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 Gain
I-693 Processing During Shutdown: USCIS Accepts with I-485
USCIS remains operational during shutdowns and will accept and process sealed Form I-693 medicals. Exams signed on/after Nov 1, 2023 have indefinite validity. From Dec 2, 2024, USCIS expects I-693…
Can Employers File H-1B Petitions and Lcas During a U.S. Government Shutdown?
A federal shutdown halts H-1B LCAs and E-Verify, creating major hiring delays despite USCIS remaining open. Early 2026…
Will My Visa Appointment Be Cancelled During a U.S. Government Shutdown?
Consular operations continue in many locations during the shutdown because of user‑fee funding, but service levels vary. Appointments…
Do O-1 and P-1 Petitions Still Process During a Shutdown?
USCIS and fee-funded consular services usually continue handling O-1 and P-1 petitions during a shutdown; DOL suspensions do…
What Employers Should Do If E-Verify Is Unavailable During a Shutdown
E-Verify is suspended due to a government shutdown. Employers must still complete Form I-9 for all new hires…
Automatic Visa Revalidation During a US Government Shutdown: Key Facts
During a federal shutdown, automatic visa revalidation still allows eligible travelers to re-enter the U.S. after trips under…
Are USCIS Fees Processed During Government Shutdowns? Fee-Funded
Because USCIS is about 96% fee-funded, it continues core processing—accepting filings, taking fees, scheduling biometrics and interviews—during government…
CBP Remains Operational at Ports During Shutdown; Delays Possible
CBP remains operational during a government shutdown, keeping ports open and continuing inspections. Expect potential delays from reduced…
Will My Pending I-485 Continue During a Federal Shutdown?
Because USCIS is largely fee-funded, pending Form I-485 applications continue to be processed during a government shutdown. Premium…
Can I File EAD Renewal or Initial Application During a Shutdown?
USCIS typically stays open during a shutdown because it is fee-funded; file Form I-765 on time. Many renewals…