Form I-485
Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status
Apply for lawful permanent resident status from inside the United States without leaving the country for consular processing.
Filing fee
$1,440 (adult) / $950 (under 14 with parent)
Biometrics: Included
Processing time
8–20 months
Varies by service center
Online filing
Paper only
Mail to USCIS lockbox
Form edition
2024
Only the current edition is accepted
Who files Form I-485?
Foreign nationals in the U.S. with an available immigrant visa and an approved or concurrently filed I-130, I-140, I-360, or I-589-based eligibility.
Where to file
Mail to the Chicago, Phoenix, or Dallas Lockbox depending on eligibility category.
Always verify the current address or online filing option on the official USCIS Form I-485 page before sending — lockbox assignments change.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Filing when the priority date is not current (check the Visa Bulletin)
- Omitting the sealed I-693 medical exam
- Missing the Affidavit of Support (I-864) in family-based cases
Filing tips
- File I-765 and I-131 concurrently — both are free when filed with I-485
- You get a travel ban if you leave without advance parole while I-485 is pending
- Interview waivers are common for employment-based cases, rare for family-based
Frequently asked questions
What is Form I-485?
Apply for lawful permanent resident status from inside the United States without leaving the country for consular processing.
Who files Form I-485?
Foreign nationals in the U.S. with an available immigrant visa and an approved or concurrently filed I-130, I-140, I-360, or I-589-based eligibility.
How much is the Form I-485 filing fee?
The current filing fee is $1,440 (adult) / $950 (under 14 with parent). Confirm the current amount on USCIS.gov before filing — fees changed most recently in the 2024 USCIS fee rule.
How long does Form I-485 take to process?
USCIS currently reports 8 months to 20 months for most cases. Processing times vary by service center and workload. Check the USCIS Case Processing Times tool for the latest estimates.
Can I file Form I-485 online?
No. Form I-485 must be filed on paper and mailed to the designated USCIS lockbox or service center. Check the form's official USCIS page for the correct mailing address.
Related forms
Cost deep dive
Looking for a full cost breakdown including biometric fees, fee waivers, and payment methods? See the Form I-485 cost page.
Sources & Citations
All claims in this guide link to primary government sources.
- 1
- 2USCIS Case Processing Times— USCIS
- 3
Not legal advice. This page is a plain-English summary for educational use. Current fees, processing times, and filing locations are controlled by USCIS and may change without notice. For case-specific guidance, consult a licensed immigration attorney.