- Form I-485 edition 09/18/26 replaces 01/20/25
- Older editions rejected starting Sept. 18, 2026
- New form only accepted if submitted on or after Sept. 18, 2026
- Preview version available but not fileable before Sept. 18, 2026
- Form revised to align with public charge rule
What is changing
USCIS is replacing the Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status, with a new edition dated 09/18/26. This change affects how the form is processed. The new version replaces the previous 01/20/25 edition and will be required for all submissions after Sept. 18, 2026.
When does this take effect
The 09/18/26 edition becomes effective on Sept. 18, 2026. You must use this version for any submissions postmarked or electronically filed on or after that date. Older 01/20/25 editions will be rejected if submitted on or after Sept. 18, 2026. However, the 01/20/25 edition is still valid for submissions before that date.
How to prepare
USCIS has provided a preview of the 09/18/26 edition and its instructions. Do not file the new form before Sept. 18, 2026. You can review the preview on the Form I-485 webpage. Ensure you use the correct edition based on your submission date. The new form includes updates related to the Public Charge Ground of Inadmissibility Final Rule.
What happens if I use the old form
If you submit the 01/20/25 edition on or after Sept. 18, 2026, USCIS will reject it. This applies to both paper and electronic submissions. The 09/18/26 edition is the only valid version for postmarks or electronic filings on or after the effective date. Always check the edition date before submitting your form.
"On Sept. 18, 2026, USCIS will publish a revised edition of Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status (edition date: 09/18/26)." USCIS announcement
For background on the categories these changes affect, see our guides to the employment-based routes.
Sources
All accessed 2 September 2026.
- USCIS to Publish New Edition of Form I-485; Older Editions Will Be Rejected Starting Sept. 18. The announcement this post summarises.
- Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status.
- Public Charge Ground of Inadmissibility.
- USCIS Newsroom.
Frequently asked questions
When does the new Form I-485 edition become effective?
The new 09/18/26 edition becomes effective on Sept. 18, 2026.
What happens if I file the old Form I-485 after Sept. 18, 2026?
USCIS will reject the 01/20/25 edition if submitted on or after Sept. 18, 2026.
Can I file the new Form I-485 before Sept. 18, 2026?
No. USCIS states you should not file the 09/18/26 edition before Sept. 18, 2026.
Green Card Guide AI is not a law firm and this article is not legal advice. It describes evidence-building strategy in general terms; your attorney determines what belongs in your petition and how it's argued.
