Application

• You must complete and submit an I-485 application. Before final approval, you will undergo an FBI background check, which shouldn't take more than 30 days. You will also have to provide an immigration visa number before the application is approved. Check the status of your application, using the I-485 Tracker or by contacting the USCIS.
  
  

Who May File

• Anyone with an pending immigrant petition such as an I-130 or I-140, or who is planing on filing one concurrently, can file the I-485. Others who can file an application are the spouse or child of an applicant, K-1 fiance(e) of a U.S. citizen or K-2 dependent, and K-3 spouse of a U.S. citizen or a K-4 dependent -- with a completed Form I-130. Visit the USCIS website for a complete list.
  
  

Where to File

• This will depend on the eligibility category you are filing under. For more information on where to send your application, visit the USCIS website. Don't forget about the filing fee, which as of 2010 is $1,070.