USCIS announced last Friday that effective May 18, 2026, attorneys will no longer be permitted to participate in remote or telephonic interviews at field offices, including affirmative asylum and NACARA interviews, except in limited circumstances. Attorneys must be physically present to attend these interviews, marking a significant policy change for legal representation during immigration proceedings.
Key Details:
- Effective date: May 18, 2026
- Applies to: All field office interviews, including affirmative asylum and NACARA
- Remote participation: Allowed only in limited circumstances
- Requirement: Attorneys must be physically present at interviews
This change may impact clients who are located far from USCIS offices, as telephonic representation provided a time-saving alternative. The increased number of attorneys attending interviews may also lead to a need for USCIS offices to be more accommodating during the interview process.
Need help with your immigration case? Visit QuickFiling.us for professional immigration services.
Source: Tsui H. Yee