You can become a permanent resident through consular processing when living outside the United States. Consular processing is when U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) works with the Department of State to issue a visa on an approved Form I-140, Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker, when a visa is available.

If You Are Living Inside the United States you can become a permanent resident through adjustment of status when living in the United States. Once the I-140 is approved and a visa number is available you can apply on Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status, to become a permanent resident. Supporting Evidence for Form I-485.

You should submit the following evidence with your Form I-485:

• Evidence of inspection, admission or parole into the United States (Form I-94, Arrival Departure Record);
• If you have already been approved for an immigrant petition, submit a copy of the approval notice sent to you by the USCIS;
• Two color photos taken within 30 days;
• Form G-325A, Biographic Data Sheet (for applicants between the ages of 14 and 79);
• Form I-693, Medical Examination (not required if you are applying based on continuous residence since before 1972, or if you have had a medical exam based on a fiancé visa).