Need to adjust your immigration status? You might need to file Form I-485. This form is for becoming a permanent resident. It’s often used with Form I-140 in employment-based cases. A cover letter can help organize your submission.
Writing a cover letter can feel daunting. It’s key to present your documents clearly. A well-crafted letter can streamline the process. It also shows you’re organized and serious.
Ready to make things easier? We’ve got you covered. This article provides sample letters. These samples will guide you in writing your own I-485 cover letter. Use them as a template to simplify your application.
Sample Letter To Send The I-485 Form Employment Based 140
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
USCIS
[USCIS Address]
**Subject: Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status (Form I-485) – Based on Approved I-140 Petition**
Dear USCIS Officer,
Please find enclosed Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status, along with supporting documents. This application is based on my approved I-140, Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker.
My I-140 petition was approved on [Date of I-140 Approval] with receipt number [I-140 Receipt Number].
The following documents are included with this application:
* Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status
* Copy of I-797, Approval Notice for Form I-140
* Copy of Birth Certificate
* Copy of Passport (biographical page and visa page)
* Copy of I-94 Arrival/Departure Record
* Two Passport-sized Photographs
* Form I-693, Report of Medical Examination and Vaccination Record (sealed)
* Form I-864, Affidavit of Support Under Section 213A of the INA (if required)
* Form I-485 Supplement A (if applicable)
* Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization (if desired)
* Form I-131, Application for Travel Document (if desired)
* [Any other relevant documents]
I believe I meet all the requirements for adjustment of status. I am available for an interview at your convenience.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
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How to Write Letter To Send The I-485 Form Employment Based 140
Subject Line: Clarity is Key
- Employ a succinct subject line: “I-485 Application Submission – [Applicant’s Name] – I-140 Approved.”
- Avoid ambiguity; the USCIS officer should immediately comprehend the letter’s purpose.
Salutation: A Formal Overture
- Address the USCIS with appropriate formality, such as “Dear USCIS Officer,” or “To Whom It May Concern.”
- Refrain from using overly casual greetings. Professionalism is paramount.
Introduction: Setting the Stage
- Clearly state your intent: “I am writing to submit my application for Adjustment of Status (Form I-485) based on an approved I-140 petition.”
- Include your full name, A-number (if applicable), and the receipt number of your approved I-140. This preempts potential confusion.
Body: The Heart of the Matter
- I-485 Form: Explicitly mention you are enclosing the completed I-485 form.
- Supporting Documents: List all supporting documents you are submitting. This might include copies of your birth certificate, passport, visa, I-94, medical examination (Form I-693), and any other documents required by USCIS.
- I-140 Approval: Reiterate that your application is predicated on an approved I-140. Include a copy of the approval notice.
- Employment Verification (If Applicable): If currently employed, provide a letter from your employer confirming your continued employment and outlining the terms of your employment. This bolsters your bona fides.
Financial Solvency: Demonstrating Independence
- Include evidence demonstrating your ability to support yourself and any dependents. This could encompass bank statements, pay stubs, or an affidavit of support from a sponsor.
- Ensure the documentation is current and accurately reflects your financial situation.
Declaration: Affirming Truthfulness
- Insert a declarative statement affirming the veracity of the information provided. For instance: “I declare under penalty of perjury that the foregoing is true and correct to the best of my knowledge and belief.”
- This underscores the gravity of your application.
Closing: A Cordial Conclusion
- End with a polite closing, such as “Sincerely,” or “Respectfully,” followed by your full name.
- Include your contact information (phone number and email address) should the USCIS need to reach you.
- Thank the officer for their consideration. A touch of gratitude can be propitious.
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Frequently Asked Questions: Sample Letter for I-485 (Employment-Based, Form I-140 Approved)
This section addresses common inquiries regarding the submission of a sample cover letter alongside Form I-485 when the underlying Form I-140 has been previously approved and is employment-based.
Please review the following questions and answers for guidance.
What information should be included in the cover letter?
The cover letter should clearly state the purpose of the submission, applicant’s name, A-number (if available), receipt number for the approved I-140 petition, and a list of all documents included in the I-485 application package.
Is a cover letter mandatory when filing Form I-485 with an approved I-140?
While not explicitly required, a cover letter is highly recommended. It provides a clear overview of your application and helps USCIS efficiently process your case.
Where should the cover letter be placed within the I-485 application package?
The cover letter should be the first document in your I-485 application package, placed directly on top of all other documents.
Does the cover letter need to be notarized?
No, the cover letter does not need to be notarized. It is simply a transmittal document summarizing the contents of your application.
What if my I-140 was approved a long time ago?
Include a copy of the I-140 approval notice with your I-485 application and clearly reference the receipt number in your cover letter, regardless of how long ago it was approved.