Employment-Based Adjustment of Status Checklist

Documents to Gather in Advance

If your I-140 petition is approved but your priority date is not yet current, you do not file anything at this time. However, you should begin gathering required documents now so you are ready to file as soon as your priority date becomes current.

Do not send any documents until you are specifically asked to do so.

Birth Certificates (Required for all applicants)

Each applicant, including the principal applicant, spouse, and children, must provide a long-form birth certificate showing:

• Full name

• Date of birth

• Place of birth

• Full name of mother

• Full name of father

The birth certificate must have been registered within one year of birth. Short-form, wallet-sized, or consulate-issued birth certificates are not accepted. Country-specific requirements apply.

If a birth certificate is unavailable or incomplete, you will need:

• A Certificate of Non-Availability from the appropriate government authority, and

• Two notarized affidavits from someone with personal knowledge of the birth.
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Marriage Certificate (If Applicable)

If you are married, you must provide an official marriage certificate issued by the appropriate authority.

Divorce or Death Records (If Applicable)

If you or your spouse were previously married, you must provide divorce decrees or death certificates ending all prior marriages.

English Translations (If Applicable)

Any document not in English must include a complete English translation. The translator cannot be a family member and must certify that the translation is accurate and complete.

Important Reminders

• Begin collecting documents early to avoid delays once filing becomes available.

• Make sure names are consistent across all documents.

• Keep original documents and copies in a safe place.

What to Do Now

Gather the required documents listed above and be prepared to submit them once your priority date becomes current.