New Requirements Include Mandatory Medical Exam Submission and Simplified Affidavit of Support Process – Changes Take Effect February 2025
USCIS has announced significant updates to Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status, introducing changes that will affect all green card applicants filing for adjustment of status. The new edition, released on December 10, 2024, includes several important changes designed to reduce confusion among applicants and simplify the process.
Key Deadlines for Form I-485 Updates
Starting February 10, 2025, USCIS will only accept the new edition of Form I-485 (dated 10/24/24). Any applications submitted using older versions will be rejected after this date. Applicants currently preparing their adjustment of status applications should ensure they are using the latest form version to avoid delays.
Changes to Form I-485
New Medical Exam Submission Requirements
One of the most significant changes affects how applicants submit their medical examination results. Under the new requirements:
- Applicants must submit Form I-693 (Report of Medical Examination and Vaccination Record) together with their I-485 application
- This requirement applies to both complete medical examinations and partial Form I-693 submissions (such as vaccination records)
- Applications submitted without the required medical documentation may be rejected
Simplified Affidavit of Support Exemption Process
USCIS has streamlined the process for applicants who are exempt from the Affidavit of Support requirement:
- Form I-864W has been discontinued and removed from USCIS.gov
- Exemption requests are now integrated directly into Form I-485
- This change eliminates the need to submit a separate form
Enhanced Public Charge Assessment
The new form includes clearer questions regarding the public charge ground of inadmissibility:
- Applicants must now specify their immigrant category
- This addition helps USCIS determine public charge exemptions more efficiently
- The revised format aims to reduce confusion and streamline the adjudication process
How These Changes Affect Your Application
If you’re planning to file Form I-485, these updates will affect your application process in several ways:
- Medical Examination Timing: You’ll need to complete your medical examination before filing your I-485, rather than waiting until later in the process
- Documentation Requirements: Ensure you have all required medical records and vaccination documentation ready when submitting your application
- Affidavit of Support: If you qualify for an exemption, you’ll no longer need to file Form I-864W separately
Preparing for Your I-485 Filing
To ensure your application is accepted under the new requirements:
- Download the latest version of Form I-485 from USCIS.gov
- Schedule your medical examination well in advance of your planned filing date
- Review the new instructions carefully, particularly regarding public charge information
- Ensure all supporting documentation is current and properly organized
Looking Ahead
These changes are part of USCIS’s broader initiative to reduce the burden on immigration benefit applicants. By consolidating forms and clarifying instructions, the agency aims to create a more efficient application process for the adjustment of status applicants.