USCIS announced major updates to its screening and vetting processes on March 30, 2026, identifying previous measures as “wholly inadequate.” The new policies impose holds on asylum applications, diversity visa adjustments, and benefit applications from nationals of 39 countries, while allowing some cases to proceed.
Key Details:
- Holds are placed on asylum applications and benefit applications from nationals of 39 countries.
- Asylum cases from non high-risk countries and certain US citizen petitions are now being processed again.
- EAD validity has been reduced from 5 years to 18 months.
- Expanded vetting includes social media and financial checks, along with automatic criminal alerts.
The changes aim to enhance security and ensure that only eligible applicants are approved, impacting many immigrants awaiting decisions on their applications. Need help with your immigration case? Visit QuickFiling.us for professional immigration services.
Source: GreenCardClock