U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) issued updated guidance expanding and clarifying adjudication policies for foreign nationals born in or citizens of countries subject to the U.S. travel ban. Impacted cases may continue processing but will not receive final decisions while adjudication holds remain in effect.
What Has Changed
• Adjudication holds apply to all pending benefit requests for nationals of expanded travel ban countries.
• USCIS may re-review certain approvals issued on or after January 20, 2021.
• RFEs and NOIDs may still be issued during the hold period.
Exceptions
• Form I-90 (Green Card replacement)
• International athletes and support personnel
• Cases serving U.S. national interests
Why This Matters
Applicants and employers should anticipate longer processing times, increased scrutiny, and additional documentation requests. Early legal guidance is recommended.