Celebrating a Milestone: 100 Reviews on Google
I am grateful to share that our office has reached 100 reviews on Google. Thank you to every client who took the time to share their experience. Your kind and thoughtful reviews mean the world to us and remind us why we do this work.
It is an honor to serve you and your families during such important moments in your lives. Thank you for trusting us with your immigration journey.
– Christine Contreras
The Latest Immigration News
As we begin 2026, there have been several important updates in immigration policy that may affect your case. From changes to visa processing to new USCIS requirements, staying informed can help you prepare and protect your status.
Below are the most important immigration updates you need to know about this month. If you have questions about how these changes affect your specific situation, our office is here to guide you through the process.
Understanding the Recent Immigrant Visa Processing Pause
You may have heard news about a pause on immigrant visa processing for nationals from 75 countries. This announcement has caused some confusion and concern, so we want to clarify what this means for you and your family.
Who the Pause Actually Affects
The pause applies only to immigrant visas that are processed at U.S. consulates and embassies abroad.
If you filed your green card application while you are in the United States, your case continues as normal. The processing pause only affects people who are applying for immigrant visas from their home countries.
Recommendation If You Have A Case Pending
If you are from one of the affected countries and have a pending immigrant visa application, you should reach out to your attorney to discuss case strategy. This does not indicate the case stops completely.
List of Countries Impacted
The pause affects nationals from the following 75 countries:
Afghanistan, Albania, Algeria, Antigua and Barbuda, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Bahamas, Bangladesh, Barbados, Belarus, Belize, Bhutan, Bosnia, Brazil, Burma, Cambodia, Cameroon, Cape Verde, Colombia, Cote d’Ivoire, Cuba, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Dominica, Egypt, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Fiji, Gambia, Georgia, Ghana, Grenada, Guatemala, Guinea, Haiti, Iran, Iraq, Jamaica, Jordan, Kazakhstan, Kosovo, Kuwait, Kyrgyzstan, Laos, Lebanon, Liberia, Libya, Macedonia, Moldova, Mongolia, Montenegro, Morocco, Nepal, Nicaragua, Nigeria, Pakistan, Republic of the Congo, Russia, Rwanda, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Saint Lucia, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Senegal, Sierra Leone, Somalia, South Sudan, Sudan, Syria, Tanzania, Thailand, Togo, Tunisia, Uganda, Uruguay, Uzbekistan, and Yemen.
Longer Processing Times: What to Expect
We are currently seeing longer wait times for both green card applications and naturalization applications. This is likely due to increased security checks and additional scrutiny by immigration officials.
What You Should Know
Processing times have increased across the board. Cases that previously took several months may now take longer. We understand this can be frustrating, especially when you are waiting for important decisions about your future.
What You Can Do
- Be patient. Delays are affecting many applicants.
- Keep your contact information up to date with USCIS.
- If you move, update your address with USCIS within 10 days.
- Respond quickly to any requests for additional information or documentation.
- Reach out to our office if you have questions about your application or if you experience unusual delays.
We are here to help you navigate these changes and ensure your application is as strong as possible.
Recent USCIS Updates You Should Know About
USCIS has made two important updates that may affect your application.
New Rule: Photos Must Be Less Than 3 Years Old
USCIS now requires that biometric photos be less than 36 months (3 years) old. If your last biometric photo was taken more than 3 years ago, you will need to attend a new biometrics appointment.
What this means for you:
- More applicants will receive notices to attend a biometrics appointment.
- This may add time to your case processing.
- Make sure your mailing address is current so you do not miss your appointment notice.
- Bring valid identification to your appointment.
Please note: If you are filing an Adjustment of Status application (Form I-485) or a Naturalization application (Form N-400), you will always need to attend a biometrics appointment regardless of when your last photo was taken.
Need Support With Your Case?
Immigration rules continue to change, and it is important to understand how new policies may affect your plans. If you have questions about these updates or your application, we are here to help.
Schedule a consultation with the Law Office of Christine Contreras to receive clear and professional guidance tailored to your situation.