Is there a “cut-off” date to submit the I-485?

The adjustment of status process for the EB-3 visa can seem complicated, especially when questions arise about filing the I-485 form. One of the main issues many people wonder about is whether there is a fixed “cut-off” date to submit this form. In reality, there is no pre-determined cut-off date as a strict deadline for the I-485. What happens is that, in order to submit the I-485, your priority date – set at the time the Form I-140 is approved – must be “current” according to the Visa Bulletin, which is published monthly by the U.S. Department of State.

This bulletin indicates, by category and country, which priority dates are eligible to proceed with the adjustment of status step. In other words, the possibility of submitting the I-485 is linked to the visa availability for your specific category (in this case, EB-3) and to whether your priority date is earlier than or equal to the date listed in the Visa Bulletin.

Therefore, it is crucial that you regularly check these publications, as availability can change from month to month. In this way, you should only seek to file the I-485 when your date is “current” according to the applicable criteria.

It is important to emphasize that strictly following United States immigration laws and regulations is essential to avoid complications in your process. Always seek information directly from official sources – such as USCIS and the Department of State – and be cautious of miracle promises or guidance that is not aligned with official rules. This practice will help you avoid risks and ensure you are making well-informed decisions.

Remember that this environment is constantly changing, and consulting specialized sources or experienced professionals can provide the necessary assistance to help you move forward safely with your immigration process.

Victoria Harper

Editor-in-Chief

Meet the author

Leading journalism and editorial content at Visto n’ Visa, Victoria helps make immigration topics clear, trustworthy, and easy to understand. Her focus is on delivering useful, human, and relevant content for people exploring new paths abroad.