What is the significance of the 'I-485' form?

The I-485 form, also known as the Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status, is significant because it allows individuals who are in the United States to apply for lawful permanent resident status. This can occur for various reasons, such as having a family member who is a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident, employment opportunities, or humanitarian considerations.

When a person submits the I-485, they are essentially requesting to transition from their current immigration status to that of a permanent resident, which comes with several benefits, including the right to live and work in the United States indefinitely, protection from deportation under certain circumstances, and the opportunity to eventually apply for U.S. citizenship. This form is a crucial step in the immigration process for those eligible, marking the shift from a temporary status to a more permanent one.

In this context, the other options do not accurately represent the purpose of the I-485. It is not designated for nonimmigrant visa applications, work permits, or student visas, which each have their distinct forms and processes.