USCIS Announces End of COVID-Related Flexibilities
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services today announced that certain flexibilities it first announced in March 2020, to address the COVID-19 pandemic will end on March 23, 2023.
03/23/2023
Tools Outage
USCIS will conduct system maintenance to the Contact Relationship Interface System (CRIS) on Thursday, March 23, 2023 at 11:50 p.m. through Friday, March 24, 2023 at 2:00 a.m. Eastern.
03/22/2023
USCIS Form and Policy Updates for Applying for Naturalization Based on Military Service
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services today announced updated policy guidance in the USCIS Policy Manual to clarify and conform with the revision of Form N-426, Request for Certification of Military or Naval Service.
03/22/2023
Update to Filing Location for U Nonimmigrant-Based Form I-485
U nonimmigrants applying to become lawful permanent residents must now file Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status, only at the Nebraska Service Center and not at the Vermont Service Center.
03/20/2023
USCIS Relocates Lockbox From Phoenix To Tempe, Arizona for Courier Delivery Services
On March 31, applicants and petitioners filing at the Phoenix lockbox will see a new filing location for courier delivery services such as UPS, FedEx, and DHL.
03/17/2023
USCIS Announces Additional Mail Delivery Process for Receiving ADIT Stamp
Lawful permanent residents may receive temporary evidence of their lawful permanent resident status by mail rather than physically visiting a field office to receive an Alien Documentation, Identification and Telecommunication (ADIT) stamp (also known as an I-551 stamp).
03/16/2023
USCIS Removes Biometrics Requirement for Form I-526E Petitioners
Beginning on March 15, 2023, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services is removing the biometrics submission requirement and $85 fee requirement for petitioners filing Form I-526E, Immigrant Petition by Regional Center Investor.
03/15/2023
USCIS Extends Rule Providing Interpreters at Affirmative Asylum Interviews
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services announced today a fourth extension to a temporary final rule (TFR) requiring use of a USCIS interpreter at certain affirmative asylum interviews.
03/15/2023
USCIS Issues Guidance on Analyzing Employers’ Ability to Pay Wages
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services today issued policy guidance on how we analyze an employer’s ability to pay the proffered wage for immigrant petitions in certain first, second, and third preference employment-based immigrant visa classifications.
03/15/2023
USCIS Processing Times for Orphan and Hague Adoption Cases
On Nov. 2, 2022 USCIS announced a change in our method for calculating orphan and Hague adoption case processing times.
03/13/2023
USCIS Provides Guidance on Program for International Entrepreneurs
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services has issued comprehensive guidance on parole for international entrepreneurs.
03/10/2023
New Entrepreneur Resources Available on USCIS Website
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services has published additional online resources on uscis.gov to provide an overview of some of the temporary and permanent pathways for noncitizen entrepreneurs to work in the United States.
03/09/2023
USCIS Updates Policy Guidance on Mobile Biometrics Services
We are issuing policy guidance in the USCIS Policy Manual to address how we provide mobile biometrics services.
03/07/2023
USCIS Issues Clarifying Guidance on Eligibility for the O-1B Visa Classification
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services today issued policy guidance clarifying how it evaluates evidence to determine eligibility for O-1B nonimmigrants of extraordinary ability in the arts and nonimmigrants of extraordinary achievement in the motion picture or television industry.
03/03/2023
USCIS Reaches H-2B Cap for Second Half of FY 2023 and Announces Filing Dates for the Second Half of FY 2023 Supplemental Visas
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has received enough petitions to meet the H-2B cap for the second half of fiscal year (FY) 2023 and is announcing the filing dates for supplemental H-2B visas for the reminder of FY 2023 made available under the FY 2023 H-2B supplemental visa temporary final rule.
03/02/2023
USCIS to Start Collecting Fee for EB-5 Integrity Fund
Today, the Department of Homeland Security posted a Federal Register notice providing information related to the EB-5 Integrity Fund.
03/01/2023
USCIS Issues Clarifying Guidance for Individuals Authorized to Work Under Special Student Relief Provisions
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services is issuing policy guidance in the USCIS Policy Manual to clarify the validity period of employment authorization for F-1 nonimmigrant students experiencing severe economic hardship due to emergent circumstances (also known as special student relief (SSR)) who are work authorized under the SSR provisions of 8 CFR.
02/22/2023
USCIS Updates Child Status Protection Act (CSPA) Age Calculation for Certain Adjustment of Status Applicants
WASHINGTON—U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services has issued guidance in the USCIS Policy Manual to update when an immigrant visa number “becomes available” for the purpose of calculating a noncitizen’s age in certain situations under the Child Status Protection Act (CSPA).
02/14/2023
Reminder to Submit All Required Initial Evidence and Supporting Documentation, including Form I-693, for Form I-485
Save time by filing all required initial evidence and supporting documentation listed under the “Checklist of Required Initial Evidence” heading at the same time you file Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status.
02/10/2023
Update to Filing Location for Form I-360 and Form I-485 for Self-Petitioning Abused Spouses, Children, and Parents
Starting February 10, 2023, self-petitioning abused spouses, children, and parents must file Form I-360, Petition for Amerasian, Widow(er), or Special Immigrant, and Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status, at the Nebraska Service Center instead of the Vermont Service Center.
02/08/2023
USCIS Clarifies Physical Presence Guidance for Asylees and Refugees Applying for Adjustment of Status
Effective immediately, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has updated guidance in the USCIS Policy Manual to clarify that both asylees and refugees must have been physically present in the United States for one year when we adjudicate their Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status, rather than at the time they file their adjustment of status application.
02/02/2023
Cap Reached for Additional Returning Worker H-2B Visas for the First Half of FY 2023
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services has received enough petitions to reach the cap for the additional 18,216 H-2B visas made available for returning workers for the first half of fiscal year (FY) 2023 with start dates on or before March 31, 2023, under the recently announced H-2B supplemental cap temporary final rule.
01/31/2023
FY 2024 H-1B Cap Initial Registration Period Opens on March 1
Today, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services announced that the initial registration period for the fiscal year 2024 H-1B cap will open at noon Eastern on March 1 and run through noon Eastern on March 17, 2023.
01/27/2023
USCIS Extends COVID-19-related Flexibilities
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services is extending certain COVID-19-related flexibilities through March 23, 2023.
01/24/2023
USCIS Extends Green Card Validity for Conditional Permanent Residents with a Pending Form I-751 or Form I-829
USCIS is extending the validity of Permanent Resident Cards (also known as Green Cards) for petitioners who properly file Form I-751, Petition to Remove Conditions on Residence, or Form I-829, Petition by Investor to Remove Conditions on Permanent Resident Status for 48 months beyond the card’s expiration date.
01/23/2023
Asylum Applicants Can Now File Form I-765 Online
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services today announced that certain asylum applicants can now file Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization, online.
01/23/2023
USCIS Announces Final Phase of Premium Processing Expansion for EB-1 and EB-2 Form I-140 Petitions and Future Expansion for F-1 Students Seeking OPT and Certain Student and Exchange Visitors
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services is implementing the final phase of the premium processing expansion for Form I-140, Immigrant Petition for Alien Workers, under the EB-1 and EB-2 classifications.
01/12/2023
DHS Implements New Processes for Cubans, Haitians, and Nicaraguans and Eliminates Cap for Venezuelans
On Jan. 5, 2023, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) announced a safe and lawful way for qualifying Cubans, Haitians, and Nicaraguans with U.S.-based supporters to travel by air to and temporarily reside in the United States.
01/06/2023
Filing Location Change for Form I-730, Refugee/Asylee Relative Petition
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services is changing the filing location for Form I-730, Refugee/Asylee Relative Petition, to streamline workloads in an ever-increasing electronic environment.
01/04/2023
USCIS Releases New Immigrant Investor Form
We have published Form I-956K, Registration for Direct and Third-Party Promoters.
01/04/2023
Options for Nonimmigrant Workers Following Termination of Employment
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is providing information for nonimmigrant workers whose employment has terminated, either voluntarily or involuntarily.
12/19/2022
DHS’s Public Charge Final Rule Goes into Effect on Dec. 23
On Dec. 23, 2022, the Department of Homeland Security’s (DHS) Public Charge Ground of Inadmissibility final rule will go into effect.
12/19/2022
USCIS Updates Policy to Automatically Extend Green Cards for Naturalization Applicants
Effective Dec. 12, 2022, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is updating the USCIS Policy Manual to allow USCIS to automatically extend the validity of Permanent Resident Cards (commonly called Green Cards) for lawful permanent residents who have applied for naturalization.
12/09/2022
USCIS Announces Important Filing Information for Upcoming FY 2023 H-2B Supplemental Cap Petitions
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is announcing important filing updates for petitioners who will be requesting additional H-2B workers for fiscal year 2023 under the upcoming temporary final rule.
12/08/2022
USCIS Extends and Expands Fee Exemptions and Expedited Processing for Afghan Nationals
Today, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services announced it is extending and expanding previously announced filing fee exemptions and expedited application processing for certain Afghan nationals.
11/22/2022
Certain Afghan and Ukrainian Parolees Are Employment Authorized Incident to Parole
Congress has recently passed laws relating to certain Afghan and Ukrainian parolees that have included language providing that parolees covered by the legislation “…shall be eligible for resettlement assistance, entitlement programs, and other benefits available to refugees admitted under section 207 of the Immigration and Nationality Act (8 U.S.C. 1157)....” Under DHS regulations, refugees are authorized employment incident to status, and under current USCIS policy and practice, refugees are not charged a fee by USCIS for their initial Form I-766, Employment Authorization Document (EAD).
11/21/2022
Recommendations for Paper Filings to Avoid Scanning Delays
As we move toward an increasing electronic environment, we now scan and upload many documents into electronic database systems. If you are filing your form with a USCIS service center, To avoid delays and improve scanning efficiency, we recommend that you do not:
11/16/2022
DHS Continues Temporary Protected Status and Related Documentation for Certain Beneficiaries of TPS
On Nov. 10, 2022, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) posted a Federal Register Notice announcing the continuation of Temporary Protected Status (TPS) and certain related documents for beneficiaries under the TPS designations that remain subject to the court orders in the Ramos et al. v. Nielsen and Bhattarai et al. v. Nielsen et al. lawsuits.
11/14/2022
DHS Announces Countries Eligible for H-2A and H-2B Visa Programs
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS), in consultation with the Department of State (DOS), has announced the lists of countries whose nationals are eligible to participate in the H-2A and H-2B visa programs in the next year.
11/09/2022
New Processing Time Method for Orphan and Hague Applications and Petitions
Starting in mid-November, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) will change how we calculate processing times for orphan and Hague cases.
11/02/2022
ACICS Loss of Recognition May Affect Certain Students Applying for English Language Study and 24-month STEM OPT Extension Programs, H-1B, and I-140 Applicants
On Aug. 19, the U.S. Department of Education (ED) announced that it no longer recognizes the Accrediting Council for Independent Colleges and Schools (ACICS) as an accrediting agency.
11/01/2022
USCIS Will Only Consider CW-1 Petitions Approved and with Starting Validity on or after June 18, 2020, when Applying the Temporary Departure Requirement
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services is clarifying its Aug. 25, 2020, policy on implementing the requirement that workers leave the United States for at least 30 days after two renewals of their CNMI-Only Transitional Worker (CW-1) visa classification.
10/27/2022
USCIS Extends COVID-19-related Flexibilities
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services is extending certain COVID-19-related flexibilities through Jan. 24, 2023, to assist applicants, petitioners, and requestors.
10/24/2022
Filing Guidance for CW-1 Petitions Seeking to Extend Status
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services will consider certain CW-1 petitions seeking an extension of status for temporary workers present in the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands (CNMI) to be filed on time, even if USCIS receives them after the worker’s current period of CW-1 petition validity expires.
10/18/2022
USCIS Implements New Process for Venezuelans
On Oct. 12, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) announced a new process for Venezuelans.
10/18/2022
USCIS Issues Policy Guidance on the EB-5 Reform and Integrity Act of 2022
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has issued policy guidance in the USCIS Policy Manual based on the vacatur of the EB-5 Modernization Rule and the EB-5 Reform and Integrity Act of 2022.
10/11/2022
USCIS Updates Military Naturalization Guidance for Calixto Class Members
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services published updated guidance in the USCIS Policy Manual as a result of a settlement agreement in Calixto v. Department of the Army, Civ. A. No. 18-1551 (PLF) (D.D.C.), known as the Calixto Agreement. In the Calixto Agreement, effective Sept. 22, 2022, the U.S. Army agreed to certify Form N-426, Request for Certification of Military or Naval Service, for Calixto class members.
10/07/2022
Extension of Temporary Waiver of 60-Day Rule for Civil Surgeon Signatures on Form I-693
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services is extending our temporary waiver of the requirement that civil surgeons must sign Form I-693, Report of Medical Examination and Vaccination Record, no more than 60 days before an individual applies for the underlying immigration benefit (including Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status).
09/29/2022
USCIS Extends Green Card Validity Extension to 24 Months for Green Card Renewals
Effective Sept. 26, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is automatically extending the validity of Permanent Resident Cards (also known as Green Cards) to 24 months for lawful permanent residents who file Form I-90, Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card.
09/28/2022
USCIS Stops Accepting CW-1 Petitions Under the Disaster Recovery Workforce Act
USCIS will no longer accept CW-1 petitions filed by employers in the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands (the CNMI) under the Disaster Recovery Workforce Act on or after Oct. 1, 2022.
09/28/2022
USCIS Reviewing Military Naturalization Policy Based on Settlement Agreement in Calixto v. Department of the Army, Civ. A. No 18-1551 (PLF) (D.D.C.)
On Sept. 22, 2022, USCIS was notified of a settlement agreement between the U.S. Army and class members of the civil action captioned Calixto v. Department of the Army, Civ. A. No. 18-1551 (PLF) (D.D.C.).
09/22/2022
Immigration Help Available to Those Affected by Natural Disasters and Other Unforeseen Circumstances
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services reminds the public that we offer immigration services that may help people affected by unforeseen circumstances such as natural disasters in the United States and abroad.
09/21/2022
DHS Publishes Final Rule to Restore Asylum Regulations Consistent with Asylumworks Vacatur
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) today announced publication of a final rule consistent with the vacatur of the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia in Asylumworks et al. v. Mayorkas et al. This final rule is effective starting Feb. 7, 2022. 
09/21/2022
USCIS to Implement Next Phase of Premium Processing for Certain Previously Filed EB-1 and EB-2 Form I-140 Petitions
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services is implementing the next phase of the premium processing expansion for certain petitioners who have a pending Form I-140, Immigrant Petition for Alien Workers, under the EB-1 and EB-2 classifications.
09/15/2022
USCIS Reaches H-2B Cap for First Half of FY 2023
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services has received enough petitions to reach the congressionally mandated cap on H-2B visas for temporary nonagricultural workers for the first half of fiscal year (FY) 2023.
09/14/2022
USCIS Released Revised Editions of Forms I-589 and I-765
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services released revised editions of Form I-589, Application for Asylum and for Withholding of Removal, and Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization, dated 07/26/22.
09/07/2022
USCIS Resumes Cuban Family Reunification Parole Program Operations
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is resuming operations under the Cuban Family Reunification Parole (CFRP) program, beginning with pending CFRP program applications.
09/01/2022
USCIS Updates Guidance Related to Religious Workers
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is issuing policy guidance in the USCIS Policy Manual to reorganize and expand on existing guidance related to special immigrant and nonimmigrant religious workers.
08/30/2022
USCIS Reaches Fiscal Year 2023 H-1B Cap
USCIS has received a sufficient number of petitions needed to reach the congressionally mandated 65,000 H-1B visa regular cap and the 20,000 H-1B visa U.S. advanced degree exemption, known as the master’s cap, for fiscal year (FY) 2023.
08/23/2022
Updated COVID-19 Vaccination Requirements for Uniting for Ukraine Parolees
The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has updated the COVID-19 vaccination requirements for beneficiaries paroled into the United States under Uniting for Ukraine.
08/10/2022
USCIS Updates Interpretation of “Under Honorable Conditions” for Military Naturalization
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services is publishing an update to its Policy Manual to clarify that a current or former service member who received an uncharacterized discharge may be eligible for naturalization under sections 328 and 329 of the Immigration and Naturalization Act (INA).
08/02/2022
New STEM Resources Available on USCIS Website
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services has published additional online resources on uscis.gov to provide an overview of some of the temporary and permanent pathways for noncitizens to work in the United States in the fields of science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM). This guide also highlights some of the most important considerations for STEM professionals who want to work in the United States.
07/28/2022
Information on Form I-589 Intake and Processing Delays
USCIS is currently experiencing delays in issuing receipts for Form I-589, Application for Asylum and for Withholding of Removal. Due to these delays, you may not receive a receipt notice in a timely manner after you properly file your Form I-589.
07/28/2022
Parolees Can Now File Form I-765 Online
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services today announced that certain parolees can now file Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization, online.
07/28/2022
USCIS Extends COVID-19-related Flexibilities
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services is extending certain COVID-19-related flexibilities through Oct. 23, 2022, to assist applicants, petitioners, and requestors.
07/25/2022
USCIS Updates Guidance for O-1 Petitions with a Focus on STEM Fields
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services today updated its Policy Manual to provide further guidance on evidence that can be used to support a petition for an O-1A nonimmigrant of extraordinary ability with a focus on science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields.
07/22/2022
USCIS Updates Guidance for Afghans and Iraqis Seeking Special Immigrant Classification
USCIS is updating guidance in the USCIS Policy Manual regarding Afghan and Iraqi nationals seeking special immigrant classification.
07/20/2022
USCIS to Implement Second Phase of Premium Processing for Certain Previously Filed EB-1 and EB-2 Form I-140 Petitions
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is implementing the second phase of the premium processing expansion for certain petitioners who have a pending Form I-140, Immigrant Petition for Alien Workers, under the EB-1 and EB-2 classifications.
07/15/2022
Time Frame Extended for Uniting for Ukraine Parolees to Comply with Medical Screening and Attestation After Arrival to the United States
The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has extended the time beneficiaries paroled into the United States under Uniting for Ukraine have to attest to their compliance with the medical screening for tuberculosis and additional vaccinations, if required. Effective immediately, beneficiaries paroled into the United States under Uniting for Ukraine must complete their medical attestation within 90 days of arrival in the United States. Previously, beneficiaries paroled into the United States under Uniting for Ukraine were required to complete the medical screening and attestation within 14 days of arrival to the United States.
07/13/2022
USCIS Releases New Forms for Immigrant Investor Program
USCIS is revising Form I-526, Immigrant Petition by Alien Entrepreneur, to accommodate the EB-5 Reform and Integrity Act of 2022, which made significant changes to both the filing and eligibility requirements for investors under the EB-5 program.
07/12/2022
USCIS Transfers Certain H-1B Petitions to the California Service Center
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services announced today that certain H-1B petitions and fiscal year (FY) 2023 H-1B cap petitions awaiting intake at the Vermont Service Center (VSC) are being transferred to the California Service Center (CSC) for data entry and adjudication.
06/16/2022
Parole Requests in Response to the Shooting in Uvalde, Texas
If you are seeking parole into the United States for yourself or someone else to attend a funeral or provide emergency assistance to a family member affected by the shooting at Robb Elementary School in Uvalde, Texas, submit a request for urgent humanitarian or significant public benefit parole by filing Form I-131, Application for Travel Document. 
06/08/2022
USCIS Updates Public Charge Resources Webpage to Provide Information on the Public Charge Ground of Inadmissibility and Public Benefits Available to Noncitizens
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services has updated our public charge resources webpage with more information to help reduce undue fear and confusion among immigrants and their families, including U.S. citizens and their children, that may prevent them from obtaining access to critical government services available to them.
06/03/2022
USCIS Releases New Forms for Immigrant Investor Program
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services has released two new forms under the EB-5 Reform and Integrity Act of 2022, which revised INA 203(b)(5).
06/02/2022
Cap Reached for Additional Returning Worker H-2B Visas for Second Half of FY 2022
Under the recently announced H-2B supplemental cap temporary final rule increasing the cap by up to 35,000 additional H-2B nonimmigrant visas through the end of fiscal year (FY) 2022, USCIS has received enough petitions to reach the cap for the additional 23,500 visas made available for returning workers only.
05/31/2022
Immigration Help Available to Those Affected by Special Situations, Including the Shooting in Uvalde, Texas
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services reminds the public that we offer immigration services that may help people affected by unforeseen circumstances, including the shooting in Uvalde, Texas.
05/27/2022
USCIS to Implement Premium Processing for Certain Previously Filed EB-1 and EB-2 Form I-140 Petitions
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services is implementing premium processing for certain petitioners who have a pending Form I-140, Immigrant Petition for Alien Workers, under the EB-1 and EB-2 classifications.
05/24/2022
Two New Forms Published for Regional Center Designation
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services today published two new forms for regional center designation under the EB-5 Immigrant Investor Program: Form I-956, Application for Regional Center Designation, and Form I-956H, Bona Fides of Persons Involved with Regional Center Program. Both forms are available on the USCIS website.
05/13/2022
USCIS надає інформацію щодо «Єднання заради України»
21 квітня Сполучені Штати оголосили про започаткування програми «Єднання заради України», яка є ключовим кроком у виконанні зобов’язання президента Байдена вітати українців, які рятуються від вторгнення Росії в Україну.
05/06/2022
USCIS Provides Information on Uniting for Ukraine
On April 21, the United States announced Uniting for Ukraine, a key step towards fulfilling President Biden’s commitment to welcome Ukrainians fleeing Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. Uniting for Ukraine provides a pathway for displaced Ukrainian citizens and their immediate family members who are outside the United States to come to the United States and stay temporarily for a two-year period of parole.
04/25/2022
USCIS Service Center Expands Credit Card Payment Pilot Program to Most Forms
As part of our credit card payment pilot program, the USCIS service centers are now accepting credit card payments using Form G-1450, Authorization for Credit Card Transactions, for most forms.
03/30/2022
USCIS Extends Flexibility for Responding to Agency Requests
In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services is extending certain flexibilities through July 25, 2022, to assist applicants, petitioners, and requestors.
03/30/2022
FY 2023 H-1B Cap Season Updates
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services has received enough electronic registrations during the initial registration period to reach the fiscal year (FY) 2023 H-1B numerical allocations (H-1B cap), including the advanced degree exemption (master’s cap).
03/29/2022
USCIS Updates Guidance on Employment Authorization for E and L Nonimmigrant Spouses
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services is updating guidance in the USCIS Policy Manual to address the documentation that certain E and L nonimmigrant spouses may use as evidence of employment authorization based on their nonimmigrant status.
03/18/2022
USCIS Urges Eligible Individuals to Consider Applying for Adjustment of Status in the EB-2 Category Based on the April Visa Bulletin Date for Filing for India
In the recently published April Visa Bulletin, the Department of State advanced the Date for Filing (also known as the application date) applications for an immigrant visa or adjustment of status in the employment-based, second preference (EB-2) category for India from Sept. 1, 2013, to Sept. 1, 2014.
03/17/2022
USCIS to Offer Deferred Action for Special Immigrant Juveniles
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services today announced that it is updating the USCIS Policy Manual to consider deferred action and related employment authorization for noncitizens who have an approved Form I-360, Petition for Amerasian, Widow(er), or Special Immigrant, for Special Immigrant Juvenile (SIJ) classification but who cannot apply to adjust status to become a lawful permanent resident (LPR) because a visa number is not available.
03/07/2022
Immigration Help Available to Those Affected by Special Situations, Including the Invasion of Ukraine
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services reminds the public that we offer immigration services that may help people affected by extreme situations, including the invasion of Ukraine.
03/04/2022
USCIS Expands Credit Card Payment Pilot Program to All Service Centers
As part of our credit card payment pilot program, the USCIS service centers are now accepting credit card payments using Form G-1450, Authorization for Credit Card Transactions, for all forms except Form I-129, Petition for a Nonimmigrant Worker, for H-1B and H-2A petitions.
03/02/2022
H-2B Cap Reached for Second Half of FY 2022
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services has received enough petitions to meet the congressionally mandated H-2B cap for the second half of fiscal year (FY) 2022.
03/01/2022
USCIS Reaches Fiscal Year 2022 H-1B Cap
USCIS has received a sufficient number of petitions needed to reach the congressionally mandated 65,000 H-1B visa regular cap and the 20,000 H-1B visa U.S. advanced degree exemption, known as the master’s cap, for fiscal year (FY) 2022.
02/28/2022
USCIS Launches H-2A Employer Data Hub
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services has launched an H-2A Employer Data Hub to provide information to the public on employers or agents petitioning for H-2A workers.
02/25/2022
USCIS Urges Eligible Applicants to Switch Employment-Based Categories
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services encourages eligible applicants to consider requesting to transfer the underlying basis of their adjustment of status application to the first (priority workers) or second (noncitizens in professions with advanced degrees or with exceptional ability) employment-based preference categories, because there is an exceptionally high number of employment-based immigrant visas available in these categories during this fiscal year (October 2021 through September 2022).
02/18/2022
USCIS Opens a New Lockbox Facility
As we announced in November 2021, we have opened a new lockbox facility in Elgin, Illinois. We are beginning to transition incoming work to the new location.
02/10/2022
USCIS Updates Policy Guidance on VAWA Self-Petitions
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services is publishing policy guidance in the USCIS Policy Manual on eligibility, filing, and adjudication requirements addressing Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) self-petitions to update practices and align USCIS policies with recent court decisions.
02/10/2022
USCIS Issues Policy Guidance Regarding Exemptions from the Temporary Need Requirement for H-2B Workers on Guam and the CNMI Under the FY 2021 National Defense Authorization Act
USCIS is issuing updated policy guidance in the USCIS Policy Manual to clarify how petitioners may demonstrate that they qualify for an exemption from the temporary need requirement for a nonimmigrant visa petition for a temporary nonagricultural H-2B worker on Guam and in the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands (CNMI) that falls under the Fiscal Year 2021 National Defense Authorization Act.
02/08/2022
USCIS Updates Guidelines on Maximum Validity Periods for New Employment Authorization Documents for Certain Applicants
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services today published updated policy guidance to change the maximum validity period that may be granted for Employment Authorization Documents (EADs) issued to certain applicants, as well as to provide general guidance on adjudicating Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization.
02/07/2022
USCIS Statement on the International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation
On Feb. 6, the International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services joins other U.S. government agencies and the international community in calling for an end to the practice of female genital mutilation or cutting (FGM/C).
02/04/2022
Readout of Director Ur M. Jaddou’s Virtual Briefing with Stakeholders to Mark One-Year Anniversary of Executive Orders Aimed at Restoring Faith in Our Immigration System
Yesterday, on the one-year anniversary of several executive orders (EOs) from the Biden-Harris administration aimed at restoring faith in our nation’s legal immigration system, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) Director Ur M. Jaddou briefed national stakeholders on the agency’s efforts to implement these EOs.
02/03/2022
USCIS Updates Medical Examination Guidance for Afghan Parolees Arriving Under Operation Allies Welcome (OAW)
USCIS announced today that it is updating guidance in the USCIS Policy Manual regarding immigration medical examination requirements for certain Afghan nationals applying for adjustment of status after arriving in the United States under Operation Allies Welcome (OAW).
02/01/2022
FY 2023 H-1B Cap Initial Registration Period Opens on March 1
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services today announced that the initial registration period for the fiscal year 2023 H-1B cap will open at noon Eastern on March 1 and run through noon Eastern on March 18, 2022.
01/28/2022
USCIS Updates Guidance on Expedite Requests
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services has updated the USCIS Policy Manual to reflect new guidance on how we determine whether a case warrants expedited treatment.
01/25/2022
USCIS Provides Clarifying Guidance for O-1 Petitions with a Focus on STEM Fields
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services today issued policy guidance clarifying how it evaluates evidence to determine eligibility for O-1A nonimmigrants of extraordinary ability, with a focus on petitions filed for individuals in science, technology, engineering, or math (STEM) fields, as well as how USCIS determines whether an O-1 beneficiary’s prospective work is within their area of extraordinary ability or achievement.
01/21/2022
USCIS Provides Clarifying Guidance on O-1 Nonimmigrants in Arts vs. Motion Picture and Television
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services today announced clarifying guidance on how we determine whether an O-1B beneficiary will be evaluated as a person of extraordinary ability in the arts or as a person of extraordinary achievement in the motion picture or television industry when a case has elements of both.
01/13/2022
Immigration Help Available to Those Affected by Natural Disasters and Other Unforeseen Circumstances
USCIS is reminding the public that we offer immigration services that may help people affected by unforeseen circumstances such as natural disasters. Examples of unforeseen circumstances include, but are not limited to, the Marshall fire in Colorado. 
01/12/2022
USCIS Extends Flexibility for Responding to Agency Requests
In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services is extending the flexibilities it announced on March 30, 2020.
12/30/2021
DHS Withdraws H-1B Selection Final Rule
The Department of Homeland Security has published a final rule that withdraws the Modification of Registration Requirement for Petitioners Seeking to File Cap-Subject H-1B Petitions final rule, also known as the H-1B Selection Final Rule, issued Jan. 8, 2021.
12/21/2021
Immigration Help Available to Those Affected by Natural Disasters and Other Unforeseen Circumstances
USCIS is reminding the public that we offer immigration services that may help people affected by unforeseen circumstances such as natural disasters. Examples of unforeseen circumstances include, but are not limited to, the recent tornadoes in Kentucky and surrounding states.
12/13/2021
USCIS Reverts to Previous Criteria for Interviewing Petitioners Requesting Derivative Refugee and Asylee Status for Family Members
USCIS is rescinding a November 2020 policy memorandum requiring interviews of all petitioners filing Form I-730, Refugee/Asylee Relative Petition. Effective immediately, USCIS will return to its prior long-standing practice of making case-by-case determinations on whether to interview Form I-730 petitioners.
12/10/2021
USCIS Temporarily Waiving 60-Day Rule for Civil Surgeon Signatures
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services is temporarily waiving the requirement that the civil surgeon sign Form I-693, Report of Medical Examination and Vaccination Record, no more than 60 days before an applicant files an application for the underlying immigration benefit (including Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status), until Sept. 30, 2022.  
12/09/2021
USCIS Extends Transitional Parole for CNMI Long-Term Resident Status Applicants
USCIS announced today that it will automatically extend parole and employment authorization, if applicable, for parolees who timely applied for Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands (CNMI) long-term resident status. 
12/08/2021
All Temporary Protected Status (TPS) Applicants May Now File Forms I-821 and I-765 Online
As of Nov. 29, all applicants eligible to file for TPS under one of the current designations may file Form I-821, Application for Temporary Protected Status, and Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization, online.
11/29/2021
USCIS Incorporates General Adjudications Guidance into the Policy Manual
We are incorporating existing guidance from the Adjudicator’s Field Manual (AFM) into the USCIS Policy Manual.
11/23/2021
Certain Petitioners for U Nonimmigrant Status May Receive a Refund for Applications for Employment Authorization Submitted Before Sept. 30, 2021
USCIS mistakenly rejected certain applications for employment authorization (Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization) from petitioners for U nonimmigrant status that were filed without a fee (or request for fee waiver) from June 14 through Sept. 29, 2021.
11/22/2021
USCIS Conducts Third Random Selection from Previously Submitted FY 2022 H-1B Cap Registrations
We recently determined that we needed to select additional registrations to reach the fiscal year (FY) 2022 H-1B numerical allocations, including the advanced degree exemption.
11/19/2021
USCIS Opening a New Lockbox Facility
We are planning to open a new facility in Elgin, Illinois, next year to expand our lockbox capability.
11/12/2021
DHS Announces Countries Eligible for H-2A and H-2B Visa Programs
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS), in consultation with the Department of State (DOS), has announced the lists of countries whose nationals are eligible to participate in the H-2A and H-2B visa programs in the next year.
11/09/2021
USCIS Expands Credit Card Payment Pilot Program to California Service Center
As part of our credit card payment pilot program, the California Service Center is now accepting credit card payments using Form G-1450, Authorization for Credit Card Transactions, for petitioners filing Form I-129, Petition for a Nonimmigrant Worker, for O and P nonimmigrants.
11/05/2021
Policy Update: Liberian Refugee Immigration Fairness (LRIF)
USCIS has expanded its guidance in the USCIS Policy Manual about Liberian Refugee Immigration Fairness (LRIF) to clarify steps applicants must take if they cannot submit primary evidence of Liberian nationality to support an LRIF-based application for adjustment of status.
10/29/2021
Directions for Class Members Filing Motions to Reopen Pursuant to Settlement Agreement in H-1B Market Research Analyst Class Action Litigation
USCIS reached a settlement agreement [PDF] in the case of MadKudu Inc., et al. v. U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, et al., No. 20-cv-2653 (N.D. Cal.). On Oct. 19, 2021, the U.S. District Court, Northern District of California, San Jose Division, granted final approval of the settlement agreement. This agreement outlines new, overarching guidance for adjudicating pending or future H-1B petitions for market research analysts.
10/28/2021
USCIS Expands Credit Card Payment Pilot Program to Vermont Service Center
As part of our credit card payment pilot program, the Vermont Service Center is now accepting credit card payments using Form G-1450, Authorization for Credit Card Transactions, for petitioners filing Form I-129, Petition for a Nonimmigrant Worker, for O and P nonimmigrants.
10/22/2021
USCIS Issues Updated and Comprehensive Guidance on T Visa Adjudications
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services is issuing updated and comprehensive guidance in the USCIS Policy Manual on adjudicating applications for T nonimmigrant status (or T visas) submitted by victims of human trafficking, including clarifying how applicants establish eligibility.
10/20/2021
USCIS Reaches H-2B Cap for First Half of FY 2022
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services has received enough petitions to reach the congressionally mandated cap on H-2B visas for temporary nonagricultural workers for the first half of fiscal year 2022.
10/12/2021
Most CW-1 Employers Must File Required Semiannual Report (Form I-129CWR)
USCIS reminds employers of Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands (CNMI) Transitional Workers (CW-1) that, if you have a currently-approved CW-1 petition with a validity period of six months or more, you must file Form I-129CWR, Semiannual Report for CW-1 Employers, with USCIS every six months after the petition validity start date.
09/29/2021
USCIS Extends Flexibility for Responding to Agency Requests
In response to the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services is extending the flexibilities it announced on March 30, 2020.
09/24/2021
USCIS Expands Credit Card Payment Pilot Program to Texas Service Center
As part of our credit card payment pilot program, the Texas Service Center is now accepting credit card payments using Form G-1450, Authorization for Credit Card Transactions, for petitioners filing Form I-140, Immigrant Petition for Alien Workers, with Form I-907, Request for Premium Processing Service, or when filing Form I-907 to upgrade a pending Form I-140 to premium processing.
09/16/2021
COVID-19 Vaccination Required for Immigration Medical Examinations
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services today announced that, effective Oct. 1, 2021, applicants subject to the immigration medical examination must be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 before the civil surgeon can complete an immigration medical examination and sign Form I-693, Report of Medical Examination and Vaccination Record.
09/14/2021
USCIS Extends Evidence of Status for Conditional Permanent Residents to 24 Months with Pending Form I-751 or Form I-829
Starting Sept. 4, 2021, USCIS is extending the time that receipt notices can be used to show evidence of status from 18 months to 24 months for petitioners who properly file Form I-751, Petition to Remove Conditions on Residence, or Form I-829, Petition by Investor to Remove Conditions on Permanent Resident Status.
09/03/2021
USCIS Creates New Webpage for Lockbox Filing Location Updates
We have created a new Lockbox Filing Location Updates page on our website for customers to keep track of updates we make to lockbox filing locations.
09/01/2021
Cap Reached for Remaining H-2B Visas for Returning Workers for FY 2021
As of Aug. 13, 2021, USCIS has received enough petitions for returning workers to reach the additional 22,000 H-2B visas made available under the FY 2021 H-2B supplemental visa temporary final rule.
08/19/2021
USCIS Temporarily Extending Validity Period of Form I-693
Beginning Aug. 12, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services is temporarily extending the validity period for Form I-693, Report of Medical Examination and Vaccination Record, from two years to now four years due to COVID-19-related delays in processing.
08/12/2021
USCIS Conducts Second Random Selection from Previously Submitted FY 2022 H-1B Cap Registrations
In March 2021, USCIS conducted an initial random selection on properly submitted electronic registrations for the fiscal year (FY) 2022 H-1B cap, including for beneficiaries eligible for the advanced degree exemption.
07/29/2021
Immigration Help Available to Those Affected by Natural Disasters and Other Unforeseen Circumstances
USCIS is reminding the public that we offer immigration services that may help people affected by unforeseen circumstances such as natural disasters. Examples of unforeseen circumstances include, but are not limited to, the wildfires in the western United States and the recent building collapse in Surfside, Florida.
07/28/2021
Employers May File H-2B Petitions for Returning Workers for FY 2021
USCIS is announcing today that employers may file H-2B petitions for returning workers under the FY 2021 H-2B supplemental visa temporary final rule.
07/23/2021
Filing Location Updates for Certain Forms I-131
On July 22, we adjusted the addresses for certain applicants filing Form I-131, Application for Travel Document. We have not changed any filing locations but have refined attention lines and ZIP codes to improve internal processes at our lockboxes.
07/22/2021
USCIS Expands Credit Card Payment Pilot Program to Form I-140 When Requesting Premium Processing
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) today announced that it has expanded a previously announced pilot program at the Nebraska Service Center (NSC) for accepting credit card payments using Form G-1450, Authorization for Credit Card Transactions, for certain applicants applying for premium processing.
07/20/2021
Applicants for Change of Status to F-1 Student No Longer Need to Submit Subsequent Applications to ‘Bridge the Gap’
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services today announced new policy guidance that eliminates the need for individuals who have applied for a change of status (COS) to F-1 student to apply to change or extend their nonimmigrant status while their initial F-1 COS application is pending.
07/20/2021
USCIS Extends Flexibility for Responding to Agency Requests
In response to the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services is extending the flexibilities it announced on March 30, 2020
06/24/2021
USCIS Will Allow Resubmission of Certain FY 2021 H-1B Petitions Rejected or Closed Due to Start Date
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services announced today it will accept resubmitted fiscal year (FY) 2021 H-1B cap-subject petitions that were rejected or administratively closed solely because the requested start date was after Oct. 1, 2020.
06/23/2021
USCIS Launches H-2B Employer Data Hub
USCIS has launched an H-2B Employer Data Hub to provide information to the public on employers or agents petitioning for H-2B workers.
06/23/2021
USCIS Clarifies Evidence Requirements Under Liberian Refugee Immigration Fairness
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services today announced that it is updating guidance in the USCIS Policy Manual regarding eligibility for adjustment of status under Liberian Refugee Immigration Fairness (LRIF). The updated guidance clarifies what evidence an applicant may submit to establish Liberian nationality when applying for adjustment of status under LRIF.
06/17/2021
USCIS Extends Transitional Parole for CNMI Long-Term Resident Status Applicants
USCIS announced today that it will automatically extend parole and employment authorization, if applicable, for parolees who timely applied for Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands (CNMI) long-term resident status.
06/16/2021
Vermont Service Center Address Change
Effective June 14, 2021, the Vermont Service Center will no longer receive any incoming mail at the St. Albans, VT facility, which is being decommissioned.
06/14/2021
USCIS Announces Lockbox Filing Flexibilities
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services will offer filing flexibilities to provide relief to certain applicants and petitioners impacted by delays at a USCIS lockbox.
06/10/2021
Cap Reached for Additional Returning Worker H-2B Visas for FY 2021
Under the recently announced H-2B supplemental cap temporary final rule, USCIS has received enough petitions to reach the cap for the additional 16,000 H-2B visas made available for returning workers only.
06/03/2021
Updated Guidance on Naturalization for Veterans Living Overseas
We are updating guidance in the USCIS Policy Manual to provide clarification regarding certain naturalization applications filed by veterans of the U.S. armed forces under section 329 of the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA).
05/28/2021
USCIS Eases Visitor Restrictions for Fully Vaccinated Individuals
Due to updated guidance from the CDC, USCIS has updated its visitor policy. Fully vaccinated individuals no longer have to wear a face covering. Individuals two years old and older who are not fully vaccinated must still wear a face covering.
05/27/2021
DHS Issues Final Rule to Remove Vacated H-1B Rule from Code of Federal Regulations
The Department of Homeland Security has issued a final rule that removes from the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) an interim final rule (IFR) issued in October 2020, which has since been vacated by a federal district court.
05/18/2021
USCIS Temporarily Suspends Biometrics Requirement for Certain Form I-539 Applicants
Effective May 17, 2021, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services will temporarily suspend the biometrics submission requirement for certain applicants filing Form I-539, Application To Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status, requesting an extension of stay in or change of status to H-4, L-2, and E nonimmigrant status.
05/13/2021
DHS Withdraws Proposed Biometrics Rule
The Department of Homeland Security has withdrawn a proposed rule that would have expanded department authorities and requirements for collecting biometrics by removing age restrictions; requiring submission of biometrics for every applicant, petitioner, sponsor, beneficiary, or other individual filing for or associated with any immigration or naturalization benefit or request unless DHS waives or exempts the biometrics requirement; codifying the authority to use DNA test results; and authorizing the use of additional types of biometric modalities.
05/07/2021
USCIS Issues Policy Guidance on Deference to Previous Decisions
USCIS is issuing policy guidance in the USCIS Policy Manual instructing officers to give deference to prior determinations when adjudicating extension requests involving the same parties and facts unless there was a material error, material change, or new material facts.
04/27/2021
USCIS Confirms Elimination of “Blank Space” Criteria
USCIS today confirmed that for all forms it has reverted to the form rejection criteria it applied before October 2019 regarding blank responses.  
04/01/2021
FY 2022 H-1B Cap Season Updates
USCIS has received enough electronic registrations during the initial registration period to reach the fiscal year (FY) 2022 H-1B numerical allocations (H-1B cap) including the advanced degree exemption (master’s cap).
03/30/2021
Updated Guidance on P-1A Internationally Recognized Athletes
Today, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services announced updated guidance for adjudicating requests for P-1A nonimmigrant classification for internationally recognized athletes.
03/26/2021
USCIS Extends Flexibility for Responding to Agency Requests
In response to the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services is extending the flexibilities it announced on March 30, 2020
03/24/2021
DHS Withdraws ‘Affidavit of Support’ Proposed Rule
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) today announced the withdrawal of the affidavit of support proposed rule, consistent with DHS’s commitment to reduce barriers within the legal immigration system that placed increased burdens on American families wishing to sponsor individuals immigrating to the U.S.
03/19/2021
USCIS May Reopen H-1B Petitions Denied Under Three Rescinded Policy Memos
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services today announced it may reopen and/or reconsider adverse decisions on Form I-129, Petition for a Nonimmigrant Worker, made based on three rescinded policy memos.
03/12/2021
USCIS Extends Flexibilities to Certain Applicants Filing Form I-765 for OPT
USCIS today announced flexibilities for certain foreign students affected by delayed receipt notices for Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization. These flexibilities apply only to applications received on or after Oct. 1, 2020, through May 1, 2021, inclusive.
02/26/2021
USCIS Expands Premium Processing Service to E-3 Petitioners
Starting Feb. 24, 2021, petitioners filing Form I-129, Petition for a Nonimmigrant Worker, requesting a change or extension of status to E-3 classification will have the option to request premium processing service for their petition.
02/24/2021
H-2B Cap Reached for Second Half of FY 2021
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services has received enough petitions to meet the congressionally mandated H-2B cap for the second half of fiscal year (FY) 2021.
02/24/2021
USCIS Reaches Fiscal Year 2021 H-1B Cap
USCIS has received a sufficient number of petitions needed to reach the congressionally mandated 65,000 H-1B visa regular cap and the 20,000 H-1B visa U.S. advanced degree exemption, known as the master’s cap, for fiscal year (FY) 2021. We have completed sending non-selection notifications to registrants’ online accounts. The status for registrations properly submitted for the FY 2021 H-1B numerical allocations, but that were not selected, will now show:
02/16/2021
President Biden Reinstates DED for Eligible Liberians
On Jan. 20, 2021, President Biden issued a memorandum directing the secretary of Homeland Security to reinstate Deferred Enforced Departure (DED) for eligible Liberians and to provide for continued work authorization through June 30, 2022.
02/12/2021
FY 2022 H-1B Cap Initial Registration Period Opens on March 9
USCIS today announced that the initial registration period for the fiscal year (FY) 2022 H-1B cap will open at noon Eastern on March 9 and run through noon Eastern on March 25. During this period, prospective petitioners and representatives will be able to fill out petitioner and beneficiary information and submit their registrations.
02/05/2021
DHS Delays Effective Date of H-1B Selection Final Rule
On Jan. 7, USCIS announced the H-1B Selection final rule, which amended the regulations governing the process by which USCIS selects H-1B registrations for the filing of H-1B cap-subject petitions.
02/04/2021
New Edition and New Filing Address for Form I-690
On Jan. 29, we published the 07/23/20 edition of Form I-690, Application for Waiver of Grounds of Inadmissibility, and changed the filing location. Applicants previously filed this form at the USCIS Chicago Lockbox.
01/29/2021
USCIS Extends Flexibility for Responding to Agency Requests
In response to the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services is extending the flexibilities it announced on March 30, 2020, to assist applicants, petitioners, and requestors
01/28/2021
USCIS Suspending In-Person Services Jan. 19 and 20
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services today announced it will temporarily suspend in-person services at all field offices, asylum offices and application support centers on Jan. 19 and 20 to ensure the safety of our employees and individuals with appointments.
01/15/2021
DHS Announces Countries Eligible for H-2A and H-2B Visa Programs
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS), in consultation with the Department of State (DOS), have announced the list of countries whose nationals are eligible to participate in the H-2A and H-2B visa programs in 2021. The notice listing the eligible countries will be published in the Federal Register on Jan. 13, 2021.
01/12/2021
USCIS to Replace Sticker That Extends Validity of Green Cards
Starting in January, we will replace the sticker that is currently issued to lawful permanent residents (LPRs) to extend the validity of their Form I-551, Permanent Resident Card (PRC or “Green Card”), with a revised Form I-797, Notice of Action. LPRs file Form I-90, Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card, when their Green Cards expire or are about to expire. The revised Form I-797 notice will serve as a receipt notice for the Form I-90. 
01/12/2021
USCIS Lockbox Updates
Due to the COVID-19 pandemic and other factors, USCIS is experiencing delays in issuing receipt notices for some applications and petitions filed at a USCIS lockbox facility.
01/08/2021
Filing Location Change for Certain Forms I-765
On Jan. 8, we adjusted the filing location for certain foreign students filing Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization.
01/08/2021
Filing Location Change for Certain Forms I-485
On Jan. 8, we adjusted the filing locations for certain Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status.
01/08/2021
New Filing Address for Forms I-924 and I-924A
On Jan. 5, we changed the filing location for Form I-924, Application For Regional Center Designation Under the Immigrant Investor Program, and Form I-924A, Annual Certification of Regional Center.
01/05/2021
USCIS Extends Transitional Parole for CNMI Long-Term Resident Status Applicants
USCIS announced today that it will automatically extend parole, and employment authorization, if applicable, for parolees who timely applied for Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands (CNMI) long-term resident status.
12/30/2020
Update: Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals
In compliance with an order of a U.S. District Court, effective Dec. 7, 2020, USCIS announced an update about Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA).
12/09/2020
U.S. District Court for the Northern District of California Vacates the Strengthening the H-1B Program Interim Final Rule
A Dec. 1, 2020, order issued by the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of California vacated the Strengthening the H-1B Nonimmigrant Visa Classification Program Interim Final Rule (IFR). The Dec. 1 order prevents the IFR from taking effect, and the Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services from implementing the IFR. USCIS will fully comply with the court’s decision.
12/04/2020
USCIS Updates Guidance for Schedule A Occupations
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services today announced updated guidance for adjudicating EB-2 and EB-3 Schedule A petitions for registered nurses, physical therapists, and aliens of exceptional ability.
12/02/2020
USCIS Expands Interviews for Refugees and Asylees Petitioning for Family Members
USCIS has issued a policy memorandum directing the phased expansion of in-person interviews for petitioners filing Form I-730, Refugee/Asylee Relative Petition. These additional interviews will provide an opportunity to evaluate a petitioner’s credibility, supporting our mission to detect and prevent fraud and risks of harm to the United States and ensure the integrity of the immigration system.
11/30/2020
USCIS Reaches H-2B Cap for First Half of FY 2021
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services has received enough petitions to reach the congressionally mandated cap on H-2B visas for temporary nonagricultural workers for the first half of fiscal year 2021.
11/18/2020
USCIS Updates Policy Guidance on Naturalization Applicants Who Did Not Properly Obtain Lawful Permanent Resident Status
On Nov. 18, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services updated policy guidance in the USCIS Policy Manual to clarify the circumstances when we would find applicants ineligible for naturalization  because they were not lawfully admitted for permanent residence. 
11/18/2020
USCIS Updates Policy Manual Guidance on the Child Status Protection Act (CSPA)
USCIS is clarifying existing guidance on the Child Status Protection Act (CSPA) in the USCIS Policy Manual
11/13/2020
Re-Registration Period Now Open for Aliens with Temporary Protected Status under South Sudan’s Designation
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services today announced that current beneficiaries of Temporary Protected Status (TPS) under South Sudan’s designation who want to maintain their status through May 2, 2022, must re-register for TPS beginning Nov. 2, 2020 through Jan. 4, 2021.
11/02/2020
Premium Processing Fee Increase Effective Oct. 19, 2020
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) today announced it will increase fees for premium processing, effective Oct. 19, as required by the Continuing Appropriations Act, 2021 and Other Extensions Act, Pub. L. No. 116-159, signed into law on Oct. 1.
10/16/2020
USCIS Updates Policy Guidance Regarding Temporary Protected Status and Eligibility for Adjustment of Status
USCIS today issued policy guidance in the USCIS Policy Manual clarifying whether temporary protected status (TPS) beneficiaries are eligible for adjustment of status under section 245(a) of the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA). INA 245(a) requires an alien to have been inspected and admitted or inspected and paroled into the United States, unless exempt from this requirement.
10/06/2020
USCIS Issues Policy Guidance Regarding Inadmissibility Based on Membership in a Totalitarian Party
On Oct. 2, USCIS issued policy guidance in the USCIS Policy Manual to address inadmissibility based on membership in or affiliation with the Communist Party or any other totalitarian party.
10/02/2020
USCIS Implements New Law Related to Citizenship for Children of Military Members and U.S. Government Employees Stationed Overseas
On Sept. 18, we updated our policy guidance concerning residency requirements under section 320 of the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA) to comply with the requirements of the recently enacted Citizenship for Children of Military Members and Civil Servants Act.
09/18/2020
USCIS Updates Policy Guidance on O Petitions
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services today published a new section in the USCIS Policy Manual relating to the O nonimmigrant classifications. 
09/17/2020
USCIS Extends Flexibility for Responding to Agency Requests
In response to the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services is extending the flexibilities it announced on March 30, 2020, to assist applicants, petitioners, and requestors.
09/11/2020
USCIS Issues New Policy Guidance on Final Fee Rule
USCIS has updated its Policy Manual with guidance on the final fee rule, which adjusts the fees we charge for certain immigration benefit applications and petitions.
09/02/2020
USCIS Policy Update on CW-1 Departure Requirement
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services is modifying its policy on implementing the requirement that aliens leave the United States for at least 30 days after two renewals of their CNMI-Only Transitional Worker (CW-1) visa classification.
08/25/2020
USCIS Implements DHS Guidance on DACA
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services today provided guidance on how it will implement Acting Secretary of Homeland Security Chad Wolf’s July 28 memorandum regarding the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) policy.
08/24/2020
USCIS Reminds F-1 Aliens in Post-Completion OPT and Their DSOs to Enter Employer Information in SEVIS
As exceeding unemployment limits can result in a loss of status, we are reminding F-1 aliens participating in post-completion Optional Practical Training (OPT), and their designated school officials (DSOs), that they must update the employer information in the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS), including unemployment data.
08/18/2020
USCIS Extends Transitional Parole for CNMI Long-Term Resident Status Applicants
USCIS announced today that it will automatically extend parole, and employment authorization if applicable, for parolees who timely applied for Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands (CNMI) long-term resident status.
08/11/2020
USCIS Clarifies Guidance on Initial and Further Deployment of Investment Capital
USCIS has updated the USCIS Policy Manual with clarifying guidance on the deployment of investment capital under the EB-5 Immigrant Investor Program.
07/24/2020
USCIS Launches Updated Website
Today, we launched an updated uscis.gov website, which we designed with input from applicants, petitioners and the public.
07/21/2020
Applying Discretion in USCIS Adjudications
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services today consolidated existing policy guidance in the USCIS Policy Manual regarding officers’ application of discretion in adjudications.
07/15/2020
USCIS Extends Flexibility for Responding to Agency Requests
In response to the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, USCIS is extending the flexibilities it announced on March 30, 2020.
07/01/2020
Update to Filing Location for Form I-918 and Form I-485 for Applicants Filing Based on U Nonimmigrant Status
Starting June 29, 2020, petitioners residing in certain states must file these forms at the Nebraska Service Center, instead of the Vermont Service Center.
06/29/2020
Texas Service Center Moving to New Address on June 26
On June 26, the Texas Service Center will move to a new address.
06/23/2020
USCIS Statement on Presidential Proclamation
Monday’s presidential proclamation temporarily restricts certain categories of visas from being issued to protect jobs for American workers while our economy recovers from the effects of COVID-19.
06/23/2020
USCIS Extends Transitional Parole for Certain Aliens Present in the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands
USCIS announced today that it will automatically extend parole, and employment authorization if applicable, for certain aliens present in the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands (CNMI).
06/17/2020
USCIS to Publish Revised Form I-129CW on June 18
On May 14, 2020, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services published an interim final rule (IFR) implementing the Northern Mariana Islands U.S. Workforce Act of 2018.
06/12/2020
USCIS Resumes Premium Processing for Certain Petitions  
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services today announced that it will resume premium processing for Form I-129, Petition for a Nonimmigrant Worker and Form I-140, Immigrant Petition for Alien Workers, in phases over the next month. 
05/29/2020
USCIS Preparing to Resume Public Services on June 4
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services is preparing some domestic offices to reopen and resume non-emergency public services on or after June 4.
05/27/2020
USCIS Begins Implementing New Interactive Voice Response Telephone System
USCIS is introducing a new interactive voice response (IVR) telephone system today for English and Spanish calls to the USCIS Contact Center.
05/18/2020
USCIS Extends Flexibility for Responding to Agency Requests
In response to the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services is extending the flexibilities it announced on March 30 to assist applicants and petitioners
05/01/2020
USCIS Offices Preparing to Reopen on June 4
On March 18, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services temporarily suspended in-person services at its field offices, asylum offices, and application support centers (ASCs) to help slow the spread of coronavirus (COVID-19). USCIS is readying offices to reopen on or after June 4.
04/24/2020
USCIS Updates Policy on False Claims of U.S. Citizenship
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services today announced it is updating its Policy Manual to align with the Department of Justice’s Board of Immigration Appeals’ (BIA) precedent decision in Matter of Zhang.
04/24/2020
COVID-19 Delays in Extension/Change of Status Filings
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) recognizes that there are immigration-related challenges as a direct result of the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.
04/13/2020
USCIS Temporary Office Closure Extended until at least May 3
On March 18, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services temporarily suspended in-person services at its field offices, asylum offices, and application support centers (ASCs) to help slow the spread of coronavirus (COVID-19). USCIS offices will begin to reopen on May 4 unless the public closures are extended further.
04/01/2020
USCIS Expands Flexibility for Responding to USCIS Requests
In response to the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services announced that it adopted measures to assist applicants and petitioners who are responding to certain Requests for Evidence (RFE) and Notices of Intent to Deny (NOID).
03/30/2020
USCIS to Continue Processing Applications for Employment Authorization Extension Requests Despite Application Support Center Closures
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services today announced that it will reuse previously submitted biometrics in order to process valid Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization, extension requests due to the temporary closure of Application Support Centers (ASC) to the public in response to the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.
03/30/2020
USCIS Announces Flexibility for Requests for Evidence, Notices of Intent to Deny
In response to the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services announced that it is adopting a measure to assist applicants and petitioners who are responding to requests for evidence (RFEs) and notices of intent to deny (NOIDs) dated between March 1 and May 1, 2020.   
03/27/2020
H-1B Initial Electronic Registration Selection Process Completed
USCIS has received enough electronic registrations during the initial period to reach the FY 2021 H-1B numerical allocations (H-1B cap).
03/27/2020
USCIS Temporarily Closes Rome (June 5, 2020 UPDATE: Closed Permanently) and Nairobi Offices to the Public
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services today announced it has temporarily closed its offices in Rome, Italy, and Nairobi, Kenya, to the public, due to the Coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic.
03/25/2020
USCIS Temporary Office Closure Extended until at least April 7
On March 18, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services temporarily suspended in-person services at its field offices, asylum offices, and Application Support Centers (ASCs) to help slow the spread of Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19).
03/25/2020