Your green card, organised.

What this requirement is

Before filing Form I-130, confirm that the petitioner has a qualifying status to file the petition. For this visa path, that normally means the petitioner is either a U.S. citizen (USC) or a lawful permanent resident (LPR/green card holder).

The petitioner's status controls:

• which relatives can be sponsored;
• whether the case is an immediate relative case or a family-preference case; and
• whether a visa number is immediately available or subject to the Visa Bulletin.

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Why it matters

USCIS describes which relatives each petitioner type can sponsor through this path:

Petitioner	USCIS lists as eligible to sponsor	USCIS does not list for this path
U.S. citizen	Spouse, unmarried children under 21, parents if the petitioner is 21+, unmarried sons/daughters 21+, married sons/daughters, siblings if the petitioner is 21+	Grandparents, in-laws, cousins, aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews
LPR	Spouse, unmarried children under 21, unmarried sons/daughters 21+	Parents, married children, siblings

A pending or approved I-130 does not by itself give the beneficiary lawful status, work authorization, or a green card. It only establishes the qualifying relationship for the immigrant category.

Important: If an LPR petitioner later naturalizes, the case category may upgrade. The petitioner should notify USCIS, and if the case has already moved to the Department of State stage, notify the National Visa Center as well.

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Acceptable evidence of U.S. citizenship

USCIS expects primary evidence of the petitioner's status. For a U.S. citizen petitioner, submit a copy of one of the following:

• U.S. birth certificate issued by a U.S. civil authority
• Certificate of Naturalization issued by USCIS
• Certificate of Citizenship issued by USCIS
• Consular Report of Birth Abroad (FS-240) issued by the U.S. Department of State
• Current, unexpired U.S. passport or passport card

Do not send originals unless USCIS specifically asks for them.

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Acceptable evidence of LPR status

For an LPR petitioner, submit a copy of the petitioner's:

• Permanent Resident Card (Form I-551)

If the document has information on both sides, include both front and back.

USCIS policy also recognizes other valid, unexpired evidence of status, such as:

• an ADIT / I-551 stamp in a passport; or
• a passport or Form I-94 bearing a temporary I-551 stamp showing LPR status.

If the green card is expired, that does not automatically mean LPR status has ended. But for filing purposes, the petitioner should still provide valid evidence of status. If the card has been lost, expired, or needs renewal, resolve the evidence issue before or alongside filing.

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How to obtain replacement evidence

Lost naturalization certificate or Certificate of Citizenship File Form N-565, Application for Replacement Naturalization/Citizenship Document.

Lost, expired, or incorrect green card File Form I-90, Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card. If urgent evidence of status is needed, USCIS may issue temporary evidence such as an ADIT stamp in appropriate cases.

Need a certified U.S. birth certificate Request it from the state, county, or other civil vital-records authority that issued the original record.

Need a passport Apply through the U.S. Department of State. Use travel.state.gov for current passport instructions and processing information.

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Practical checks before filing

• Make sure the petitioner's status matches the relationship category. USCIS does not list parents, siblings, or married children among the relatives an LPR can file for.
• Check the beneficiary's marital status carefully if the petitioner is an LPR. Marriage can end eligibility in F2A or F2B cases.
• Use clear, legible copies. Blurry or partial copies can trigger delays or RFEs.
• Include legal name-change evidence if the petitioner's current name differs from the name shown on the citizenship or LPR document.
• Non-citizen U.S. nationals have the same I-130 petitioning rights as LPRs, not the broader rights of U.S. citizens.

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Official references

• USCIS Form I-130 page: uscis.gov/i-130
• USCIS Policy Manual, family-based documentation and evidence: uscis.gov/policy-manual
• USCIS Form I-90 page: uscis.gov/i-90
• USCIS Form N-565 page: uscis.gov/n-565
• U.S. Department of State passport information: travel.state.gov

What this requirement is

Form I-130 (Petition for Alien Relative) is the petition the U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident, or qualifying U.S. national files with USCIS to establish the qualifying family relationship.

Important: I-130 approval does not give the beneficiary lawful status, work authorization, or a green card by itself. It only establishes the relationship for the next stage of the immigration process.

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Why it matters

USCIS uses this filing to decide whether the family relationship qualifies under immigration law. Problems in the I-130 package can lead to rejection, requests for evidence, or denial.

Common issues include:

• Using the wrong form edition
• Filing one petition for a relative who needs a separate petition
• Leaving Part 4, Question 61 or 62 incomplete or marking both options
• Omitting Form I-130A in a spouse case
• Submitting weak or incomplete relationship evidence

For family-preference categories, the date USCIS properly receives the I-130 generally becomes the beneficiary's priority date.

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What to include

1. Form I-130 itself

• Use the current edition listed at uscis.gov/i-130
• The petitioner signs the form
• USCIS rejects unsigned forms
• In most cases, file a separate I-130 for each qualifying relative

2. Form I-130A for spouse cases

• If the beneficiary is the petitioner's spouse, include Form I-130A, Supplemental Information for Spouse Beneficiary
• If the spouse beneficiary is outside the United States, USCIS allows the I-130A to be submitted without the spouse's signature
• There is no separate filing fee for I-130A

3. Proof of the petitioner's status

Provide a copy of evidence showing the petitioner is eligible to file, such as:

Petitioner status	Common evidence
U.S. citizen	U.S. birth certificate, unexpired U.S. passport, naturalization certificate, citizenship certificate, or FS-240
Lawful permanent resident	Front and back of the green card (Form I-551)
Qualifying U.S. national	Evidence accepted by USCIS showing U.S. national status

4. Proof of the qualifying relationship

The exact evidence depends on the relationship:

Relationship	Primary evidence
Spouse	Civil marriage certificate, plus proof that all prior marriages for either spouse were legally terminated
Child	Child's birth certificate; additional evidence may be required in some father-child, stepchild, or adopted-child cases
Parent	Petitioner's birth certificate showing the claimed parent
Sibling	Birth certificates for both petitioner and beneficiary showing the common parent; other records may be needed depending on the family history
Stepchild	Child's birth certificate plus the marriage certificate creating the step relationship; USCIS requires the marriage to have happened before the child turned 18
Adopted child	Adoption decree and evidence meeting the legal custody and joint-residence rules, if the case qualifies for family-based adoption processing

5. Additional supporting items

• Proof of legal name changes, if any names differ across documents
• Evidence of a bona fide marriage if filing for a spouse
• Certified English translations for any non-English documents
• Passport-style photographs, if applicable under the current USCIS instructions
• Form G-1145 if filing by mail and you want e-notification of package acceptance

USCIS says not to send original documents unless the instructions or a later request specifically ask for them.

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Filing steps

Option A: File online

1. Create or sign in to a USCIS online account at myaccount.uscis.gov
2. File Form I-130 online
3. Upload the supporting evidence
4. Pay the filing fee using the USCIS online payment system
5. Save the receipt notice after submission

USCIS specifically allows the petitioner to file I-130 online even if the beneficiary is in the United States and will later file Form I-485 by mail.

Option B: File by mail

1. Download the current form edition from uscis.gov/i-130
2. Assemble the signed form and supporting evidence
3. Check the current direct filing address at uscis.gov/i-130-addresses
4. Include the correct payment method for a paper filing
5. Keep a complete copy of everything submitted

If the beneficiary may adjust status or process abroad

USCIS requires the petitioner to choose only one option in Part 4, Question 61 or 62:

• adjustment of status inside the United States, or
• consular processing outside the United States

Do not complete both and do not leave that section blank.

If the intended processing path changes while the petition is pending, USCIS says you should contact the USCIS office on the receipt notice, contact the USCIS Contact Center, or submit an update through the online account with the beneficiary's updated address.

If the intended path changes after approval, additional follow-up may be required. In some situations that can include Form I-824, so it is best to choose the intended path carefully at filing.

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Payment and filing cautions

• Check the current filing fee on the USCIS fee schedule or fee calculator immediately before filing
• USCIS states that paper filers generally must use an approved electronic payment method unless they qualify for an exemption
• For paper filings, USCIS currently accepts payment by Form G-1450 (card) or Form G-1650 (ACH), with Form G-1651 used only if the filer qualifies for a paper-fee-payment exemption
• USCIS recommends paying each benefit request separately because a single combined payment can cause a larger package to be rejected if one filing is defective

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Practical tips

• Download the form fresh on the day you prepare the packet and confirm the edition date matches the USCIS page
• Make sure names, dates of birth, and addresses are consistent across the form and supporting documents
• Include complete evidence of every prior marriage termination in spouse cases
• Do not send USB drives, CDs, or unsolicited DNA evidence
• Keep a full copy of the submission for later stages such as adjustment of status, NVC processing, or an interview

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Official resources

• Form I-130: uscis.gov/i-130
• Form I-130A: uscis.gov/i-130a
• Direct filing addresses: uscis.gov/i-130-addresses
• USCIS fee schedule: uscis.gov/g-1055
• USCIS fee calculator: uscis.gov/feecalculator
• USCIS processing times: egov.uscis.gov/processing-times
• USCIS online account: myaccount.uscis.gov

What USCIS expects

For a spouse-based Form I-130, USCIS expects proof that the marriage is legally valid where it took place. The primary document is an official civil marriage certificate issued by the government authority that recorded the marriage.

A church certificate, ceremonial record, or wedding program is not a substitute for the civil record. Those items can support the file, but they do not replace the government-issued marriage certificate.

Official rule: USCIS generally follows the law of the place where the marriage was celebrated. A marriage that was valid where it occurred is usually recognized for immigration purposes, unless a specific federal immigration rule says otherwise.

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Exactly what to provide

• A legible copy of the official civil marriage certificate issued by the government registry, county, municipality, or other competent civil authority
• A full English translation if the certificate is not in English, with the translator's signed certification that the translation is complete and accurate and that the translator is competent to translate
• Both sides of the document if the reverse side contains stamps, seals, annotations, registration details, or endorsements

Important: For the initial I-130 filing, USCIS generally accepts legible photocopies of supporting civil documents unless the form instructions specifically require an original. Keep your original or certified copy available in case USCIS, the National Visa Center, or the consular post later asks to see it.

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Prior marriages — a critical requirement

If either spouse was previously married, USCIS also lists proof that every prior marriage was legally terminated before this marriage began as a requirement. Submit a copy of the relevant document for each prior marriage:

• Final divorce decree
• Annulment order
• Death certificate of the prior spouse

Warning: USCIS will not assume an earlier marriage ended properly. Missing proof of termination is a common cause of Requests for Evidence and denials in spouse petitions.

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How to obtain the marriage certificate

If married in the United States:

1. Contact the county clerk, city clerk, or vital records office that recorded the marriage
2. Request a certified copy from the issuing authority for your records if you do not already have one
3. Use the official local government website where possible; many jurisdictions also process requests through authorized vendors such as vitalchek.com
4. Make a clear copy of that official certificate for the I-130 filing

If married abroad:

1. Contact the civil registry or other government office that registers marriages in the place where the marriage occurred
2. Check the Department of State's Visa Reciprocity and Civil Documents by Country page to confirm what form of marriage record is considered available and acceptable for that country
3. If the record is unavailable, obtain any official non-availability statement the local authority can provide and be prepared to supplement with secondary evidence if needed
4. Arrange a certified English translation if the document is not in English

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Special situations

Religious or customary marriages: USCIS can recognize these only if the marriage is legally valid in the place where it occurred. In many countries that means there must also be a civil record, but the exact rule depends on local law. If the marriage was recognized under customary or religious law, confirm what official civil record or legal proof that jurisdiction issues.

Proxy or virtual marriages: Where the spouses were not both physically present together at the marriage ceremony, USCIS treats the marriage as valid for immigration purposes only if it was consummated afterward. If this applies, be ready to provide evidence that you met in person after the ceremony and consummated the marriage.

Common-law marriages: These can qualify if the jurisdiction where the relationship was formed recognizes common-law marriage as a valid marriage. If you are relying on a common-law marriage, be prepared to document both the legal basis and the facts showing the marriage existed under that law.

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Pro tips

• Keep the official document, submit a copy. USCIS generally wants a clear copy at filing, but you should retain the original or certified copy for later stages.
• Check for errors before filing. Misspelled names, wrong dates, or inconsistent registration details can trigger delays and follow-up requests.
• Match names across the file. If either spouse's name differs across the passport, birth certificate, marriage certificate, or forms, include the relevant legal name-change evidence.
• Apostille is not a translation. An apostille may help prove authenticity for other uses, but it does not replace the English translation requirement.
• If the civil record is unavailable, document that clearly. USCIS is more receptive to secondary evidence when you first show that the primary civil document truly cannot be obtained.

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Timelines

Document	Typical Obtain Time
U.S. certified marriage certificate from local authority	1-3 weeks (often faster with expedited service)
Foreign civil marriage certificate	4-12 weeks (varies widely by country)
Certified English translation	3-7 business days per document
Prior divorce or death record, if needed	1-8 weeks depending on jurisdiction

Start collecting this early. Foreign civil records and prior-marriage termination documents often take longer than expected, and they are core I-130 evidence for spouse cases.

What USCIS and the State Department Require

Your passport is a key identity and travel-history document in a family-based green card case. It helps confirm your name, date and place of birth, nationality, passport number, prior visas, and U.S. entries.

The exact requirement depends on your path:

• Adjustment of Status (Form I-485): USCIS generally needs copies that prove your identity and, unless an exception applies, your inspection and admission or parole into the United States. Passport identity pages, visa pages, admission stamps, parole stamps, and Form I-94 records are common evidence.
• Consular Processing (DS-260): The State Department requires each immigrating applicant to submit a photocopy or scan of the biographic data page of a currently valid passport through CEAC/NVC and to bring the original passport to the visa interview.

Do not mail your original passport to USCIS or NVC unless you receive a specific written instruction from the government.

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Which Pathway Are You On?

Adjustment of Status (I-485) — applying inside the U.S.:

• Include a clear copy of your passport biographic data page if you have one
• Include copies of pages showing any U.S. visa, admission stamp, or parole stamp
• Include your Form I-94 Arrival/Departure Record if you have one
• Bring the original passport or travel document to your USCIS interview
• Bring current and expired passports or travel documents in your possession that relate to your U.S. entries, visas, parole, or travel history

Consular Processing (DS-260) — applying outside the U.S.:

• Upload a scan of the biographic data page of a currently valid passport in CEAC
• Your passport should generally be valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended U.S. entry date, unless a country-specific exception or embassy instruction applies
• Bring the original, unexpired passport to your consular interview
• Bring the DS-260 confirmation page and the original or certified-copy civil documents required by NVC and the embassy or consulate

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Validity Requirements

For consular processing: Treat the 6-month passport-validity rule as the working standard. Some countries have limited exceptions under U.S. passport-validity agreements, but applicants should not rely on an exception without checking the interview post's instructions or getting case-specific guidance.

For adjustment of status: A valid, unexpired passport is strongly preferred and often the clearest identity/travel document, but USCIS does not treat passport expiration alone as the universal eligibility rule for every I-485 applicant. If your passport is expired, unavailable, or replaced, provide the best available identity and lawful-entry evidence and bring originals to the interview.

Renew early if your passport will expire before your expected interview, planned travel, or consular visa issuance. Passport renewal timelines vary widely by country and can be affected by embassy appointment availability.

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Exactly What to Provide

For USCIS (Adjustment of Status):

• A clear copy of the biographic data page — the page with your photo, name, date and place of birth, nationality, passport number, and expiration date
• Copies of passport pages showing any U.S. visa, admission stamp, or parole stamp
• A copy of your Form I-94 record, if available
• Copies of prior passports if they contain relevant U.S. visas, admission stamps, parole stamps, or name/history evidence

For NVC / Consular Processing:

• A scan of the biographic data page of a currently valid passport
• File type: JPG, JPEG, or PDF
• File size: each individual upload must be 2 MB or smaller
• Scan in color if the document is in color, and make sure all text and the machine-readable zone (MRZ) are legible
• Do not upload zip files or password-protected files
• After uploading, click Submit Documents in CEAC so NVC can review the file

At the Interview (both pathways):

• Bring your original, current passport or travel document
• Bring expired passports in your possession that contain relevant visas, admission stamps, parole stamps, or travel history
• If you hold passports from multiple countries, bring the passports that relate to your identity, travel history, visa application, or U.S. entries

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How to Renew or Obtain a Passport

If your passport is expiring soon, already expired, lost, stolen, or never issued:

1. Contact your country's passport authority, embassy, or consulate.
2. Check whether you need an appointment, police report, birth certificate, national ID, prior passport, or proof of status.
3. Choose expedited or emergency processing if your interview or planned travel is approaching.
4. Keep copies of renewal receipts, appointment confirmations, police reports, or government correspondence in case you need to explain a delay.

Rough renewal timelines vary by country:

Task	Typical Timeline
Standard renewal in faster-issuing countries	2–8 weeks
Standard renewal where embassy processing is slower	6–16 weeks or more
Emergency or temporary passport/travel document	Several business days to several weeks
Replacement after loss or theft abroad	1–4 weeks, depending on the post

These are planning ranges, not government guarantees. Always check your own country's current passport instructions.

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Special Situations

No national passport, refugee, or stateless applicant:

• You may need a refugee travel document, Convention Travel Document, laissez-passer, or other government-issued travel document instead of a national passport
• Ask NVC, the embassy or consulate, or an immigration attorney which document is acceptable for your case before the interview
• Include a short written explanation if you cannot obtain a standard passport

Name discrepancies:

• If your passport name differs from your birth certificate, marriage certificate, prior passport, or immigration forms, include documents that connect the names, such as a marriage certificate, divorce decree, court order, adoption order, or official name-change record
• Use consistent spelling across the I-485 or DS-260, passport, civil documents, and translations

Dual citizens:

• Your immigrant visa chargeability is generally based on your country of birth, not simply the passport you choose to use
• Use the passport you will travel on for the DS-260 and interview, and disclose other nationalities where the form asks for them

Lost or stolen passport:

• Report the loss if your country requires it and apply for a replacement promptly
• Keep any police report, loss report, embassy correspondence, or replacement receipt
• If the lost passport contained U.S. visas or entry stamps, include any available copies and your I-94 travel history

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Practical Checks Before You Upload or File

• Confirm the passport number, name spelling, date of birth, place of birth, and nationality match your forms and civil documents
• Make sure scans are complete, clear, upright, and not cropped
• For CEAC, keep each file under the current upload limit and use only accepted file types
• Keep your original passport available for the interview and for immigrant visa issuance in consular cases
• Renew early if validity is close, but avoid mailing away your only passport shortly before an interview unless your passport authority confirms the timing is workable

What is Form I-864?

Form I-864 (Affidavit of Support) is a legally enforceable contract between the sponsor and the U.S. government. It is required for most family-based immigrants and some employment-based immigrants to show that the intending immigrant has adequate financial support and is not likely to become a public charge.

This is not a formality. The I-864 can be enforced by the sponsored immigrant and by government agencies that provide certain means-tested public benefits.

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Why it matters

A missing, incomplete, or financially insufficient I-864 commonly leads to an RFE, NVC rejection, visa refusal under INA 221(g), or denial until the problem is corrected. It is one of the most common delay points in family-based green card cases.

The support obligation generally continues until the immigrant:

• Becomes a U.S. citizen
• Is credited with 40 qualifying quarters of Social Security work
• Stops being a lawful permanent resident and permanently departs the United States
• Dies

The obligation also ends if the sponsor dies. Divorce does not end the I-864 obligation.

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Income requirements

The sponsor must show income of at least 125% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines for the correct household size. The threshold is 100% only if the sponsor is on active duty in the U.S. armed forces and is sponsoring a spouse or unmarried child.

Always check the current poverty-guideline figures on Form I-864P at uscis.gov/i-864p. Do not rely on an old chart, because USCIS updates these figures.

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How to calculate household size

Household size is not just your tax-filing household. It generally includes:

1. You (the sponsor)
2. Your spouse
3. Your dependent children
4. Any other dependents listed on your most recent federal tax return
5. Any immigrants you are sponsoring now on this affidavit
6. Any immigrants you previously sponsored on Form I-864 if that obligation is still active

A wrong household-size count is a common reason an otherwise strong affidavit is treated as insufficient.

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What to provide

Core documents

• Signed Form I-864 using the current edition from uscis.gov/i-864
• IRS tax transcript or a copy of the federal income tax return for the most recent tax year
• If you are submitting a copy of the return instead of an IRS transcript: W-2s, 1099s, schedules, and other evidence of reported income for that most recent tax year
• Evidence of current income, such as recent pay stubs and an employment letter

You may also include returns or transcripts for the three most recent tax years if they help show income stability, but USCIS instructions require the most recent tax year.

If income is not enough

You may qualify by using one or more of these options:

• Assets to cover the shortfall
• A joint sponsor who files a separate Form I-864 and independently meets the income requirement
• A qualifying household member whose income or assets are added through Form I-864A

If you use assets, the required value is generally:

Situation	Asset rule
Spouse or unmarried child of a U.S. citizen	3 times the income shortfall
Most other family-based cases	5 times the income shortfall
Certain orphan-adoption cases	1 time the income shortfall

If using a joint sponsor

A joint sponsor must:

• Be a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident
• Be at least 18
• Be domiciled in the United States
• Submit a separate, complete Form I-864 with their own financial evidence

The joint sponsor must qualify independently. The petitioner and joint sponsor do not combine income on one I-864.

If using household member income (Form I-864A)

A household member may usually contribute income or assets through Form I-864A if that person is:

• Listed as a dependent on the sponsor's most recent federal tax return, or
• Has lived in the same principal residence for at least the last 6 months

The household member must submit a separate I-864A with supporting financial evidence. If the intending immigrant's own income or assets will be counted, special rules apply under the I-864 instructions.

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How to complete and submit it

1. Download the current edition from uscis.gov/i-864
2. Complete the form carefully, especially the household-size and income sections
3. Sign the form. Missing signatures are a common rejection reason
4. Include the required financial evidence for the sponsor and, if applicable, any joint sponsor or I-864A household member

USCIS filing fee: There is no USCIS filing fee for Form I-864.

Adjustment of status (Form I-485): Include the I-864 packet with the adjustment filing or in response to a USCIS request.

Consular processing (NVC/CEAC): Upload the Affidavit of Support form and supporting financial documents through CEAC in the required document slots. Current NVC upload guidance says each uploaded file must be in PDF, JPG, or JPEG format and no larger than 2 MB.

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Important warnings and edge cases

If you did not file taxes: If you were not required to file, include a written explanation and other evidence of current income. If you were required to file but did not, fix that before relying on the affidavit.

Sponsors living abroad: A sponsor living outside the United States may still qualify, but must show U.S. domicile or intent to re-establish domicile.

Address changes: USCIS lists an obligation for sponsors to report a new address within 30 days using Form I-865 after becoming a sponsor.

Some immigrants are exempt: Certain intending immigrants do not need Form I-864 and instead may qualify for Form I-864W. Review the I-864 instructions if you think an exemption may apply.

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Common mistakes

• Wrong household size
• Missing the most recent tax year
• Submitting only a W-2 without the return or transcript
• Missing signatures
• Using an outdated form edition
• Assuming a joint sponsor simply adds income to the petitioner instead of qualifying independently
• Ignoring domicile issues when the sponsor lives abroad

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Official resources

• Form I-864: uscis.gov/i-864
• Form I-864 instructions: uscis.gov/sites/default/files/document/forms/i-864instr.pdf
• Form I-864P (poverty guidelines): uscis.gov/i-864p
• Form I-864A: uscis.gov/i-864a
• Form I-865: uscis.gov/i-865
• USCIS Affidavit of Support overview: uscis.gov/green-card/green-card-processes-and-procedures/affidavit-of-support
• NVC CEAC upload guidance: travel.state.gov/content/dam/visas/PDF-other/Uploading%20to%20CEAC-instrucions.pdf
• IRS Get Transcript: irs.gov/individuals/get-transcript

What Is Form I-693?

Form I-693 (Report of Immigration Medical Examination and Vaccination Record) is the official USCIS form that documents the results of your immigration medical examination. It can only be completed by a USCIS-designated civil surgeon — your personal doctor, a local clinic, or any medical professional not on the USCIS civil surgeon list cannot complete this form.

The civil surgeon conducts the exam, fills out Form I-693, and gives it to you in a sealed envelope to submit with your I-485. Do not open the envelope — a broken seal usually renders the form unusable unless USCIS itself opened it during a rejection process and returned it with instructions.

This form is for adjustment of status (Form I-485) applicants only. If you are going through consular processing abroad, you see a panel physician designated by the U.S. Embassy or Consulate — a different process described at the end of this guidance.

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Why It Matters

USCIS requires the sealed Form I-693 to be submitted with the I-485 at the time of filing. If it is missing from your package, USCIS may reject the entire I-485 — you lose the $1,440 filing fee and must refile.

Beyond the logistics, the medical exam is a substantive legal hurdle. Certain health conditions are grounds of inadmissibility that can block your green card entirely — including active communicable diseases and failure to satisfy the vaccination requirement. Getting the exam done correctly and early gives you time to address any flagged issues before your case reaches an officer.

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What the Exam Includes

The USCIS-designated civil surgeon is required to conduct and document:

• Physical examination — general health review
• Medical history — review of prior conditions, hospitalizations, and mental health history
• Tuberculosis screening — generally an IGRA blood test for applicants age 2 and older; a chest X-ray is required only if the IGRA is positive, the applicant has TB symptoms, or there is known HIV infection
• Syphilis testing — routine blood testing for applicants age 18 through under 45; applicants under 18 or 45 and older are tested if there is reason to suspect syphilis
• Vaccination review — verifying your vaccination history and administering any age-appropriate required vaccines that are due at the exam

Required Vaccinations

USCIS requires vaccination against the following (as applicable based on age and medical eligibility):

• Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR)
• Polio (IPV)
• Tetanus, Diphtheria, Pertussis (Tdap/Td)
• Hepatitis A
• Hepatitis B
• Varicella (Chickenpox)
• Influenza (seasonal flu)
• Pneumococcal
• Meningococcal
• Haemophilus influenzae type B (Hib)
• Rotavirus (infants only)

COVID-19 vaccine is no longer required. As of January 22, 2025, USCIS removed the COVID-19 vaccination requirement for adjustment of status applicants. Civil surgeons will not assess or record COVID-19 vaccination status for Form I-693 purposes, and USCIS said it will not issue an RFE, NOID, or denial based on its absence.

Not all vaccines are required for every age group. The civil surgeon determines which apply to you based on your age, medical history, and documented vaccination record. If a vaccine is medically contraindicated, not age-appropriate, or cannot be completed yet because of timing between doses, the civil surgeon documents the appropriate waiver notation on the form.

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Form Edition

Always use the current accepted form edition. As of April 2026, that is edition 01/20/25. Download it directly from uscis.gov/i-693. USCIS rejects filings on outdated form editions. Some civil surgeons may have older versions on hand — confirm the edition before your appointment and verify the edition number on the completed form before submitting.

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How to Obtain Form I-693 — Step by Step

Step 1: Find a USCIS-designated civil surgeon

Use the official USCIS locator at uscis.gov/tools/find-a-civil-surgeon. Search by zip code. Only civil surgeons on this list can legally complete Form I-693 for USCIS purposes.

When you call to book, confirm:

• They are currently accepting immigration exam patients
• Current appointment availability
• Their total fee structure (exam fee, vaccinations, lab fees — sometimes bundled, sometimes billed separately)
• What vaccination records and ID documents to bring

Step 2: Book early

Many civil surgeons have 2–4 week waits; some in high-demand areas are booked 4–6 weeks out. If you plan to file your I-485 soon, schedule the exam immediately — the medical exam is often one of the longer lead-time items in the filing package.

Step 3: Gather existing vaccination records before your appointment

Bring any vaccination records you have (childhood immunization records, prior medical records, employer health screenings) to the appointment. If you are missing required vaccines, the civil surgeon can administer any age-appropriate dose that is due at the exam and record the rest using the proper medical notation if more time is needed between doses. Having records ready avoids unnecessary delays, duplicate doses, and extra cost.

Step 4: Attend the examination

The appointment typically takes 1–2 hours. You will complete a medical history questionnaire, undergo a physical exam, provide any required lab samples, and complete TB screening under the CDC technical instructions. Some civil surgeons can handle everything in one office; others refer applicants to a separate lab or radiology facility.

If lab results take a few days to return, the civil surgeon's office will contact you when the sealed envelope is ready.

Step 5: Receive and preserve the sealed envelope

The civil surgeon places the completed Form I-693 in a sealed envelope with their signature across the seal. Do not open it yourself. If you open it, USCIS will generally not accept it and you may need the civil surgeon to reissue or redo the exam. Submit the sealed envelope as-is with your I-485 package.

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Validity Rules — Critical Update (June 2025)

The validity rules for Form I-693 changed significantly effective June 11, 2025. Know which rule applies to you:

I-693 signed	Validity rule
Before November 1, 2023	Valid for 2 years from the civil surgeon's signature date; USCIS must decide the I-485 within 4 years of the signature date
On or after November 1, 2023	Valid only while the I-485 it was submitted with remains pending. If the I-485 is denied or withdrawn, the I-693 becomes invalid — a new exam is required before refiling.

The "does not expire" rule was rescinded effective June 11, 2025. Previously, I-693s signed on or after November 1, 2023 were considered indefinitely valid while the case was pending. That rule no longer applies. If your prior I-485 was denied or withdrawn, you cannot reuse the old I-693 for any future filing.

Rejection exception: If USCIS rejects (not denies) your application package and returns it, you may generally refile the original Form I-693 with the rejection notice, even if USCIS opened the medical envelope during intake.

Practical takeaway: Do not get the medical exam so far in advance that it sits idle. Time your appointment so you are ready to file the I-485 within a few weeks of the exam being completed.

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Cost

The immigration medical examination is not covered by USCIS filing fees. You pay the civil surgeon directly.

Cost item	Typical range
Civil surgeon exam fee	$200–$500 (varies by provider and location)
Required vaccinations (if missing any)	$0–$300+ depending on which and how many
Lab fees	Sometimes included in exam fee; sometimes billed separately

Call ahead to confirm the full cost breakdown before your appointment. Some offices charge a flat all-inclusive fee; others bill each vaccine separately. If you need multiple vaccines over time for your own health, factor in the cost of follow-up doses.

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Pro Tips

Book the civil surgeon appointment before you finish assembling everything else. The medical exam is often one of the longest lead-time items in an I-485 package. Missing it delays your entire filing date.

Bring original vaccination records, not photocopies. The civil surgeon needs to verify authenticity. Records in a foreign language may require a translation or explanation depending on the office's practice, so call ahead.

Ask about turnaround time at the appointment. If lab work or imaging is required, you may not receive the sealed envelope on the same day. Confirm how many days processing takes at that specific office so you can plan your filing date accurately.

Never open the sealed envelope yourself. If you do, USCIS will generally not accept it.

Verify the form edition before leaving the office. Ask the civil surgeon to confirm they are using the current accepted edition (01/20/25 as of April 2026). An outdated edition means USCIS will reject your I-485 package.

If you receive an RFE about your I-693, respond promptly. USCIS may request a supplemented exam or additional information if the civil surgeon did not complete all required sections. Check the deadline on the actual notice and do not miss it.

If the exam flags a health condition, this does not automatically mean denial. Some conditions require treatment, more evidence, or a waiver (for example, a waiver under Form I-601 in some cases). USCIS handles medical findings case-by-case.

If you have a prior denied or withdrawn I-485, do not attempt to reuse the old I-693. As of June 11, 2025, that I-693 is no longer valid for any future filing. You must obtain a fresh exam.

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Consular Processing: Different Rules Apply

If you are pursuing consular processing abroad (not adjustment of status), Form I-693 does not apply to you. Instead:

• Your medical exam is completed by a panel physician designated by the U.S. Embassy or Consulate where your interview takes place
• Find the list of approved panel physicians on the specific embassy's website — only that post's approved physicians are valid for your case
• The exam must be completed before your visa interview; timing varies by post and can take several days
• If the panel physician gives you a sealed packet, do not open it — bring it sealed to your interview if instructed
• COVID-19 vaccine is no longer required for consular processing under the CDC's current panel-physician vaccination instructions
• Costs for consular medical exams are typically $150–$400 plus vaccinations, payable directly to the panel physician

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Official Resources

• Find a civil surgeon: uscis.gov/tools/find-a-civil-surgeon
• Form I-693 and instructions: uscis.gov/i-693
• USCIS vaccination requirements: uscis.gov/tools/designated-civil-surgeons/vaccination-requirements

What This Requirement Is

If the petitioner wants to file Form I-130 online, they must first create a free USCIS online account at myaccount.uscis.gov.

USCIS allows Form I-130 to be filed either online or by mail. Creating an account is required for online filing, but it is not required if you will file the petition by paper.

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Why It Matters

For Form I-130, online filing currently offers some practical advantages USCIS itself describes:

• the online filing fee is $625, compared with $675 for paper filing;
• you can complete and submit the form from your phone, tablet, or computer;
• the system lets you save a draft and helps prevent some common submission mistakes;
• you can pay the filing fee online;
• you avoid mailing delays; and
• you receive confirmation of submission in your online account.

After filing, a USCIS online account can also help you:

• check case history and status updates;
• access most notices USCIS sends;
• respond to Requests for Evidence (RFEs); and
• send secure messages in eligible cases.

Do not assume online filing guarantees faster adjudication than paper filing. USCIS does not promise that.

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Who Needs The Account

• The petitioner needs the account if they are filing the I-130 online.
• The beneficiary does not need a separate account just to let the petitioner file the I-130 online.

A beneficiary may still choose to create their own USCIS online account later for their own records or to add an eligible case, but that is a separate step and may require a receipt number and, in some situations, an Online Access Code.

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Step-by-Step: Creating The Account

USCIS currently instructs users to create the account directly through the USCIS sign-up flow:

1. Go to myaccount.uscis.gov and select Sign up.
2. Enter your email address.
3. Open the USCIS confirmation email and confirm the account.
4. Review and accept the USCIS online account terms of use.
5. Create a password.
6. Choose how you want to receive your one-time verification code, such as by text message, email, or an authentication app.
7. Enter the verification code.
8. Save the two-step verification backup code USCIS provides.
9. Set your password reset questions and answers.
10. Select myUSCIS when prompted.
11. Choose the correct account type, usually applicant, petitioner, or requestor for someone filing their own I-130.

USCIS says account creation confirmation is sent by email once setup is complete.

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Important Practical Notes

Use an email address you control long-term. Immigration cases can stay active for a long time.

Do not share one account with another person. USCIS specifically says not to create a shared account.

Save the backup code and reset answers carefully. They may be needed if you lose access to your normal verification method.

Do not create duplicate accounts if you can avoid it. USCIS has technical-support guidance for account access problems and online access code issues.

If you file by paper later: You can still create an online account and add some paper-filed cases. USCIS says that adding a paper-filed case may require your receipt number and, for some online functions, an Online Access Code from a USCIS Account Access Notice.

If you use an attorney or accredited representative: They cannot use your personal account as a substitute for yours. USCIS allows representatives to prepare filings online, but the petitioner may still need their own account to review and sign where required.

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After Filing

Once the I-130 is submitted online, the petitioner can use the USCIS account to:

• view submission confirmation;
• monitor case status and history;
• review most notices USCIS posts to the account; and
• respond online if USCIS allows electronic response for that case.

If you only want basic status updates, you can also track the case using the receipt number at egov.uscis.gov/casestatus.

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Timing

Creating the account is usually a short setup task and, once completed, the account can be used right away. USCIS does not publish a mandatory waiting period before you can file I-130 online.

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Official USCIS Resources

• myaccount.uscis.gov
• uscis.gov/file-online/how-to-create-a-uscis-online-account
• uscis.gov/file-online/benefits-of-a-uscis-online-account
• uscis.gov/i-130

Always use official .gov pages. USCIS online account creation itself is free.

What This Requirement Is

If you received permanent residence through marriage and you had been married for less than 2 years on the day you became a permanent resident, USCIS granted you conditional permanent residence. That means you received a 2-year green card instead of the standard 10-year card.

To keep permanent resident status, USCIS lists Form I-751, Petition to Remove Conditions on Residence as the filing required. Conditional residents generally do not use Form I-90 to solve this issue.

If this does not apply to you (for example, you had already been married for 2 or more years when permanent residence was granted, or your green card was not marriage-based), you can skip this requirement.

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Why It Matters

Critical: If you do not properly file Form I-751, your conditional permanent resident status can be terminated, and USCIS may place you in removal proceedings.

This is one of the most deadline-sensitive post-grant requirements in the marriage-based green card process.

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Exactly What to Provide

The core filing is Form I-751 plus evidence showing the marriage was entered in good faith and, if you are filing jointly, is ongoing.

Required Forms and Basic Documents

• Form I-751 — signed by both spouses if filing jointly, or signed by you alone if filing under an eligible waiver basis
• Copy of your conditional green card (front and back)
• Filing fee — verify the current amount at uscis.gov/feecalculator or the USCIS fee schedule before filing

Evidence of a Good-Faith Marriage

Provide as much credible evidence as you can from multiple categories:

Financial evidence:

• Joint federal tax returns or IRS tax transcripts
• Joint bank account statements showing real use over time
• Joint credit card statements
• Mortgage, deed, or lease showing shared responsibility
• Insurance policies listing each other as beneficiary or insured
• Car title, registration, or auto insurance in both names

Shared residence:

• Utility bills or other account records showing a shared address
• Driver's licenses or state IDs showing the same address
• Official mail addressed to each of you at the same residence

Evidence of shared life:

• Photographs together across the relationship and conditional-residence period
• Birth certificates of children born to the marriage
• Travel records, bookings, or itineraries showing trips together
• Messages, call records, or other communications if you spent time apart

Third-party evidence:

• Sworn affidavits from people with personal knowledge of the relationship, describing specific observations rather than generic support

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How to File

1. Check whether you are filing jointly or under a waiver. The timing rules are different.
2. For a normal joint filing, file during the 90-day period immediately before your card expires. If you file too early, USCIS may reject the petition.
3. For a waiver filing, the timing is different. A waiver-based I-751 can generally be filed before or after that 90-day window, depending on the basis. If you are filing late, USCIS will expect an explanation and supporting evidence where required.
4. Download the current edition of Form I-751 from uscis.gov/i-751.
5. Complete the form carefully and include the correct signatures for your filing type.
6. Assemble your evidence package in a clear, organized way.
7. Prepare payment using the current USCIS instructions. The USCIS I-751 page currently lists payment by Form G-1450 (credit/debit card), Form G-1650 (ACH), or paper payment methods such as money order or check. Verify the current rule on the USCIS form page before mailing.
8. Mail to the correct USCIS filing address listed on the USCIS direct filing addresses page for Form I-751.
9. Keep a full copy of everything you submit and proof of delivery.

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What Happens After You File

• USCIS sends a receipt notice (Form I-797C).
• If your filing was proper, the receipt notice extends your conditional permanent resident status and work authorization for 48 months beyond the expiration date on the card while the case is pending.
• USCIS may reuse prior biometrics or schedule you for a biometrics appointment.
• USCIS may approve the case without interview, or it may schedule an interview if it needs more review.
• Processing times vary and are often lengthy. Check the current USCIS processing times page for Form I-751 instead of relying on a static estimate.
• If approved, USCIS issues a 10-year permanent resident card.

If your case is still pending after the initial 48-month extension and you need more evidence of status, USCIS instructs applicants to contact the USCIS Contact Center.

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Filing Without Your Spouse (Waiver of Joint Filing)

You may be able to file Form I-751 without your spouse's signature if you qualify for a waiver of the joint filing requirement. Common waiver grounds include:

• Your spouse died
• You entered the marriage in good faith, but the marriage ended in divorce or annulment
• You entered the marriage in good faith, but you or your child were battered or subjected to extreme cruelty by your U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident spouse
• Termination of your status and removal would result in extreme hardship

Waiver cases are more fact-specific and document-intensive than straightforward joint filings.

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Timelines

Milestone	Timing
Joint filing window opens	90 days before conditional card expiration
Joint filing deadline	By the conditional card expiration date
Waiver filing	Timing can differ; verify the correct rule for your waiver basis
Receipt notice	Usually issued after USCIS accepts the filing
Automatic extension after proper filing	48 months beyond the card expiration date
Processing time	Varies; verify on the USCIS processing times page

Important: For a standard joint filing, do not wait until the last few days. USCIS should receive the filing within the proper window, and using trackable delivery is prudent.

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Pro Tips

• Do not file a joint I-751 too early. USCIS may reject a petition filed before the 90-day window opens.
• Do not assume every late case is hopeless. Some late filings can still be considered, especially with a request explaining good cause and extenuating circumstances or where a waiver basis applies.
• Evidence quality matters. USCIS looks for a consistent pattern of shared life, not just a few staged photos or a single joint account with little activity.
• Explain unusual facts directly. If you lived apart for work, school, caregiving, military service, or another legitimate reason, explain that clearly and document it.
• If divorce is pending, get legal advice early. A waiver case may become necessary, and the supporting evidence strategy changes.
• Keep the receipt notice with the expired card. Together, they are important evidence of continued status while the I-751 remains pending.
• Use official USCIS pages for the latest details. Filing addresses, fees, payment methods, and processing times can change.