Form I-485, officially titled “Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status,” is one of the most important immigration forms in the United States. It is the gateway through which many non-citizens apply to become lawful permanent residents (Green Card holders). Whether you are adjusting your status through a family-based petition, employment-based petition, asylum or refugee status, or other categories, submitting Form I-485 is a major milestone.
However, one of the most common and critical questions applicants have is: Where do I send my Form I-485? Mailing your application to the correct address is essential. Sending it to the wrong address can cause significant delays, rejections, or even denials. In this guide, we will cover everything you need to know about where and how to send your I-485 form based on the specific circumstances of your case.
Why the Mailing Address Matters
The United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has multiple lockbox facilities and service centers that process different types of applications. These facilities are located in various states, such as Texas, Arizona, and Illinois. Each lockbox handles specific types of cases and is assigned based on factors such as:
- The basis of your Form I-485 application (e.g., family, employment, asylum, special programs)
- Your eligibility category
- Your U.S. state of residence
- Whether you are using a courier service (e.g., FedEx, UPS, DHL) or regular mail (USPS)
Incorrectly mailing your application can result in processing delays, rejection notices, or the application being returned to you. Therefore, it’s essential to follow the most current USCIS instructions for the correct mailing address.
Step-by-Step: How to Determine Where to Send Form I-485
Step 1: Identify Your Eligibility Category
Your eligibility category appears in Part 2 of Form I-485. Common eligibility categories include:
- Family-based adjustment (spouse, child, parent of U.S. citizen)
- Employment-based adjustment
- Asylee or refugee adjustment
- Special programs (e.g., Cuban Adjustment Act, HRIFA, LIFE Act)
- Special immigrant categories (religious workers, Afghan/Iraqi nationals)
Each category has its own set of instructions and corresponding USCIS mailing addresses.
Step 2: Check the Most Current USCIS Instructions
Always refer to the official USCIS website for the latest mailing addresses.
USCIS updates these addresses frequently, so do not rely on old copies of the form or unofficial websites.
Step 3: Determine the Appropriate Lockbox Facility
Depending on your filing category and U.S. state of residence, you may need to send your application to one of the following lockbox locations:
- Chicago Lockbox
- Dallas Lockbox
- Phoenix Lockbox
Step 4: Decide How You Will Mail the Application
USCIS uses different addresses for U.S. Postal Service (USPS) and courier deliveries. Be sure to use the correct one based on your mailing method. Courier services (e.g., FedEx, UPS) require a street address, while USPS uses a P.O. Box.
Form I-485 Filing Addresses by Category
Family-Based Adjustment of Status
If you are filing Form I-485 based on an approved or concurrently filed Form I-130 (Petition for Alien Relative), your mailing address will depend on where you live.
Using U.S. Postal Service (USPS):
Send your completed application to:
USCIS
P.O. Box 805887
Chicago, IL 60680-4120
Using FedEx, UPS, or DHL:
Send to:
USCIS
Attn: FBAS
131 South Dearborn – 3rd Floor
Chicago, IL 60603-5517
Employment-Based Adjustment of Status
If your basis is Form I-140 (Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker), the address varies based on your state.
For residents of certain western states (e.g., California, Arizona):
Send to Phoenix Lockbox:
USCIS
P.O. Box 21281
Phoenix, AZ 85036
Or via courier:
USCIS
Attn: AOS
1820 E. Skyharbor Circle S
Suite 100
Phoenix, AZ 85034
For residents of eastern states:
Send to Dallas Lockbox:
USCIS
P.O. Box 660867
Dallas, TX 75266
Or via courier:
USCIS
Attn: AOS
2501 S. State Hwy. 121 Business
Suite 400
Lewisville, TX 75067
Asylees Applying for Green Card
Asylees who have been physically present in the U.S. for at least one year can apply for a Green Card. Send your application to:
USCIS
Texas Service Center
P.O. Box 851804
Mesquite, TX 75185-1804
Refugees Applying for Green Card
Refugees who entered the U.S. at least one year ago must send their Form I-485 to:
USCIS
P.O. Box 805887
Chicago, IL 60680-4120
Or courier address:
USCIS
Attn: I-485
131 South Dearborn – 3rd Floor
Chicago, IL 60603-5517
Special Programs and Humanitarian Categories
If you are filing under the Cuban Adjustment Act, Haitian Refugee Immigration Fairness Act (HRIFA), or another humanitarian-based category, check the USCIS page for specific instructions. Addresses vary by program and applicant location.
What to Include in Your I-485 Package
Ensure your package includes all required forms and evidence. Common items include:
- Form I-485
- Form I-130 or I-140 (if not already approved)
- Form I-864, Affidavit of Support (for family-based)
- Form I-693, Medical Exam (may be submitted later)
- Passport-style photos
- Copy of passport, visa, I-94
- Filing fee payment (check or Form G-1450 for credit card)
Also include Form G-1145, E-Notification of Application/Petition Acceptance, to receive email/text alerts.
Tracking and Confirmation
Once mailed, you can track the delivery using USPS or courier tracking numbers. USCIS will send a Form I-797C Notice of Action to confirm receipt.
What Happens After Filing?
After USCIS receives your I-485, the general process includes:
- Receipt notice (Form I-797C)
- Biometrics appointment (fingerprinting and photo)
- Possible Request for Evidence (RFE)
- Interview (depending on category)
- Decision (approval or denial)
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Some applicants experience delays or rejections due to avoidable mistakes. Be careful to:
- Use the correct mailing address
- Pay the correct filing fee
- Use the current version of Form I-485
- Include all required supporting documents
- Sign all forms
When to Get Legal Help
While many people file I-485 independently, it’s wise to consult with an immigration attorney if:
- You entered the U.S. without inspection
- You have a criminal record
- You overstayed a visa
- You are in removal proceedings
- Your case involves complex humanitarian grounds
Conclusion
Form I-485 is one of the most important immigration forms in the United States, as it marks the final step in many pathways to becoming a lawful permanent resident. Filing it correctly—especially knowing where to send it—is critical for avoiding costly delays or rejections. Always consult the latest official USCIS instructions, verify your eligibility category, and double-check that you are mailing your application to the correct lockbox or service center based on your filing type and residence.
With proper attention to detail and accurate submission, you will significantly increase your chances of a smooth and successful adjustment of status process.
Related topics:
- What is I-693: A Comprehensive Guide to Immigration Medical Exam
- How to Know if You Are a Permanent Resident: Steps and Key Indicators
- How Can I Work for Immigration? A Comprehensive Guide
