Adjustment of Status (Green Card in the US)
For eligible people already in the US who apply to become lawful permanent residents without leaving.
The Adjustment of Status (Green Card in the US) is a US settlement & citizenship visa. This guide covers who it's for, the key eligibility criteria, the indicative 2025 cost (~US$1,440 I-485 application fee (often includes work and travel permits)) and processing time (~8-14 months depending on category and field office), the route to permanent residence, common pitfalls and FAQs.
Who the Adjustment of Status (Green Card in the US) is for
For eligible people already in the US who apply to become lawful permanent residents without leaving.
Grants lawful permanent residence; leads to citizenship after 3 or 5 years.
Adjustment of Status (Green Card in the US) - eligibility criteria
- Have an approved or concurrent immigrant petition basis
- A visa number is immediately available in your category
- Be physically present in the US after a lawful entry
- Be admissible or eligible for a waiver
- Maintain eligibility through to the interview
Adjustment of Status (Green Card in the US) cost & processing time (2025)
The indicative government fee for the Adjustment of Status (Green Card in the US) (United States) is ~US$1,440 I-485 application fee (often includes work and travel permits), with an indicative processing time of ~8-14 months depending on category and field office. Figures are for 2025 and may change - confirm at U.S. Department of State (travel.state.gov).
| Type | Permanent residence |
|---|---|
| Where you apply | Filed inside the US with USCIS (Form I-485) |
| Length of stay | Permanent (green card) |
| Work rights | Full work authorization (interim EAD available while pending) |
| Study rights | Full study rights |
| Government fee | ~US$1,440 I-485 application fee (often includes work and travel permits) |
| Processing time | ~8-14 months depending on category and field office |
| Route to PR | Grants lawful permanent residence; leads to citizenship after 3 or 5 years. |
Pathway & next steps
Grants lawful permanent residence; leads to citizenship after 3 or 5 years.
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Common Adjustment of Status (Green Card in the US) pitfalls we fix
Adjustment of Status (Green Card in the US) - frequently asked questions
How much does the Adjustment of Status (Green Card in the US) cost?
The Adjustment of Status (Green Card in the US) government fee is ~US$1,440 I-485 application fee (often includes work and travel permits). Figures are indicative for 2025; always confirm current fees at U.S. Department of State (travel.state.gov) before applying.
How long does the Adjustment of Status (Green Card in the US) take to process?
Indicative processing time is ~8-14 months depending on category and field office. Actual timeframes vary with caseload, completeness and your circumstances.
Does the Adjustment of Status (Green Card in the US) lead to permanent residence?
Grants lawful permanent residence; leads to citizenship after 3 or 5 years.
Can I work on the Adjustment of Status (Green Card in the US)?
Work rights: Full work authorization (interim EAD available while pending).
Who can apply for the Adjustment of Status (Green Card in the US)?
For eligible people already in the US who apply to become lawful permanent residents without leaving.
Sources & official references
This guide is compiled from official United States government sources and is updated periodically. Eligibility, fees and processing times change - always confirm the current rules with the issuing authority before you apply:
- U.S. Department of State (travel.state.gov) - official United States immigration authority