USCIS gained the power to deny applications without first sending an RFE or Notice of Intent to Deny, increasing the risk of outright denial for families with minor mistakes.

USCIS now considers anti-Americanism a negative factor when adjudicating immigration benefits and visa applications.

The article advises readers not to wait for a visa or status period to lapse before getting advice or checking their records, as overstays can lead to removal risk, future visa problems, or loss of work or study authorization.

New policies included stricter naturalization testing and the termination of multiple humanitarian parole programs.

Applicants face national-origin-based holds and enhanced security vetting under new policy developments, with an indefinite pause delaying green card processing for certain countries without being an outright denial.