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 GainUSCIS Tech Email Confusion Highlights Green Card Applicant Frustration
A misrouted USCIS developer bulletin mentioning API key rotation alarmed a green card holder but did not affect their case. Experts say technical notices target developers and do not change…
USCIS Tightens Rules on Work Authorization for Asylum Seekers
USCIS ends automatic EAD extensions for renewals filed on or after October 30, 2025, and implemented a $550…
Texas Accounted for About 1 in 4 ICE Arrests During Trump’s Crackdown
Between Jan and July 29, 2025, ICE made 138,068 arrests nationwide; Texas accounted for 24% (~33,136). Community arrests…
USCIS Thanksgiving Week 2025: Closures, Delays, and Key Dates
USCIS closes on Thanksgiving Day (Nov 27, 2025), with normal operations resuming Nov 28. Expect short mail and…
Timing for Extending or Changing Visa Status at Thanksgiving 2025
USCIS closures around Thanksgiving (Nov. 27, 2025) will delay processing and mail; filings must be received before authorization…
TPS and U Visa Not Admissions for INA 245(a), USCIS Clarifies
USCIS confirmed TPS and U visas aren’t admissions for INA § 245(a). Authorized TPS travel with Form I-512T…
US Proposes Mandatory DNA and Biometrics for Immigration Applicants
On November 3, 2025 DHS proposed mandatory DNA and broader biometrics for all immigration applicants, including infants and…
ICE Deports Chanthila Souvannarath Despite Federal TRO, Court Order
On October 25, 2025, ICE deported Chanthila Souvannarath despite a October 23 TRO barring removal. He had filed…
Washtenaw County Resists ICE, Citing Local Authority and Civil Rights
Sheriff Alyshia Dyer and campus safety leaders in Washtenaw County will not assist ICE; judges’ warrants are required…
Noem Announces 223 Illegal Aliens Arrested in Indiana, Midway Blitz
DHS reported 223 arrests in Northwest Indiana during a 287(g) sweep tied to Operation Midway Blitz; 146 were…