The long-awaited October 2025 Visa Bulletin here, and as hoped for, priority dates have advanced in many categories. In addition, USCIS has announced that they will accept I-485 filings based on the "dates for filing" table in October 2025. This means your time to file the I-485 may finally be here.
If your priority date is current in October, this blog post will walk you through what that means, the benefits of filing now, common pitfalls to avoid, and how an experienced immigration attorney can help.
What to do if your priority date is current?
If your priority date is current, start preparing now to file the I-485. Keep in mind the following tips:
You and any dependent family members filing with you have to be physically present in the U.S. to file the I-485.
Make sure you are eligible to file the I-485. Consult with an immigration lawyer to make sure you don't have a previous immigration violation, criminal charge, or other matter that makes you ineligible for permanent residence in the U.S.
Start preparing now! Even if you cannot file the I-485 until October, start gathering the documents you will need now. That may include having the medical exam scheduled and completed, and making sure your documents like your birth certificate, marriage certificate, etc., match the reciprocity table.
Consider working with an immigration lawyer if you don't already have a relationship with one. Working with a qualified immigration lawyer can help put your mind at ease, can make the process smoother, and should reduce the chances of delays or errors with the filing.
Benefits of filing when your date is current
Filing your adjustment of status now can provide major advantages:
Work Authorization (EAD): You and your eligible family members can apply for employment authorization.
Advance Parole: You may receive permission to travel internationally while your green card case is pending.
CSPA Protection for Children: Filing can help protect children from “aging out” under the Child Status Protection Act (CSPA).
Common mistakes to avoid
Too often, applicants miss their opportunity because of avoidable errors. Here are some of the biggest pitfalls to watch out for:
Waiting too long: If you delay, your date could retrogress, and you may lose the chance to file.
Incomplete filings: Missing forms, signatures, or supporting documents can result in costly delays or rejections.
Confusing the charts: The Visa Bulletin includes both the “Final Action Dates” chart and the “Dates for Filing” chart. It’s critical to confirm which chart USCIS is using for adjustment filings in October (hint: it's "dates for filing" in October 2025).
DIY filings gone wrong: Immigration law is complex, and even small mistakes can create major setbacks, delays, denials, and major problems down the road.
Next steps: Finding an immigration lawyer for the I-485 filing
At Sumner Immigration Law, we specialize in helping individuals and families successfully navigate the green card process. Our team works hard to keep you informed so you can move forward with confidence and clarity.
If your priority date is current in the October 2025 Visa Bulletin, now is the time to act. We will:
Confirm your eligibility under the bulletin
Prepare and submit your application package quickly and accurately
Guide you through the process from start to finish, answering your questions along the way, and making sure you are informed and educated about the process.
If you are not yet a Sumner Immigration Law client and you’re looking for an experienced, empathetic, and efficient team to help you navigate the process with confidence, please contact us today to set up your initiation consultation to get the process started! You can set an appointmentonline. You can also call us at 804-214-7870 or send us an email at info@sumnerimmigration.com.
We are immigration lawyers in Richmond, VA, but we serve clients throughout the U.S. and around the world. For more information on our firm visitWho We Are and What Makes Us Different! We look forward to hearing from you!
As always, the above information is for educational purposes only and is not legal advice. Please speak with a qualified immigration lawyer before taking action.
