I-130 is approved, how long can I wait before filling i-485

Hello,

I am a Canadian Citizen and my wife is a US Citizen. After getting married she applied for my I-130, while I continue living in Canada. In September 2011, my I-130 got approved through an interview process.

The officer told us that we can now apply for I-485 along with work permit and travel documents after we receives the approval letter in mail.

My question is that how soon does it need to be submitted. Since I am working and can't leave work for another 6 months to a year. Can I apply for it after a year or when I decide to move?

Also can I immediately travel back to Canada after applying for it since I don't need visa to enter US?

Please advise, thank you

There is no limit.

Once you do file I-485, you MUST wait in US untli your get I-131 approved (2-3 months), otherwise your petition is abandonned. It's not a visa issue, it is that you are consodered to have abandonned your I-485, and would need to resubmit it.

most in your situation apply for consular processing.

Not sure why you din't go the regular CR-1 route, you have plenty of time.

Zee how long did it take you to get the I-130 approved?

2-3 months tops

sorry for the late reply....

@badbaldboy - I filled my paperwork in Jan and got the interview in september