Avoid Green Card Delays: How to Correctly Complete Form I-485
If you’re applying for a U.S. green card, even minor errors on your application can result in processing delays or rejection. The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has recently emphasized the importance of carefully completing Form I-485, particularly the public charge section.
What Is Form I-485?
Form I-485, officially known as the “Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status,” is used by eligible individuals in the U.S. to apply for permanent residency. This form allows applicants to adjust their status from a temporary visa to lawful permanent residence.
The form requests detailed personal, background, and financial information. USCIS has highlighted that incomplete answers or errors—especially in the public charge section—are among the leading reasons green card applications face delays or rejection.
“Even small mistakes can significantly slow down the process,” notes immigration attorneys who regularly handle green card applications.
USCIS Guidance
In a recent post on X (formerly Twitter), USCIS reminded applicants to follow all instructions carefully. They emphasized Part 9 of the form, which covers public charge inadmissibility, noting that incomplete responses can lead to rejection or delays.
This guidance comes during ongoing changes in U.S. visa policies. The Trump administration recently introduced a new $100,000 annual fee for H-1B visa applications, citing concerns that the program was sometimes misused to replace American workers with lower-paid foreign labor.
By carefully reviewing and completing Form I-485, especially the public charge section, applicants can reduce the risk of setbacks and ensure smoother processing of their green card applications.