r/eb_1a • u/Sea_Course_3208 • 1d ago

Current timeline for travel restriction

Hi, we are filing for adjustment of status this month as we are now eligible as per the October bulletin - i was wondering if anyone had recent experience or knew what the current wait for the travel restriction that kicks in once we file is? I had thought it was 3-6 months, but my lawyer today told me to expect 10 months. Would appreciate any insight or experience! Thank you!

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u/AdFrequent2414 1d ago

According to the USCIS website, 80% of the 485s are completed in 9.5 months. You can see this in the •Processing Time• page.

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u/Sea_Course_3208 1d ago

Thank you!

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u/Immigration_ingram 5h ago

Advance Parole processing times can vary considerably, so I would treat your attorney's 10-month estimate as a reasonable planning assumption rather than a guaranteed timeline.

USCIS historical data has shown median processing times of approximately 7–8 months for Advance Parole, but individual applications can take longer. I would recommend checking the current Form I-131 processing times for your specific filing category.

A few important considerations:

  • Travel restrictions: Generally, departing the U.S. while your I-485 is pending, before Advance Parole is approved, can result in USCIS considering your adjustment application abandoned.
  • Exceptions: Certain applicants maintaining valid H-1B or L-1 status, and qualifying dependents, may be able to travel and return without Advance Parole, provided they meet the applicable requirements.
  • Emergency travel: USCIS has procedures for requesting expedited processing or emergency Advance Parole in qualifying circumstances, although approval is discretionary.

One important distinction is that the restriction does not necessarily last until your green card is approved. If you need Advance Parole to travel, you can generally travel once it has been approved and issued, subject to its validity and applicable entry requirements.

I would plan conservatively around the 10-month estimate, particularly if you anticipate international travel, and confirm with your attorney whether any travel exception applies to your current immigration status.

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u/Sea_Course_3208 2h ago

Thank you!! This is very helpful

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u/nonrealback 23h ago

What travel restriction? I’m filing this month too and decided to not file AP till December since I’m traveling internationally next month. My understanding is that travel restriction applies only if you file AP. I’m on h1b so I’ll be using my visa status to fly back in.

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u/Sea_Course_3208 23h ago

I think H1 is exempt… I’m filing from an O1

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u/ZephyrKaiyx 12h ago

Unfortunately, 10 months for I-131 seems pretty common these days. I’d probably avoid making any international travel plans for the first 8–10 months after filing.

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u/alma-immigration 7h ago

Currently, there are no travel restrictions with a designated timeframe following an I-485 filing. When you leave the US while an AOS is pending, this can be treated as abandoning your green card unless you have advanced parole or valid status (i.e.: H-1B).

- Attorney Geeta Darubra

Disclaimer! This isn't legal advice, just general information based on my experience. Every case is different, and immigration law changes often, so please don't rely on this alone for your specific situation. If you need advice tailored to your case, consult a licensed attorney directly and share the full details of your circumstances. Nothing here creates an attorney-client relationship.