Estimated based on customer experiences and government processing trends.
Step 1: Determine Eligibility & File Form I-485
📅 Timeframe: 1 – 4 weeks
✅ What Happens:
- You must be physically present in the U.S. and eligible for Adjustment of Status (AOS).
- File Form I-485 (Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status) with USCIS.
- If required, submit Form I-765 (Work Permit) and Form I-131 (Advance Parole for Travel).
- Pay the USCIS filing fees and submit biometric fee if applicable.
Step 2: USCIS Receipt Notice & Biometrics Appointment
📅 Timeframe: 2 – 4 weeks
✅ What Happens:
- USCIS sends a Receipt Notice confirming your AOS application was received.
- You receive a Biometrics Appointment Notice (Form I-797C) with a scheduled date.
- Attend the biometrics appointment at a USCIS Application Support Center (ASC) to provide fingerprints, photos, and signature.
Step 3: Work & Travel Permit Processing (If Filed)
📅 Timeframe: 3 – 6 months
✅ What Happens:
- If you applied for Form I-765 (Work Permit – EAD) and Form I-131 (Advance Parole – Travel Document), they are processed separately.
- If approved, you receive a combo card that allows you to work and travel while awaiting your Green Card.
Step 4: USCIS Background & Security Check
📅 Timeframe: Varies
✅ What Happens:
- USCIS conducts a security and background check on the applicant.
- Additional documentation may be requested via a Request for Evidence (RFE) if needed.
Step 5: Green Card Interview Notice
📅 Timeframe: 8 – 14 months after filing I-485
✅ What Happens:
- USCIS schedules your adjustment of status interview at a local USCIS office.
- You receive an Interview Notice with details on date, time, and required documents.
- Spouses applying for a marriage-based Green Card must attend the interview together.
Step 6: AOS Green Card Interview & Decision
📅 Timeframe: 10 – 16 months after filing I-485
✅ What Happens:
- Attend your Green Card interview at USCIS.
- The USCIS officer reviews your case and asks questions about your application.
- Possible outcomes:
- Approved: Your Green Card is approved on the spot or later.
- Request for Evidence (RFE): Additional documents may be required.
- Further Review Needed: USCIS may take more time to review your case.
- Denied: USCIS provides a denial notice with reasons and appeal options.
Step 7: Receive Green Card
📅 Timeframe: 2 – 4 weeks after approval
✅ What Happens:
- If approved, you receive a Welcome Notice from USCIS.
- The physical Green Card is mailed to your address within 2 – 4 weeks.
Total Estimated Time: ~10 to 20+ months
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