USCIS has clarified that H-1B visa holders can continue their renewal applications while their I-485 Green Card petitions are pending. However, a memo dated May 21, 2026, indicates that immigration officers must now demonstrate ’extraordinary’ circumstances when approving I-485 applications, moving away from previous practices of automatic approvals.
Key Details:
- H-1B renewals can proceed while I-485 is pending.
- New memo issued on May 21, 2026, changes approval criteria.
- Immigration officers must show ’extraordinary’ circumstances for I-485 approvals.
- This marks a shift from previous automatic approval processes.
This change may impact many H-1B visa holders awaiting their Green Card approvals, as they will now face more stringent scrutiny during the I-485 approval process. Need help with your immigration case? Visit QuickFiling.us for professional immigration services.
Source: cathshiang