USCIS Introduces New Form I-485 Effective September 18, 2026: No Grace Period for Older Versions
If you are applying for a green card through adjustment of status, an important filing change took effect on September 18, 2026. USCIS has released a new edition of Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status, and has made it clear that there is no grace period for using older versions of the form. Applications submitted on outdated editions on or after September 18, 2026, will be rejected.
Why Did USCIS Change Form I-485?
According to USCIS, the new Form I-485 (edition date 09/18/26) was revised to align with the new Public Charge Ground of Inadmissibility Final Rule that became effective on September 18, 2026. USCIS determined that the updated form was necessary to implement the new rule, which is why it did not provide a transition period for older editions.
Which Version of Form I-485 Must Be Used?
USCIS has published specific filing rules:
- The 01/20/25 edition of Form I-485 was accepted only if filed before September 18, 2026.
- USCIS will reject the 01/20/25 and 09/04/26 editions if they are postmarked or electronically submitted on or after September 18, 2026.
- USCIS will only accept the 09/18/26 edition if it is filed on or after September 18, 2026.
In other words, using the wrong edition of the form could result in an outright rejection of your filing.
Why Does This Matter?
A rejected adjustment-of-status application can create significant delays and may have serious consequences for some applicants. In certain situations, a rejected filing could affect eligibility timelines, employment authorization planning, or filing strategies involving visa availability.
Because there is no grace period, applicants should carefully review the edition date shown at the bottom of every page of Form I-485 before submitting their application. USCIS has emphasized that only the 09/18/26 edition is acceptable for filings submitted on or after September 18, 2026.
What Should Applicants Do?
Before filing Form I-485, consider the following:
- Download forms directly from USCIS shortly before filing.
- Confirm that you are using the 09/18/26 edition of Form I-485.
- Carefully review the updated form instructions.
- Ensure all information is complete and accurate before submission.
Even a simple mistake, such as using an outdated form edition, may result in the entire package being rejected.
How Raul Rodriguez Law Can Help
At Raul Rodriguez Law, we help individuals and families navigate the adjustment-of-status process and stay current with rapidly changing immigration requirements. If you are preparing to file Form I-485 or have questions about how the new public charge rule may affect your case, we can help you evaluate your options and prepare a complete filing package.
Disclaimer: This article is provided by Raul Rodriguez Law for general informational and educational purposes only. It is not legal advice and does not create an attorney-client relationship. Immigration laws, regulations, and government policies can change frequently, and the outcome of every case depends on its specific facts and circumstances. You should not rely on this information as a substitute for obtaining legal advice tailored to your situation. If you have questions about how the public charge rules or any other immigration issue may affect you or your family, contact Raul Rodriguez Law to discuss your case with an experienced immigration attorney.
