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 GainNavigating H-1B Portability in 2026: Stricter Rules and Fees
Changing H-1B employers in 2026 involves navigating a $100,000 fee, stricter degree-to-job alignment, and aggressive USCIS enforcement. Legal portability allows for starting work upon filing receipt, but 'bridge filings' and…
USCIS Tightens Evidence Standards for Marriage-Based Green Card Petitions
Applying for a marriage green card in 2026 involves strict enforcement, mandatory interviews, and facial biometrics. USCIS now…
VAWA Reforms Tighten Citizenship Rules for Domestic Abuse Survivors
New USCIS policies effective 2026 require VAWA self-petitioners to provide primary documentation and undergo a broader 'Good Moral…
USCIS Announces FY 2026 Inflation-Adjusted Immigration Fees for Certain Benefits
Beginning January 1, 2026, USCIS will implement inflation-based fee increases for several forms, including Employment Authorization (I-765) and…
Lawmakers Urge DACA Holders to Renew Early Amid Renewals Push
DACA recipients must navigate a complex landscape of litigation and updated fees in 2025. To maintain protection, filing…
2025 Immigration Shifts: Biometrics Expansion and H-1B Overhaul
The U.S. has reconfigured H-1B visas and immigration workflows to focus on security and high-skilled talent. Employers now…
Federal Immigration Presence in Chicago Will Continue, Patrol Chief Confirms
DHS has extended Operation Midway Blitz in Chicago through 2026. Despite legal challenges, federal agents continue interior enforcement,…
US Expands Somali American Citizenship Audits for Denaturalization Review
Federal agencies are ramping up audits of Somali-American naturalization files, targeting up to 200 denaturalization referrals monthly in…
San Diego 2026 Outlook: Interior Enforcement and Rising Arrests
A comprehensive preparation guide for USCIS interviews in San Diego during 2026. It highlights increased enforcement risks, lists…
2026 USCIS and Consular Processing Outlook: Visa Bulletin Trends and Planning
The U.S. is replacing the random H-1B lottery with a wage-based selection process on February 27, 2026. This…