USCIS has announced a significant change to the I-485 adjustment of status process, effective immediately as of May 22. The new memo mandates that many green card applicants, including foreign students and temporary workers, will now need to pursue consular processing abroad instead of adjusting their status within the United States.
Key Details:
- Immediate effect: The memo is already in effect and applies to all new applications.
- Affected groups: Immediate relatives of U.S. citizens, employment-based applicants with approved I-140s, asylees, self-petitioners in EB-1A and VAWA categories, visa overstays, and humanitarian parolees.
- Increased burdens: Applicants may face delays, travel costs, and potential separation from family members during processing.
- Dual-intent exception: H-1B and L-1 visa holders are exempt from the new requirements, unlike F-1 and B-1/B-2 entrants.
This policy shift is expected to create additional challenges for immigrants seeking to adjust their status, leading to longer processing times and increased uncertainty. Need help with your immigration case? Visit QuickFiling.us for professional immigration services.