Filing for Adjustment of Status (AOS) is one of the most crucial steps for individuals who are already in the United States and wish to obtain lawful permanent resident (LPR) status—commonly referred to as a green card. The AOS process allows eligible applicants to become permanent residents without having to return to their home country for visa processing. However, many applicants face confusion when it comes to one critical detail: where exactly should the adjustment of status application be sent?
This comprehensive guide aims to eliminate the ambiguity surrounding the mailing process for Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status. We will explore the relevant U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) filing addresses based on various categories, such as family-based, employment-based, and asylum-based adjustment applications. We will also look at common mistakes to avoid and how to ensure your application is received and processed without delays.
Understanding Form I-485: The Basics
Before diving into the correct mailing addresses, it’s important to understand what Form I-485 entails. Form I-485 is used by certain immigrants in the U.S. to apply for lawful permanent resident status. Eligibility to file Form I-485 depends on multiple factors, including your immigration category and visa availability.
Typically, you must have an approved immigrant petition (such as Form I-130 or Form I-140) or file it concurrently with your I-485. You also need to meet other admissibility criteria and ensure your application is complete and accurate.
Why Mailing Address Matters
The mailing address for your adjustment of status application is determined by several factors, including your eligibility category, whether you are using a courier service (e.g., FedEx, UPS, DHL) or U.S. Postal Service (USPS), and whether you are filing concurrently with another form. Filing at the wrong address may result in your application being delayed or even rejected.
USCIS Lockbox Facilities
USCIS uses Lockbox facilities in locations such as Chicago, Dallas, Phoenix, and Elgin, Illinois to receive and process adjustment of status applications. These centers are not the same as the USCIS service centers that adjudicate applications. Instead, Lockboxes receive the application, scan the documents, and forward them to the appropriate service center.
Family-Based Adjustment of Status Applications
Applicants filing Form I-485 based on a family relationship with a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident typically use a different address than those filing under employment or other categories.
Using the U.S. Postal Service (USPS)
If you are filing Form I-485 alone or with Form I-130 (Petition for Alien Relative), and are sending via USPS, send to:
USCIS
P.O. Box 805887
Chicago, IL 60680-4120
Using a Courier (FedEx, UPS, DHL)
For courier deliveries, send to:
USCIS
Attn: FBAS
131 South Dearborn – 3rd Floor
Chicago, IL 60603-5517
Employment-Based Adjustment of Status Applications
Applicants filing Form I-485 based on an approved or concurrently filed Form I-140 (Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker) must file to different addresses.
USPS Mailing Address
USCIS
P.O. Box 805887
Chicago, IL 60680-4120
Courier Address
USCIS
Attn: I-140/I-485
131 South Dearborn – 3rd Floor
Chicago, IL 60603-5517
Adjustment of Status Based on Asylum Approval
Asylum applicants who have been granted asylum status for at least one year may apply for a green card using Form I-485. These cases have a different mailing address.
USPS Address
USCIS
P.O. Box 87426
Chicago, IL 60680-0426
Courier Address
USCIS
Attn: Asylum I-485
131 South Dearborn – 3rd Floor
Chicago, IL 60603-5517
Special Adjustment Categories
Several special categories exist for adjustment of status, including U visa holders, T visa holders, Cuban Adjustment Act, NACARA, and others. Each of these has designated filing addresses. You should always check the USCIS Direct Filing Addresses for Form I-485 page for the most up-to-date instructions.
Example: U Visa Adjustment of Status
USPS Address:
USCIS
P.O. Box 805887
Chicago, IL 60680-4120
Courier Address:
USCIS
Attn: U Visa I-485
131 South Dearborn – 3rd Floor
Chicago, IL 60603-5517
Concurrent Filing with Form I-131 or I-765
Many applicants choose to file Form I-765 (Application for Employment Authorization) and Form I-131 (Application for Travel Document) together with Form I-485. This is commonly known as the “AOS package.” The inclusion of these forms does not change the filing address, but all forms should be sent together in one envelope.
Common Mistakes When Sending Form I-485
To ensure smooth processing of your application, avoid the following common mistakes:
- Sending your application to the wrong address
- Failing to include the correct filing fee or payment method
- Submitting incomplete forms or missing required documentation
- Not using a trackable mailing method
- Neglecting to sign forms
Always double-check the latest filing instructions on the USCIS website before sending your application.
How to Track Your Application
Once your application is received by USCIS, you will get a Form I-797C Notice of Action (receipt notice) confirming receipt. This notice includes your receipt number, which you can use to track your case status online at the USCIS Case Status Online portal.
If you do not receive your receipt notice within 30 days, it is recommended to contact USCIS through their customer service channels or schedule an InfoPass appointment.
Filing Tips for a Successful Adjustment of Status Application
Here are some valuable tips to help ensure that your application process is as smooth and efficient as possible:
- Use the latest version of each USCIS form from the official website
- Check the visa bulletin to ensure visa availability
- Include a detailed cover letter outlining the contents of your packet
- Keep photocopies of everything you submit
- Use paper clips instead of staples
When in Doubt, Seek Professional Help
Immigration law is complex, and filing errors can have serious consequences. If you are unsure of your eligibility or have questions about where to send your application, consider seeking the help of a qualified immigration attorney or accredited representative. An experienced professional can help guide you through the process and ensure your application is properly filed.
Conclusion
Knowing where to send your Adjustment of Status application is as important as completing the forms correctly. Filing to the wrong location can delay your green card process or even lead to rejection. By understanding which address applies to your specific category—whether family-based, employment-based, or asylum-related—you significantly improve your chances of a successful application.
Always refer to the latest instructions on the USCIS Direct Filing Addresses page and use a trackable mailing method to confirm receipt. The path to permanent residency involves many details, and addressing each one correctly is essential for a smooth and successful journey to a green card.
Stay informed, stay organized, and when in doubt, don’t hesitate to seek legal assistance.
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