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Immigrant Document Checklist

The complete list of documents you need to gather and keep on hand

8 min readUpdated April 16, 20263 steps
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Key Immigration Documents

These documents must be kept in a safe place, and copies should be made of each.

Required Documents

  • Passport — must be valid, with at least 6 months of validity remaining
  • Visa — affixed to your passport (if applicable)
  • Form I-94 — arrival/departure record (print from i94.cbp.dhs.gov)
  • Green Card or EAD — carry with you at all times
  • SSN card — keep at home; memorize the number
  • Birth certificate — with apostille and translation
  • Marriage certificate — with apostille and translation
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Documents for Immigration Proceedings

Depending on your situation, additional documents may be required.

For Green Card / AOS

  • Receipt notices (I-797) from USCIS
  • Approved petitions (I-130, I-140)
  • Medical examination I-693
  • Affidavit of Support I-864 with the sponsor's tax returns
  • Police clearance certificates

For Court

  • Notice to Appear (NTA)
  • All court hearing notices
  • Copies of all filed applications and supporting evidence
  • Attorney contact information
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Storing and Protecting Your Documents

Losing your documents can seriously complicate the immigration process.

Storage Recommendations

  • Physical copies — store in a fireproof safe or a bank safe-deposit box
  • Digital copies — scan all documents and store them in the cloud (Google Drive, iCloud)
  • Give copies to a trusted person — in case of detention or an emergency
  • Notebook — record case numbers (receipt numbers), A-number, and attorney contact information

What to Carry With You

  • Green Card or EAD (original)
  • Driver's license
  • Know Your Rights card
  • Immigration attorney contact information
Ilya Fishkin — immigration attorney, advertising partner of ImmigrantNews.pro

Frequently asked questions

What should I do if a document is lost?
To replace a Green Card — file Form I-90. To replace an EAD — file a new I-765. For a passport — contact your country's consulate. Receipt notices can be requested again from USCIS.
Do documents need to be apostilled?
Yes, for immigration purposes, foreign documents generally require an apostille (for countries that are parties to the Hague Convention) or legalization (for all other countries), plus a certified English translation.

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