New USCIS Policy Changes May Cause Delays for Some Immigrants
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has announced new policy changes that may lead to significant delays for certain immigration applications. These changes mainly affect asylum seekers, refugees, and people from countries USCIS considers “high-risk.”
Below is a simple breakdown of what’s happening, who may be affected, and what you can do.
Who May Be Affected?
1. People From Certain “High-Risk” Countries
USCIS has paused processing for many immigration applications from people who were born in or are citizens of 19 countries listed in a recent presidential travel proclamation. These countries include:
Afghanistan, Burma, Burundi, Chad, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Cuba, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Haiti, Iran, Laos, Libya, Sierra Leone, Somalia, Sudan, Togo, Turkmenistan, Venezuela, and Yemen.
⚠️ More countries could be added in the future.
What does this mean?
USCIS has temporarily stopped processing pending applications from people from these countries, including:
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Work visas (such as H-1B, TN, or O-1)
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Green card applications
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Citizenship applications (even if an oath ceremony was already scheduled)
USCIS has also said it may re-review applications that were already approved, and some people could be asked to attend another interview.
2. Asylum Seekers and People Applying for Withholding of Removal
USCIS has paused all decisions on asylum and withholding of removal applications (Form I-589), no matter what country the person is from.
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USCIS may still review files and schedule interviews
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However, they will not issue final decisions right now (no approvals or denials)
People can still apply for asylum, but these cases may remain pending longer than usual.
3. Refugees
Refugees admitted to the U.S. between January 21, 2021 and February 20, 2025 may also be affected.
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USCIS has paused processing of green card applications for refugees from this period
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USCIS plans to re-review and possibly re-interview these cases
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This includes some family members who joined or followed the refugee later
How Long Will These Delays Last?
At this time, USCIS has not announced an end date for these pauses. As of December 9, 2025, the policies are still in effect.
What Should You Do If You’re Affected?
If you think these policy changes may impact you or your family:
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Talk to a licensed immigration attorney about your specific situation
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An attorney can help you understand delays, next steps, and your options
If you don’t already have a lawyer, you can find one through the American Immigration Lawyers Association at www.ailalawyer.com.
Important Note
This information is meant to be general guidance only and is not legal advice. Immigration situations are unique, and speaking with a qualified attorney is the best way to get accurate advice for your case.