Image of the Author The Marble Team

by The Marble Team

Published on November 16, 2023 · 2 min read

Getting your green card, or permanent residency, in the U.S. is an important step to establishing a long-term presence. This process, while complex, can be made smoother with the right information and preparation. And of course, you can get a lot of help when you have an experienced attorney on your side. 

In this blog post, we made a list of the most important documents you need in order to apply for a green card.

Here’s a breakdown of what you need:

  • Form I-485: This is the core document titled “Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status.” It’s your official request for permanent residency.

  • Passport-style photos: You’ll need two recent photos.

  • Birth certificate or proof of birth: This is critical to verify your age and nationality.

  • Valid ID: You can use a copy of your passport or any other government-issued ID, like a national ID card.

  • Arrival/Departure record (I-94): This documents your entries and exits from the U.S.

  • U.S. visas: You’ll need to provide copies of your current and any previous U.S. visas.

  • Marriage certificate: If you’re applying for a green card based on your marriage to a U.S. citizen, you’ll need to submit this.

  • Proof of relationship: This could be in the form of photographs or other documents that show you and your spouse live together.

  • Financial documents: These should demonstrate your ability to support yourself and your dependents without public benefits.

  • Medical exam and vaccination records: You’ll need to provide a report from an authorized doctor confirming your health status, as well as giving a history of your vaccinations.

Along with these, you’ll also need to ensure you have the application fee ready. It’s also a good idea to know which category you’re applying under, since a “skilled worker” green card may require paperwork that a “spousal” green card doesn’t. 

Make sure you’re prepared

Applying for a U.S. green card is an elaborate process, and as you can tell from the list above, there’s a lot to consider. To make the process easier on yourself, pay careful attention to what documents you need to have at the ready. 

Share with

twitterfacebookinstagram

Author Bio

Image of the Author The Marble Team

The Marble Team

Your family & immigration law firm

We are Marble - a nationwide law firm focusing on family & immigration law. Marble attracts top-rated, experienced lawyers and equips them with the tools they need to spend their time focused on your case outcome.

See my bio page

Quality legal care for life’s ups and downs

Get started
Our services

Family law

Immigration law

About
Client support
Our services

Family law

About
Resources
Client support
Marble Law’s top locations include
Disclaimer
Legal information