To apply for a residence card in Los Angeles, follow these steps: Submit Form I-485 (Adjustment of Status) online via , pay the filing fee ($1,140 as of 2023), and schedule a biometrics appointment. Gather required documents, including proof of residency, employment, and family relationships. Attend the USCIS interview at a local field office, such as the Los Angeles Processing Center, and provide additional evidence. After approval, receive a work authorization document (EAD) and permanent resident card (PRC).

The process ensures legal authorization to reside and work in the U.S., with approximately 90% of I-485 applications approved nationwide (USCIS, 2022). Los Angeles, home to over 1.5 million immigrants, benefits from this system as it supports economic stability and labor force participation. Data from the Los Angeles County Economic Development Corporation shows immigrants contribute 42% of the region’s GDP, driven by their role in key industries like healthcare and technology. timely filing and accurate documentation reduce processing times to 6–12 months (USCIS, 2023), balancing efficiency with thorough background checks. Family unity and career advancement are primary motivations, with 68% of applicants citing reunification as a key factor (National Immigration Forum, 2021). Compliance with these steps safeguards legal status and access to essential services, reinforcing the U.S. immigration framework’s alignment with regional economic and social needs.