Adjustment of Status (I-485): How to Get a Green Card Without Leaving the United States

Last Updated: March 2026

Every year, hundreds of thousands of people living in the United States apply to become lawful permanent residents — and the majority of them never have to leave the country to do it. The process is called adjustment of status, and it is one of the most important pathways in American immigration law. If you are currently in the United States and have a basis for a green card — whether through family, employment, asylum, or another qualifying category — adjustment of status may allow you to complete the entire process domestically, from filing to interview to approval, without ever setting foot in a U.S. consulate abroad.

But the I-485 adjustment of status process is not simple. It involves multiple government forms, medical exams, biometrics appointments, potential interviews, and — in 2026 — processing times that can stretch from months to years depending on your category and circumstances. Mistakes can lead to delays, requests for evidence, or outright denials. This guide walks you through everything you need to know about Form I-485, from initial eligibility to final approval, so you can approach the process with confidence.

Whether you are in San Diego, Los Angeles, Fresno, or anywhere else in California, this information applies to your case.

What Is Adjustment of Status?

Adjustment of status is the process by which a person who is already physically present in the United States applies to become a lawful permanent resident (green card holder) without having to return to their home country for visa processing. The process is governed by Section 245 of the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA) and is administered by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).

The key form is Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status. When you file an I-485, you are asking USCIS to change your immigration status from whatever it currently is (tourist, student, worker, asylee, TPS holder, etc.) to that of a lawful permanent resident.

Adjustment of Status vs. Consular Processing

There are two ways to obtain a green card: adjustment of status and consular processing. Understanding the difference is critical:

For many applicants, adjustment of status is the preferred option because it allows them to stay in the United States, work, and travel during the process. However, not everyone is eligible to adjust status — and in some cases, consular processing is the only or better option.

Who Is Eligible for Adjustment of Status?

Eligibility for adjustment of status depends on several factors, including how you entered the United States, your current immigration status, and the basis for your green card application.

General Requirements

To adjust status, you generally must:

1. Be physically present in the United States
2. Have been inspected and admitted or paroled into the United States (i.e., you entered through a port of entry with permission, or were paroled in by immigration authorities)
3. Have an approved or concurrently filed immigrant petition (such as Form I-130, I-140, or be an approved asylee or refugee)
4. Have an available immigrant visa number (your priority date must be current)
5. Be admissible to the United States (or eligible for a waiver of inadmissibility)
6. Not be subject to any statutory bars to adjustment

Categories of Applicants Who Can Adjust Status

Family-Based Applicants

Family-based adjustment of status is the most common category. You may be eligible if:

• You are the immediate relative of a U.S. citizen — spouse, unmarried child under 21, or parent (if the U.S. citizen is 21 or older). Immediate relatives have no waiting period for visa numbers and can file the I-485 concurrently with the I-130 petition.
• You are in a family preference category — adult children of U.S. citizens, spouses and children of permanent residents, or siblings of U.S. citizens. These categories are subject to annual visa number limits and often have multi-year waiting periods based on priority dates.

Employment-Based Applicants

If your employer has sponsored you for a green card (or you qualify as an extraordinary ability individual, outstanding researcher, or multinational manager), you may adjust status through the employment-based categories (EB-1 through EB-5). The process typically involves:

1. Labor certification (PERM) — for most EB-2 and EB-3 cases
2. Form I-140 petition — filed by the employer (or self-petitioned for EB-1A and EB-2 NIW)
3. Form I-485 — filed when a visa number is available

Diversity Visa (DV Lottery) Winners

If you won the Diversity Visa lottery and are physically present in the United States, you can adjust status instead of consular processing. DV cases are time-sensitive — the visa must be issued before the end of the fiscal year (September 30).

Asylees and Refugees

• Refugees can adjust status one year after being admitted to the United States as a refugee (Form I-485, no fee required).
• Asylees can adjust status one year after being granted asylum, subject to annual numerical limitations.

VAWA Self-Petitioners

Individuals who have self-petitioned under the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) due to abuse by a U.S. citizen or permanent resident spouse, parent, or adult child can adjust status upon approval of the VAWA petition, provided a visa number is available.

U Visa Holders

U Visa holders who have maintained continuous physical presence in the United States for three years after receiving U nonimmigrant status may apply to adjust to permanent resident status.

T Visa Holders

T Visa holders (victims of human trafficking) may adjust status after three years of continuous physical presence or upon completion of the investigation/prosecution, whichever occurs first.

Special Immigrant Juvenile Status (SIJS)

Youth who have been granted SIJS classification can adjust status when a visa number is available in the EB-4 category.

Cuban Adjustment Act

Natives or citizens of Cuba who have been physically present in the United States for at least one year after being inspected and admitted or paroled may adjust status.

The Inspection and Admission Requirement: The Biggest Barrier

The single most common barrier to adjustment of status is the requirement that you must have been “inspected and admitted or paroled” into the United States. This means you must have entered through a legal port of entry (airport, land border crossing, or seaport) and been processed by an immigration officer.

If you entered the United States without inspection — for example, by crossing the border without going through a checkpoint — you generally cannot adjust status, even if you have an approved I-130 or I-140 petition. There are, however, important exceptions:

Exceptions to the Inspection and Admission Requirement

• Section 245(i): If you are the beneficiary of an immigrant petition (I-130 or I-140) or labor certification that was filed on or before April 30, 2001, you may be able to adjust status by paying a $1,000 penalty, regardless of how you entered the United States. This is a critical exception for many long-term residents.

• VAWA self-petitioners: VAWA applicants are exempt from the inspection and admission requirement and can adjust status regardless of how they entered.

• SIJS beneficiaries: Special Immigrant Juvenile applicants are also exempt from this requirement.

• Advance parole: If you traveled outside the United States with advance parole and were paroled back in upon return, this creates a lawful “admission” or “parole” for adjustment purposes. This is particularly relevant for DACA recipients and TPS holders.

• Certain asylees and refugees: Refugees are admitted and asylees are granted status regardless of how they entered, so the inspection requirement is generally met.

The I-485 Application Process: Step by Step

Step 1: Determine Your Eligibility

Before filing, confirm that:

• You have an underlying basis for a green card (approved or pending immigrant petition, asylee/refugee status, etc.)
• A visa number is available for your category (check the monthly Visa Bulletin published by the Department of State)
• You were inspected and admitted or paroled, or you qualify for an exception
• You are not subject to any inadmissibility grounds (or you can obtain a waiver)

Step 2: Gather Your Documents

The I-485 requires extensive supporting documentation. At a minimum, you will need:

• Form I-485 (completed and signed)
• Two passport-style photographs
• Copy of your passport biographical page (and visa page, if applicable)
• Copy of Form I-94 (Arrival/Departure Record)
• Birth certificate (with certified English translation if not in English)
• Form I-693 (Report of Medical Examination and Vaccination Record) — completed by a USCIS-designated civil surgeon
• Evidence of immigration status (copy of visa, I-20, I-797 approval notices, etc.)
• Evidence of the underlying basis for adjustment (I-130 receipt/approval, I-140 receipt/approval, asylum grant letter, etc.)
• Court records for any arrests, charges, or convictions (even if dismissed)
• Tax returns (recommended but not always required — strongly recommended for demonstrating good moral character)
• Filing fee (currently $1,440 for applicants ages 14–78; check USCIS for current fees, as they are subject to change)

Step 3: Complete the Medical Exam (Form I-693)

The I-693 medical examination must be completed by a USCIS-designated civil surgeon. The exam includes:

• Physical examination
• Review of vaccination history (you must be up to date on required vaccinations or receive them during the exam)
• Blood tests for syphilis and tuberculosis (or tuberculosis skin test/chest X-ray)
• Mental health evaluation (brief screening)

Important timing note: The I-693 is valid for 2 years from the date the civil surgeon signs it. It must be valid at the time USCIS adjudicates your I-485. If your case takes longer than expected, you may need a new medical exam.

The medical exam typically costs between $200 and $400, depending on the civil surgeon and whether additional vaccinations are needed. This cost is not included in the USCIS filing fee.

Step 4: File the I-485 (and Consider Concurrent Filing)

You can file the I-485:

• Online through your USCIS account (available for most categories)
• By mail to the appropriate USCIS lockbox facility

Concurrent Filing

For certain categories — most notably, immediate relatives of U.S. citizens — you can file the I-485 concurrently with the underlying immigrant petition (I-130). This means you submit both forms at the same time, which can significantly reduce your overall timeline.

Forms commonly filed concurrently with the I-485:

Filing the I-765 and I-131 concurrently with the I-485 is strongly recommended. The work permit and travel document allow you to work and travel while your green card application is pending, which can take many months.

Step 5: Receive Your Receipt Notice

After USCIS receives your I-485 package, you will receive a receipt notice (Form I-797C) with your case number. This typically arrives within 2 to 4 weeks of filing. You can use this case number to track your case online.

Step 6: Attend Your Biometrics Appointment

USCIS will schedule you for a biometrics appointment at a local Application Support Center (ASC). At this appointment, USCIS will collect your:

• Fingerprints
• Photograph
• Signature

The biometrics are used for background checks conducted by the FBI. You will receive a notice (Form I-797C) with the date, time, and location of your appointment. Do not miss this appointment. If you cannot attend, contact USCIS to reschedule before the appointment date.

Step 7: Receive Your EAD and Travel Document

If you filed Forms I-765 and I-131 concurrently with your I-485, USCIS will adjudicate those applications. In many cases, USCIS issues a combo card — a single card that serves as both your Employment Authorization Document (work permit) and advance parole (travel document).

Current 2026 processing times for EAD/combo cards: Processing times vary, but applicants should expect approximately 3 to 8 months from the date of filing. Some service centers are faster than others. If your EAD has been pending for more than the posted processing time, you may be eligible to submit an expedite request or an inquiry.

Step 8: Attend Your Adjustment Interview (If Required)

Most family-based adjustment of status cases require an in-person interview at a USCIS field office. Employment-based cases sometimes require interviews but often do not.

What to expect at the interview:

• The interview is conducted by a USCIS officer
• You will be placed under oath
• The officer will review your application, ask questions about your eligibility, and verify your identity and documents
• For marriage-based cases, the officer will ask questions to determine whether your marriage is bona fide (genuine)
• The officer may ask about your immigration history, criminal history, and any inadmissibility issues
• Bring original documents for everything you submitted as copies (birth certificate, passport, marriage certificate, etc.)
• Bring your petitioning relative if possible (especially for marriage-based cases)

Step 9: Receive a Decision

After the interview (or after adjudication, if no interview is required), USCIS will issue one of three decisions:

1. Approved: Your I-485 is approved, and you become a lawful permanent resident. You will receive your green card in the mail within a few weeks.

2. Request for Evidence (RFE): USCIS needs additional documentation before making a decision. You will have a specified period (usually 30 to 87 days) to respond.

3. Denied: Your I-485 is denied. The denial notice will explain the reason. Depending on your circumstances, you may be able to file a motion to reopen or reconsider, or you may be placed in removal proceedings where an immigration judge can review the denial.

Employment Authorization (I-765) While Your I-485 Is Pending

Filing Form I-765 concurrently with your I-485 allows you to receive a work permit (EAD) while your green card application is pending. Key points:

• Category code: When filing the I-765 based on a pending I-485, use category code (c)(9).
• Validity: The EAD based on a pending I-485 is typically valid for 2 years.
• Renewal: If your I-485 is still pending when your EAD expires, you can renew it by filing a new I-765. USCIS has implemented automatic extensions of up to 540 days for timely-filed EAD renewal applications in the (c)(9) category.
• No employer restrictions: Unlike employer-specific work visas (like H-1B), the EAD allows you to work for any employer in any position.

Warning: If you are currently in H-1B, L-1, or another employer-sponsored nonimmigrant status and you use your EAD to work, you may be considered to have abandoned your nonimmigrant status. This matters because if your I-485 is denied, you would not be able to “fall back” to your previous status. Consult with an attorney before using your EAD if you are in a nonimmigrant work status.

Advance Parole (I-131) While Your I-485 Is Pending

Filing Form I-131 concurrently with your I-485 allows you to receive advance parole — a travel document that permits you to leave and re-enter the United States while your green card application is pending.

Critical Rules About Advance Parole

• Do NOT leave the United States without advance parole while your I-485 is pending. Departing without advance parole is generally considered an abandonment of your I-485 application.
• Exception for H-1B, H-4, L-1, L-2, and K visa holders: If you are in one of these statuses and have a valid visa stamp or valid status, you may be able to travel and re-enter without advance parole. However, the rules are complex, and you should consult an attorney.
• Advance parole and unlawful presence bars: If you accrued more than 180 days of unlawful presence in the United States and then depart (even with advance parole), you may trigger the 3-year or 10-year bar to re-entry. This is a critical issue that must be analyzed on a case-by-case basis.

Common Reasons for I-485 Denial

Understanding why I-485 applications are denied can help you avoid pitfalls:

1. Inadmissibility Grounds

The most common inadmissibility grounds that lead to I-485 denials include:

• Criminal grounds: Certain criminal convictions (crimes involving moral turpitude, aggravated felonies, drug offenses, etc.) can make you inadmissible
• Immigration fraud or misrepresentation: If you previously lied to an immigration officer or submitted fraudulent documents
• Unlawful presence: Having accrued unlawful presence (though this is more of an issue for consular processing than adjustment)
• Public charge: If USCIS determines you are likely to become a public charge (dependent on government benefits)
• Health-related grounds: Certain communicable diseases or failure to meet vaccination requirements

2. Failure to Meet the Inspection and Admission Requirement

As discussed above, if you entered without inspection and do not qualify for an exception, your I-485 will be denied.

3. Unauthorized Employment

If you worked in the United States without authorization for 180 days or more since your last lawful admission, you may be barred from adjustment under INA Section 245(c)(2). There are exceptions for immediate relatives of U.S. citizens.

4. Immigration Violations

Failing to maintain lawful nonimmigrant status (overstaying a visa, violating the terms of your status, etc.) can be a bar to adjustment. Again, immediate relatives of U.S. citizens are generally exempt from this bar.

5. Failure to Appear for Interview or Biometrics

If you miss your interview or biometrics appointment without rescheduling, USCIS may deny your application.

6. Incomplete Application

Missing forms, documents, fees, or photographs can result in rejection (returned application) or denial.

7. Marriage Fraud

In marriage-based cases, if USCIS determines that the marriage was entered into solely for immigration purposes, the I-485 will be denied and the applicant may be referred for removal proceedings and potential criminal prosecution.

2026 Processing Times for Adjustment of Status

Processing times for I-485 applications vary significantly based on the category, the USCIS office handling the case, and current caseload levels. As of early 2026, approximate processing times are:

Note: These are approximate ranges and can change. Check the USCIS processing times page for the most current estimates for your specific form, category, and service center or field office.

What to Do If Your Case Is Taking Too Long

If your I-485 has been pending beyond the posted processing time:

1. Submit a case inquiry through the USCIS online portal or by calling the USCIS Contact Center
2. Contact your congressional representative’s office — they can submit a congressional inquiry to USCIS on your behalf
3. File a mandamus lawsuit — if USCIS has unreasonably delayed your case, you may be able to file a lawsuit in federal court compelling USCIS to adjudicate your application. This should be a last resort and requires legal representation.
4. Submit an expedite request if you meet the criteria (severe financial loss, humanitarian reasons, nonprofit organization requesting based on furtherance of cultural or social interests, government interest, or USCIS error)

The Affidavit of Support (Form I-864)

For most family-based adjustment of status cases, the petitioning relative must file Form I-864, Affidavit of Support Under Section 213A of the INA. This form is a legally enforceable contract in which the sponsor promises to financially support the intending immigrant at 125% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines.

Key Points About the Affidavit of Support

• The sponsor must be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident
• The sponsor must demonstrate income at or above 125% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines for their household size (including the sponsored immigrant)
• If the sponsor’s income is insufficient, they can use assets (valued at 3x or 5x the shortfall, depending on the relationship) or a joint sponsor — a second person who independently meets the income requirement
• The obligation lasts until the sponsored immigrant becomes a U.S. citizen, earns 40 qualifying quarters of work, dies, or permanently departs the United States
• The I-864 is not required for employment-based cases (unless a family member filed the petition or owns 5% or more of the sponsoring entity), asylee/refugee adjustment, VAWA self-petitioners, or certain other categories

2026 Federal Poverty Guidelines (48 Contiguous States)

Note: These figures are approximate for 2026. Check the USCIS website or the Department of Health and Human Services for the most current guidelines.

Special Considerations for California Applicants

If you are adjusting status in California, there are some location-specific factors to be aware of:

USCIS Field Offices in California

California has multiple USCIS field offices that handle adjustment of status interviews:

• Los Angeles
• San Diego
• San Francisco
• Sacramento
• San Jose
• Fresno
• Santa Ana (Orange County)
• San Bernardino
• Oakland
• Chula Vista
• Imperial

Processing times and interview wait times can vary significantly between offices. The Los Angeles field office, for example, tends to have longer wait times due to high volume, while smaller offices may process cases more quickly.

California-Specific Resources

• Free or low-cost legal assistance is available through organizations like the Legal Aid Foundation of Los Angeles, Bay Area Legal Aid, and dozens of other legal services providers
• California’s immigrant assistance programs provide support during the adjustment process
• AB 60 driver’s licenses remain available regardless of immigration status while your case is pending

Frequently Asked Questions About Adjustment of Status

Can I work while my I-485 is pending?

Yes, if you file Form I-765 (Application for Employment Authorization) and receive an EAD. You cannot work based solely on a pending I-485 without an EAD (unless you have another valid work authorization, such as an H-1B).

Can I travel while my I-485 is pending?

Yes, but only if you have advance parole (Form I-131) or maintain a valid H-1B, H-4, L-1, L-2, or K visa status. Departing without proper authorization will result in abandonment of your I-485.

What happens if my I-485 is denied?

If your I-485 is denied, the consequences depend on your current immigration status. If you are out of status, USCIS may issue a Notice to Appear (NTA) in immigration court, where you would be placed in removal proceedings. An immigration judge can then review your case. If you are in valid nonimmigrant status, you can typically remain in the United States in that status.

How long does the green card last?

If your adjustment is based on a marriage to a U.S. citizen and you have been married for less than 2 years at the time of approval, you will receive a conditional green card valid for 2 years. You must file Form I-751 (Petition to Remove Conditions on Residence) within the 90 days before the card expires. If you have been married for 2 or more years, or your adjustment is based on a non-marriage category, you will receive a 10-year green card.

Can I adjust status if I overstayed my visa?

It depends. If you are an immediate relative of a U.S. citizen (spouse, unmarried child under 21, or parent), you can generally adjust status even if you overstayed, as long as you were inspected and admitted when you entered. For other categories, overstaying can be a bar to adjustment.

What is the difference between I-485 and I-130?

Form I-130 (Petition for Alien Relative) is the petition that establishes the qualifying family relationship. Form I-485 is the application to actually adjust your status to permanent resident. The I-130 is the first step; the I-485 is the second. For immediate relatives of U.S. citizens, both can be filed at the same time (concurrent filing).

Do I need a lawyer for adjustment of status?

While there is no legal requirement to have a lawyer, adjustment of status is a complex process with significant consequences for errors. An experienced immigration attorney can help you determine eligibility, identify potential issues before they become problems, prepare a thorough application, and represent you at the interview. Given that a denial can result in removal proceedings, legal representation is strongly recommended.