USCIS Reverses Policy, Will Allow Employment-Based I-485 Filings Through August 17, 2007

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has announced that it will accept I-485 employment-based applications to adjust status filed not later than August 17, 2007. As previously reported, USCIS had initially announced on July 2 that it would not accept any additional employment-based applications to adjust status for the remainder of the fiscal year. 

The reversal of policy comes after much public outcry and government discussion regarding USCIS' initial July 2 announcement. Employment-based adjustment applicants in all categories but the "other worker" subcategory will be eligible to file cases during this period. Applications already properly filed with USCIS will also be accepted. In connection with the USCIS announcement, the Department of State (DOS) has confirmed that it is withdrawing the July 2, 2007, Revised Visa Bulletin, so that the original July 2007 Visa Bulletin remains in effect. 

Adjustment applications filed under the July 2007 Visa Bulletin through August 17, 2007 will be exempt from USCIS' July 30 fee increase. Clients should continue to gather all documentation in support of the I-485, i.e., schedule medical exams, have photographs taken, etc., in order to meet the filing deadline. Please feel free to contact us with any questions.