Showing posts with label USCIS News. Show all posts
Showing posts with label USCIS News. Show all posts

[UPDATE] USCIS Limits Validity of Form I-693 to Pending Green Card Applications

[UPDATE] USCIS Limits Validity of Form I-693 to Pending Green Card Applications

USCIS has updated Volume 8 of the USCIS Policy Manual to clarify that Form I-693, Report of Immigration Medical Examination and Vaccination Record, signed on or after November 1, 2023, is only valid while the associated immigration application is pending.

  • Effective Date: Immediately, applying to all applications pending or filed on or after June 11, 2025.

  • If the associated application (such as Form I-485) is withdrawn or denied, the submitted Form I-693 becomes invalid.

  • For any new application, the applicant must submit a newly completed and signed Form I-693

I-693: USCIS requires Polio Vaccine Now

In case you missed it - USCIS started requiring the Polio vaccine. Make sure you get all the vaccines required! 
I-693: USCIS requires Polio Vaccine Now

Polio Vaccine is required as part of your I-693 Form

According to USCIS, on May 1, 2024, the Vaccination Technical Instructions for Civil Surgeons changed for the polio vaccine. One dose of IPV should be given to anyone 2 months or older if they are not currently up to date according to ACIP recommendations, including adults who cannot show proof of the childhood vaccine series. 

If the Form I-693 was signed by a civil surgeon on or after May 1, 2024, the new polio vaccine requirement applies!

USCIS Announces Grace Period for I-485 Green Card Application Forms After Backlash

 On March 8, 2025, USCIS issued a grace period for a dozen newly updated immigration forms that were released in February and March 2025 and made effective immediately. 

USCIS Announces Grace Period for I-485 Green Card Application Forms After Backlash

What forms are affected?

These forms include key applications such as:

  • N-400 (Application for Naturalization)
  • I-485 (Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status)
  • I-131 (Application for Travel Documents)

Why?

Initially, USCIS released the “01/20/2025” editions of these forms without prior notice, creating uncertainty for applicants using previous versions. As a result, older editions received after the new forms' release date risked rejection. Now USCIS announced a grace period, allowing applicants to continue using prior versions until a specified deadline.

Important Deadlines: New Forms Required After These Dates

USCIS will accept only the 01/20/2025 editions of certain forms starting:

March 24, 2025

  • Form I-356 – Request for Cancellation of Public Charge Bond
  • Form I-914 – Application for T Nonimmigrant Status
  • Form I-941 – Application for Entrepreneur Parole

April 3, 2025

  • Form I-485 Supplement J – Confirmation of Valid Job Offer or Request for Job Portability
  • Form I-485 Supplement A – Adjustment of Status Under Section 245(i)
  • Form I-485 – Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status
  • Form G-325A – Biographic Information (for Deferred Action)
  • Form I-192 – Application for Advance Permission to Enter as a Nonimmigrant
  • Form I-134 – Declaration of Financial Support

April 4, 2025

  • Form N-400 – Application for Naturalization
  • Form I-131 – Application for Travel Documents, Parole, and Arrival/Departure Records

May 5, 2025

  • Form I-918 – Petition for U Nonimmigrant Status

Avoid Delays: Check USCIS for the Latest Forms

I always suggest our readers that you should check the USCIS Forms pages to ensure you are submitting the correct edition of any required form. Using outdated versions after the grace period expires could lead to processing delays or rejection! 

Alright - Good luck my friends!


USCIS Waives COVID-19 Vaccination Requirement for Green Card Applicants Effective January 22, 2025

NEW! Effective January 22, 2025, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has waived the requirement for adjustment of status applicants to provide documentation of COVID-19 vaccination on Form I-693, Report of Immigration Medical Examination and Vaccination Record. 

USCIS will no longer issue Requests for Evidence (RFEs) or Notices of Intent to Deny (NOIDs) related to COVID-19 vaccination proof, nor will it deny any adjustment of status application based on the absence of such documentation.

USCIS Waives COVID-19 Vaccination Requirement for Green Card Applicants Effective January 22, 2025

USCIS Waives COVID-19 Vaccination Requirement for Green Card Applicants Effective January 22, 2025

This policy change signifies that applicants seeking to adjust their status to lawful permanent resident are no longer mandated to present evidence of COVID-19 vaccination during the medical examination process. However, it's important to note that other vaccination requirements remain in effect. Applicants must still comply with all other vaccination protocols as outlined by USCIS.

Important Update: New Requirement for Form I-693 Submission with Form I-485

Important Update: New Requirement for Form I-693 Submission with Form I-485

Important Update: New Requirement for Form I-693 Submission with Form I-485
Starting December 2, 2024, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) will implement a new rule that changes how Form I-693 (Report of Medical Examination and Vaccination Record) is submitted with Form I-485 (Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status).

If you are required to submit Form I-693, or a partial Form I-693, such as the Vaccination Record, you must now submit it at the same time as your Form I-485. This new requirement means that failure to include your completed I-693 form or any required vaccination records along with your I-485 application will result in your Form I-485 being rejected by USCIS.

This change is being implemented to streamline the process and ensure a more efficient review of immigration applications. To avoid delays or the rejection of your application, make sure to gather all required medical and vaccination documents well in advance before submitting your Form I-485.

Remember, the deadline for compliance is December 2, 2024, so take action now to ensure your immigration paperwork is complete. 

Stay informed and make sure your application is in order to prevent unnecessary complications in your path to U.S. permanent residency!

USCIS Unveils Updated Form N-400: Notable Changes and Third Gender Option

The latest version of Form N-400, slated for use starting June 3, 2024, introduces significant updates from the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). Let's see what's new:

USCIS Unveils Updated Form N-400: Notable Changes and Third Gender Option

USCIS Unveils Updated Form N-400: Notable Changes and Third Gender Option

Streamlined Social Security Process:

Applicants can now opt to authorize USCIS to update their immigration status with the Social Security Administration (SSA) directly through the form, eliminating the need for a visit to an SSA office or additional documentation, though alternatives remain available.

Inclusive Gender Option:

The N-400 becomes the first USCIS form to offer a third gender option, denoted as "X" for "Another Gender Identity," aligning with similar changes by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA).

Regarding the "X" gender option:

  • No supporting documentation is required. 
  • It does not need to match other documents. 
  • However, applicants may still need to visit an SSA field office for certain services. 
  • Applicants with pending N-400 applications can request a gender update through various channels.

These updates reflect USCIS's commitment to inclusivity while ensuring identity verification and fraud prevention. Further updates to related forms are underway to accommodate these changes.

How to use My Progress to track Form I-485 Green Card Application

USCIS is getting better and better at letting applicants know the progress of their immigration applications! Today we will talk about how you can use this new tool from USCIS, "My Progress", to track several applications, including Form I-130, I-765, I-485 and more!

How to use My Progress to track Form I-485 Green Card  AOS Application

How to use My Progress to track Form I-485 Green Card Application

Here are the steps:

  1. create an online account with USCIS here if you don't have one yet
  2. select your pending application
  3. once you link your application to your account, you will see a my Progress tab for your application
  4. You will now be able to see the estimated wait time until your case has a decision, along with a checkmark beside three milestones as they are completed
    1. Confirmation that the application was received
    2. Biometric services appointment (if required) has been completed; and
    3. The decision on the pending case.

What forms are now available for tracking?

  • Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status - NEWLY ADDED!
  • Form I-821, Application for Temporary Protected Status - NEWLLY ADDED!
  • Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization
  • Form I-131, Application for Travel Document
  • Form N-400, Application for Naturalization
  • Form I-90 Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card
  • Form I-130, Petition for Alien Relative
Have you tried My Progress yet? Share your progress with all of us in the comment below! Learn more here

USCIS Rolls Out Mandatory Form I-9 Update on Nov 1, 2023!

Exciting news! USCIS introduces a streamlined Form I-9 for all employers starting November 1, 2023. This update aims to facilitate the new I-9 remote document verification procedures, ensuring a more efficient process. 

USCIS Rolls Out Mandatory Form I-9 Update on Nov 1, 2023!

USCIS Updates Form I-9 - What do you need to know? 

Using the old I-9 version (dated October 21, 2019) could lead to penalties, so be sure to make the switch. Employers using electronic I-9 systems should verify they're using the updated form. 

 The new form is now user-friendly for mobile devices, incorporates receipt notices, auto-extensions info for Employment Authorization Documents, and features a checkbox to document the use of remote document verification. Remember, U.S. employers must complete Form I-9 for each new hire within three business days of their start date to verify their identity and work authorization.

Learn more on USCIS's website: https://www.uscis.gov/i-9

More updates for you:

USCIS Introduces Online Form for Hassle-Free In-Person Appointments

Are you tired of the time-consuming process of scheduling an in-person appointment with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS)? Good news – USCIS has rolled out a user-friendly solution to simplify the appointment request process for individuals, attorneys, and accredited representatives. 

USCIS Introduces Online Form for Hassle-Free In-Person Appointments

Online Form for Hassle-Free In-Person Appointments

 Say goodbye to lengthy phone calls to the USCIS Contact Center. With the new online appointment request form, you can effortlessly request an in-person appointment at your local field office. This digital tool is designed to enhance your experience with USCIS services and provide a more convenient way to secure appointments. The online appointment request form streamlines the process for specific services, including ADIT stamps, Emergency Advance Parole, and Immigration Judge Grants. While it doesn't offer self-scheduling capabilities, you can propose a preferred date and time for your appointment. The USCIS Contact Center will then review your request and the availability of in-person appointments at your chosen field office. Please note that while you can suggest a specific appointment time, USCIS cannot guarantee that the requested date will be available. 

Rest assured, USCIS will confirm and schedule your appointment based on the best available date and time. This initiative aligns with USCIS's commitment to providing excellent customer service and supporting the Executive Order on Transforming Federal Customer Experience and Service Delivery to Rebuild Trust in Government. The new online appointment request form aims to collect the necessary information upfront, potentially resulting in faster appointment scheduling without the need for extensive interactions with the USCIS Contact Center. 

 In certain cases, the Contact Center may still need to reach out to you via phone or email, depending on the appointment's urgency and reason. When contacting USCIS, remember to provide the reference number assigned to you when you submitted your appointment request. 

 Ready to take advantage of this hassle-free appointment request system? Visit my.uscis.gov/appointment for more information and to access the online appointment request form. Say hello to a more efficient way of securing your USCIS appointments!

More updates here...

Can I Still Verify Employment Eligibility Remotely (Form I-9)?

Yes you can! The COVID-19 flexibilities have come to an end! But you still have an option to have your employer exam your Form I-9 document for employment authorization remotely. 

Can I Still Verify Employment Eligibility Remotely (Form I-9)?

USCIS Publishes a revised version of Form I-9 Employment Eligibility Verification

On Aug. 1, 2023, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services will publish a revised version of Form I-9, Employment Eligibility Verification. 

 What has been updated? 

A checkbox for your employer to use to indicate they remotely examined identity and employment authorization documents under an alternative procedure authorized by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS)! 

How do I verify employment eligibility remotely now?

 To participate in the remote examination of Form I-9 documents under the DHS-authorized alternative procedure, employers must be enrolled in E-Verify, examine and retain copies of all documents, conduct a live video interaction with the employee, and create an E-Verify case if the employee is a new hire.

See other recent updates here:

USCIS Now Provides Tracking for Form I-131 & I-765 Progress!

Are you anxious about your travel permit and work permit progress? You will love this great news! USCIS is now providing tracking to your Form I-131 & Form I-765. Let's check out more details:

USCIS Now Provides Tracking for Form I-131 & I-765 Progress!

USCIS Adds Form I-131 & I-765 to My Progress Tracking Tool

Exciting news! USCIS is getting better and better. Now the agency announced that they are updating its processing time tool "My Progress" for Form I-765 (Work Permit) & Form I-131 (Travel document)

What is "My Progress" from USCIS?

USCIS My Progress is a tool within USCIS online account that helps applicants to get personalized estimation of their wait times, including the final decisions. Although the estimates are based on historical patterns of similar cases and can't be guaranteed, it does give applicants some insights where their cases are at.

What Forms are Available for USCIS My Progress?

Currently several forms are available within the tool:

Where do I use USCIS My Progress?

To view estimated case timelines, you need to:

  1. create an online account with USCIS here if you don't have one yet
  2. select your pending application
  3. once you link your application to your account, you will see a my Progress tab for your application
  4. You will now be able to see the estimated wait time until your case has a decision, along with a checkmark beside three milestones as they are completed
    1. Confirmation that the application was received
    2. Biometric services appointment (if required) has been completed; and
    3. The decision on the pending case.

What do you think? Is this tool helpful? Any thoughts? Leave me a comment!

Keep learning....

NEW! USCIS Self-Service Biometrics Appointment Rescheduling Tool

Finally! There is a way to reschedule your biometrics appointment without any hassle! Check out this new tool USCIS has launched:

NEW! USCIS Self-Service Biometrics Appointment Rescheduling Tool


USCIS Self-Service Biometrics Appointment Rescheduling Tool

Now you don't need to call USCIS contact center to reschedule most biometrics appointments. USCIS has launched a new self-service biometrics appointment rescheduling tool to streamline their immigration services. This is available to be used for both paper=filed and online-filed benefit requests. 

How do I use USCIS Self-Service Biometrics Appointment Rescheduling Tool?

Simply follow these steps:

  • Create a USCIS online account if you don't have one yet here: https://myaccount.uscis.gov/
  • Make sure your biometrics appointment date has not passed - you can't use this tool to reschedule the appointment that you missed already. 
  • Make sure you have acceptable reasons for rescheduling. Here are a few examples:
    • Medical reasons - illness, medical appointment, hospitalization
    • Previously planned travel
    • Significant life events - wedding, funeral, graduation
    • Inability to obtain transportation to the appointment
    • Inability to obtain leave from employment or caregiver responsibilities
    • late delivered or undelivered biometric services appointment notice. 
  • Select Biometrics Rescheduling Option and follow the prompts to fill out everything
  • Print the new appointment notice and bring it to your appointment.

What if I missed my appointment already? 

There are some special circumstances where you still need to call USCIS Contact Center such as your request is within 12 hours of scheduled appointment, you have rescheduled the same appointment twice already, or if you have missed the appointment already. 

Learn more details on USCIS's website here>>

Keep Reading:

USCIS Removed 60-Day Rule for Civil Surgeon Signatures on Form I-693!

USCIS Removed 60-Day Rule for Civil Surgeon Signatures on Form I-693!

USCIS Removed 60-Day Rule for Civil Surgeon Signatures on Form I-693!

USCIS had issued a temporary waiver a while ago to pause the requirement that civil surgeons sign Form I-693, Medical Examination and Vaccination Record, no more than 60 days before an applicant applies for Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status. 

Now this temporary waiver has become a permanent policy! 

How will this affect previously submitted cases?

For those whose Green Card applications have been considered invalid solely due to the expired I-693 signature before, you will no longer receive Request for Evidence (RFEs). USCIS will accept these Forms I-693 for adjudicative purposes for up to 2 years after the date the civil surgeon signed the form.

For new applicants, Civil surgeons no longer have to sign Form I-693 no more than 60 days before the Green Card (I-485) application is filed. 

What's the best practice?

Submit your Form I-693 with your Form I-485 together! USCIS will consider a completed Form I-693 to remain valid for 2 years after the date the civil surgeon signed the medical record form. 

**New Update: Any Form I-693, Report of Immigration Medical Examination and Vaccination Record, that was properly completed and signed by a civil surgeon on or after Nov. 1, 2023, does not expire and can be used indefinitely. Learn more here>>

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USCIS Proposed Rule to Adjust Certain Naturalization Application Fees

USCIS has been talking about changing application fees and rules to better serve the immigrants. Let's take a quick look at some key points:

USCIS Adjust Naturalization Application Fees

USCIS Proposed Rule to Adjust Certain Application Fees

USCIS today published a Notice of Proposed Reulemaking (NPRM) to adjust certain immigration and naturalization benefit request fees. 

Why? This allows USCIS to more fully recover its operating costs and they need more money to maintain timely case processing (which is one of the biggest concerns that everyone has!)

The projected revenues would also allow USCIS to increase the number of adjudicators processing applications, improve technology and increase support provided to individuals. 

Who will be affected by the new rule?

The proposed rule would include a modest increase in the fee for certain naturalization applications, while preserving existing fee waiver eligibility for low income and vulnerable populations and adding new fee exemptions for certain humanitarian programs. 

If finalized, the rule will decrease or minimally increase fees for more than one million low-income filers per year. 

New measures include:
  • incorporate biometrics costs into the main benefit fee 
  • remove the separate biometric services fee
  • establish separate fees for each nonimmigrant classification covered by Form I-129
  • Change premium processing timeframe from 15 calendar days to 15 business days
  • institute lower fees for certain forms filed online

Please note that the fees will not change until the final rule goes into effect, after the public has the opportunity to comment and USCIS finalizes the fee schedule in response. Stay tuned for USCIS's public engagement session on proposed fee rule on Jan 11, 2023! 

NEW Version of Form I-485 Starts Dec 23rd, 2022!

Hello everyone! Just want to give you a quick alert that USCIS starts accepting the new version of Form I-485 for your Green Card application! Here are a couple of things that you need to be aware of:

NEW Version of Form I-485 Starts Dec 23rd, 2022!

  • If you file your Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status, on or after Dec. 23, 2022, you MUST use the new edition of Form I-485! Or USCIS will reject your filing.
  • If you file Form I-485 before Dec 23, 2022, you MUST use the older version (07/15/22) or USCIS would reject your filing as well!

The rule of thumb - always check your forms before you submit to make sure you are using the right version! 

Good luck!

More updates:

USCIS Automatically Extends Green Cards for N-400 Naturalization Applicants

Great news! USCIS continuously improves the immigration process by automatically extending your Green Card if you applied for naturalization. Let's hear all about it!

USCIS Automatically Extends Green Cards for N-400 Naturalization Applicants

USCIS Automatically Extends Green Cards for N-400 Naturalization Applicants

USCIS now automatically extends the validity of Permanent Resident Cards (Green Cards) for applicants who applied for naturalization! 

Since many naturalization applicants are experiencing long processing times, this new policy will help permanent resident maintain their status in the US and avoid the need to file Form I-90, Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card (Green Card). 

In plain words - Make sure you file Form N-400, Application for Naturalization in time and you will receive an automatic extension on your existing Green Card. Isn't that wonderful?

When does this policy start? 

It's effective on Dec. 12th, 2022! 

How do I prove that my expired Green Card has been extended? 

The N-400 receipt notice will have an updated language that extends your Green Card for up to 24 months for these applicants. 

As long as you present your expired Green Card with the N-400 receipt notice, you will be able to prove your continued status in the US. 


Keep Reading...


NEW Trial Naturalization Test by USCIS

Are you about to take your naturalization test? USCIS is about to trial a new version of the test! Let's take a quick look at what is going on:

NEW Trial Naturalization Test by USCIS

What is a Naturalization Test?

For those of you that don't know about naturalization test yet, it is the citizenship test that happens at the final stages of the naturalization process. Basically, most immigrants need to pass this test to be eligible to become a US citizen. The test includes two parts, Eglish and civics test. 

If you are interested in learning about my naturalization test experience - click here to see more details!

USCIS Trials NEW Version of the Naturalization Test

USCIS announced recently that they would trial a new version of the naturalization test. Why? This decision is part of a broader effort by the Biden administration to overhaul the immigration system. According to USCIS, some experts reviewed the current version of the test and suggested a redesign.

You may be interested in these:

How to Reinstate your Green Card After Staying Aboard for a Long Period

Have you been out of the US for over 1 year? Many of us may be subject to green card abandonment without even knowing it! 

During the pandemic, many green card holders had no choice but to stay out of the US for an extended period. In this case, you may be facing a difficult decision - whether to abandon your green card or not. 
How to Reinstate your Green Card After Staying Aboard for a Long Period

What are the key consequences of green card abandonment?

Other than losing your permanent residency and being required to restart the green card application all over again, here are a couple of other consequences:
  • Watch out for "Exit tax"! - IRS may treat your assets as sold for market value on the day you lose your status. While you are still the owner of the assets, you may be subject to some additional taxes.
  • You will not be able to sponsor any family members to visit the US and any sponsored applications for your family may be suspended or cancelled. 

How to avoid Green Card abandonment

Luckily, you may apply for Form I-407, Record of Abandonment of Lawful Permanent Resident Status, aka a re-entry permit! 

A re-entry permit allows permanent US residents to travel outside the country for more than 12 months without losing their permanent residency status. This permit is usually valid for 2 years and can be applied for as many times as possible.

Why do you need this re-entry permit? This permit is to show USCIS that you still have a very strong intention to come back to the US and maintain your permanent residency status.

If you are out of the country for a long time period (over 12 months), you may be given a warning by a Custom and Border Protection (CBP) when you try to re-enter the US with your current unexpired green card. So it's suggested to apply for Form I-407 before you leave the US when you know that you would be outside of the US for more than 1 year. 

What if I am already out of the US for over 1 year and didn't apply for Form I-407?

How to reinstate your Green Card after abandonment

You can reinstate your green card at the US Embassy or Consulate near your current location abroad. An interview will be required. You will need to submit documents to prove that:

  • When you departed the US, you had a valid green card. You will need to present your valid permanent resident card and other supporting documents
  • Your overstaying outside the country is due to circumstances beyond your control. For example, medical reasons or employment, or even other family affair. 
  • You left the US with an intention to come back - meaning you didn't mean to abandon your status. You may be required to submit your US income tax return records. 
  • You may also show that you have properties, investments and/or other close relatives int he US. Bank accounts and other assets may also support your true intentions. 
Check with your US embassy or consulate at your current country when you apply for the reinstatement. Every case can be different but here are a few key documents for the green card reinstatement application:
  • DS-117, Application to Determine Returning Resident Status 
  • Your existing I-551, Permanent Resident Card (Green Card)
  • Re-entry permit if applicable 
  • Documents to prove the date you traveled outside the US, such as your flight tickets or passport stamps
  • Your recent US tax returns
  • Other supporting documents such as evidence of family and social ties to the US
I hope this article helps! Come back to learn more about immigration applications.

USCIS Decouples Form I-765 and Form I-131 Filed at the Same Time

Did you know that USCIS started separating Form I-765 and Form I-131 even if you filed them at the same time? Let's chat more!
USCIS Decouples Form I-765 and Form I-131 Filed at the Same Time

USCIS Decouples Form I-765 and Form I-131 Filed at the Same Time

USCIS announced that, in order to improve efficiency and reduce Form I-765 processing times for Form I-485 applicants, they may decouple Forms I-765 from Forms I-131 filed at the same times!

When will this start?

This new processing had already started from February 1st, 2022. 

How does this affect my Green Card I-458 application?


USCIS will try to process your Form I-765 first (ahead of Form I-131) and if they approve it, they will issue you an Employment Authorization Document without any notation about advanced parole (Form I-131 for traveling). This is not bad at all! After all, most of us need the work permit more than traveling permit!

USCIS will adjudicate the Form I-131 separately and once it's approved, you will receive a separate advance parole document. 

Keep reading...

USCIS Revised Form I-589 and I-765!

If you are in the middle of preparing for your Green Card application, be sure you use the most recent forms! USCIS recently revised Form I-589 and I-765. Let's see more details:

USCIS Revised Form I-589 and I-765!

USCIS Revised Form I-589 and I-765!

USCIS updates immigration forms from time to time. The most recent updates are for 
Here I will emphasize on Form I-765 which is one of the important forms along with Form I-485 Green Card application. 

Starting from Nov. 7th, 2022, USCIS will only accept the 07/26/22 edition. Until then applicants can still use the older versions (5/31/22 and 08/25/20 editions). 

Make sure you use the latest version before you submit your application! USCIS has the right to reject your application if you are using the wrong versions. 

Good luck! We will talk soon.

See more interesting posts and updates here:

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