Adjustment of status: what is it?

Adjustment of status is the process of applying for a green card from inside the United States, by filing Form I-485 with USCIS, instead of going through a US consulate abroad. It requires an immigrant visa number to be available and the applicant to be eligible. Employment-based applicants usually file after an approved I-140.

Example

An H-1B worker with an approved I-140 and a current priority date files an I-485. The worker generally stays in the US while it is pending, and may get work and travel documents.

Related

• What Is Form W-9? Taxpayer ID Request Explained

See consular processing, priority date and Form I-140.

Related terms and guides

• Consular processing
• Priority date
• Form I-140

Sources

• USCIS, Adjustment of Status, https://www.uscis.gov/green-card/green-card-processes-and-procedures/adjustment-of-status, live official page, linked for readers; link checked 2026-10-31

This is general information, not legal, tax or immigration advice. Rules change and your situation may differ. Consult a licensed attorney or qualified adviser.