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USCIS Final Action Dates Rule 2026 EB1A: Major Filing Change

The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has introduced a major policy shift in 2026 that directly impacts employment-based green card applicants, including EB1A self-petitioners.

What Changed in 2026?

Starting with the May 2026 Visa Bulletin, USCIS now requires applicants to use the Final Action Dates chart only when filing adjustment of status (Form I-485).

Previously, applicants could often use the more flexible Dates for Filing chart, allowing earlier submission of green card applications.

Impact on EB1A Applicants

This USCIS policy change means:

  • ❗ No early filing advantage
  • ❗ Must wait until priority date is current
  • ❗ Delayed access to EAD and Advance Parole

For many applicants, especially from high-demand countries, this significantly extends the green card timeline.

Current Trend: Slower Movement

Recent data shows minimal forward movement in green card priority dates, increasing wait times across categories.

Additionally, per-country caps continue to create long backlogs for applicants from India and China.

What This Means for EB1A Strategy

Even though EB1A is a top-tier category:

  • Filing timing is now more critical
  • Priority date tracking is essential
  • Delays may still occur despite strong qualifications

Bottom Line

The Final Action Dates rule marks a stricter filing system.
For EB1A applicants, planning ahead is now more important than ever.

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USCIS Strengthens Screening and Vetting in 2026 EB1A

The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has implemented stricter screening and vetting procedures across all immigration categories in 2026, including employment-based green cards like EB1A.

Key Changes Impacting EB1A Applicants

1. Expanded Background Checks
USCIS now conducts deeper cross-agency reviews using federal law enforcement and intelligence databases. Even highly qualified EB1A applicants will undergo more rigorous verification.

2. Enhanced Fingerprint Vetting
As of April 2026, all applications must clear updated FBI fingerprint screening before approval. Pending cases may also be re-screened.

3. Longer Processing Times
Stricter vetting protocols may lead to delays, including:

  • Additional background checks
  • Possible repeat biometrics appointments
  • Slower final approvals

4. Continuous Monitoring
Certain benefits (like EADs) may have shorter validity periods, enabling more frequent re-vetting.

What This Means for EB1A Self-Petitioners

Even though EB1A is a high-priority, merit-based category, applicants should be prepared for:

  • Increased scrutiny of personal and professional history
  • Longer wait times despite premium processing (for I-140)
  • Greater importance of consistency across all documents

Tips to Handle USCIS Screening and Vetting 2026 EB1A

  • Double-check all submitted information
  • Maintain consistency across documents
  • Respond quickly to USCIS requests
  • Prepare for possible delays in processing

Final Thoughts

The USCIS screening and vetting 2026 EB1A update reflects a shift toward a “vet first, approve later” system. While EB1A remains a premium immigration category, applicants must now meet higher verification standards in addition to demonstrating extraordinary ability.

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USCIS Green Card Extension 36 Months: Renewal Rule Update

The USCIS green card extension 36 months update from the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) allows lawful permanent residents to maintain proof of their status for a longer period while waiting for renewal.

According to the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services, receipt notices issued for certain green card renewal applications can extend the validity of an expired permanent resident card for up to 36 months. This change helps lawful permanent residents maintain proof of status while their renewal application is being processed.

What This Means for Green Card Holders

If you file a green card renewal application and receive a receipt notice from United States Citizenship and Immigration Services, you may use that notice together with your expired green card as evidence of your continued lawful permanent resident (LPR) status.

This extended validity period allows applicants to demonstrate that they remain authorized to live and work in the United States while waiting for their new card.

Documents That May Serve as Temporary Proof of Status

While your green card renewal is pending, you may be able to present one of the following combinations as proof of lawful permanent residence:

  • An expired green card together with the USCIS receipt notice showing the extension period
  • A valid passport containing a USCIS ADIT stamp
  • A valid Form I-94 with an ADIT stamp, along with a DHS seal and a printed photograph of the lawful permanent resident

These documents can serve as temporary evidence of permanent resident status in the United States.

Important Travel Note

While these documents may demonstrate lawful permanent resident status for U.S. purposes, they may not automatically be accepted by other countries as valid travel documentation.

Travelers planning to leave the United States should verify entry requirements with the destination country before departing.

Why This Update Matters

Green card renewal processing times can sometimes be lengthy. The 36-month extension provides additional assurance that lawful permanent residents can maintain valid documentation of their status while waiting for their renewed card.

Applicants should always review the most current guidance directly from United States Citizenship and Immigration Services when preparing or managing their immigration documentation.

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USCIS Fee Increase 2026

USCIS announces immigration fee increases starting January 1, 2026.

The USCIS fee increase 2026 will affect immigration applicants nationwide beginning January 1, 2026. U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has confirmed that several immigration-related application fees will rise due to inflation between July 2024 and July 2025. These changes may impact visa applicants, Green Card filers, and individuals applying for work authorization or family sponsorship.

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has announced upcoming increases to certain immigration-related application fees effective January 1, 2026. These changes are required under federal law and reflect inflation that occurred between July 2024 and July 2025.

The USCIS fee increase 2026 applies to select fees established under H.R. 1 and will be adjusted annually starting in Fiscal Year (FY) 2026 by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). These adjustments are designed to account for the rising cost of labor, technology, security improvements, and administrative services required to process applications efficiently and securely.

If you submit an immigration application or petition that requires one of the affected fees on or after January 1, 2026, you must include the updated, inflation-adjusted amount. Filing with the old fee may result in your application being rejected or returned, which can lead to processing delays and missed deadlines.

USCIS has published a complete list of updated fees in the Federal Register, which applicants should review carefully before submitting any forms in 2026. This is especially important for applicants filing for work authorization, permanent residency, family sponsorship, or employment-based benefits.

How to prepare for the USCIS fee increase 2026:

  • Review the updated USCIS fee list before applying
  • File early to avoid paying higher fees
  • Double-check payment methods and mailing dates
  • Save proof of payment
  • Use official USCIS resources only

Staying informed about immigration policy changes can help you avoid mistakes and protect your application timeline.

You can access the list from the USCIS provided Table. Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization – Initial Parole EAD  : Previous fee : $ 550, New Fee: $560 ; Form I-131, Part 9 – EAD requested upon authorization of a new period of Parole (Re-parole)  Previous fee : $ 275, New Fee: $280

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USCIS terminates Covid-19 Vaccination Requirement for GC applicants

The USCIS COVID vaccine removed announcement changes the Green Card process. As of January 22, 2025, USCIS no longer requires proof of COVID-19 vaccination for applicants adjusting status. Applicants will not get any Requests for Evidence (RFEs) or Notices of Intent to Deny (NOIDs) related to COVID-19 vaccination.

This important change ends COVID-19 vaccination documentation from the requirements outlined in Form I-693, Report of Immigration Medical Examination and Vaccination Record.

On March 11, 2025, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) updated their Technical Instructions for Civil Surgeons to remove the COVID-19 vaccination from the list of required vaccinations for aliens seeking admission as immigrants. Therefore, documentation of having completed the COVID-19 vaccination is not required for any immigration medical examinations associated with adjustment applications pending on or after Jan. 20, 2025.

Until USCIS updates Form I-693, Report of Immigration Medical Examination and Vaccination Record, civil surgeons can either cross out the COVID-19 section or write “N/A,” and if the alien meets all the vaccination requirements, mark “Applicant completed vaccination requirements or may be eligible for blanket waivers as indicated above.”

Form I-693, Report of Immigration Medical Examination and Vaccination Record, is a key document in the adjustment of status process. It serves to demonstrate that an applicant is free from any health conditions that would make them inadmissible to the United States under public health grounds. The form, completed by a USCIS-authorized civil surgeon, includes a review of the applicant’s medical history, a physical examination, and documentation of required vaccinations.

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Form I-485 Changes by USCIS for Green Card Applicants

The USCIS Form I-485 update introduces new requirements for Green Card applicants. As of February 10, 2025, USCIS will only accept the 10/24/24 edition of Form I-485. Any older editions postmarked on or after that date will be rejected. This update includes changes to medical submissions, affidavit of support exemptions, and public charge assessment.. 

Starting Feb 10, 2025, USCIS will only accept the 10/24/24 edition of Form I-485 and will reject any older editions of Form I-485 postmarked on or after Feb 10, 2025 .

I-485 (Adjustment of Status-Filing for Green Card) is a step after I-140 Filing (Being Eligible for Green Card) process.

Changes to Form I-485

New Medical Exam Submission 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

  • 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

  • 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

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USCIS Expands Green Card Eligibility for STEM Professionals

USCIS has expanded STEM green card eligibility, making it easier for international students, researchers, and exceptional STEM talent to obtain permanent residency in the U.S. under Schedule A, Group II. This update clarifies which STEM fields qualify and how exceptional ability is demonstrated

 Employers can sponsor foreign national employees for permanent residence in Schedule A occupations bypassing the lengthy and intricate PERM process (Labor Certification).

WHAT’S NEW: The revised definition of “science or art” now includes any discipline in which colleges and universities typically offer degrees. As a result, a broader range of STEM experts may now be eligible for the Schedule A process.

WHO IS ELIGIBLE?

  • Exceptional STEM Talent: The stringent criteria for “exceptional ability” remain in place. You must show international recognition and acclaim in your field.
  • Expanded Fields: Individuals with degrees in a broader range of STEM disciplines are now eligible.

EVIDENCE OF EXCEPTIONAL ABILITY

To demonstrate exceptional ability, you must provide documentation that meets at least two of the following seven criteria:

  • International Recognition: Awards, prizes, or other recognitions from reputable international organizations in your field.
  • Membership in Elite Organizations: Membership in exclusive professional organizations that require significant achievements for admission.
  • Media Coverage: Articles or features about you or your work in prominent publications or media outlets.
  • Judging Expertise: Evidence of your participation as a judge of the work of others in your field.
  • Significant Research Contributions: Documentation of your original research that has made a substantial impact on your field.
  • Publications: Published articles in top-tier international journals or professional publications.
  • Exhibitions: Proof of your work being displayed at exhibitions or showcases in various countries.

BENEFITS OF THE SCHEDULE A, GROUP II PROCESS

  • Faster Green Card Process: The Schedule A process is quicker and less complex than the traditional PERM process, allowing employers to directly petition for permanent residency (a green card) for the foreign national.
  • More Opportunities: This update opens the door for more talented individuals to pursue a green card in the United States.
  • No Degree Required: International employees do not need to have a degree from a U.S. college or university to qualify.
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USCIS Increases I-140 (Employment Based) Premium Processing fee to $2,805

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has announced an increase in the I-140 premium processing fee, raising it to $2,805 for employment-based petitions. Learn more about Form I-140 , Green Card , and premium processing guidelines.”

The fee adjustment, effective Feb. 26, 2024, applies to Form I-907 filings postmarked on or after this date. Incorrect fees will result in rejection of the request.

As per USCIS , the fee change will go into effect on Feb. 26, 2024. If USCIS receives a Form I-907 postmarked on or after Feb. 26, 2024 with the incorrect filing fee, we will reject the Form I-907 and return the filing fee.

The Premium Processing fee adjustment for various case types:

  1. Form I-129, Petition for a Nonimmigrant Worker (H-1B, L-1A, L-1B, O-1, TN-1, etc.):
    • Previous Fee: $2,500
    • New Fee: $2,805
  2. Form I-129, Petition for a Nonimmigrant Worker (H-2B or R-1 non-immigrant status)
    • Previous Fee: $1,500
    • New Fee: $1,685
  3. Form I-140, Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker:
    • Previous Fee: $2,500 (Employment-based (EB) classifications)
    • New Fee: $2,805 (Employment-based (EB) classifications)
  4. Form I-539, Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status:
    • Previous Fee: $1,750 (Various classifications)
    • New Fee: $1,965 (Various classifications)
  5. Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization:
    • Previous Fee: $1,500 (Certain F-1 students with specific categories)
    • New Fee: $1,685 (Certain F-1 students with specific categories)
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USCIS Removes 60-Day Rule for Medical Exam Form I-693

USCIS has updated the I-693 medical exam rule, eliminating the 60-day deadline for civil surgeon signatures. Green card applicants can now submit Form I-693 up to two years after it has been signed, reducing the risk of RFEs and allowing more flexibility when selecting a qualified physician

Green card applicants can now submit their medical exam results form up to two years after the civil surgeon signed it. Previously, green card applicants were required to have a civil surgeon sign Form I-693 within 60 days of submitting their green card application or risk its rejection with USCIS. This requirement placed an additional burden on immigrants and raised their risk of receiving a Request for Evidence (RFE).

The removal of the 60-day deadline will give applicants more time and flexibility when searching for a qualified physician who can sign off on their medical examinations. It could also reduce delays caused by having to resubmit documents if they submitted their form more than 60 days from when the civil surgeon signed it.

“While the 60-day rule was intended to enhance operational efficiency and reduce the need to request updated Forms I-693 from applicants, in practice these efficiencies have not been realized,” USCIS said in a press release.

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Green Card Validity Extension to 24 Months for GC Renewals

USCIS has introduced a GC renewal extension, automatically extending Green Card validity to 24 months for lawful permanent residents who file Form I-90 to renew an expiring or expired card. This extension provides proof of continued status while applicants await their replacement Green Card

As per USCIS, Lawful permanent residents who properly file Form I-90 to renew an expiring or expired Green Card may receive this extension. Form I-90 receipt notices had previously provided a 12-month extension of the validity of a Green Card. The language on Form I-90 receipt notices to extend the validity of a Green Card for 24 months for individuals with a newly filed Form I-90 has been updated by USCIS. On Sept. 26, USCIS started printing amended receipt notices for applicants with a pending Form I-90.

Individual applicants can present the receipt notice with an expired Green Card as evidence of continued status. This extension is expected to help applicants who experience longer processing times because they will receive proof of lawful permanent resident status as they await their renewed Green Card.

If you need evidence of your lawful permanent (if you don’t have a GC card) resident status while waiting to receive your replacement Green Card, you may request an appointment at a USCIS Field Office by contacting the USCIS Contact Center, and we may issue you an Alien Documentation, Identification, and Telecommunications (ADIT) stamp after you file Form I-90.