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 GainSouth Carolina National Guard May Soon Assist ICE in Immigration Duties
On May 9, 2025 DHS requested 20,000 National Guard personnel to assist ICE with arrests, detention, transport, and administrative support. The Pentagon reviews legal and interstate authority questions while consulting…
ICE Policy Halts Most Deportations of Crime Victims, Exceptions Remain
ICE’s June 10, 2025 directive pauses most deportations for applicants or beneficiaries of U, T, and VAWA petitions…
ICE raids in Los Angeles slow, Homeland Security data show decline
ICE arrests in Los Angeles fell following a July 11 restraining order limiting tactics. Between June 6 and…
USCIS Issues Deportation Notices to Laid-Off H-1B Workers Despite Grace Period
USCIS issues nearly 1,840 NTAs weekly to H-1B workers within the 60-day grace period since early 2025. This…
U.S. Bill Proposes Fast Track Green Cards to End Indian Waits
This bipartisan bill proposes raising the Indian green card cap to 15%, offering premium processing for long waits,…
Green Card Interviews Resume for Asylees: End of the Pause Explained
Starting August 6, 2025, USCIS requires more Green Card interviews for asylees and refugees to enhance security and…
USCIS Updates Family-Based Green Card Rules Effective August 2025
USCIS's August 2025 policy update tightens family-based green card petition reviews with heightened fraud checks. Approval of Form…
Traveling Internationally on Advance Parole with Pending I-601 Waiver Risks
Advance Parole allows travel during green card processing, but traveling with a pending I-601 waiver risks denial by…
USCIS Reinstates Screening and Vetting Standards to Prioritize American Safety
USCIS tightened immigration vetting from August 1, 2025, focusing on asylum, family visas, and student applicants. Enhanced interviews…
Employers Must Flag Revoked EADs Using E Verify Status Change Report
From July 15, 2025, employers using E Verify must check revoked EADs via the Status Change Report and…