Question. Is applying for a green card through an I-485 my only option?
One seeking to become a green card holder may do so either through filing an I-485 application to adjust status or by attending a consular processing interview to obtain an immigrant visa at a U.S. consular post outside the U.S. The choice to pursue consular processing is generally made at the I-130 or I-140 stage and progresses through the National Visa Center (NVC) once the I-130 or I-140 petition is approved. One who initially requests an I-485 process, but later wants to pursue consular processing, must file an I-824 to notify the NVC of this choice. One who initially requests consular processing, but later wants to pursue the I-485, may do so from within the U.S., but there could be a delay in obtaining the I-485 approval if the file has to be transferred from the consulate or NVC to the USCIS Service Center.