Document checklist · I-485

Two identical, recent passport-style photos (2x2 inches)

Where to find it: Pharmacies and photo counters shoot them to USCIS size; pencil your name and A-Number on the back.

Copy of a government-issued photo ID

Where to find it: Passport (even expired), driver's license, work permit, or Green Card.

Birth certificate naming at least one parent

Where to find it: The civil registry of your country of birth; with a translation if not in English.

Proof of your immigrant category

Where to find it: The I-797 notice for your I-130, I-140, or other petition; or the petition itself if it goes in the same envelope.

USCIS fee payment (waiver only in limited cases)

Where to find it: The current amount is on the uscis.gov fee calculator. By mail you pay by card (G-1450) or bank account (G-1650); paid to USCIS separately.

Clear copies of each document, not originals

Where to find it: A copy shop, or your phone camera in good light with the whole document in the frame.

Proof of your most recent inspected entry into the U.S.

Almost everyone needs it; the instructions list the few categories that do not

Where to find it: Passport page with the admission or parole stamp, the visa, and your I-94 (i94.cbp.dhs.gov).

Civil marriage certificate, and proof that earlier marriages ended

Only if you adjust as a spouse, or your category asks for it; with proof that earlier marriages ended

Where to find it: The civil office where you married; the instructions ask for the civil record, not only the religious one.

Medical exam (Form I-693) in its sealed envelope

Almost everyone needs it; the instructions explain the few exceptions

Where to find it: Only a designated civil surgeon does it; find one on uscis.gov and do not open the envelope.

Affidavit of Support (I-864) signed by your sponsor

For most family-based cases

Where to find it: Your petitioner completes and signs it, with their IRS transcript and proof of status.