As most of you might have already noted, the priority dates have become current for pretty much all the categories for filing the i485 the final and main phase for applying for greencard. If this sounds elusive and unknown to you, then probably its not applicable to you....but if you can remotely relate to it, then this is of utmost importance.
The priority dates for filing for i485/EAD/Advance Parole have come through big time in June 2007 Visa Bulletin. This pronounced a huge relief for a lot of people who have been in wait mode for quite some time...in essence atleast for ~4-5 years. And July Visa bulletin pronounced even more freedom...anyone with any priority date from any country can now apply for 485/EAD/AP. Please check the following URL for the most current priority dates:
http://travel.state.gov/visa/frvi/bulletin/bulletin_1360.html
What this means:
Any one who has filed for Labor Clearence, and has it approved, can now file for 140 concurrently with 485/EAD and Advanced Parole. People who have already filed for 140 and have it approved, can go with 485/EAD/AP directly.
Let me cut the chase short and provide some valuable information for people intrested and in the crux.
What is the documentation needed for filing for 485/EAD and AP ?
Here is a short list:
Each of these is needed for each person filing for 485.
I-485 Filing required Documentation:
I-485 Application form
I-765 EAD Application form
I-131 Advanced Parole Application form
G-28 Attorney representation form
G-325A Biographic Information Sheet
I-693 Medican Examination form ( Need this to be in a sealed envolope from a USCIS certified Civil Surgeon)
Birth Certificate
Copy of Entire Passport
6 Passport size Photographs (2 for 485, 2 for EAD and 2 for AP)
I-94 Both sides
3 years of W2s and Tax Returns
Copy of I-797 approval for I-140
Copy of Approved Labor Certificate
Copy of Approved I-140
Copy of Degree Certificate (Masters and BS)
Copies of most recent paystubs (If filing with the same employer, who did your LC and 140)
Copy of I-797 for current and previous H1Bs
You dont need G-28 if you chose to file by yourself.
Some attorneys dont require LC, Degree Certificates, PayStubs.
If you are filing by yourself, you might need to provide Financial statements of your company upon on RFE, if needed. Attorneys usually include this in the packet they send.
Since we all are pretty much in the same boat...hell ya for crying out loud, on the same SHIP....since its all one big pool of a happy family now *wink* .... we sure can share our experiences through our usual channels !
Good Luck and God Speed !!
