I-485 FILING GUIDE
In the November 2026 Visa Bulletin, the Rest of World final action date is April 1, 2025 for EB-2 and June 15, 2024 for EB-3. USCIS is accepting employment-based I-485 filings using Chart B (Dates for Filing), but final approval still requires a current Chart A date.
BEFORE FILING I-485 · November 2026
| Chargeability area | Chart A | Chart B✓ This month |
|---|---|---|
| Rest of World | 2025/04/01+90 days | 2026/03/15No change |
| China | 2021/10/01No change | 2023/01/01No change |
| India | 2013/11/01No change | 2015/01/15No change |
| Mexico | 2025/04/01+90 days | 2026/03/15No change |
| Philippines | 2025/04/01+90 days | 2026/03/15No change |
| Chargeability area | Chart A | Chart B✓ This month |
|---|---|---|
| Rest of World | 2024/06/15+31 days | 2024/08/01No change |
| China | 2022/01/22+14 days | 2024/04/01No change |
| India | 2014/01/22+21 days | 2015/01/15No change |
| Mexico | 2024/06/15+31 days | 2024/08/01No change |
| Philippines | 2023/08/15No change | 2024/01/01No change |
C Current, with no cutoff date
Unavailable No visa numbers are authorized this month
FILING CHECK
First confirm whether USCIS allows the Final Action Dates chart or the Dates for Filing chart for this month.
Use the EB category on your I-140 and your chargeability area, usually your country of birth.
Your Priority Date must be earlier than the cutoff date. If the chart shows C, the category is current.
If your Priority Date is eligible and all filing requirements are met, you may move forward with the I-485 adjustment filing.
I-485 FAQ
Final Action Dates
A visa number is available for final approval only when your Priority Date is earlier than the Chart A cutoff.
Chart B controls filing in November 2026; Chart A still controls final approvalDates for Filing
You may use Chart B to file Form I-485 only when USCIS specifically allows it that month.
Even after filing, final approval must wait for Chart AFirst check whether USCIS selected Chart A or B for the month, then compare your Priority Date. You cannot simply choose the more favorable chart.
Yes. Each applicant, including eligible spouses and children, files a separate Form I-485.
Yes, if eligible to adjust status. A selectee files once their DV rank number is current, and USCIS must approve the case by September 30 of that fiscal year. See the DV lottery status and guide.
Your application normally stays pending. USCIS can approve it when a visa becomes available again.
Only if you have valid work authorization, such as an EAD or qualifying work status.
Many applicants need approved Advance Parole before leaving the United States. Limited exceptions may apply.
After Form I-485 has been filed and pending for at least 180 days, a job change may be possible under AC21 if the new job is in a same or similar position. This generally requires Supplement J.
USCIS considers: