A refugee preparing for permanent residence should first build a complete immigration record, then use the current USCIS Form I-485 instructions for refugees to determine the actual filing requirements.
Preserve refugee admission records
Keep copies of identity documents, passport or travel documents, refugee admission/I-94 records, resettlement-related immigration documents, employment authorization records, and every USCIS notice received after arrival.
Organize family and civil documents
Keep birth, marriage, divorce, adoption, and name-change records relevant to your identity and family history. Pair every foreign-language document with the English translation and certification required by USCIS.
Build address and travel histories
Maintain a list of U.S. addresses since arrival and all travel outside the United States. Keep passports, refugee travel documents, entry/exit records, and trip dates together.
Flag issues for legal review
Create a separate section for arrests or citations, immigration complications, identity/date discrepancies, prior applications, or other facts you are unsure about. Do not hide a record because you do not know whether it matters.
Medical and filing requirements
Adjustment filings may have form-specific medical, vaccination, fee, photograph, and supporting-document requirements. These can change. Before filing, verify the current Form I-485 edition and USCIS refugee adjustment instructions.
Keep the complete filing afterward
Save the exact submitted I-485 package, proof of submission, receipt notice, biometrics or appointment notices, Requests for Evidence and responses, and final decision. Add the green card information to the permanent record rather than starting a new disconnected folder.
Official sources
This is organizational information, not legal advice. Check current USCIS requirements immediately before filing.