Can I file my I-485 if I am current under Dates for Filing but not Final Action?

Only in months when USCIS says to use the Dates for Filing chart for your category type. Check the USCIS filing charts page for the current month before filing.

Visa bulletin China dates for filing vs final action date: which applies to me?

The same rules apply to every country column. Use your country of chargeability (mainland-China-born uses the China column) and the chart USCIS designates that month.

Visa Bulletin

What is the difference between Final Action Dates and Dates for Filing?

Updated November 12, 2026 · Not legal advice

The Final Action Date is when a green card can actually be approved or an immigrant visa issued. The Date for Filing is an earlier date that lets you submit your paperwork (to NVC, or an I-485 to USCIS when USCIS allows that chart) so your case is ready when the Final Action Date reaches you.

The two Visa Bulletin charts side by side
	Final Action Dates (Chart A)	Dates for Filing (Chart B)
What it controls	When a visa number can be used: approval or visa issuance	When you may start: submit documents to NVC, or file I-485 if USCIS allows
Usually	Further behind (older dates)	Further ahead (newer dates)
Used by USCIS for I-485 filing	In months USCIS says so	In months USCIS says so (announced monthly)
Used by NVC / consulates	To schedule interviews and issue visas	To invite applicants to submit documents

How USCIS picks a chart each month

For adjustment of status inside the U.S., USCIS announces every month, separately for family-sponsored and employment-based cases, whether you must use the Final Action Dates chart or the Dates for Filing chart to decide when you may file an I-485. Approval still requires your priority date to be current under the Final Action Dates chart. See which chart USCIS uses.

Why filing early can matter

A pending I-485 generally lets you apply for a work permit (Form I-765) and travel document while you wait.
Your case can be reviewed and pre-adjudicated, so it is ready when a visa number becomes available.
Filing early does not move your place in line: your priority date sets that.

Quick answers

Can I file my I-485 if I am current under Dates for Filing but not Final Action?: Only in months when USCIS says to use the Dates for Filing chart for your category type. Check the USCIS filing charts page for the current month before filing.
Will my green card be approved when I am current under Dates for Filing?: No. Approval requires your priority date to be current under the Final Action Dates chart.
Visa bulletin China dates for filing vs final action date: which applies to me?: The same rules apply to every country column. Use your country of chargeability (mainland-China-born uses the China column) and the chart USCIS designates that month.

What to do next

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Sources

Checked: November 12, 2026