Will USCIS deny my I-485 because of retrogression?

Retrogression alone is not a reason to deny. The case waits until a visa number is available.

Can I still get my EAD renewed?

Generally yes, based on the pending I-485. Check current USCIS instructions for Form I-765.

Do I lose my place in line?

No. Your priority date stays the same.

Reading the bulletin

What happens to my pending I-485 if the Visa Bulletin goes backward?

Updated November 12, 2026 · Not legal advice

Your I-485 stays pending: USCIS does not deny it because of retrogression, but it cannot approve it until a visa number is available, which means your priority date must again be earlier than the Final Action Date. Pending applicants can generally keep renewing work and travel permits based on the pending I-485.

Retrogression after filing: what changes and what does not
Item	After retrogression	Note
Pending I-485	Stays pending	Approval needs a current Final Action Date
EAD (work permit) renewals	Can generally be filed based on the pending I-485	Check the USCIS I-765 page
Advance parole	Can generally be renewed based on the pending I-485	Do not travel without it
Biometrics, RFEs, interviews	Can still happen	USCIS may pre-adjudicate and wait for a number
Your priority date	Unchanged	Your place in line is kept

Why it happens

USCIS describes retrogression as a cutoff that moves to an earlier date, generally when the annual limit for a category or country has been used. People who filed under a more generous chart (or a Dates for Filing chart) can find themselves waiting with a filed case.

What to do

Keep your address current with USCIS and answer every notice: RFEs still arrive.
Renew your EAD and advance parole on time.
If you rely on job portability, keep in mind your I-485 must have been pending long enough; ask an attorney.
Watch the Final Action Date: when it passes your priority date again, USCIS can request a visa number and approve.

Quick answers

Will USCIS deny my I-485 because of retrogression?: Retrogression alone is not a reason to deny. The case waits until a visa number is available.
Can I still get my EAD renewed?: Generally yes, based on the pending I-485. Check current USCIS instructions for Form I-765.
Do I lose my place in line?: No. Your priority date stays the same.

What to do next: get your Visa Bulletin alert

When your Final Action Date passes your priority date again, approval can resume. Get an email the day the bulletin shows it.

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Sources

Checked: November 12, 2026