Overview (What is I-698 used for?)
#Form I-698, titled 'Application to Adjust Status from Temporary to Permanent Resident (Under Section 245A of the INA)', is utilized by individuals granted temporary residence under the Immigration and Nationality Act. This application allows eligible individuals to apply for lawful permanent resident status.
To qualify, applicants must meet specific criteria, including continuous residence in the U.S. since obtaining temporary status and not exceeding certain absence limits. The form collects essential personal information, eligibility details, and required declarations.
It is crucial to follow the instructions carefully and submit all necessary supporting documents to avoid delays or denials. The application process may also involve biometrics appointments and interviews to verify identity and background.
For more information, you can access the official form and instructions at the USCIS website.
What USCIS is really evaluating (I-698)
#USCIS evaluates several criteria for Form I-698, including continuous residence in the U.S. and admissibility under section 212(a) of the INA. A common evidence mismatch occurs when applicants fail to provide sufficient documentation proving their continuous residence, which is critical for eligibility.
Context & workflow (How does I-698 fit into the case?)
#Most cases file this form together with the required evidence listed on the official form page. Verify [fees](/en/united-states/visas/fees) before filing. Check [processing times](/en/united-states/visas/processing-times) for your category. Review [requirements](/en/united-states/visas/requirements) that apply to your status.
Who uses it
Applicants or petitioners who are required to submit this form for their case.
When it is used
- When the official checklist or instructions list this form.
- When submitting an initial application or petition.
- When providing updated information requested by the agency.
Evidence strategy (What evidence does USCIS expect for I-698?)
#- Provide documentation proving continuous residence in the U.S.
- Include evidence of admissibility under section 212(a) of the INA
- Submit photographs that meet the specified requirements
- Ensure all translations are certified and accurate
- Attach a certified copy of any name change documents if applicable
Failure prevention (Why petitions are rejected or delayed)
#Technical rejections
- Missing signatures on the application
- Submitting an outdated edition of the form
- Not including all required pages
Substantive weaknesses
- Inconsistencies in personal information provided
- Insufficient evidence to support claims of continuous residence
- Failure to provide proof of name changes when applicable
RFE triggers and how to pre-empt (What causes RFEs for I-698?)
#- Missing required documents or evidence
- Incomplete application sections
- Invalid or missing signatures
- Failure to demonstrate continuous residence
- Not providing certified translations for foreign documents
Eligibility signals
#- Must apply within the 2-year period starting from the 19th month after being granted temporary status
- Continuous residence in the U.S. must not exceed specified absence limits
- Must establish admissibility under section 212(a) of the INA
- Must not have felony convictions or multiple misdemeanors
- Must demonstrate understanding of English and U.S. history
Form sections (Which sections matter most on I-698?)
#General Instructions
Review the general instructions carefully to understand the filing process and requirements.
Address Changes
Notify USCIS of any address changes within 10 days if you are not a U.S. citizen.
Processing Information
Ensure your application is signed and includes the correct fees to avoid rejection.
Photographs
Submit two identical passport-style photographs that meet specific size and quality requirements.
Signature
Provide a valid handwritten signature; photocopies or typewritten names are not acceptable.
Evidence
Include all required evidence and supporting documents as listed in the instructions.
What it asks for (What fields and questions appear on I-698?)
#- Family Name (Last Name)
- Given Name (First Name)
- Middle Name
- Any Other Names Used
- U.S. Mailing Address
- City or Town
- ZIP Code
- Marital Status
- Country of Citizenship or Nationality
- Alien Registration Number (A-Number) (if any)
- to Permanent Resident (Under Section 245A of the INA)
- What Is the Purpose of This Application?
- Who May File Form I-698?
- A. Section 212(a)(2)(A)(i)(I) (crimes involving moral turpitude);
- possession of 30 grams or less of marijuana);
- C. Section 212(a)(2)(B) (multiple criminal convictions);
- D. Section 212(a)(2)(C) (controlled substance traffickers);
- E. Section 212(a)(3) (security and related grounds); and
- How To Complete Form I-698
What you need before you start (What should you gather before I-698?)
#- Two identical color passport-style photographs of yourself taken recently
- Provide A certified copy of the court decree or marriage certificate if your name has changed
- Evidence of continuous residence in the U.S. since becoming a temporary resident
- Documentation to establish admissibility under section 212(a) of the INA
- Provide Accurate identity details that match your supporting documents
- Provide Documents that support the information you enter
- Provide Official instructions for signature and submission rules
- Provide To be eligible for lawful permanent residence under section 245A of the INA, you must meet all of the following
- Provide for all occurrences, during the period for which continuous residence is required for adjustment to lawful permanent
- Provide We provide free forms through the USCIS website. To view, print, or complete our forms, you should use the latest
- Provide Signature. You (or your signing authority) must properly complete your application. USCIS will not accept a stamped
- Provide as valid for filing purposes. The photocopy, fax, or scan must be of the original document containing the handwritten ink
- Evidence. When you file your application, you must submit all evidence and supporting documents listed in these
Evidence checklist (Which documents should you prepare for I-698?)
#- Evidence of identity (passport, government ID, or USCIS-issued document).
- Evidence of current immigration status or admission/parole.
- Evidence that supports the eligibility category selected.
- Evidence of any required family relationship or sponsorship.
Checklist (What are the key steps before filing I-698?)
#- Use the latest version of Adobe Reader to complete the form
- Review the declarations before signing
- Provide a valid handwritten signature; stamped or typewritten names are not acceptable
- Submit legible photocopies of requested documents unless originals are specifically required
- Ensure all required evidence and supporting documents are included with your application
- Download the current I-698 from the official form page.
- Save the PDF locally and open it in Adobe Acrobat Reader so form features work correctly.
- If the form includes validation or barcode pages, complete the validation steps and include all barcode pages in your submission.
- Follow the form’s signature instructions (some PDFs require printing and hand-signing).
- Complete every required section and review for consistency.
- Follow the signature and submission instructions exactly.
- Keep copies of everything you submit.
Fees (verify before filing)
#Fees change over time and can vary by category. Verify the latest schedule before filing.
USCIS filing feesCommon mistakes (What errors delay I-698 petitions?)
#- Not signing the application or providing an invalid signature
- Failing to submit the required photographs or not meeting the photo specifications
- Omitting required supporting documents or evidence
- Submitting original documents when not required, which may be destroyed
- Not providing translations for documents in a foreign language
Examples (What does a strong I-698 submission look like?)
#- Situation: An applicant is preparing I-698 and must include all required evidence. Task: They submit a complete packet within a 30-day preparation window. Action: They compile identity records, eligibility evidence, and the filing fee before submitting. Result: The petition is accepted without a request for missing items.
- Situation: A filer is close to a deadline for I-698. Task: They submit within the required 90-day timeline. Action: They finalize the packet and file within the stated window. Result: The case proceeds without a late-filing issue.
- Situation: A petitioner must reference a receipt number. Task: They match the receipt number to the underlying petition. Action: They include the exact receipt number on I-698 and attach the notice copy. Result: USCIS can verify the underlying filing quickly.
Common misconceptions (What do people often misunderstand about I-698?)
#- Photocopied signatures are not accepted; only original handwritten signatures are valid.
- All documents must be submitted in English; translations are required for foreign language documents.
- You cannot submit original documents unless specifically requested; they may be destroyed.
- You must file Form I-698 within the 2-year period starting from the 19th month after receiving temporary resident status.
- USCIS does not accept applications that are not signed; a valid signature is crucial for processing.
How this guide is built (Where this I-698 guidance comes from)
#This guide is based on the official instructions for Form I-698, ensuring that all information is current and accurate. It provides non-legal advice to help applicants navigate the process effectively.
FAQs
What is I-698 used for?
I-698 is used to request a specific immigration benefit based on the eligibility category you select. The form must align with your supporting evidence and any underlying petition.
What happens if I submit an incomplete packet?
USCIS may reject the filing or issue a request for evidence if required documents are missing. Use the official checklist to ensure each required item is included before submission.
Do I need to submit original documents?
Most filings require legible copies unless the instructions specifically request originals. Always follow the official instructions for each document type.
How do I verify I am using the correct edition of the form?
Check the form edition date on the USCIS form page and compare it to your PDF. Submitting an outdated edition can lead to rejection.
Do I need translations for non-English documents?
Yes, USCIS typically requires certified translations for documents not in English. Include translations that meet USCIS requirements.
VisaMind provides informational guidance only and is not a government agency. This is not legal advice. Requirements can change and eligibility depends on your specific facts. If your case is complex or high-stakes, consult a licensed immigration attorney.
Requirements vary by nationality, purpose, timeline, and case details. VisaMind turns uncertainty into a sequenced checklist with official source citations.
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