Green Card Documents Checklist
Missing a single document is one of the top reasons Green Card applications get delayed. This checklist covers everything you need — organized by category so you can prepare your packet with confidence before you file.
1. Identity & Civil Documents
Prove who you are and your personal history.
Must be valid for at least 6 months beyond planned entry
Original or certified copy with English translation
If applicable. Include divorce/death certificates from prior marriages
For all prior marriages, if applicable
If issued by your country
Court orders or legal name change certificates
2. Photos & Biometrics
USCIS-compliant photos and fingerprints.
2x2 inches, white background, taken within 30 days
USCIS will schedule after filing. Bring appointment notice + ID
3. Immigration Forms
The specific forms depend on your Green Card category.
Application to Register Permanent Residence (if adjusting in the U.S.)
Petition for Alien Relative (family-based)
Immigrant Petition for Alien Workers (employment-based)
Affidavit of Support (financial sponsor form)
Medical Examination Report (sealed envelope from USCIS-approved doctor)
Application for Employment Authorization (work permit while waiting)
Application for Travel Document (Advance Parole)
4. Financial Documents
Prove financial ability to support yourself or your sponsor's ability to support you.
IRS transcripts or signed returns with W-2s for sponsor
Current employer letter with salary, position, start date
Last 3-6 months of pay stubs for sponsor
Last 3-6 months showing sufficient savings
Property deeds, investment accounts (if needed to meet income threshold)
5. Employment Documents (Employment-Based Only)
For EB-1, EB-2, EB-3, and EB-5 categories.
Approved ETA Form 9089 (EB-2/EB-3)
Detailed letter from sponsoring employer
Comprehensive work history
With credential evaluation if foreign degrees
If required for the position
From experts in your field (especially EB-1/EB-2 NIW)
6. Police & Background Clearance
Required for applicants 16 years and older.
From every country you lived in 6+ months since age 16
If you have any arrests, charges, or convictions (even dismissed)
If you served in any military
7. Medical Examination
Must be completed by a USCIS-designated civil surgeon.
Includes physical exam, TB test, blood work
Proof of required immunizations (or get them at the exam)
Do NOT open. Submit sealed with your I-485
Pro Tips for Document Preparation
Documents FAQ
What happens if I submit the wrong documents?
USCIS will issue a Request for Evidence (RFE) asking for the correct documents. This delays your case by weeks or months. In rare cases, incorrect documents can lead to a denial. Double-check every item against the official filing instructions before submitting.
Do I need certified English translations?
Yes. Any document not in English must include a certified English translation. The translator must certify that the translation is complete and accurate. USCIS does not accept partial translations or summaries.
How recent do my documents need to be?
Financial documents (bank statements, pay stubs) should be from the last 3-6 months. Tax returns must cover the most recent 3 years. Medical exams (I-693) are valid for 2 years. Passport photos must be taken within 30 days of filing.
Can I submit copies instead of originals?
For most documents, USCIS accepts clear, legible photocopies. However, some documents (like the medical exam in its sealed envelope) must be originals. Always keep originals in a safe place — USCIS may request them at any point during processing.
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