After receiving your I-140 Approval, it’s important to act quickly and carefully to keep your green card process moving forward. This detailed checklist covers every document you’ll need, where to get each one, how to prepare them, translation rules, and common mistakes that can cause delays. Following these steps will help you avoid problems and keep your immigration journey on track.
1. Confirm Your I-140 Approval Notice and Review Details
The first document you’ll receive after your I-140 Approval is the official Form I-797 Notice of Action from USCIS. This notice is proof that your I-140 petition has been approved.
What to do:
– Check all details: Make sure your name, date of birth, priority date, visa category (like EB-2 or EB-3), and employer information are correct.
– Keep it safe: Store the original I-797 in a secure place. You’ll need it for the next steps, including your green card application, visa interview, or adjustment of status.
– Make copies: Scan and print several copies. You may need to submit copies with other forms or show them to your employer or attorney.
Where to get it:
USCIS will mail the Form I-797 to the address listed on your petition. If you do not receive it within 30 days of the approval notice online, contact the USCIS Contact Center.
Formatting requirements:
– Submit clear, full-page copies if required.
– Do not write on the original notice.
Common issues:
– Incorrect personal details. If you spot an error, contact USCIS immediately to request a correction.
2. Check Your Priority Date Against the Current Visa Bulletin
Your priority date is the day USCIS received your I-140 petition. This date determines your place in line for a green card. You must wait until your priority date is “current” before you can move forward.
What to do:
– Find your priority date: It’s listed on your I-797 approval notice.
– Check the Visa Bulletin: Go to the U.S. Department of State Visa Bulletin each month. Look for your visa category and country of birth.
– Compare dates: If your priority date is earlier than the date listed in the bulletin, your date is current and you can file the next step.
Common issues:
– Many applicants from India and China face long waits due to backlogs. If your date is not current, you must wait until it is.
3. Decide Between Adjustment of Status (AOS) or Consular Processing
After I-140 Approval, you must choose how to apply for your green card:
- Adjustment of Status (AOS): If you’re already in the United States 🇺🇸 on a valid visa (like H-1B or F-1 OPT), you can file Form I-485 to adjust your status without leaving the country.
- Consular Processing: If you’re outside the United States 🇺🇸 or prefer to process your green card abroad, you’ll apply at a U.S. embassy or consulate in your home country.
What to do:
– Talk to your attorney: They can help you decide which option fits your situation.
– Gather documents: Requirements differ for each process (see below).
Where to get information:
Visit the USCIS Adjustment of Status page or the U.S. Department of State Consular Processing page.
Common issues:
– Choosing the wrong process can cause delays or even denial. Always double-check your eligibility.
4. Prepare and File Form I-485 (If Eligible and Priority Date is Current)
If you’re eligible for Adjustment of Status and your priority date is current, you can file Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status.
Checklist of required documents:
– Form I-485 (completed and signed)
– Copy of I-140 Approval Notice (Form I-797)
– Passport: Current and all previous passports with U.S. visas and entry stamps
– Birth certificate: Must be a full, long-form version. If not in English, see translation rules below.
– Medical exam report (Form I-693): Must be completed by a USCIS-approved civil surgeon. The sealed envelope must remain unopened.
– Proof of lawful status: Copies of I-94, visa stamps, and approval notices for your current status
– Employment verification letter: From your sponsoring employer, confirming your job offer and position
– Two passport-style photos: Must meet U.S. Department of State photo requirements
– Filing fee: As of 2025, the fee is usually $1,225–$1,425. Check the USCIS fee schedule for updates.
Formatting requirements:
– Use black ink if filling by hand.
– Do not use correction fluid or tape.
– All copies must be clear and legible.
– Photos must be recent (within 6 months), 2×2 inches, with a white background.
Translation needs:
– Any document not in English must be accompanied by a full English translation.
– The translator must certify that the translation is complete and accurate, and that they are competent to translate.
Common issues:
– Missing signatures or incomplete forms.
– Submitting old or unclear copies.
– Not including translations or proper certification.
5. Consider Premium Processing for Faster I-140 Decisions (If Not Yet Approved)
If your I-140 petition is still pending, you may be able to request premium processing to speed up the decision. This is not needed if your I-140 is already approved.
What to do:
– Check eligibility: Premium processing is available for EB-1A, EB-1C, and EB-2 NIW categories.
– File Form I-907: Submit Form I-907, Request for Premium Processing Service with the $2,805 fee.
– Processing time: USCIS will process your petition within 15–45 calendar days or refund the fee.
Formatting requirements:
– Submit Form I-907 with your pending I-140 or as a separate request.
– Include the correct fee and supporting documents.
Common issues:
– Requesting premium processing after I-140 approval (not allowed).
– Sending the request to the wrong address.
6. Notify Your Employer and Immigration Attorney
Your employer and attorney play a key role in the next steps.
What to do:
– Send them a copy of your I-140 Approval Notice.
– Discuss next steps: They can help with I-485 or consular processing paperwork, and update company records.
– PERM compliance: Employers may need to keep records for Department of Labor audits.
Common issues:
– Failing to inform your employer or attorney can lead to missed deadlines or incomplete filings.
7. Monitor USCIS Processing Times and Stay Updated on Policy Changes
Processing times and policies change often. Staying informed helps you plan and avoid surprises.
What to do:
– Check USCIS processing times: Visit the USCIS Processing Times page for updates.
– Read the Visa Bulletin monthly: This shows when your priority date becomes current.
– Sign up for alerts: Many law firms and immigration news sites offer free updates.
Common issues:
– Missing important changes in rules or deadlines.
– Not knowing when your priority date becomes current.
8. Prepare for Potential Requests for Evidence (RFE) or Notices of Intent to Deny (NOID)
Even after I-140 Approval, USCIS may ask for more information.
What to do:
– Read any RFE or NOID carefully: These notices will list exactly what is missing or unclear.
– Gather requested documents: This may include updated job letters, pay stubs, or proof of status.
– Respond by the deadline: Usually 30–87 days. Late responses can lead to denial.
– Work with your attorney: They can help you prepare a strong response.
Formatting requirements:
– Submit clear, organized copies.
– Include a cover letter listing all documents provided.
Common issues:
– Ignoring or missing the deadline.
– Sending incomplete or unclear documents.
9. Plan for Visa Interview or Biometrics Appointment
Depending on your process, you’ll need to attend an interview or provide fingerprints (biometrics).
For Consular Processing:
– Visa interview: The U.S. embassy or consulate will schedule your interview.
– Documents to bring: I-140 Approval Notice, passport, birth certificate, police clearance certificates, medical exam results, and any other documents listed in your appointment letter.
For Adjustment of Status:
– Biometrics appointment: USCIS will send you a notice with the date, time, and location.
– Interview: Not all applicants are interviewed, but be prepared.
– Documents to bring: Interview notice, passport, I-140 Approval Notice, I-485 receipt notice, and originals of all supporting documents.
Formatting requirements:
– Bring original documents and clear copies.
– All translations must be certified.
Common issues:
– Missing documents at the interview.
– Not attending the appointment on time.
10. Maintain Valid Status and Avoid Travel Issues
It’s important to keep your current visa status valid until your green card is approved.
What to do:
– Do not overstay: Make sure your visa or status does not expire.
– Avoid travel without advance parole: If you have a pending I-485, leaving the United States 🇺🇸 without advance parole will automatically cancel your application.
– Apply for advance parole: You can request this travel document when you file your I-485.
Where to get advance parole:
File Form I-131, Application for Travel Document with your I-485.
Common issues:
– Traveling without advance parole and losing your chance to adjust status.
– Letting your visa status expire.
Translation Needs for All Documents
- Who can translate: Anyone except you or your family members. Many applicants use professional translation services.
- Certification: The translator must write a statement that says, “I certify that I am competent to translate from [language] to English and that the translation is complete and accurate.”
- Attach the certification: Staple or clip the certification to the translated document.
Common issues:
– Using Google Translate or uncertified translations (not accepted).
– Missing certification statement.
Common Document Issues and How to Prevent Them
- Missing documents: Double-check every checklist before submitting.
- Unclear copies: Use a scanner, not a phone camera, for important documents.
- Expired documents: Make sure all forms, medical exams, and police certificates are current.
- Incorrect fees: Always check the latest fee on the official USCIS website before sending payment.
- Unsigned forms: Every form must be signed in ink. Electronic signatures are not accepted unless specifically allowed.
Where to Obtain Each Document
- I-140 Approval Notice (Form I-797): Mailed by USCIS.
- Passport: Your country’s passport office.
- Birth certificate: Local government office in your place of birth.
- Medical exam (Form I-693): USCIS-approved civil surgeon. Find one here.
- Police clearance certificates: Local police station or government office in your home country.
- Employment verification letter: Your employer’s HR department.
- Advance parole (Form I-131): File with USCIS.
- Visa Bulletin: U.S. Department of State Visa Bulletin.
Staying Proactive and Informed
According to analysis by VisaVerge.com, keeping organized records and responding quickly to any requests from USCIS or the consulate is the best way to avoid delays. Many applicants lose time because of missing documents, unclear translations, or not checking the Visa Bulletin regularly.
Actionable Takeaways
- Keep all original documents and copies organized in a safe place.
- Check the Visa Bulletin every month to see if your priority date is current.
- Work closely with your employer and attorney at every step.
- Respond quickly to any USCIS or consulate requests.
- Never travel outside the United States 🇺🇸 with a pending I-485 unless you have advance parole.
- Use only certified translations for any non-English documents.
- Double-check all forms for signatures, correct fees, and clear copies before mailing.
Official Government Resource
For the most up-to-date information on I-140 Approval, required forms, and green card processing, visit the USCIS I-140 Information page.
By following this checklist and preparing your documents carefully, you can avoid common mistakes and keep your green card process moving forward. If you have any doubts or run into problems, always consult a qualified immigration attorney for personal advice.
Learn Today
I-140 Approval → USCIS confirmation that an employment-based immigrant petition is approved.
Form I-797 → Official USCIS notice confirming receipt or approval of immigration petitions.
Priority Date → The date USCIS received your I-140 petition determining green card queue position.
Adjustment of Status (AOS) → Process allowing applicants inside the U.S. to apply for green card without leaving.
Consular Processing → Completing immigrant visa process at U.S. embassy or consulate abroad.
This Article in a Nutshell
After I-140 Approval, quickly verify your Form I-797 details and check Visa Bulletin dates. Decide between Adjustment of Status or Consular Processing carefully, gather required documents, and prepare for potential USCIS requests to keep your green card process uninterrupted and moving forward efficiently.
— By VisaVerge.com
