How long before the priority date can I submit the I-485?

The adjustment of status process, carried out through Form I-485, is a very important step for those who wish to live legally in the United States. In the case of the EB-4 visa, which is intended for certain special categories, it is essential to strictly follow the rules established by the U.S. Department of Immigration and Customs Enforcement.

One of the frequent doubts concerns when it is allowed to submit the I-485 in relation to the priority date. Generally, the I-485 can only be submitted when your priority date becomes “current” as published in the Department of State Visa Bulletin. This means that, even if the process is already underway or you are gathering the necessary documentation, you cannot submit your I-485 before there is a visa available for your category.

It is not permitted to submit the application “a few months before” the priority date, because the law requires that, to adjust status, the visa number must be available at the time the application is submitted. In other words, the application will only be accepted if your priority date is considered current in the bulletin.

It is essential to regularly monitor the Visa Bulletin, as it is updated monthly and indicates when the priority date of your process advances. It is also important to emphasize that following immigration laws and regulations is imperative to avoid complications.

For this reason, pay attention to official sources and, if you wish, seek information from government agencies or, cautiously, from specialized professionals in the area, but always avoid miraculous promises or dubious marketing campaigns that guarantee results or undue simplifications.

Staying well informed and acting cautiously is the best way to ensure that your process meets all legal requirements. Regardless of your situation, strictly complying with established rules avoids future complications and reinforces your security throughout the entire adjustment of status procedure.

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.