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 GainAre There Hidden Government Fees Beyond the I-485 Filing Fee?
As of April 1, 2024, USCIS charges $1,440 to file Form I-485 plus $85 biometrics, $260 for work authorization, and $630 for travel documents. Separate payments per form are mandatory.…
Does the I-485 Fee Include Green Card Production Costs?
Since April 2024, the I-485 fee covers application review, biometrics, and Green Card production. The fee ranges from…
Estimated EB-2 NIW Petition Processing Times for 2025 Explained
EB-2 NIW enables self-petitioning for green cards without needing an employer. Premium processing expedites Form I-140 decisions to…
What Happens If I Write the Wrong Check Amount for My I-485?
Submitting Form I-485 mandates exact fee payments to USCIS; incorrect checks cause delays or rejection. The $30 returned…
How the Postmark Date Determines Your I-485 Filing Fee
The postmark date decides if the old or new I-485 filing fee applies after the April 1, 2024…
Is the Form I-131 Travel Document Fee Included with I-485 Payment?
USCIS changed fee payments on April 1, 2024. Applicants filing Form I-485 must now pay separately for Forms…
Who Do I Make My I-485 Payment Check Payable To?
Applicants submitting Form I-485 must pay filing fees by personal check correctly made out to 'U.S. Department of…
Who Should Write Letters of Recommendation for EB-2 NIW Petition?
A successful EB-2 NIW petition depends on 5–7 detailed recommendation letters, mostly from independent experts. Letters should clearly…
Can You Request Expedited Green Card Renewal for Urgent Situations?
Expedited green card renewal by USCIS is reserved for urgent cases with strong proof. File Form I-90 up…
Fee Waivers for Form I-485: Largely Unavailable for Most Applicants
As of June 2025, fee waivers for Form I-485 are mostly unavailable except for humanitarian asylum seekers, refugees,…