Holiday Greetings and Important Updates
As the year comes to a close, I want to wish you and your family a happy holiday season and a joyful New Year.
As we move into 2026, USCIS has issued several updates that may affect filing requirements, processing timelines, and work authorization. The reminders below highlight what you should know as you plan ahead.
USCIS Limits Photo Reuse to Three Years
USCIS has updated its rules on the identity photo taken by USCIS at a biometrics appointment and used on documents like green cards and work permits.
What has changed
- USCIS will only reuse a biometrics photo if it was taken within the last 36 months.
- If your last biometrics photo is older than three years, USCIS will require a new appointment.
- This policy replaces the COVID-era reuse rules and the age-based limits introduced in 2024.
- This change applies to applications filed on or after December 12, 2025.
What this means for you
- More applicants should expect a new biometrics appointment.
- Processing timelines may increase if a new appointment is required.
- Keep your mailing address updated to avoid missing appointment notices.
- Bring valid identification to your biometrics appointment.
Do not assume USCIS will reuse your previous photo, even if you applied for another benefit recently.
Important USCIS Reminders on Payments and Work Permits
As of October 28, 2025, USCIS requires electronic payment methods only. Filing fees must be paid using direct bank debit with Form G-1650 or a credit or prepaid card with Form G-1450. Incorrect payment methods can result in application rejections and delays.
In addition, automatic work permit extensions are no longer available. Applications filed on or after October 30, 2025 do not receive the 540-day extension for Employment Authorization Document renewals. If your work permit expires before USCIS approves the renewal, you must stop working. You may file for renewal up to 180 days (6 months) before your expiration date, and filing early is strongly recommended.
Processing Pauses for Applicants from Certain Countries
USCIS has announced a pause on reviewing some green card, citizenship, and asylum applications for individuals from 19 countries identified under recent Department of Homeland Security guidance.
The list of countries include: Afghanistan, Burma, Burundi, Chad, Republic of Congo, Cuba, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Haiti, Iran, Laos, Libya, Sierra Leone, Somalia, Sudan, Togo, Turkmenistan, Venezuela, and Yemen.
This pause affects pending applications and may include additional review or re-interviews of cases that were already approved. USCIS has indicated that these measures may also contribute to longer processing times across the system.
This update may not affect everyone, but broader agency actions like this can increase backlogs and delays for many applicants. If you are from one of the affected countries or are concerned about how this may impact your case, it is important to seek legal guidance based on your specific situation.
Looking Ahead
Immigration processing continues to change, and timelines remain unpredictable. Staying informed, filing early, and responding promptly to USCIS notices are more important than ever.
If you have questions about how any of these updates affect your case, please contact our office. Each situation is different, and personalized guidance is always recommended.
Thank you again for allowing our team to support you throughout your immigration journey.