I-485 Processing Times in March 2026: 11–31.5 Months for Employment-Based Cases

Form I-485, the Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status, is the primary pathway for eligible applicants to obtain a Green Card without leaving the United States. As of March 2026, USCIS is reporting processing times of approximately 11 to 31.5 months for employment-based adjustment of status cases, reflecting continued backlogs in the immigration system. For EB-3 applicants specifically, these timelines are a critical planning consideration. The wide range in processing times — spanning more than 20 months — suggests significant variability depending on the specific service center handling the case, the applicant's country of birth, and whether the priority date remains current throughout adjudication. Applicants can take several steps to help prevent unnecessary delays, including ensuring all supporting documentation is complete and up to date, responding promptly to any Requests for Evidence (RFEs), and maintaining valid status while the I-485 is pending. Biometrics appointments and interview notices should be attended without delay. Monitoring USCIS processing time updates regularly is advised, as timelines can shift based on agency staffing, policy changes, and filing volumes. EB-3 applicants should work closely with their immigration attorneys to track their priority dates against the monthly Visa Bulletin and prepare for adjustment as soon as a visa number becomes available.