USCIS has announced several important changes that affect many applicants and employers. Here’s what you need to know 👇

USCIS clarified when biometrics will and won’t be collected for individuals in detention. Unless someone is in removal proceedings and has an active case before the immigration court, USCIS generally won’t take biometrics.

The agency also cleaned up outdated internal rules and reminded applicants that missing a biometrics appointment may still lead to a denial for abandonment.

USCIS announced a new centralized vetting center in Atlanta.

The goal: strengthen national-security screening by combining data from DHS, law enforcement, intelligence agencies, and advanced tech tools (including AI).

The center will review new applications and even re-evaluate previously approved ones, especially those connected to high-risk regions.

A new program allows individuals to obtain expedited EB-1 or EB-2 green card processing by contributing $1 million (or $2 million for sponsoring companies), plus additional fees.

A future “Platinum” card costing $5 million will offer longer U.S. stays without triggering U.S. tax residency on foreign income.

This rollout has drawn widespread discussion due to its contrast with stepped-up enforcement and deportation efforts.

DHS has signed a $140 million contract to purchase six Boeing 737 aircraft to expand its removal operations fleet.

Recent executive actions call for closer review of certain applications, expanded vetting authority, a pause on affirmative asylum approvals, and more officers to support national-security functions.

USCIS also noted increased attention on identity verification challenges for applicants from specific countries.

• Attorney Chimnaz recently presented at a UC Berkeley VSPA webinar on self-sponsored immigration options, including O-1, EB-1A, and EB-2 NIW — with more than 80 scholars attending.

• We secured a new family-based immigration approval this week

If you found this update helpful, please forward it to your friends or family who might benefit.

You can also reply to this email with any questions — our team will be happy to assist you. You can schedule your appointment here.