Forum I-485 (2024)

FAQs

How long does it take for the I-485 to get approved? ›

The processing time for Form I-485 for family-based applications is currently 10–23 months (Boundless updates these figures monthly, based on analysis of USCIS data). Processing times for Form I-485 vary depending on your category of adjustment and which USCIS field office is processing the application.

USCIS Workload: How many applications USCIS has to deal with can affect processing times. When there is much work to do, processing times can get longer. Background checks: The USCIS does background checks on everyone who applies, which can take a while.

It takes approximately 120 days for USCIS to actively review a case. The agency may require additional time to complete its review if any documents are missing.

How to expedite the I-485 application? You can request USCIS to expedite the I-485 application through chat service (Emma) or by calling USCIS at 800-375-5283. You would need your receipt number and reasons to expedite the I-485 request.

Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or to Adjust Status: If you depart the U.S. while your Form I-485 is pending without first obtaining advance parole, USCIS will deny your case unless you fit into a narrow exception for people with certain nonimmigrant statuses.

Second, an I-130 should be either (1) filed simultaneously with the I-485, if the eligibility is immediately available; (2) filed first, approved, and then the I-485 is filed; or (3) filed first, pending, and if immediate eligibility is acquired while pending, the I-485 should be filed.

I-485 Pending with an F-1 Visa

When you file the Form I-485 application you are allowed to remain in the U.S. without maintaining F-1 status. Although maintaining student status is not required once you file the I-485 there is a practical benefit to maintaining your legal F-1 status.

Generally, this is a quick interview that only lasts 20 to 30 minutes. The entire adjustment process may take 8 to 14 months for most applicants. The most important thing you can do to ensure the best processing times is to submit a complete and thorough application package.

USCIS Processing Times in 2024: Mixed Progress with Notable Improvements and Setbacks. Here's what you need to know: Dramatic reduction in green card replacement & renewal wait times: Form I-90 processing time decreased from 9.1 months to just 1.1 months, an 87.9% improvement.

If your I-485 application is pending, you may be in a period of “authorized stay.” This means that you are allowed to remain in the United States while your application is being processed, even if your previous visa or status has expired.

What comes after I-485 case was approved? ›

Upon approval, the applicant is mailed a Form I-551, Permanent Resident Card. The date the Form I-485 is approved becomes the date of adjustment, which in turn determines how soon the newly adjusted Lawful Permanent Resident (LPR) may apply for U.S. citizenship.

When Can I Expect A Decision After My I-485 Interview? If you did not receive a decision at the end of your interview, you should expect to receive a decision from USCIS within 30 days.

Approximately 8 to 14 Months After Filing

However, USCIS may waive other family-based categories at their discretion.

Many factors may affect how long it takes USCIS to complete an application, petition or request, such as the number of applications, petitions, or requests we receive, workload and staffing allocations, the time a benefit requestor takes responding to a request for more information, as well as policy and operational ...

While an immigration attorney cannot per say “speed up” your case, the immigration attorney is knowledgeable in immigration law and will know the best strategy and options for your case. Undeniably, this avoids any unreasonable delay by anyone lacking specialized knowledge in this area of law.

If all of the requirements are met, and an immigrant visa is allocated by the Department of State (DOS), the Form I-485 is approved. Upon approval, the applicant is mailed a Form I-551, Permanent Resident Card.

In this guide. If you currently live in the United States and want to work for a U.S. employer while your family-based green card application (Form I-485) is pending, you will need a work permit first. You may not apply for a work permit if you live abroad.