Employment-Based Green Cards: In October, USCIS Is Accepting Applications Under the Dates for Filing Chart

This October, if you’re applying for an employment-based green card from inside the US, you can file using the earlier chart of dates — and that includes the EB-1 talent visa.

October 1, 2026 · Kristina Samofal

This one is for anyone on the employment-based path to a green card — including the EB-1 visa for people with extraordinary ability, the same route I once took.

Every month, the State Department publishes the Visa Bulletin with two charts: Final Action Dates, which show when a green card can actually be issued, and Dates for Filing, which show when you can already submit your paperwork. In October 2026, USCIS is accepting applications to adjust status inside the US (Form I-485) for all employment-based categories under the Dates for Filing chart.

In plain terms: if your priority date is earlier than the date listed in that chart for your category and country of birth, you can file now.

The chart can change from month to month, so always double-check the USCIS page before you file.

Source: USCIS — Adjustment of Status Filing Charts from the Visa Bulletin

Rules and deadlines may change — always check the official source.

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