrics Appointment
You will be scheduled for a biometrics appointment (fingerprints and photo) at a local USCIS office. Bring your appointment notice and a photo ID.
7.3. Respond to Requests for Evidence (RFE)
If USCIS needs more information, they will send you a Request for Evidence (RFE). Respond by the deadline, or your application may be denied.
7.4. Interview
Most applicants must attend an in-person interview. Bring originals of all documents you submitted.
7.5. Decision
USCIS will mail you a written decision. If approved, you will receive your green card by mail.
Step 8: Time Estimates for Each Stage
- Preparing documents and forms: 1–2 weeks (depending on how quickly you gather paperwork)
- Mailing and receipt notice: 2–4 weeks
- Biometrics appointment: 3–8 weeks after receipt notice
- Interview scheduling: 8–14 months after filing (varies by location)
- Final decision: 12–18 months after filing (can be longer in busy areas)
Note: These are average times. Your case may move faster or slower.
Step 9: Common Pitfalls and How to Avoid Them
1. Paying the wrong fee
– Always check the latest fee on the USCIS Fee Schedule.
– Use the Fee Calculator to confirm.
2. Missing documents
– Use the checklist in the Form I-485 instructions.
– Double-check before mailing.
3. Not signing the form
– Unsigned forms are automatically rejected.
4. Sending to the wrong address
– Check the correct address for your category and state.
5. Ignoring requests from USCIS
– Always respond to RFEs and attend all appointments.
6. Not checking eligibility
– Filing when you’re not eligible wastes time and money.
Step 10: Troubleshooting and Getting Help
If your application is rejected:
– Read the rejection notice carefully. Fix the problem and refile with the correct fee or missing documents.
If you get an RFE:
– Respond by the deadline. Include all requested documents.
If you need help:
– Visit the USCIS website for official information.
– Call the USCIS Contact Center at 1-800-375-5283 (TTY 1-800-767-1833).
– Consider speaking with an immigration attorney or a trusted legal aid group.
As reported by VisaVerge.com, the recent fee increases are part of a larger effort by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services to cover rising costs and improve services. Applicants should stay alert for any future changes and always use official sources for updates.
Step 11: Checklist Summary Before You Mail Your Application
Use this checklist to make sure you’re ready:
- [ ] Completed and signed Form I-485 (official link)
- [ ] Correct filing fee ($1,440 as of April 1, 2024)
- [ ] Separate payments for Form I-765 ($260) and Form I-131 ($630), if filing
- [ ] Two passport-style photos
- [ ] Copy of birth certificate (with translation if needed)
- [ ] Copy of passport and visa page
- [ ] Copy of Form I-94
- [ ] Approved immigrant petition notice (if required)
- [ ] Medical exam report (Form I-693)
- [ ] Marriage certificate or divorce decree (if needed)
- [ ] Police or court records (if needed)
- [ ] Fee waiver request (Form I-912), if applying
- [ ] All documents organized in the correct order
- [ ] Mailing address double-checked
- [ ] Copy of everything for your records
Final Tips and Takeaways
- Always use the latest forms and instructions from the USCIS website.
- Double-check all fees and payment methods before mailing.
- Keep copies of everything you send.
- Respond quickly to any requests from USCIS.
- Stay updated on fee changes and policy updates.
Filing Form I-485 is a big step, but with careful planning and attention to detail, you can avoid common mistakes and move closer to your goal of permanent residency in the United States 🇺🇸. If you have questions or run into problems, use official resources or seek trusted legal help.
For more information and updates, visit the USCIS Fee Schedule page, which always has the latest details about filing fees and payment options.
Learn Today
Form I-485 → Application to register permanent residence or adjust status to become a green card holder in the U.S.
Adjustment of Status → The process of applying for lawful permanent residence while physically present in the United States.
Filing Fee → The non-refundable payment required to process Form I-485 and related applications.
Request for Evidence (RFE) → A USCIS notice asking applicants to provide additional documentation to continue processing their case.
Biometrics Appointment → A scheduled USCIS appointment for collecting fingerprints and photographs to verify identity.
This Article in a Nutshell
Applying for a green card using Form I-485 requires precise documentation, paying new fees, and following USCIS instructions carefully for smoother processing and higher approval chances.
— By VisaVerge.com
