04/17/2026
Hey Rising Tide Family!
It’s been a while and that’s because we’ve been busy getting things done. I wanted to share our real-life journey applying for AOS (Adjustment of Status) for my family. No Lawyer, just learning and trusting God through the process.
Here’s a simple step-by-step of where we are and what to expect:
Step 1: Submit Petition
✅ Filed Form I-130 online (Petition for Alien Relative)
Step 2: Concurrent Filing for AOS
✅ Submitted:
* Form I-485 (Adjustment of Status)
* Form I-864 (Affidavit of Support)
This stage includes all supporting evidence:
* Proof of marriage
* Relationship to children (or whoever you’re petitioning)
* Proof of income
Important:
If your income meets at least 125% of the federal poverty guidelines for your household size, you do not need a joint sponsor.
✅Step 3: Receipt Notice
Once your application is received, you’ll get a receipt notice confirming everything has been filed.
✅Step 4: Biometrics Appointment
USCIS will send a letter with your biometrics appointment details (fingerprints, photo, etc.).
✅Step 5: Medical Exam (if not submitted)
If you didn’t include your medical exam, you’ll receive an RFE (Request for Evidence) asking you to complete it by a certain date.
Medical Tips:
* You must see a USCIS-approved civil surgeon (you can find one on their website).
* Make sure you bring your family’s immunization records.This is something we learned the hard way, and it can be costly if you don’t have them.
* The doctor may do a basic reading/writing test even for kids. Yes, our 7 year old had to do it too! Thankfully, he passed.
Step 6: Interview
After everything is reviewed, you’ll be scheduled for an interview.
Step 7: Green Card Issued
Once approved, Green Card will be issued!
Examples in photos and our timeline - Only But God
We are 2 Steps Away 🙌 Praise God 😔Going through this process really teaches you a lot. Hoping this helps anyone starting their journey, we’re learning as we go and grateful every step of the way 🤎
