USCIS Updates, LPR Reminders, & More
USCIS Now Requires Medical Examination Form with Form I-485
Starting December 2, 2024, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) requires applicants filing Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status, to include Form I-693, Report of Immigration Medical Examination and Vaccination Record. This change means applications missing Form I-693 at the time of filing may be rejected.
The immigration medical exam, completed by a designated civil surgeon, confirms applicants meet health-related admissibility standards, including required vaccinations. USCIS introduced this requirement to reduce delays caused by Requests for Evidence (RFEs) and improve the processing timeline for Form I-485.
For questions about how this impacts your application, Monty & Ramirez LLP is ready to provide support and help you navigate these updated requirements. Contact our team today for personalized assistance.
Keep Your LPR Card Updated Before Traveling Internationally
Lawful Permanent Residents (LPRs) should ensure that their Permanent Resident Cards (Green Cards) are current and valid before international travel. Expired or soon-to-expire cards can cause complications when re-entering the United States or while traveling abroad. If your card has expired, consider filing for a renewal or extension using Form I-90. For individuals with a pending renewal, a properly filed receipt notice (Form I-797) may serve as proof of continued status, but it’s important to confirm this before departure.
180-Day Rule for LPRs: Maintain Residency in the U.S.
LPRs are required to maintain their primary residence in the United States. Prolonged absences exceeding 180 days could jeopardize your status and lead to questioning at re-entry points. Extended departures may result in being deemed to have abandoned your residency. If extended travel is unavoidable, it’s recommended to file for a re-entry permit (Form I-131) to clarify your intentions and preserve your residency status.
Reminder: U.S. Passport Processing Times
Planning to travel internationally? Ensure your U.S. passport is valid and apply early if you need a renewal. Passport processing times can vary, with routine service taking approximately 8-11 weeks and expedited service around 5-7 weeks. For urgent travel, in-person services at passport agencies may be available with proof of travel. Stay informed about the latest updates and services on the official U.S. State Department Passport Page.
Stay Informed on Asylum Policy Changes
With potential changes to asylum policies under the incoming Trump administration, it’s critical to take proactive steps to protect your case. If you haven’t yet filed for asylum, now is the time. Filing Form I-589 promptly or adding family members to your case may provide additional protection. For those awaiting decisions, expedited processing can be requested. Work authorization applications should also be submitted or renewed as early as possible, as eligibility requirements may soon change.
Monty & Ramirez LLP is committed to helping families navigate these uncertain times. If you need assistance with asylum applications, work permits, or exploring alternative immigration options, contact us at 281-493-5529 or info@montyramirezlaw.com.