The USCIS policy, effective immediately, applies to both pending and newly filed family-based visa petitions.
Nearly 520,000 I-130 petitions (the first step in obtaining a green card through family) were filed in the first six months of 2025.
As of June 2025, over 2.4 million I-130 petitions were pending, with more than 1.9 million pending for over six months.
The policy change is intended to enhance screening and vetting processes, aimed at detecting and deterring immigration fraud and threats to national security.
Experts warn this could lead to increased fear within immigrant communities and dissuade eligible individuals from pursuing lawful permanent residency.
Why this matters: This policy shift significantly impacts a major pathway to legal residency in the U.S., potentially affecting hundreds of thousands of immigrants and their families. It creates uncertainty and raises the risk of deportation for those navigating the complex immigration system.
The updated USCIS policy focuses on family-based immigrant visa petitions, particularly those filed by spouses or immediate relatives. USCIS emphasizes the importance of ensuring the validity and legitimacy of marriage and family relationships in these petitions. The agency states that the policy aims to prevent fraudulent or non-meritorious petitions that undermine the integrity of the family-based immigration system.
The new guidance clarifies eligibility criteria, documentation requirements, and interview procedures. It also addresses how USCIS handles cases involving multiple or related petitions and outlines conditions under which petitions may be routed to other government agencies.
Critics argue that the policy aligns with a broader agenda to restrict immigration and increase deportations. They express concern that it could disproportionately affect vulnerable populations, including those with expiring visas, Dreamers, and individuals whose temporary legal status is in jeopardy.
Q: Who is affected by this policy change?
Immigrants seeking green cards through family-based petitions, especially those who lack legal status or whose status is at risk, are affected by this policy.
Q: What is an I-130 petition?
An I-130 petition is the first step in the process of obtaining a green card through a spouse or family member who is a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident.
Q: What are the potential consequences of this policy?
Immigrants applying for green cards through family-based petitions may face increased scrutiny, potential removal proceedings, and the risk of deportation.
The new USCIS policy increases the risk of deportation for immigrants seeking green cards through family-based petitions.
The policy is effective immediately and applies to both new and pending applications.
This change is part of a broader effort to enhance screening and vetting within the immigration system.
Immigrants and their families should be aware of the increased scrutiny and potential risks associated with the new policy.
Anyone affected by this should seek legal advice.
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