USCIS
Processing time trackers, fee schedule changes, form updates, and policy memos from U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services. Covers service center operations, office closures, and adjudication trends.
Top questions about USCIS
Answers from VisaVerge guidesWhat new policies were introduced by USCIS in 2025?
New policies included stricter naturalization testing and the termination of multiple humanitarian parole programs.
Read: USCIS End-of-Year Review Highlights Rigorous Immigration Enforcement ActionsWhat enforcement approach did DHS and USCIS implement as of January 2026?
DHS and USCIS implemented a zero-release and mandatory detention approach as of January 3, 2026, pushing longer immigration detention and fewer releases while deportation cases move through the system.
Read: How Long Can Immigration Detention Last Before Deportation Under Current LawWhat actions were taken by federal agencies in January 2026 that affected immigration processes?
On January 14, 2026, the Department of State (DOS) paused immigrant visa processing for 75 countries effective January 21, 2026. On January 15, 2026, USCIS announced Operation PARRIS to re-examine refugee cases for fraud/security.
Read: Family Self-Departs U.S. After 11-Year Green Card Backlog ReckoningWhat actions should people take if they have a pending immigration application due to recent policy changes?
People with pending applications should know their rights, gather documents, contact legal help, check their status, and stay informed about updates from official sources.
Read: Debate Intensifies Over Military’s Expanding Role in Immigration PolicyWhat changes did the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) announce in 2025?
USCIS announced inflation adjustments that increased premium processing fees, with Form I-129 increasing from $2,805 to $2,965 and Form I-140 rising to $2,965.
Read: UK Government Hikes Immigration and Visa Fees, Canada and Germany GainNewark Airport Could Lose International Travel Processing Under Trump Administration
DHS and CBP consider pausing international arrivals at Newark Airport due to staffing and equipment failures. No final decision reached yet for 2026 operations.
USCIS Faces Congressional Pressure to Address Immigration Case Backlog
Lawmakers press USCIS as the 2026 backlog hits 12 million cases, questioning fee usage and persistent delays in…
What Happens If You Didn’t Disclose an Arrest on a U.S. Immigration Form?
Key Takeaways A finding of willful material misrepresentation under INA 212(a)(6)(C)(i) carries a lifetime bar with no statute…
Where’s My Refund? Identity Verification Can Stall IRS Processing
IRS 'still processing' status in 2026 usually means routine review, not an audit. Confirm acceptance and check for…
ESDC Updates May LMIA Processing Times for Global Talent Stream and Seasonal Workers
ESDC releases April 2026 LMIA processing times, showing a sharp drop for PR streams but rising wait times…
Adjustment of Status Now Limited to Extraordinary Cases
USCIS now treats adjustment of status as an exceptional remedy, making Form I-485 approvals harder for many applicants…
Bay Area Democrats Press USCIS for Action on 100,000-Case DACA Renewal Backlog
Bay Area Democrats demand USCIS address DACA renewal backlogs causing recipients to lose work authorization and face deportation…
USCIS Moves Toward Mandatory Electronic Filing for All Immigration Forms
USCIS mandates electronic filing and stricter digital signature rules for 2026 immigration benefits to streamline processing and fee…
USCIS Sends Notices of Intent to Deny to Chinese EB-5 Investors Linked to Tech Firms
USCIS intensifies national security vetting for Chinese EB-5 investors with ties to sensitive tech sectors and specific research…
USCIS Rolls Out Interim Final Rule Tightening Signatures, Raising Risk of Outright Denial
New USCIS rule effective July 10, 2026, allows denial of filings for signature errors without RFEs. Fees are…