Green Card (I-485) Document Checklist: Printable, Based on USCIS
Updated October 31, 2026. Sources: USCIS.gov.
Not legal advice. GreenCardBlog.com is an independent information site, not a law firm and not affiliated with USCIS or any government agency. Immigration rules, fees and timelines change. Always confirm details on USCIS.gov and consider speaking with a licensed immigration attorney about your situation.
This checklist summarizes USCIS's Checklist of Required Initial Evidence for Form I-485 for immediate relatives and family-based applicants. USCIS says its checklist is an optional tool and does not replace the Form I-485 instructions. Do not send originals unless asked. Free to share or link to.
Everyone (immediate relatives)
- ☐ Two passport-style photographs
- ☐ Copy of government-issued photo ID
- ☐ Copy of birth certificate (or other acceptable evidence if unavailable)
- ☐ Proof of inspection and admission or parole (unless applying under INA 245(i))
- ☐ Proof of immigrant category, such as the I-130 receipt or approval notice (I-797), unless filing together with the I-130
- ☐ Form I-693 medical exam, if required (USCIS may reject the I-485 if a required I-693 is missing)
- ☐ Form I-864 or I-864EZ Affidavit of Support, if required
- ☐ Certified police and court records of any arrests, charges or convictions, if applicable
- ☐ Waivers if applicable (I-601, I-212), J-1/J-2 two-year rule documents, I-508, I-566, Supplement A
Family preference applicants also need
- ☐ Proof you have continuously maintained lawful status since arrival (if required for your category)
- ☐ For derivatives: proof of relationship to the principal applicant (marriage certificate, birth certificate or adoption decree)
- ☐ For derivatives: copy of the principal's I-485 receipt or approval, or green card
Tips
- Foreign-language documents need a full certified English translation.
- Check fees on the USCIS fee schedule.
- Employment-based applicants have a separate section on the USCIS checklist.
Keep reading: Asylum Lawyer; Green Card for Parents; Citizenship Lawyer; Immigration Lawyer Free Consultation.
Frequently asked questions
What documents do I need to file Form I-485?
Two passport-style photographs; Copy of government-issued photo ID; Copy of birth certificate (or other acceptable evidence if unavailable); Proof of inspection and admission or parole (unless applying under INA 245(i)).
What extra documents do family preference applicants need?
Proof you have continuously maintained lawful status since arrival (if required for your category); For derivatives: proof of relationship to the principal applicant (marriage certificate, birth certificate or adoption decree); For derivatives: copy of the principal's I-485 receipt or approval, or green card.
Do foreign-language documents need translations?
Foreign-language documents need a full certified English translation; Check fees on the USCIS fee schedule; Employment-based applicants have a separate section on the USCIS checklist.
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