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At a minimum, your I-485 package should include: Form I-485 (Application to Register Permanent Residence), Form I-864 (Affidavit of Support from your petitioner), Form I-765 (Application for Employment Authorization, filed concurrently to get your EAD faster), and Form I-131 (Application for Advance Parole, if you need to travel). Filing I-765 and I-131 concurrently with I-485 is standard practice and does not cost extra in most family-based cases.
Civil Documents
You will need certified copies of: your full birth certificate with English translation (if not in English), marriage certificate (if married), divorce decrees (if previously married), police clearances from any country where you lived for more than 6 months since age 16 (required for some nationalities), and any court records related to arrests or criminal matters.
Identity and Travel Documents
Gather: passport bio page (valid or expired), all prior visa stamps and entry stamps, Form I-94 Arrival/Departure record (print from the CBP website), any prior immigration documents (prior visa petitions, EADs, etc.), and two passport-style photos taken within the last 30 days.
Medical Exam
You must complete Form I-693 (Medical Examination) with a USCIS-designated civil surgeon. The civil surgeon will vaccinate you and examine you. Do NOT open the sealed envelope, submit it sealed with your package or bring it to your interview. The medical exam is valid for 2 years from the date of signature.
Proof of Status and Entry
Include evidence of your last lawful entry into the U.S. This might be your I-94, a visa stamp, or other entry documentation. If you entered without inspection, consult a professional, this can affect eligibility.
Affidavit of Support (I-864) Requirements
The petitioning sponsor must show income at or above 125% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines for their household size. They need: last 3 years of tax returns (or IRS transcripts), most recent W-2s or 1099s, current pay stubs or employment letter, and bank statements if income needs to be supplemented.
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Every immigration case is different. Our team can review your documents and explain your options.
Call (407) 275-6163Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need certified translations?
Yes. Any document not in English must be accompanied by a complete English translation and a translator's certification of accuracy.
What if my birth certificate is unavailable?
If your country of birth does not issue birth certificates or yours was lost, USCIS may accept secondary evidence such as baptismal records, school records, or sworn affidavits from relatives.
How recent must the medical exam be?
The civil surgeon must sign Form I-693 within 60 days before you file. However, the results remain valid for 2 years after signing.
What if the sponsor's income is too low?
A joint sponsor, any U.S. citizen or permanent resident who meets the income threshold, can sign a separate I-864 to fulfill the support requirement.
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