USCIS Now Applies the New "Dates for Filing" Chart for Applicants!

Did you hear this? USCIS will now have two charts available per visa preference category in the visa bulletin: 

• Dates for filing
• Final Action Dates 

Starting from October, 2020, USCIS is allowing employment-based adjustment of status applicants to file based upon the US DOS October "Dates for Filing" chart instead of the old method of "Final Action Dates". 

How Does the New Visa Bulletin Chart Affect My Green Card Application?

1) Applicants can file adjustments earlier

Basically, the new use of Dates for Filing chart will allow employment-based green card applicants to file earlier! As a general rule, employment-based applicants won't be able to receive their green cards until they reach their Final Action Dates. 

Originally, applicants have to follow this old visa bulletin ; now applicants can follow the Dates for Filing chart here.

Applicants can file adjustments in October 2020, even when their green card cases may not be adjudicated for many years later. 

2) Flexibility on Job Changes & Travel

Once you file your adjustment, 180 days later, you are able to change jobs within the same occupational category without filing a new PERM case. Another advantage of filing earlier is you may get a work permit (EAD) and advanced parole for work and travel, which gives you extra flexibility. 

Why did USCIS update the rule? I believe the main reason is because USCIS wants to drive more applications. The more applications they process, the more fees they will receive. This will help them avoid the furlough and keep the agency function as normal as possible. USCIS is also increasing application fees for many immigration categories. See more details here!

Before you go, don't forget to check out my Green Card Application Experience:

DIY How I Applied for My Green Card with No RFE!