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 GainHow Does Green Card Renewal Differ If Your Card Is Lost or Stolen?
Replace lost, stolen, or destroyed green cards by filing Form I-90 immediately. Pay a $540 fee, attend biometrics, and wait 6 to 12 months. Unlike renewals, no 36-month extension applies,…
Can I Get a Refund If I Withdraw My I-485 Application?
USCIS does not refund fees for withdrawn Form I-485 applications. Withdrawal needs written notice and you’ll get confirmation.…
Can the Filing Fee for Form I-485 Be Waived?
USCIS prohibits fee waivers for Form I-485, requiring full payment at filing. Applicants must plan financially or seek…
Does USCIS Refund Filing Fees if I-485 Is Rejected for Incompleteness?
Filing fees for USCIS Form I-485 are non-refundable if rejected for incompleteness. The fee increased to $1,440 in…
What Are the Key Steps in the Green Card Renewal Process?
To renew your green card, file Form I-90 at least six months before expiration and pay $540. Submit…
Can I Work or Apply for Jobs During Green Card Renewal?
USCIS now allows green card holders to work up to 36 months after expiration with Form I-90 receipt.…
What If I-485 Fee Changes After Mailing But Before USCIS Receives It?
Effective April 1, 2024, USCIS raised the I-485 filing fee to $1,440. The fee depends on the application…
Do I Need to Pay a Separate Fee for Work Permit After Filing I-485?
As of April 1, 2024, USCIS requires separate filing fees for Form I-765. Applicants filing I-485 earlier avoid…
Form I-485 Not Eligible for Fee Waiver Using Form I-912, USCIS Confirms
Form I-485 is not eligible for fee waivers via Form I-912, except for specific exemptions like VAWA. Submitting…
What Are the Main Causes of Delays in Green Card Renewal Process?
USCIS green card renewals now take 18 to 24 months due to high application volumes, suspensions impacting refugees,…