What Is Form I-485? How to Complete? Step-by-Step

What Is Form I-485 and Who Can File It?

Form I-485 is the application you use to adjust your status to lawful permanent resident while you are already inside the United States.

You can file it if you:

Have an approved or pending immigrant petition (such as I-130, I-140, etc.)
Entered lawfully and meet eligibility under your category
Are not barred by immigration violations

Many applicants compare it to DS-160 because both are detailed and ask for personal history—but unlike DS-160, I-485 determines your eligibility for a green card, not just a visa interview.

Required Documents (Quick Checklist)

Passport (valid)
I-94 arrival/departure record
Birth certificate (with certified translation if needed)
Marriage certificate, divorce decrees (if applicable)
Medical examination (Form I-693)
Two passport-style photos
Any immigration documents from previous stays (EADs, visas, approvals)

Make sure all names match exactly as they appear on your passport—just like the DS-160 rule that only English alphabet letters can be used.

How to Fill Out Form I-485 (Section by Section)

1 – Information About You

Provide your legal name, mailing address, physical address, and other personal identifiers.

If your name has ever changed, list every variation—this mirrors the DS-160 principle of “full transparency of identity history.”

2 – Application Type

Select the correct basis for your green card application:

Family-based
Employment-based
Asylee/Refugee
Special immigrant categories

Applicants often get errors here because they choose a category that “sounds correct.” Use the exact category from your petition approval.

3 – Additional Information About You

This part covers your immigration history—entries, exits, previous visas, and violations.

Think of it like the DS-160 travel history section, but more detailed.

4– General Eligibility and Security Questions

Only answer “Yes” if you are absolutely sure it applies to you. A mistaken “Yes” can trigger unnecessary background checks.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

❌ Using different information than your passport or previous filings

Your DS-160, I-130, I-94, and I-485 must tell the same story.

❌ Leaving questions blank

Use “N/A” or “None” when appropriate.

❌ Submitting an expired medical exam

Form I-693 typically remains valid for 2 years, but timing depends on when the civil surgeon signed it.

❌ Forgetting to sign your form

USCIS rejects thousands of applications every month for missing signatures.

Fees and Filing Tips

I-485 fee varies depending on age and category.
Pay using check, money order, or the appropriate online method if filing digitally.
Package your application neatly: the video mentioned organizing documents so officers “don’t have to dig”—that applies here. Use tabs or separators.

How DS-160 Experience Helps With I-485

Many applicants who previously completed the DS-160 find that:

Both forms require consistent biographical history
Both ask for travel and immigration details
Both require careful spelling (English alphabet only)
Both must match passport information exactly

Your DS-160 preparation actually makes I-485 easier because you already gathered most of your personal and travel history.

After Filing: What to Expect

Receipt Notice (I-797C)
Biometrics Appointment
Request for Evidence (if needed)
Interview (most family-based applications)
Decision

*Keep copies of everything—USCIS may refer to your DS-160, I-130, and previous visas during your interview.

Filling out Form I-485 is not an impossible task. Make sure your information matches your DS-160 and passport, attach the correct documents, and review each section before submitting.

Whatsapp +1 (202) 440-2272

Phone +1 (202) 440-2272

info@capitollawpartners.com