Major Changes to Form I-485: Submission Guidelines for 2025

On December 10, 2024, the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) announced the release of an updated Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status. This revised version introduces several significant changes to submission requirements and form content. Starting February 10, 2025, USCIS will no longer accept previous editions of Form I-485. Applicants must use the October 24, 2024 edition to avoid rejection.

Here’s what you need to know about the changes and how they may impact your application process.

Major Updates to Form I-485

1. Mandatory Submission of Form I-693 with Form I-485

• Applicants who require Form I-693, Report of Medical Examination and Vaccination Record, must now submit it concurrently with Form I-485.
• Failure to include Form I-693 or partial vaccination records (if applicable) at the time of filing may result in the outright rejection of the application.
• This eliminates the need for Requests for Evidence (RFEs) for missing medical forms, streamlining the adjudication process.

2. Elimination of Form I-864W

• Applicants eligible for an exemption from the Affidavit of Support (Form I-864) can now request this exemption directly on Form I-485.
• Form I-864W has been discontinued, reducing the burden of preparing and submitting additional forms.

3. Clarification of Public Charge Inadmissibility Questions

• The revised form provides clearer instructions regarding the public charge ground of inadmissibility.
• Applicants must indicate their immigrant category to assist USCIS in determining exemptions, reducing confusion and expediting processing.

4. Streamlined Form Design and Instructions

• The updated form consolidates and simplifies several sections, making it more user-friendly and efficient to complete.
• These improvements aim to reduce errors and facilitate quicker application review.

Preparing for the Updated Form I-485

To ensure compliance with the new requirements, consider the following steps:

• Download the Latest Version: Visit the official USCIS website to access the October 24, 2024 edition of Form I-485. Using older versions after February 10, 2025, will result in rejection.
• Complete Your Medical Exam in Advance: Schedule an appointment with a USCIS-designated civil surgeon to complete Form I-693. Ensure the form is properly signed and sealed before submission.
• Review Key Sections Carefully: Pay close attention to public charge-related questions and economic exemption requests to avoid omissions or errors.

How We Can Help

Navigating the updated Form I-485 requirements can be complex. Our team of experienced immigration attorneys is here to guide you through every step of the process, from completing Form I-693 to ensuring that all supporting documents meet USCIS standards.

If you have questions about the new requirements or need assistance with your green card application, don’t hesitate to contact us today.

For more information, visit the USCIS website or download the latest I-485 form.

Related Reading: New USCIS Requirement: Form I-485 Applications Must Include Form I-693