Advice for filing 485 and papers so I can work.

[Joe1977 0]

I’m currently a Canadian married to a U.S. citizen and living in the US. I have the form  I485 and the one that will allow me to work all filled out. I have also completed the paperwork for my medical exam and have completed the exam as well.  I’m just wondering what other forms I will need to fill out as I would love to submit everything that’s needed, and have it properly done to expedite the process.  For example. I’m unsure if I need to file form I-130 and 130A. Also I was looking for confirmation on what the filing fees would be for the paperwork I need to submit. Any help would be greatly appreciated!  Thanks so much 

Joe

[mam521 2,633]

What status are you on in the US?

 

Please fill out your timeline: https://www.visajourney.com/timeline/profile.php?id=492268

[Crazy Cat 45,142]

40 minutes ago, Joe1977 said:

I’m currently a Canadian married to a U.S. citizen and living in the US. I have the form  I485 and the one that will allow me to work all filled out. I have also completed the paperwork for my medical exam and have completed the exam as well.  I’m just wondering what other forms I will need to fill out as I would love to submit everything that’s needed, and have it properly done to expedite the process.  For example. I’m unsure if I need to file form I-130 and 130A. Also I was looking for confirmation on what the filing fees would be for the paperwork I need to submit. Any help would be greatly appreciated!  Thanks so much 

Joe

 You need to become an "A Student" of the process and the forms associated with adjusting status as shown in the guide below if you are adjusting from a tourist visa or student visa as spouse of a US citizen.  In addition, the US citizen spouse needs to join us here.  Be aware that you will not be able to work inside the US or leave the US for up to 9 months after filing the I-485, I-131, and I-765.

 

 

Edited 22 hours ago by Crazy Cat

[Crazy Cat 45,142]

***Moved to Adjustment of Status from Worst, Student, and Tourist Visas***

[OldUser 10,345]

To adjust status and become a permanent resident, you need a number of forms as mentioned in guide shared by @Crazy Cat.

 

Only adjust status if you're going to settle and live permanently in the US.

 

You need to file at minimum I-130, I-130A, I-485, I-864 and I-693.

 

Considering you want to travel while adjustment is pending, you need to also file I-131.

 

Considering you want to have employment in the US while waiting for GC, you need to file I-765.

 

All of this is DIY. However, if you get overwhelmed, feel free to ask more questions here on VJ.

 

And if after that you're struggling, you may hire a lawyer (member of AILA)

Edited 22 hours ago by OldUser

[Mozillaman 49]

Also, since you're Canadian, if it's an option for you, you can return to Canada and apply for a spousal visa now that you're married. You can continue to visit your US spouse once that application is received as it shows proof you've gaining status "the right way" and aren't planning to move to the US before its approved. I visited several times while my visa application was pending. So if it works better for you, and you have some ties and abilities to stay in Canada, that's a way to keep your life there and transition to the US in a more controlled manner (and of course then travel is also no issue).

 

Just making sure you're not assuming that now that you're married you *have* to stay and go through the don't-work process.