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
Impact of Government Shutdown on Your Approved Visa Before Start Date
A government shutdown does not void already approved visas or work authorization; employees with valid approvals can usually start as scheduled. The biggest impact is on new filings and extensions…
Do Government Shutdowns Affect EB-5 Applications and I-829?
USCIS generally continues adjudicating EB-5 Form I-526 and I-829 during shutdowns because it is fee-funded, but Form I-924…
Are USCIS Biometrics Appointments Cancelled or Rescheduled?
USCIS biometrics appointments generally continue during shutdowns; closed ASCs trigger automatic rescheduling with mailed notices. Request changes for…
Pending PERM Certifications During a Government Shutdown
During a shutdown OFLC halts PERM processing, freezes prevailing wage determinations, and deactivates the FLAG system, blocking new…
Will My Immigrant Visa Interview Be Canceled or Proceed?
After the October 1, 2025 shutdown, most immigrant visa interviews should proceed where posts have staff and fee…
Traveling on a Valid Visa During a Government Shutdown: Re-entry Tips
During a shutdown, valid U.S. visas generally allow re-entry because CBP remains operational and issues I-94 admission records.…
TN Visa at Canadian Border During Shutdown: Are Officers Processing?
After the October 1, 2025 shutdown, CBP continues essential operations so TN processing at ports generally proceeds. Canadians…
Will My U.S. Citizenship Ceremony Be Postponed During a Government Shutdown?
USCIS generally continues naturalization ceremonies during shutdowns because it is fee-funded, but local building closures or staffing cuts…
EOIR Hearings and Government Shutdowns: Detained vs Non-Detained
The October 1, 2025 shutdown led EOIR to continue detained hearings while pausing most non-detained calendars. Expect rescheduling,…
Can I File H-1B or L-1 Extensions During a US Shutdown?
USCIS operations continue during the 2025 shutdown, allowing H-1B/L-1 and other filings; DOL processes like LCAs and PERM…