You’re almost there when the USCIS approves your request to stay in the country permanently (that’s the I-485 application)!
Getting a green card is a dream of many, and it will allow them to live in the U.S. forever lawfully.
It typically takes a few days to several weeks to receive your green card after your I-485 case is approved. Here’s a breakdown of the timeline:
The Approval of I-485 Application:
The I-485, or Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status, is a crucial form for obtaining a green card within the United States.
After submitting your I-485 application along with the required supporting documents and fees, USCIS will review your case.
Once USCIS approves your I-485 application, it means you are officially eligible for lawful permanent residency in the United States.
Post-Approval Process:
- Production of the Green Card: After approving your I-485 application, USCIS initiates the production of your physical green card. This involves printing your information on the card and preparing it for mailing.
- Mailing Preparation: Once your green card is produced, USCIS prepares it for mailing. This includes packaging it securely and generating the necessary documentation for shipment.
- Mail Delivery: The green card is then sent via standard mail delivery through the United States Postal Service (USPS). USCIS typically does not provide tracking information for green card mailings.
Factors Influencing the Timeline:
Several factors can influence the time it takes for you to receive your green card after the approval of your I-485 application:
- Volume of Applications: The workload at USCIS processing centers can affect the overall processing time. Higher volumes of applications may result in longer processing times.
- Completeness of Application: If your I-485 application is missing required documents or contains errors, it may delay the approval process. Ensuring your application is complete and accurate can help expedite processing.
- Background Checks: USCIS conducts various background checks as part of the adjudication process. Delays in these checks can impact the overall processing time.
- Postal Service Delays: Once USCIS mails your green card, delivery times may vary depending on the efficiency of the postal service and any unforeseen delays.
Estimated Timeline:
While USCIS does not provide specific timelines for green card delivery after I-485 approval, receiving the green card in the mail typically takes several weeks to a few months.
On average, applicants can expect to receive their green cards within 2 to 3 weeks after USCIS approves their I-485 application.
However, processing times may vary based on individual circumstances and external factors.
What to Do If Your Green Card Doesn’t Arrive:
If an extended period passes after the approval of your I-485 application and you still haven’t received your green card, you can take the following steps:
- Check Case Status: Use the USCIS online case status tool to monitor the status of your green card application.
- Contact USCIS: If a significant amount of time has passed since approval and you haven’t received your green card, you can contact USCIS for assistance.
- File Form I-90: If your green card is lost, stolen, or never received, you may need to file Form I-90, Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card, to request a replacement.
Conclusion:
Receiving your green card after approving your I-485 application is an exciting milestone in your journey to lawful permanent residency in the United States.
While the timeline for green card delivery can vary, understanding the process and potential factors that may influence the timeline can help manage expectations.
By staying informed and proactive, you can confidently navigate the post-approval process and anticipate your new status as a lawful permanent resident.