This month, the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) announced significant new policy updates. Specifically, some applicants filing Form I-485 (Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status) are now required to simultaneously submit Form I-693 (Report of Medical Examination and Vaccination Record). Applications failing to include these documents may face outright denial.
Additionally, on December 10, 2024, USCIS released a new version of Form I-485. Starting February 10, 2025, USCIS will only accept the 10/24/24 version of Form I-485, rejecting any older versions.
Major Changes to the I-485 Application Process
Change 1: Simultaneous Submission of Form I-693
On December 2, USCIS announced that certain I-485 applicants must submit Form I-693 at the same time as their application.
Purpose of the Change:
This update aims to reduce the number of Requests for Evidence (RFE), expedite case processing, and improve overall efficiency.
Submission Requirements:
- Applicants must complete the immigration medical examination and receive all required vaccinations.
- A completed Form I-693, signed by a designated civil surgeon, must be submitted to demonstrate compliance with health-related admissibility standards.
- Failure to include Form I-693 with Form I-485 could result in denial of the application.
Updated Instructions:
USCIS has revised the instructions for Form I-485 to make simultaneous submission of Form I-693 mandatory.
Vaccination Requirements:
Applicants must provide proof of the following vaccinations:
- Mumps
- Measles
- Rubella
- Polio
- Tetanus and Diphtheria (Td)
- Pertussis
- Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib)
- Hepatitis A
- Hepatitis B
- Varicella (chickenpox)
- Pneumococcal pneumonia
- Rotavirus
- Meningococcal
- Influenza
- COVID-19
Who is Affected?
- Applicants planning to file Form I-485 within the next six months should schedule their medical examination early and ensure accurate completion of all required forms. Delays in obtaining vaccinations may impact timely filing.
- Applicants who filed before the new rule took effect do not need to worry excessively. USCIS will issue an RFE requesting Form I-693 if it is missing during processing.
Policy Link:
USCIS Policy Announcement
Change 2: Only the New Version of Form I-485 Accepted Starting February 2025
From February 10, 2025, USCIS will only accept the updated 10/24/24 version of Form I-485.
Download Link for the New Form:
Download the New I-485 Form
Change 3: Streamlined I-864 Process
Previously, certain applicants were required to submit Form I-864 (Affidavit of Support). USCIS has now streamlined this process by incorporating the affidavit into the new version of Form I-485. Applicants no longer need to submit a separate Form I-864.
Change 4: Clarified Public Charge Assessment
The new form enhances public charge evaluation by requiring applicants to clearly indicate their application category. This change aims to improve efficiency by helping USCIS quickly determine whether an applicant is subject to public charge provisions.
Conclusion
These policy updates introduce significant changes to the I-485 application process. Applicants should stay informed, ensure all required materials are prepared, and submit their applications in compliance with the new rules. For any questions or assistance, contact Wang Law LLC for professional immigration legal services.