USCIS Alert 2026: Old EAD & I-485J Filings Being Administratively Closed – Act Now
USCIS is issuing administrative closure notices for older EAD and I-485J filings. Applicants with pending cases should check their mail and USCIS case status immediately.
USCIS appears to be systematically closing out older filings in its system, generating an unusually high volume of administrative closure notices for previously submitted applications. Affected documents include older Employment Authorization Documents (EADs) and I-485J portability supplements, both of which are directly tied to the green card process for employment-based applicants including EB-3.
Applicants and attorneys at Murthy Law have observed a spike in these notices, suggesting this may be a broad administrative sweep rather than isolated case-by-case decisions. An 'administratively closed' status does not necessarily mean a case is denied, but it does require immediate attention to understand what action, if any, is needed.
For EB-3 applicants, an unexpected administrative closure of an EAD or I-485J could disrupt work authorization or affect job portability rights. These documents are critical for maintaining lawful status and employment while an I-485 adjustment of status application is pending.
The recommended course of action is to carefully read any mailed notice from USCIS, cross-reference it against current case status on the USCIS online portal, and consult an immigration attorney if the notice pertains to an active or relied-upon filing. Do not assume a mailed notice is routine without verifying its contents.
USCIS has reinstated neighborhood checks as part of the naturalization process, expanding background investigations for citizenship applicants. Applicants should be aware of these updated vetting procedures and prepare accordingly.
USCIS is sending letters to applicants citing 'FBI Privacy Requirements' as part of background check procedures. The letter is routine and does not indicate a problem with your case.
USCIS has changed how filing deadlines are calculated, affecting employers and foreign workers managing petition timelines. The update impacts how response windows and submission cutoffs are counted, with direct consequences for EB-3 priority date management.