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 GainWhere to Place Payment in Your I-485 Application Package
Starting April 2024, the I-485 fee rose to $1,440. Applicants must submit separate payments for each form with proper placement. Use checks payable to U.S. Department of Homeland Security or…
What Happens If I Accidentally Overpay My I-485 Filing Fee?
The $1,440 Form I-485 fee must be paid exactly to avoid processing issues. USCIS rarely refunds overpayments, only…
Can My Spouse and Children Get Green Cards as EB-2 NIW Dependents?
EB-2 NIW applicants’ spouses and children under 21 can gain green cards as dependents either via U.S. adjustment…
Council and AILA Sue DHS, USCIS to Reveal Asylee Green Card Suspension Details
In March 2025, USCIS suspended green card processing for asylees and refugees. A June lawsuit seeks agency transparency…
What To Do If Your EB-2 NIW Petition Is Denied
In 2025, EB-2 NIW denial rates increased to 37.2%, surpassing EB-1A’s 25.1%, due to USCIS’s stricter evidence requirements.…
Does I-485 Fee Include the Work Permit Fee for Concurrent I-765?
Starting April 1, 2024, USCIS charges separate fees for Forms I-485, I-765, and I-131. Applicants must pay individual…
Can You Travel Internationally While Your Green Card Renewal Is Pending?
USCIS now allows lawful permanent residents to travel with an expired green card and Form I-797C receipt for…
What Evidence Proves Exceptional Ability for EB-2 NIW Cases?
EB-2 NIW applicants must demonstrate exceptional ability by meeting three of six criteria. Submit Form I-140 with clear…
Is There a Minimum Publication or Citation Requirement for EB-2 NIW?
EB-2 NIW petitions require no minimum publications or citations. USCIS prioritizes the impact and national significance of work.…
Can I Apply for EB-2 NIW Without Holding a Ph.D. Degree?
EB-2 NIW allows advanced degree holders or those with exceptional ability to self-petition for U.S. green cards without…