Key Takeaways
• USCIS removes COVID-19 vaccine documentation for Green Card applications starting January 22, 2025.
• Only the new Form I-485 version will be accepted after February 10, 2025, ensuring updated and accurate submissions.
• K-2 visa holders turning 21 can still adjust status, provided they entered the U.S. before their 21st birthday.
The path to lawful permanent residency in the United States is an important, and often complex, journey for many immigrants. For those holding K-1 (fiancé(e)) visas and K-2 (child of fiancé(e)) visas, understanding the latest updates from U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is vital. Changes effective in 2025 introduce new procedures and clarify many aspects of the Green Card process for these visa holders. This article provides a detailed overview of what these updates mean, who they impact, and how to best prepare for the updated application process.
What Are K-1 and K-2 Visas?
The K-1 visa allows the fiancé(e) of a U.S. citizen to enter the United States with the intention of marrying that citizen within 90 days of arrival. Introduced under the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA), the purpose of the K-1 visa is to honor family-based immigration priorities while ensuring the relationship’s legitimacy. Children under the age of 21 who are unmarried can accompany the K-1 visa holder by applying for K-2 visas. Together, these visas help families start their lives together in the United States.
To adjust their status to a Green Card, K-1 visa holders must marry the U.S. citizen petitioner within the required 90-day window. After marriage, completing and submitting Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status, becomes the next step in the process. For K-2 visa holders, their eligibility to adjust their status depends on their parent’s adjustment process and, often, on their age.
With the 2025 updates, USCIS has made adjustments to these procedures that aim to simplify the process while maintaining the integrity of the immigration system.
Public Health Changes: COVID-19 Vaccination Documentation No Longer Required
USCIS announced that, beginning January 22, 2025, Green Card applicants no longer need to submit proof of COVID-19 vaccination as part of their application for adjustment of status. Previously, applicants were required to provide this documentation along with Form I-693, Report of Medical Examination and Vaccination Record. This requirement, introduced during the pandemic, was designed to protect public health but has since been reviewed in light of improved global health conditions.
For K-1 and K-2 visa holders, this change eliminates a step that many applicants found burdensome. The removal of the COVID-19 vaccination requirement means that these Green Card applications will no longer receive denials or delays due to missing vaccine documentation. This decision reflects USCIS’s focus on reducing unnecessary administrative obstacles while maintaining health standards already achieved through other measures.
A New Edition of Form I-485
A significant procedural change involves the introduction of a new edition of Form I-485. Effective February 10, 2025, USCIS will only accept this revised version of the form for adjustment of status applications. Changes to the form include updated questions and instructions that mirror recent updates to immigration laws and policies.
Submitting an outdated version of Form I-485 after February 10 will result in the application being automatically rejected. Applicants, including those on K-1 and K-2 visas, should take care to ensure they are using the correct edition. Reviewing the form’s detailed instructions thoroughly before submission can help avoid delays or starting the application process over. By emphasizing accuracy and the use of updated forms, USCIS aims to make processing applications more efficient for both the agency and applicants.
Mandatory Submission of Form I-693 with Form I-485
As of December 2, 2024, USCIS requires that Form I-693 be submitted alongside Form I-485, rather than allowing the two forms to be provided separately. Specifically, the vaccination record portion of Form I-693 must now accompany the adjustment of status application at the time of filing. Failure to comply with this procedural mandate could result in the outright rejection of the application.
Previously, K-1 and K-2 visa holders had more flexibility, often submitting Form I-693 after their adjustment application was already under review. However, USCIS has updated this guideline to make the process more straightforward and to minimize backlogs caused by incomplete submissions. While this change underscores the importance of preparation, it also ensures smoother reviews and faster decisions on applications.
Age Concerns for K-2 Visa Holders Turning 21
A long-standing concern for K-2 visa holders is the risk of “aging out,” or turning 21 before they can adjust their status to permanent residency. However, recent policy clarifications ensure that K-2 visa holders admitted to the U.S. before their 21st birthday remain eligible to adjust even if they turn 21 during the process. This policy stems from the Matter of Le decision by the Board of Immigration Appeals, which acknowledged the need for fairness given USCIS processing delays.
For families, this clarification offers peace of mind, ensuring that children are not penalized for timeline issues outside their control. That being said, timely applications by both parents and children remain critical. Filing all necessary forms before the K-2 visa holder turns 21 will minimize complications, safeguarding their eligibility for permanent residence.
Conditional Green Card Status for K-1 Visa Holders
When a K-1 visa holder marries their U.S. citizen petitioner within two years of submitting their Green Card application, USCIS grants conditional permanent resident status. This conditional Green Card is valid for two years and aimed at ensuring the legitimacy of the marriage. To remove these conditions and transition to a full Green Card, couples must jointly file Form I-751, Petition to Remove Conditions on Residence, within the 90 days immediately preceding the conditional Green Card’s expiration.
Failing to meet this deadline can result in the loss of permanent resident status and potential deportation. For K-1 visa holders, understanding this timeline is as important as the Green Card application itself. Maintaining awareness of deadlines and submission requirements ensures a smoother journey toward citizenship.
What Do These Changes Mean for K-1 and K-2 Visa Holders?
The USCIS updates for 2025 highlight both opportunities and responsibilities for K-1 and K-2 visa holders pursuing Green Cards:
- Streamlining Requirements: By waiving COVID-19 vaccination documentation, USCIS reduces potential delays and simplifies application reviews.
- Ensuring Updated Procedures: Requiring the new edition of Form I-485 emphasizes the importance of keeping up-to-date on USCIS guidelines to avoid rejections.
- Focusing on Timeliness: Concurrent submission of Form I-485 and Form I-693 calls for applicants to prepare thoroughly before filing.
- Protecting Eligibility for Children: K-2 visa holders turning 21 can move forward with adjustment of status without fear of losing eligibility, provided their parent’s case is timely and accurate.
Navigating these updates requires focus and timely action. As VisaVerge.com highlights, successfully securing permanent residency is about more than just meeting documentation requirements—understanding the broader context of U.S. immigration policy is equally important.
Final Thoughts
The 2025 updates to Green Card eligibility and application procedures for K-1 and K-2 visa holders represent significant steps forward in modernizing the U.S. immigration system. By addressing public health concerns, simplifying document requirements, and protecting children from “aging out,” USCIS aligns its policies with the realities faced by today’s immigrant families.
For applicants, these changes serve as both a chance to streamline their experience and a reminder of the importance of precision. Careful preparation, timely submissions, and thorough review of application forms are key in navigating these updates. For those holding K-1 and K-2 visas, the pathway to permanent residency is clearer now than ever. To start the application process or review the latest requirements, visit USCIS’s official page on Form I-485.
Learn Today
K-1 Visa → A visa for fiancé(e)s of U.S. citizens to enter the U.S. to marry and begin residency processes.
K-2 Visa → A visa allowing unmarried children under 21 of K-1 visa holders to join them in the U.S.
Form I-485 → Application to adjust status and become a lawful permanent resident in the U.S.
Form I-693 → USCIS form for medical examination and vaccination records required for Green Card applications.
Conditional Green Card → Initial two-year residency card issued to K-1 visa holders married for less than two years.
This Article in a Nutshell
USCIS simplifies Green Card processes for K-1 and K-2 visa holders in 2025. Key changes include removing COVID-19 vaccination proof requirements, mandating simultaneous submission of Forms I-485 and I-693, and protecting K-2 visa holders from aging out. Applicants must use the new Form I-485 edition. These updates streamline applications, reduce delays, and prioritize accuracy.
— By VisaVerge.com
Read more:
• US updates Green Card rules, altering post-marriage travel options
• Trump administration changes green card rules with new immigration policies
• How the Trump Era Changed Rules for Green Card Marriages
• Ready to Return to the U.S.? Key Tips for Green Card and Visa Holders
• What Green Card Holders Face If Turned Away at U.S. Entry Points
