A green card applicant is still waiting despite a successful I-130 and I-485 interview. You were verbally approved by the USCIS officer, yet your Adjustment of Status remains stuck with no final decision.
I-130 approved but I-485 delayed
After the joint interview, your I-130 petition was formally approved within days. However, your I-485 Adjustment of Status application has seen no movement. This delay continues even though both petitions were cleared verbally during the interview.
Online status shows no progress
Your online USCIS portal still displays “interview scheduled” for the I-485. There have been no updates for 61 days since the interview. This lack of change adds to confusion, especially after receiving verbal approval in September.
Verbal approval offers no timeline
A verbal approval does not guarantee immediate processing. You may still wait weeks or months. Officers often approve cases verbally while backend checks continue, which keeps your application technically pending.
Delays becoming more common
Experts say I-485 delays after interviews are increasingly common. Some applicants have waited close to five months before final approval. You are not alone, even if your case appeared straightforward at the interview stage.
Background checks slow cases
These delays often stem from extended background checks or internal processing backlogs. Even after approval, your file may sit in review queues, causing long gaps with no visible updates on the portal.
Country-based scrutiny raises concerns
Some applicants believe the recent list of 19 targeted countries is adding pressure to visa processing. If you are from a country facing visa suspensions, delays are far more likely, even after a successful interview.
When you can escalate
You can request a congressional inquiry if there is no update 120 days after your interview. This step often triggers a review. Until then, patience remains necessary, even though the wait feels excessive.
Stay alert for RFEs
You must watch closely for any Request for Evidence. Missing or delaying a response can stall your case permanently. Quick action is critical to keep your green card process moving forward.
