Imtiyaz Ansari

USCIS Announces Updates to Form I-485 and Expanded EAD Extension Period

The United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has introduced significant updates aimed at simplifying processes for green card applicants and individuals renewing Employment Authorization Documents (EADs). These changes are designed to streamline documentation requirements and reduce processing delays.

New Edition of Form I-485 for Green Card Applications

On December 10, 2024, USCIS released a revised version of Form I-485: Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status. This updated form includes important changes to improve clarity and efficiency. Starting February 10, 2025, USCIS will only accept the updated version (edition date: 10/24/24), and submissions using older versions will be rejected.

Key updates in the revised Form I-485 include:

• Integration of Medical Examination Records: Applicants required to submit Form I-693, Report of Medical Examination and Vaccination Record, must now include it alongside Form I-485. Failing to do so may result in rejection.
• Elimination of Form I-864W: Applicants exempt from the Affidavit of Support requirement (Form I-864) can now request the exemption directly within Form I-485, as Form I-864W has been discontinued.
• Clarifications on Public Charge Questions: Applicants must specify their immigrant category, helping USCIS determine exemptions from the public charge inadmissibility rule.
• Improved Instructions: The revised form simplifies instructions to reduce errors and enhance the applicant experience.

Extension of Automatic EAD Renewal Period

A new Department of Homeland Security (DHS) rule will extend the automatic renewal period for EADs from the previous 180 days to 540 days. This change, effective January 13, 2025, applies to applicants who have submitted timely renewal requests on or after May 4, 2022. The extended period aims to prevent employment disruptions while USCIS processes renewal applications.

Benefits of the Extended EAD Renewal Period:

• Supports noncitizens by reducing the likelihood of employment interruptions.
• Helps U.S. employers retain vital workforce members.
• Strengthens the economy by enabling eligible workers to continue contributing without delays.

USCIS Efforts to Expedite EAD Processing

To further reduce processing times, USCIS is implementing the following measures:

• Cutting median processing times for adjustment-of-status applicants by 50%.
• Reducing EAD processing times for asylum applicants and certain parolees to 30 days.
• Extending the EAD validity period for eligible applicants from two years to five years.
• Expanding online filing options for specific EAD categories.