Key takeaways
- A small set of forms covers most immigration cases.
- Each form has a specific job — and many are filed together.
- Knowing the basics helps you understand your own case.
Immigration runs on forms with confusing numbers. You do not need to memorize them all, but knowing the common ones helps you understand your own case. Here is the plain-English guide.
Family and Green Card
- I-130 — Petition for a relative; establishes a qualifying family relationship.
- I-485 — Application to adjust status to a green card from inside the U.S.
- I-864 — Affidavit of support; the sponsor's promise to support financially.
- I-751 — Removes conditions on a marriage-based green card.
Work and Travel
- I-765 — Application for a work permit (EAD).
- I-131 — Application for a travel document, including advance parole.
- I-129 — Petition for a nonimmigrant worker (used for H-1B, L-1, and others).
- I-140 — Employment-based immigrant petition (the green card step through a job).
Citizenship and Other
- N-400 — Application for naturalization (citizenship).
- I-90 — Replace or renew a green card.
- G-28 — Notice that an attorney represents you.
- AR-11 — Change of address (most noncitizens must file within 10 days of moving).
"The forms are not random — they are a set that moves in known combinations. Once you see the pattern, your case makes more sense."
Forms Often Filed Together
- A green card application (I-485) often goes with a work permit (I-765) and travel document (I-131)
- A family case pairs the relative petition (I-130) with the green card application (I-485) when filed together
- An attorney filing on your behalf includes the G-28
A Few Tips
- Always use the current edition of a form
- Check the exact filing fee and where to file (these change)
- Keep a copy of everything you submit
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.
