Key takeaways
- Most green card cases need a common set of documents.
- Each path adds its own category-specific evidence.
- Foreign documents need certified English translations.
Incomplete documents are one of the most common reasons green card cases get delayed or hit with a request for more evidence. Use this checklist as a starting point — your exact list depends on your category, but most cases need this core.
Core Documents (Most Cases)
The common core
Birth certificate (with certified translation if not in English)
Passport (and any prior passports with visas/stamps)
Passport-style photos meeting the requirements
Proof of lawful entry or status, where applicable (such as your I-94)
Medical exam form from an authorized doctor
Affidavit of support and the sponsor's income documents (tax returns, pay records)
Government filing fees (confirm current amounts)
For a Family-Based Case
- Proof of the petitioner's U.S. citizenship or green card
- Evidence of the relationship (marriage certificate; for marriage cases, bona fide evidence)
- Proof any prior marriages legally ended
For an Employment-Based Case
- The approved petition and supporting employer documents
- Proof of your qualifications (degrees, evaluations, experience letters)
- Labor certification documents, where required
"A request for evidence is usually the file telling you what the checklist would have caught. Build the file before you file."
Don't Forget
- Certified translations for every foreign-language document
- Consistency — names, dates, and facts should match across all documents
- Keep originals safe; submit copies unless originals are specifically requested
A general guide, not legal advice.
Immigration rules and fees change, and every case is different. For help with your specific situation, talk to a licensed immigration attorney before you act.
