Top Documents Needed for a US Employment-Based Green Card Application

This article was last updated and fact checked on October 15, 2024 by Mani Karthik.

So, you’re looking to make that big leap from temporary work visa holder to permanent resident with an employment-based green card?

Congrats, that’s a huge step toward securing your life in the US! But now comes the part that no one loves—gathering all the necessary documents.

Whether you’re applying through an employer-sponsored green card or on your own via an EB-1 or EB-2 category, you’re going to need to make sure you have all your paperwork in order.

Missing a single document can lead to delays or worse—a denial. So, let’s break down the top documents you’ll need for a smooth US employment-based green card application process.

1. PERM Labor Certification (If Required)

If you’re applying under EB-2 or EB-3 (employment-based second or third preference categories), your employer will need to obtain a PERM Labor Certification from the Department of Labor (DOL).

This document verifies that no qualified US workers are available for the job and that hiring you won’t negatively affect wages and working conditions in the US.

Your employer typically handles this, but make sure you stay in the loop since it’s a critical part of your application process.

Pro Tip: The PERM process can take months. Stay patient, but keep tabs on your employer’s progress.

2. Form I-140: Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker

Once your PERM Labor Certification is approved (if needed), the next step is for your employer to file Form I-140, the Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker.

This form proves that your employer has a legitimate job for you, that you qualify for that job, and that they can pay the required wage.

For EB-1 applicants, especially those who qualify as extraordinary ability individuals or outstanding researchers, you may be able to self-petition, meaning you’ll file the I-140 yourself without an employer sponsor.

Pro Tip: Make sure all information provided by your employer matches the rest of your paperwork. Any discrepancies can lead to delays.

3. Form I-485: Adjustment of Status

If you’re already in the US on a valid visa, you can file Form I-485, the Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status, to change your nonimmigrant status to permanent resident.

If you’re outside the US, you’ll go through consular processing instead.

You’ll need the following when filing Form I-485:

• A copy of your Form I-140 receipt notice or approval notice.
• Your current visa or nonimmigrant status documents.
• Two passport-sized photos.
• Your birth certificate (translated into English if not already in English).
• Copies of your passport and I-94 record.

Pro Tip: Double-check that your visa hasn’t expired and that you’re still in lawful status while applying. Overstaying can mess with your green card process.

4. Employment Verification Letter

An employment verification letter from your current employer is essential to prove that the job offer is still valid. The letter should be on company letterhead and include details about your role, salary, and employment start date.

Make sure this letter reflects the information in your Form I-140. Any inconsistencies (job title changes, salary adjustments, etc.) should be explained to avoid confusion during the review process.

Pro Tip: If you’ve changed jobs, you’ll need to check if your new job qualifies under AC21 portability rules, which allow certain visa holders to change employers without impacting their green card process.

5. Medical Examination and Vaccination Record (Form I-693)

To complete your adjustment of status, you’ll need to submit Form I-693, which is a report of your medical examination and vaccination record. This must be done by a USCIS-approved civil surgeon.

You’ll need to get a full medical checkup, including specific vaccines, to prove that you’re not inadmissible for health reasons. The doctor will seal your completed form in an envelope, which you’ll submit with your green card application.

Pro Tip: Make sure to schedule this early, as getting an appointment with an approved doctor can take some time.

6. Proof of Financial Stability

You’ll need to show that you won’t become a public charge in the US by providing proof of financial stability. This can come from your employer’s job offer, but you may also need to include additional financial documents such as:

• Bank statements.
• Tax returns.
• A completed Affidavit of Support (for certain categories).

Your employer may also need to submit proof that they can afford to pay you the required salary.

Pro Tip: Strong financial documentation can help smooth the process, so don’t skimp on providing these details.

7. Personal Identification Documents

On top of the big-ticket items, you’ll also need to provide personal identification documents:

• Valid passport.
• Birth certificate (with an English translation, if applicable).
• Marriage certificate (if applying with dependents).
• Divorce decree (if applicable).
• Court records (if you have any criminal history).

USCIS will want to see proof of your identity and family relationships, so make sure these documents are accurate and up-to-date.

Pro Tip: If any documents are in a foreign language, get certified translations. Submitting untranslated documents can cause delays.

8. Filing Fees and Supporting Evidence

You’ll need to pay several filing fees, including fees for:

• Form I-140.
• Form I-485.
• Biometrics.

Be sure to check the USCIS fee schedule to avoid any surprises. Additionally, supporting evidence like pay stubs, employment contracts, and even awards or recognitions (especially for EB-1 candidates) can strengthen your case.

Pro Tip: Organize your supporting evidence carefully. Submit clean, legible copies and label them clearly to avoid confusion.

Final Thoughts

Applying for an employment-based green card isn’t a small task. The paperwork can feel overwhelming, but with the right documents and preparation, you’ll be one step closer to securing your permanent residency in the US.

Make sure to double-check everything before submitting, and don’t hesitate to seek legal help if needed—especially if your case is complex.

Once you have all these documents lined up, you’re in a good position to tackle the green card application process with confidence!

Good luck!