Registry is a section of immigration law that enables certain individuals who have been present in the United States since January 1, 1972 the ability to apply for a green card (permanent residence), even if they are currently in the United States unlawfully.

Eligibility Criteria

You may be eligible to receive a green card (permanent residence) under the registry provisions if you meet all of the following conditions:

• You entered the United States prior to January 1, 1972
• You have resided in the United States continuously since January 1, 1972
• You are a person of good moral character
• You are not ineligible for naturalization (citizenship)
• You are not removable (deportable) under Section 237(a)(4)(B) the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA). You are not inadmissible under Section 212(a)(3)(E) of the INA or as a criminal, procurer, other immoral person, subversive, violator of the narcotics laws or alien smuggler

Application Process

To apply for a green card under the registry provisions, you need to file Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status.

Supporting Evidence for Form I-485

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

• Two passport-style photos
•  Form G-325A, Biographic Information, if you are between 14 and 79 years of age
• Copy of government issued photo identification
• Copy of birth certificate
• Copy of passport page with nonimmigrant visa (if applicable)
• Copy of passport page with admission (entry) stamp (if applicable)
• Form I-94, Arrival/ Departure Record (if applicable)
• Evidence that you entered the United States prior to January 1, 1972
• Evidence to establish continuous residence since entry

Note: An individual applying under the registry provisions is not required to undergo a medical exam.