Immigrating to a new country is exciting, no doubt about it. But it’s also intimidating. There’s all the new opportunities, new culture, new food — but there’s also the bureaucratic maze of immigration paperwork that can make your head spin.
If you’ve ever glanced at a U.S. immigration form and thought, “Wait, what’s this?” you’re not alone.
That’s why we’re here: to break down some of the most common immigration forms, explain their purpose, and offer you some clarity.
Form I-90: Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card
Let’s kick things off with Form I-90. If you’re a lawful permanent resident (LPR) and need to replace or renew your green card, this is your go-to. Whether your card was lost, stolen, or has simply expired, Form I-90 is the way to get things back on track. It’s also used to correct errors, like if your name is misspelled or your card doesn’t reflect a legal name change.
Filing Form I-90 might feel like a hassle, but it’s actually one of the simplest to tackle. You can file it online or via snail mail, and as long as you keep an eye on your green card’s expiration date, you’ll avoid any unnecessary stress. For a deeper dive into this process, check out a guide to Form I-90.
Form N-400: Application for Naturalization
Dreaming of becoming a U.S. citizen? Form N-400 is your golden ticket. This form is used by green card holders who meet specific eligibility requirements and are ready to apply for naturalization. But before you start tearing into that “Oh say can you see,” know this: it’s a lot of work.
Filling out Form N-400 requires details about your background, employment history, and travels outside the U.S. You’ll also need to demonstrate your knowledge of U.S. civics and prove that you’re fluent in English (or eligible for an exemption).
Form I-130: Petition for Alien Relative
If you’re a U.S. citizen or green card holder and want to bring your family to the U.S., Form I-130 is your starting point. This form establishes the relationship between you (the petitioner) and your relative (the beneficiary). Like a family tree for bureaucrats.
The most common use cases include spouses, children, parents, and siblings. Also, keep in mind that processing times vary depending on the type of relationship and your immigration status, and triple-check your supporting documents. Any missing paperwork could send your application into limbo.
Form I-765: Application for Employment Authorization
Let’s say you’re in the U.S. on a visa that doesn’t automatically allow you to work. Enter Form I-765, your ticket to legal employment. This form is commonly filed by individuals seeking an Employment Authorization Document (EAD), aka a work permit.
The beauty of Form I-765 is its versatility. It’s used by students, asylum seekers, and many others. Just make sure you’re applying under the right eligibility category, as each one has its own rules and documentation requirements. And yes, you’ll want to get this filed as soon as you’re eligible — processing times can test your patience.
Form I-485: Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status
This is the magic bridge that takes you from temporary visitor to green card holder. Form I-485 is for individuals already in the U.S. who want to adjust their status to permanent residency. It’s often filed in conjunction with other forms, like Form I-130 (family-based) or Form I-140 (employment-based).
Form I-485 requires detailed information about your health, finances, and immigration history. Oh, and don’t forget the medical examination. Yes, of course, there’s a form for that, too — Form I-693. While it’s a hefty application, getting your green card makes it all worth it.
Form DS-160: Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application
Heading to the U.S. for a temporary stay? Whether it’s for tourism, work, or study, Form DS-160 is your gateway. This online form is required for nearly all nonimmigrant visa applicants and collects information about your background, travel plans, and intentions.
The trick with DS-160 is to be consistent. Any discrepancies between your answers and your supporting documents could raise red flags. Once completed, you’ll schedule your visa interview — so start practicing some answers to those common visa officer questions like “What’s the purpose of your visit?”
Form I-140: Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker
Form I-140 is the MVP for employment-based immigration. If an employer wants to sponsor you for a green card, they’ll file this form on your behalf. The I-140 proves that the employer has a legitimate job offer for you and can pay the required wage.
Depending on your category, you might even be able to self-petition (this is known as the Einstein visa). Just keep in mind that labor certification is often a prerequisite, so there’s a bit of groundwork to cover before you even reach Form I-140.
Form I-751: Petition to Remove Conditions on Residence
If you received your green card through marriage and it’s conditional (valid for only two years), Form I-751 is your next step. This form is used to remove the conditions on your residence, essentially upgrading your green card to permanent status.
The process involves proving that your marriage is genuine and wasn’t entered into solely for immigration purposes. This typically requires joint documentation like bank statements, lease agreements, or photos together. Don’t delay — you need to file Form I-751 within a 90-day window before your conditional green card expires.
Form I-589: Application for Asylum and for Withholding of Removal
This could be your lifeline if you’re seeking protection in the U.S. due to persecution or fear of persecution in your home country. Form I-589 allows individuals to apply for asylum or withholding of removal, offering a path to safety for those who meet the criteria.
You’ll need to provide detailed accounts of your experiences and the reasons you’re unable to return home. Supporting evidence like documents, photos, or witness statements can strengthen your case. It’s crucial to file this form within one year of arriving in the U.S. unless you qualify for an exception.
Final Thoughts
Immigration forms may look like a paper jungle, but they’re really just tools — albeit slightly intimidating ones — designed to make sure everything is in order, both for the sake of the government and your own sake.
Whether you’re replacing your green card, applying for citizenship, or reuniting with loved ones, understanding the purpose of each form can make the process far less daunting.
It’s also okay to seek help. Immigration attorneys, accredited representatives, and trusted online resources can guide you through the maze. You’ve got this!