2024 Backlogs are clearing and masks are not always required. They have ended COVID flexibilities.
Government shut downs have been avoided for now – if it does shut down USCIS will be affected. (The last shutdown was 34 days.)
2024 updated fees are up-to-date in our guides.
2022 USCIS increased the evidentiary burden for the O-1 Extraordinary Ability visa to mirror the EB-1 Extraordinary Ability visa. Our guides reflect these changes. There has been an influx in applications of these visas because of the tech industry H1B layoffs. Do not let this deter you from applying. A strong application is paramount.
Entering the U.S. via Air Travel
Non-citizen nonimmigrant air passengers no longer need to show proof of being fully vaccinated with an accepted COVID-19 vaccine to board a flight to the United States.
- Foreign nationals requiring travel visas should be aware that there are backlogs and delays at U.S. consulates and embassies worldwide.
- U.S. workers on visas are reminded to continue to make flexible travel plans and provide ample time to complete their paperwork due to the reduced capacity of consular operations.
- Lockbox facility receipt notices are currently delayed.
- Face masks may still be required when visiting USCIS facilities.
Use new Forms released by USCIS for I-485 and I-129
EB-1 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.
USCIS have upgraded their payment methods.
Lawful Permanent Resident Status
USCIS recognizes that if you are a lawful permanent resident (LPR, Green Card Holder) who traveled outside of the United States and are or were subject to COVID-19-related travel restrictions, you may have concerns about the effect of an extended absence from the United States.
If you were delayed in returning from a trip outside of the United States due to unforeseen circumstances, such as COVID-19-related travel restrictions, the trip generally retains its temporary character and USCIS will not consider your LPR status abandoned as long as you always intended to return as soon as the original purpose of the visit was completed. For more information, see USCIS Policy Manual Volume 12, Part D, General Naturalization Requirements, Chapter 2, Lawful Permanent Residence Admission for Naturalization.
Generally, if you are seeking to return to the United States after temporary foreign travel of less than one year, you may use your valid Form I-551, Permanent Resident Card, (also known as a Green Card) as a travel document. If you are seeking to return to the United States after temporary foreign travel of a year or more, you must present a Form I-327, Permit to Reenter, (also known as a reentry permit) or a Returning Resident (SB-1) immigrant visa. If you have been outside of the United States for a year or more without a reentry permit or beyond the validity of your reentry permit, you should consider contacting the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate to discuss your situation. For more information, visit the U.S. Department of State website.