Volume 1 - General Policies and Procedures

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Volume 1 - General Policies and Procedures | USCIS

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INA

8 CFR

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Volume 1 - General Policies and Procedures

Resources

Legal Authorities

13 U.S.C. 8 - Authenticated transcripts or copies of certain returns; other data; restriction on use; disposition of fees received

29 U.S.C. 701 - Rehabilitation Act

44 CFR 206 , Subpart B - The Declaration Process

44 U.S.C. 31 - Federal Records Act of 1950, as amended - Records management by federal agencies

5 U.S.C. 552 - Freedom of Information Act - Public information; agency rules, opinions, orders, records, and proceedings

5 U.S.C. 552a - Privacy Act of 1974, as amended - Records maintained on individuals

5 U.S.C. 552a(b) - Conditions of disclosure

8 CFR 1.2 - Definitions

8 CFR 1003.110 - Sanction of recognized organizations

8 CFR 1003.24(d) - Fee Waivers

8 CFR 1003.47(d) - Biometrics and other biographical information

8 CFR 103.16 - Collection, use and storage of biometric information

8 CFR 103.16(a) - Use of biometric information

8 CFR 103.2 - Submission and adjudication of benefit requests

8 CFR 103.2(a)(1) - Preparation and submission

8 CFR 103.2(a)(3) - Representation

8 CFR 103.2(a)(7)(ii)(D) - Benefit requests submitted

8 CFR 103.2(b) - Evidence and processing

8 CFR 103.2(b)(13)(ii) - Failure to appear for biometrics capture, interview or other required in-person process

8 CFR 103.3 - Denials, appeals, and precedent decisions

8 CFR 103.7 - Fees

8 CFR 103.7(a) - DOJ fees

8 CFR 103.7(c) – Remittances

8 CFR 103.7(c)(2) - Waiver of fees

8 CFR 103.7(d) - Non-USCIS DHS immigration fees

8 CFR 103.8 - Service of decisions and other notices

8 CFR 106.1 - Fee requirements

8 CFR 106.2 - Fees

8 CFR 106.3 - Fee waivers and exemptions

8 CFR 1103.7 - Fees

8 CFR 1292.17 - Administrative termination of recognition and accreditation

8 CFR 1292.19 - Complaints against recognized organizations and accredited representatives

8 CFR 204.1(b) – Proper filing for immediate relative and family-sponsored petitions

8 CFR 205.2 - Revocation on notice

8 CFR 208.6 - Disclosure to third parties

8 CFR 212.7(e) - Provisional unlawful presence waivers of inadmissibility

8 CFR 214.2(e)(23) - Special procedures for classifying foreign investors in the Commonwealth of Northern Mariana Islands (CNMI) as E-2 nonimmigrant treaty investors under title VII of the Consolidated Natural Resources Act of 2008

8 CFR 244.16 - Confidentiality in temporary protected status for nationals of designated states cases

8 CFR 245.15 - Adjustment of status of certain Haitian nationals under the Haitian Refugee Immigrant Fairness Act of 1998 (HRIFA)

8 CFR 245a.2 - Application for temporary residence

8 CFR 245a.21 - Confidentiality in Legal Immigration Family Equity (LIFE) Act cases

8 CFR 245a.3 - Application for adjustment from temporary to permanent resident status

8 CFR 265.1 - Reporting change of address

8 CFR 292.1 - Representation of others

8 CFR 292.3 - Professional conduct for practitioners—Rules and procedures

8 CFR Part 1003 Subpart G - Professional Conduct for Practitioners—Rules and Procedures

8 CFR Part 1292 - Representation and Appearances

8 U.S.C. 1367 - Penalties for disclosure of information

8 U.S.C. 1641 - Restrictions on public assistance

90 FR 34511 (PDF) - USCIS Immigration Fees Required by HR–1 Reconciliation Bill

Delegation 15006 - Delegation to Director, United States Citizenship and Immigration Services to Order Expedited Removal and to Enforce Immigration Laws

Delegation of Authority 0150.1 - Delegation to the Bureau of Citizenship and Immigration Services

INA 101(i)(1) - Referral to nongovernmental organization

INA 103 , 8 CFR 103 - Powers and duties of the Secretary, the Under Secretary, and the Attorney General

INA 105 - Liaison with internal security officers

INA 204(a) - Procedure for granting immigrant status; petitioning procedure

INA 204 , 8 CFR 204 - Procedure for granting immigrant status

INA 210 , 8 CFR 210 - Special agricultural workers

INA 242(g) - Exclusive jurisdiction

INA 244 , 8 CFR 244 - Temporary protected status

INA 245A(c)(4) - Limitation on access to information

INA 265 - Notices of change of address

INA 286(m) - Immigration examinations fee account

INA 291 - Burden of proof upon alien

INA 292 - Right to representation

INA 335 , 8 CFR 335 - Investigation of applicants, examination of applications

Pub. L. 107-296 (PDF) - Homeland Security Act of 2002

Pub. L. 119-21 (PDF) (July 4, 2025) H.R.1 - One Big Beautiful Bill Act

Forms

AR-11, Change of Address

G-1055, Fee Schedule

G-1450, Authorization for Credit Card Transactions

G-28, Notice of Entry of Appearance as Attorney or Accredited Representative

G-28I, Notice of Entry of Appearance as Attorney in Matters Outside the Geographical Confines of the United States

G-325A, Biographic Information

I-130, Petition for Alien Relative

I-131, Application for Travel Documents, Parole Documents, and Arrival/Departure Records

I-290B, Notice of Appeal or Motion

I-360, Petition for Amerasian, Widow(er), or Special Immigrant

I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status

I-539, Application To Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status Application To Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status

I-589, Application for Asylum or Withholding of Removal

I-600, Petition to Classify Orphan as an Immediate Relative

I-600A, Application for Advance Processing of an Orphan Petition

I-601, Application for Waiver of Grounds of Inadmissibility

I-698, Application to Adjust Status from Temporary to Permanent Resident (Under Section 245A of the INA)

I-730, Refugee/Asylee Relative Petition

I-751, Petition to Remove Conditions on Residence

I-765, Application for Employment Authorization

I-765V, Application for Employment Authorization for Abused Nonimmigrant Spouse

I-797C, Notice of Action

I-800, Petition to Classify Convention Adoptee as an Immediate Relative

I-800A, Application for Determination of Suitability to Adopt a Child from a Convention Country

I-817, Application for Family Unity Benefits

I-821, Application for Temporary Protected Status

I-829, Petition by Entrepreneur to Remove Conditions on Permanent Resident Status

I-854, Inter-Agency Alien Witness and Informant Record

I-864P, Poverty Guidelines

I-90, Application to Replace Permanent Residence Card

I-912, Request for Fee Waiver

I-914 Supplement A, Application for Family Member of T-1 Recipient

I-914, Application for T Nonimmigrant Status

I-918 Supplement A, Petition for Qualifying Family Member of U-1 Recipient

I-918, Petition for U Nonimmigrant Status

I-92 9, Petition for Qualifying Family Member of a U-1 Nonimmigrant

IRS Form 4506-T, Request for Transcript of Tax Return

N-336, Request for a Hearing on a Decision in Naturalization Proceedings

N-400, Application for Naturalization

Report Misconduct (Office of Inspector General)

Other Materials

Commons Scams

How to Change Your Address

How to Use the USCIS Policy Manual Website

Legal Services

List of Currently Disciplined Practitioners

List of Pro Bono Legal Service Providers

List of Recognized Organizations and Accredited Representatives

Preparing for Your Biometric Services Appointment

Report Immigration Scams

USCIS Contact Center

Appendices

Appendix: Dissatisfaction with USCIS: Terms and Definitions

Dissatisfaction with USCIS: Terms and Definitions Category and Definition Examples and Contact Information

Complaint

Any communication received by USCIS expressing dissatisfaction with USCIS. Complaints can be categorized as either “case-specific” or “non-case-specific.” [1]

Case-specific complaints directly relate to cases processed by USCIS.

Non-case-specific complaints refer to any dissatisfaction with USCIS that does not relate to a specific case.

Case-Specific Complaints

Cases taking longer than expected

Inaccurate or incomplete responses to case-related inquiries

Case processing errors

Confusion regarding a notice or correspondence sent by USCIS

Non-Case-Specific Complaints

Rude treatment by USCIS employees or contractors

Facility-related issues

Difficulty understanding forms, notices, instructions, or other general information

Administration of immigration laws or USCIS policies

Contact Information

USCIS offices, in-person or by mail. See Find a USCIS Office page on the USCIS website.

USCIS Contact Center

Phone: 1-800-375-5283 (TTY: 1-800-767-1833)

Misconduct

Actions of a USCIS employee or contractor that can be considered extreme or outrageous, including, but not limited to, criminal activity. [2]

Fraud, corruption, bribery, or embezzlement

Perjury or falsification of documents or information

Physical assault or inappropriate conduct

Unauthorized release of classified information or unauthorized use or misuse of official government systems

Misuse of official position for private gain

Theft or misuse of government funds, vehicles, badges, credentials, secure forms, sensitive property, or other property

Arrest of an employee or contractor by law enforcement personnel

Contact Information

DHS Office of Inspector General (OIG)

Phone: 1-800-323-8603; Fax: 202-254-4297

Mail: DHS, OIG/MAIL STOP 0305

Attn: Office of Investigations – Hotline

245 Murray Lane, SW

Washington, DC 20528-0305

USCIS Office of Security and Integrity (OI)

Fax: 202-233-2453

Mail: Office of Investigations

Attn: Intake MS 2275

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services

633 Third Street NW, 3rd Floor, Suite 350

Washington, DC 20529-2275

Footnotes

[^ 1] See Volume 1, Public Services, Chapter 9, Feedback, Complaints, Misconduct, and Discrimination [ 1 USCIS-PM A.9 ].

[^ 2] See Volume 1, Public Services, Chapter 9, Feedback, Complaints, Misconduct, and Discrimination [ 1 USCIS-PM A.9 ].

Appendix: Sample Declaration - Reputable Individual

The USCIS office receiving the request maintains the original in the record of proceeding.

Sample Declaration of a Reputable Individual Requesting Permission to Appear Before a USCIS Official

I, [name of reputable individual], seek permission to appear on an individual case basis on behalf of [name of benefit requestor].

I attest to the following:

My appearance is at the request of the benefit requestor named above.

I am a reputable individual of good moral character.

I am appearing without direct or indirect remuneration.

I [have a pre-existing relationship with the benefit requestor named above as a [relative/neighbor/clergyperson/business associate/personal friend/other] / do not have a pre-existing relationship]. [1]

I am not regularly engaged in immigration and naturalization practice or preparation, nor do I hold myself out to the public as qualified to do so.

I declare, under penalty of perjury under the laws of the United States of America, that the above statements are all true and correct.

_____________________________ _____________________________

Signature Date

I (USCIS official) grant/deny the request.

_____________________________ _____________________________

Signature of USCIS Official Date

_____________________________

Printed Name of USCIS Official

Footnotes

[^ 1] USCIS may waive the requirement that a pre-existing relationship exist between the benefit requestor and the reputable individual in cases where adequate representation would not otherwise be available. See 8 CFR 292.1(a)(3)(iii) .

Appendix: Sample Statement - Law Graduate

The USCIS office receiving the request maintains the original in the record of proceeding.

Sample Statement of a Law Graduate Requesting Permission to Appear Before a USCIS Official

I, [name of law graduate], seek permission to appear on behalf of [name of benefit requestor].

I attest to the following:

My appearance is at the request of the benefit requestor named above.

I am a graduate of [name of law school], an accredited U.S. law school, but I am not yet admitted to the bar.

I received my law degree on [date].

I [will take the bar examination on [date] / sat for the bar examination on [date] and have not yet received my results].

I am appearing under the supervision of [name of attorney, accredited representative], [a licensed attorney/an accredited representative].

I am appearing without direct or indirect remuneration from the individual I seek to represent.

I declare, under penalty of perjury under the laws of the United States of America, that the above statements are all true and correct.

_____________________________ _____________________________

Signature Date

I (USCIS official) grant/deny the request.

_____________________________ _____________________________

Signature of USCIS Official Date

_____________________________

Printed Name of USCIS Official

Appendix: Sample Statement - Law Student

The USCIS office receiving the request maintains the original in the record of proceeding.

Sample Statement of Law Student Requesting Permission to Appear Before a USCIS Official

I, [name of law student], seek permission to appear on behalf of [name of benefit requestor].

I attest to the following:

My appearance is at the request of the benefit requestor named above.

I am a law student enrolled in [name of law school], an accredited U.S. law school.

I am participating under the direct supervision of [name of faculty member/employee], a(n) [faculty member/employee], who is [a licensed attorney/an accredited representative] in a [law school clinic/non-profit legal aid program].

I am appearing without direct or indirect remuneration from the individual I seek to represent.

I declare, under penalty of perjury under the laws of the United States of America, that the above statements are all true and correct.

_____________________________ _____________________________

Signature Date

I (USCIS official) grant/deny the request.

_____________________________ _____________________________

Signature of USCIS Official Date

_____________________________

Printed Name of USCIS Official

Appendix: Update on Interpretation of 8 U.S.C. 1367 Duration of Confidentiality Protections

A. Background and Interpretation Change

Applicants for and recipients of immigration relief under the Violence Against Women Act of 1994 (VAWA) [1] and the Victims of Trafficking and Violence Protection Act of 2000 [2] are entitled to special protections with regard to privacy and confidentiality and adverse determinations of inadmissibility and deportability. [3]

The governing statute prohibits the unauthorized disclosure of information about requestors and recipients of VAWA, T nonimmigrant, and U nonimmigrant-related benefit requests to anyone other than an officer or employee of DHS, the U.S. Department of Justice, or the U.S. Department of State who has a need to know. [4] USCIS also extends the provisions of 8 U.S.C. 1367 to abused spouses of certain persons applying for employment authorization under the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA). [5]

Under prior practice, USCIS applied the 8 U.S.C. 1367 protections indefinitely. This has meant that USCIS maintained these protections even after naturalization.

These protections offer important safeguards: an unauthorized disclosure of information that relates to a protected person can have significant consequences. However, the protections under 8 U.S.C. 1367 can pose barriers to accessing USCIS customer service tools and electronic benefit processing after naturalization because of identity verification requirements. [6]

8 U.S.C. 1367 was designed to “ensure that abusers and criminals cannot use the immigration system against their victims,” such as by obtaining information about the existence of immigration benefit requests, “interfering with or undermining their victims’ immigration cases,” or “encouraging immigration enforcement officers to pursue removal actions against their victims.” [7]

After naturalization, the concerns underlying the creation of 8 U.S.C. 1367 become less relevant and necessary as a safety mechanism: naturalized citizens are no longer subject to removal and can travel and work without seeking permission from USCIS. However, because USCIS continued to apply the 8 U.S.C. 1367 protections after naturalization, naturalized citizens who needed to interface with USCIS continued to face limitations in accessing USCIS’ telephonic and electronic customer service tools.

8 U.S.C. 1367 protects “any information which relates to an alien who is the beneficiary of an application for relief under paragraph (15)(T), (15)(U), or (51) of section 101(a) of the Immigration and Nationality Act [8 U.S.C. 1101(a)(15)(T), (U), (51)] or section 240A(b)(2) of such Act [8 U.S.C. 1229b(b)(2)].” [8] “Alien” is defined at INA 101(a)(3) as “any person not a citizen or national of the United States.”

Upon naturalization, persons protected by 8 U.S.C. 1367 become citizens and are no longer aliens; therefore, the use of the term “alien” at 8 U.S.C. 1367 authorizes USCIS to terminate these protections at naturalization. In addition, the regulations at 8 CFR 214.14(e)(1) (relating to disclosure protections for U nonimmigrants) and 8 CFR 211.1(p)(1) (relating to T nonimmigrants) apply protections to a “beneficiary of a pending or approved petition for U [or T] nonimmigrant status,” which can reasonably be understood to refer to beneficiaries up to, but not including, naturalized citizens.

By interpreting the protections under 8 U.S.C. 1367 to terminate at naturalization, USCIS continues to comply with the statutory confidentiality protections for aliens but reduces the burden and inefficiencies for naturalized citizens.

B. Administrative Procedure Act Considerations

The Administrative Procedure Act excepts interpretive rules; general statements of policy; and rules of agency organization, procedure, or practice from notice and comment requirements. [9]

On June 12, 2024, USCIS updated the Policy Manual to notify the public of its interpretation of “alien who is the beneficiary of an application for relief under paragraph (15)(T), (15)(U), or (51) of section 101(a) of the Immigration and Nationality Act [8 U.S.C. 1101(a)(15)(T), (U), (51)] or section 240A(b)(2) of such Act [8 U.S.C. 1229b(b)(2)]” at 8 U.S.C. 1367 and explain that it is changing its policy to no longer apply the protections under that section to all previously protected naturalized citizens, including those who naturalized prior to the effective date of this policy, as a result of this interpretation. [10]

USCIS’ interpretation is reasonable because “alien” is defined at INA 101(a)(3) as “any person not a citizen or national of the United States.” USCIS interprets the protections at 8 U.S.C. 1367 to terminate upon naturalization because the formerly protected persons are no longer aliens, as defined by statute. This interpretation is based on the plain language of 8 U.S.C. 1367 and INA 101(a)(3) and is consistent with the legislative intent of 8 U.S.C. 1367. [11]

The Policy Manual guidance explains and provides clarification to officers but does not add to or subtract from the statutory protections or the substantive regulations, create legally binding rights or obligations, or change the substantive standards by which USCIS evaluates applications for immigration benefit requests.

Unfair Surprise and Reliance Interest

Changes in an agency’s interpretation of a statute do not trigger notice and comment rulemaking unless the change amounts to an imposition of new rights, duties, or obligations on the affected public, or the change conflicts with another rule having the force of law. [12] Likewise, an agency can change its interpretation of a regulation at different times in its history as long as the interpretative changes create no unfair surprise. [13]

Here, USCIS is reducing the barriers to the affected public after having received consistent feedback from stakeholders who have been unable to get meaningful customer service assistance because of protections lingering beyond naturalization. This interpretive change promotes equitable and efficient processing for all naturalized citizens, regardless of whether they were previously subject to 8 U.S.C. 1367.

USCIS recognizes that this is a change in long-standing practice and accordingly considered serious reliance interests that may be engendered by the practices of USCIS officers before this interpretation. USCIS also considered the possible unfair surprise for those previously protected naturalized citizens.

USCIS acknowledges that persons protected by 8 U.S.C. 1367 had protections continuing after naturalization that prohibited sharing any information about them unless certain requirements were met. However, USCIS ultimately determined that termination of the additional stringent requirements of protecting confidentiality does not place naturalized citizens at greater risk. The standard protocols the agency has in place to protect all information from unauthorized disclosure, in addition to the relevant privacy laws, remain in effect. USCIS does not release personal identifying information without an authorized purpose and proper verification.

Additionally, USCIS maintains the ability to re-apply the protections, should questions arise regarding citizenship eligibility. Further, a naturalized U.S. citizen’s derivative beneficiaries remain protected by statute until the individual beneficiary becomes a naturalized U.S. citizen.

USCIS believes the overall benefits of this interpretive change outweigh any potential adverse impacts and are aligned with the plain language of the statute. Naturalized citizens will be able to utilize USCIS’ customer service and electronic benefits processing tools more effectively and will remain protected from unauthorized disclosures of personal identifying information under existing privacy laws.

Implementation

USCIS delayed implementation of this policy until 30 days after publication. Upon implementation, USCIS stopped applying the 8 U.S.C. 1367 protections to all naturalized citizens, including those who previously naturalized and those who naturalize on or after the effective date of this policy. Interested parties may provide feedback on the policy, as is generally provided for Policy Manual publications.

Footnotes

[^ 1] See Pub. L. 103-322 (PDF) (September 13, 1994).

[^ 2] See Pub. L. 106-386 (PDF) (October 28, 2000).

[^ 3] See 8 U.S.C. 1367 .

[^ 4] See 8 U.S.C. 1367(a)(2) .

[^ 5] See Eligibility for Employment Authorization for Battered Spouses of Certain Nonimmigrants , PM-602-0130, issued March 8, 2016. Abused spouses of certain nonimmigrants may apply for employment authorization by filing an Application for Employment Authorization for Abused Nonimmigrant Spouse ( Form I-765V ).

[^ 6] See Volume 1, General Policies and Procedures, Part A, Public Services, Chapter 7, Privacy and Confidentiality, Section E, VAWA, T, and U Cases [ 1 USCIS-PM A.7 ].

[^ 7] See H.R. Rep. 109-233 (PDF) , p. 120 (2005).

[^ 8] See 8 U.S.C. 1367(a)(2) .

[^ 9] See 5 U.S.C. 553(b)(A) .

[^ 10] See Customer Service and Interpretation of 8 U.S.C. 1367 Confidentiality Protections for U.S. Citizens , PA-2024-15, issued June 12, 2024.

[^ 11] See H.R. Rep. 109-233 (PDF) , p. 120 (2005). The House Judiciary Committee report accompanying VAWA 2005 characterized 8 U.S.C. 1367 as protecting victims of domestic violence from the disclosure of information to their abusers. The report adds that the VAWA 2000 and VAWA 2005 amendments extend protections to “victims of trafficking, certain crimes and others who qualify for VAWA immigration relief,” with the purpose of “[ensuring] that abusers and criminals cannot use the immigration system against their victims.”

[^ 12] See Nat’l Org. of Veterans’ Advocates, Inc. v. Sec’y of Veterans Affairs , 260 F.3d 1365, 1376 (Fed. Cir. 2001). See Warder v. Shalala , 149 F.3d 73, 81-82 (1st Cir. 1998). See White v. Shalala , 7 F.3d 296, 304 (2nd Cir. 1993).

[^ 13] See Long Island Care at Home Ltd. v. Coke , 551 U.S. 158, 170-71 (2007). See Christopher v. SmithKline Beecham Corp. , 567 U.S. 142 (2012).

Updates

POLICY ALERT - Suggesting DNA Testing When Issuing a Request for Additional Evidence

August 05, 2026

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is issuing policy guidance in the USCIS Policy Manual to require officers to suggest Deoxyribonucleic Acid (DNA) testing as an optional form of evidence to establish a claimed genetic relationship in cases where primary evidence is unavailable, unreliable, or insufficient to establish a claimed genetic relationship, in situations where an officer determines additional evidence is necessary.

Affected Sections

1 USCIS-PM E.6 - Chapter 6 - Evidence

4 USCIS-PM C.4 - Chapter 4 - Documentation and Evidence

5 USCIS-PM C.7 - Chapter 7 - Documentation and Evidence

5 USCIS-PM D.3 - Chapter 3 - Identity and Age

12 USCIS-PM H.2 - Chapter 2 - Definition of Child and Residence for Citizenship and Naturalization

POLICY ALERT - Evidence, Requests for Evidence, and Notices of Intent to Deny

August 05, 2026

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is updating policy guidance in the USCIS Policy Manual regarding evidentiary standards, Requests for Evidence (RFEs), and Notices of Intent to Deny (NOIDs).

Affected Sections

1 USCIS-PM E.6 - Chapter 6 - Evidence

1 USCIS-PM E.9 - Chapter 9 - Rendering a Decision

1 USCIS-PM E.10 - Chapter 10 - Post-Decision Actions

POLICY ALERT - Attorneys and Representatives

July 13, 2026

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is issuing policy guidance in the USCIS Policy Manual regarding attorneys and representatives, consolidating and updating guidance that was previously contained in the Adjudicator’s Field Manual (AFM).

Affected Sections

1 USCIS-PM D.1 - Chapter 1 - Purpose and Background

1 USCIS-PM D.2 - Chapter 2 - Representation

1 USCIS-PM D.3 - Chapter 3 - Other Representatives

1 USCIS-PM D.4 - Chapter 4 - Establishing and Changing Representation

1 USCIS-PM D.5 - Chapter 5 - Professional Conduct and Reporting Misconduct

POLICY ALERT - Signature Requirements for the Submission of Benefit Requests

July 10, 2026

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is issuing policy guidance in the USCIS Policy Manual to clarify the signature requirements that apply when submitting immigration benefit requests.

Affected Sections

1 USCIS-PM B.2 - Chapter 2 - Signatures

7 USCIS-PM A.3 - Chapter 3 - Filing Instructions

POLICY ALERT - Deferred Action as an Extraordinary Use of Prosecutorial Discretion

May 08, 2026

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is issuing policy guidance in the USCIS Policy Manual to reaffirm deferred action as an extraordinary use of prosecutorial discretion.

Affected Sections

1 USCIS-PM I - Part I – Deferred Action

POLICY ALERT - Applicability of 8 U.S.C. 1367(a)(1) and (a)(2) Provisions

December 22, 2025

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is issuing policy guidance in the USCIS Policy Manual to clarify the applicability of 8 U.S.C. 1367(a)(1) and (a)(2) provisions. This revision also resolves minor technical errors in previously published safe address procedures for aliens protected under 8 U.S.C. 1367.

Affected Sections

1 USCIS-PM A.7 - Chapter 7 - Privacy and Confidentiality

POLICY ALERT - Photograph Reuse for Identity Documents

December 12, 2025

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is issuing policy guidance in the USCIS Policy Manual to address a change in the agency’s photograph reuse policy.

Affected Sections

1 USCIS-PM C.2 - Chapter 2 - Biometrics Collection

POLICY ALERT - Biometrics Collection for Aliens in Custody

December 05, 2025

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is issuing policy guidance in the USCIS Policy Manual to clarify USCIS policy on obtaining biometrics for detained aliens in custody with pending benefit requests with USCIS.

Affected Sections

1 USCIS-PM C.2 - Chapter 2 - Biometrics Collection

POLICY ALERT - Impact of INA 212(f) on USCIS’ Adjudication of Discretionary Benefits

November 27, 2025

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is issuing policy guidance in the USCIS Policy Manual addressing the President’s recent exercise of his authority under section 212(f) of the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA) through Presidential Proclamation 10949, “Restricting the Entry of Foreign Nationals To Protect the United States from Foreign Terrorists and Other National Security and Public Safety Threats” (PP 10949) and its impact on USCIS adjudications.

On June 5, 2026, the U.S. District Court for the District of Rhode Island issued an order in Dorcas International Institute of Rhode Island, et al. v. United States Citizenship and Immigration Services, et al. , 26-cv-00132-JJM-PAS (D.RI.), vacating PM 602-0192, PM 602-0194, and PA 2025-26. The Court entered its final judgment on June 11, 2026. In this case, the plaintiffs are non-governmental organizations and labor unions who represent millions of individuals who filed immigration applications.

USCIS strongly disagrees with the Court’s order but will follow its terms pending possible further judicial review.

The Policy Memoranda and the Policy Alert were issued based on Presidential Proclamation 10949, Restricting the Entry of Foreign Nationals To Protect the United States From Foreign Terrorists and Other National Security and Public Safety Threats , June 4, 2025, and Presidential Proclamation (PP) 10998, Restricting and Limiting the Entry of Foreign Nationals To Protect the Security of the United States , December 16, 2025, and to address the lack of screening, vetting, and the threat to national security and public safety.

With entry of final judgment this order is effective immediately, and pursuant to the court-ordered vacatur, applies agency-wide. Thus, the vacatur applies to PM 602-0192, PM 602-0194, and PA 2025-26, which should be treated as if they are not in effect.

USCIS will issue updated instructions pending further litigation developments.

Affected Sections

1 USCIS-PM E.8 - Chapter 8 - Discretionary Analysis

7 USCIS-PM A.10 - Chapter 10 - Legal Analysis and Use of Discretion

9 USCIS-PM A.5 - Chapter 5 - Discretion

10 USCIS-PM A.4 - Chapter 4 - Adjudication

Technical Update - Transition to Electronic Payments

October 28, 2025

This technical update incorporates the policy guidance that U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) announced August 29, 2025, on the transition from accepting paper-based forms of payment to requiring electronic payment. This update involves the publication of two new forms, the Authorization for ACH Transactions ( Form G-1650 ) and Exemption for Paper Fee Payment ( Form G-1651 ). This guidance became effective October 28, 2025.

Affected Sections

1 USCIS-PM B.3 - Chapter 3 - Fees

POLICY ALERT - Transition to Electronic Payments

August 29, 2025

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is issuing policy guidance in the USCIS Policy Manual on the transition from accepting paper-based forms of payment to accepting only credit or debit cards and the new Authorization for ACH Transactions (Form G-1650). This guidance becomes effective October 28, 2025.

Affected Sections

1 USCIS-PM B.3 - Chapter 3 - Fees

POLICY ALERT - Reconciliation Bill (H.R.-1) and Submission of Fees

August 21, 2025

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is updating the policy guidance in the USCIS Policy Manual to address fees not eligible for fee waivers in accordance with the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (H.R.-1), and applicable dates for determining the proper fees and filing deadlines for benefit requests.

Affected Sections

1 USCIS-PM B.4 - Chapter 4 - Fee Waivers and Fee Exemptions

1 USCIS-PM B.6 - Chapter 6 - Submitting Requests

POLICY ALERT - Clarifying Discretionary Factors in Certain Immigration Benefit Requests

August 19, 2025

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is updating policy guidance in the USCIS Policy Manual regarding the factors that officers may consider in certain benefit requests where an exercise of discretion is required, including factors relating to aliens’ past requests for parole and any involvement in anti-American or terrorist organizations.

Affected Sections

1 USCIS-PM E.8 - Chapter 8 - Discretionary Analysis

2 USCIS-PM A.4 - Chapter 4 - Extension of Stay, Change of Status, and Extension of Petition Validity

2 USCIS-PM F.8 - Chapter 8 - Change of Status, Extension of Stay, and Length of Stay

7 USCIS-PM A.10 - Chapter 10 - Legal Analysis and Use of Discretion

10 USCIS-PM A.4 - Chapter 4 - Adjudication

POLICY ALERT - Derogatory Information Unknown to the Benefit Requestor

June 12, 2025

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is issuing policy guidance in the USCIS Policy Manual to address how and when USCIS may or may not disclose derogatory information before issuing an adverse decision to benefit requestors. This update provides USCIS officers with clear guidance on disclosure procedures and ensures that benefit requestors have the opportunity to rebut derogatory information in an adverse decision.

Affected Sections

1 USCIS-PM E.6 - Chapter 6 - Evidence

Technical Update - Updating References to Notice to Appear Memorandum

June 12, 2025

This technical update revises references in the Policy Manual to refer to the memorandum Issuance of Notices to Appear (NTAs) in Cases Involving Inadmissible and Deportable Aliens , issued on February 28, 2025.

Affected Sections

1 USCIS-PM E.8 - Chapter 8 - Discretionary Analysis

7 USCIS-PM A.10 - Chapter 10 - Legal Analysis and Use of Discretion

7 USCIS-PM B.7 - Chapter 7 - Other Barred Adjustment Applicants

7 USCIS-PM Q.2 - Chapter 2 - Eligibility

7 USCIS-PM Q.3 - Chapter 3 - Rescission Process

7 USCIS-PM Q.5 - Chapter 5 - Adjudication Procedures

12 USCIS-PM D.2 - Chapter 2 - Lawful Permanent Resident Admission for Naturalization

POLICY ALERT - Recognizing Male and Female Sexes in USCIS Benefit Requests Review and Document Issuance

April 02, 2025

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is updating policy guidance in the USCIS Policy Manual to clarify that USCIS recognizes the two biological sexes, male or female, for purposes of reviewing benefit requests and USCIS-issued documents.

Affected Sections

1 USCIS-PM E.5 - Chapter 5 - Verification of Identifying Information

11 USCIS-PM A.2 - Chapter 2 - USCIS-Issued Secure Identity Documents

12 USCIS-PM G.2 - Chapter 2 - Marriage and Marital Union for Naturalization

12 USCIS-PM H.2 - Chapter 2 - Definition of Child and Residence for Citizenship and Naturalization

12 USCIS-PM K.2 - Chapter 2 - Certificate of Citizenship

12 USCIS-PM K.3 - Chapter 3 - Certificate of Naturalization

12 USCIS-PM K.4 - Chapter 4 - Application for Replacement of Naturalization/Citizenship Document

Technical Update - Removing Obsolete Alert Box and Other Updates

March 06, 2025

This technical update makes minor changes to the Policy Manual to remove an obsolete alert box and to conform with changes to the USCIS website.

Affected Sections

1 USCIS-PM A.1 - Chapter 1 - Purpose and Background

1 USCIS-PM A.8 - Chapter 8 - Conduct in USCIS Facilities

1 USCIS-PM A.9 - Chapter 9 - Feedback, Complaints, Misconduct, and Discrimination

4 USCIS-PM - Volume 4 - Refugees and Asylees

Technical Update - Replacing the Term "Noncitizen"

February 26, 2025

This technical update replaces all instances of the term “noncitizen” with “alien” or other appropriate terms throughout the Policy Manual where possible, as used to refer to a person who meets the definition provided in INA 101(a)(3) [“any person not a citizen or national of the United States”], and makes other technical and conforming changes.

Affected Sections

1 USCIS-PM - Volume 1 - General Policies and Procedures

2 USCIS-PM - Volume 2 - Nonimmigrants

3 USCIS-PM - Volume 3 - Humanitarian Protection and Parole

4 USCIS-PM - Volume 4 - Refugees and Asylees

5 USCIS-PM - Volume 5 - Adoptions

6 USCIS-PM - Volume 6 - Immigrants

7 USCIS-PM - Volume 7 - Adjustment of Status

8 USCIS-PM - Volume 8 - Admissibility

9 USCIS-PM - Volume 9 - Waivers and Other Forms of Relief

10 USCIS-PM - Volume 10 - Employment Authorization

11 USCIS-PM - Volume 11 - Travel and Identity Documents

12 USCIS-PM - Volume 12 - Citizenship and Naturalization

POLICY ALERT - Customer Contact Options for Certain Asylum-Related and Other Protected Populations

January 07, 2025

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is updating policy guidance in the USCIS Policy Manual to clarify customer service options available to certain noncitizens whose applications or processes are subject to confidentiality protections. Such noncitizens include applicants of the Application for Asylum and for Withholding of Removal ( Form I-589 ); applicants of the Application for Suspension of Deportation or Special Rule Cancellation of Removal (Pursuant to Section 203 of Public Law 105-100 (NACARA)) ( Form I-881 ); and noncitizens in the credible fear, reasonable fear, and Safe Third Country Agreement screening processes.

Affected Sections

1 USCIS-PM A.7 - Chapter 7 - Privacy and Confidentiality

POLICY ALERT - Emergencies or Unforeseen Circumstances

December 19, 2024

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is issuing policy guidance in the USCIS Policy Manual to provide comprehensive guidance on certain flexibilities USCIS may exercise during and after emergencies or unforeseen circumstances.

Affected Sections

1 USCIS-PM H.1 - Chapter 1 - Purpose and Background

1 USCIS-PM H.2 - Chapter 2 - Emergencies or Unforeseen Circumstances-Related Flexibilities

1 USCIS-PM H.3 - Chapter 3 - Operational Responses

POLICY ALERT - Case Assistance and Feedback

December 18, 2024

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is updating policy guidance in the USCIS Policy Manual to align with current case assistance and feedback avenues.

Affected Sections

1 USCIS-PM A.1 - Chapter 1 - Purpose and Background

1 USCIS-PM A.2 - Chapter 2 - Web-Based Information

1 USCIS-PM A.3 - Chapter 3 - Types of Assistance

1 USCIS-PM A.4 - Chapter 4 - Service Request Management Tool

1 USCIS-PM A.7 - Chapter 7 - Privacy and Confidentiality

1 USCIS-PM A.9 - Chapter 9 - Feedback, Complaints, Misconduct, and Discrimination

1 USCIS-PM A.10 - Chapter 10 - Changes of Address

Technical Update - Updating Name of Form I-131

October 30, 2024

This technical update to Volumes 1, 3, 7, 11 and 12 of the Policy Manual updates the name of Form I-131 to align with the current edition of the form.

Affected Sections

1 USCIS-PM A.5 - Chapter 5 - Expedite Requests

1 USCIS-PM A.7 - Chapter 7 - Privacy and Confidentiality

1 USCIS-PM B.1 - Chapter 1 - Purpose and Background

1 USCIS-PM B.3 - Chapter 3 - Fees

1 USCIS-PM B.4 - Chapter 4 - Fee Waivers and Fee Exemptions

1 USCIS-PM E.8 - Chapter 8 - Discretionary Analysis

3 USCIS-PM B.12 - Chapter 12 - Travel Outside the United States

3 USCIS-PM G.6 - Chapter 6 - Family Members

7 USCIS-PM B.2 - Chapter 2 - Eligibility Requirements

11 USCIS-PM A.3 - Chapter 3 - Reissuance of Secure Identity Documents

12 USCIS-PM I.3 - Chapter 3 - Military Service during Hostilities (INA 329)

POLICY ALERT - Determining a Benefit Requestor’s Legal Name

July 12, 2024

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is updating policy guidance in the USCIS Policy Manual to address how officers determine a benefit requestor’s legal name.

Affected Sections

1 USCIS-PM E.5 - Chapter 5 - Verification of Identifying Information

11 USCIS-PM A.2 - Chapter 2 - USCIS-Issued Secure Identity Documents

12 USCIS-PM K.3 - Chapter 3 - Certificate of Naturalization

12 USCIS-PM K.4 - Chapter 4 - Application for Replacement of Naturalization/Citizenship Document

Technical Update - Customer Service and Interpretation of 8 U.S.C. 1367 Confidentiality Protections for U.S. Citizens

July 12, 2024

This technical update incorporates the policy guidance that U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) announced June 12, 2024, that interprets the confidentiality protections under 8 U.S.C. 1367 as ending at naturalization. USCIS is making this change as the previous practice of maintaining 8 U.S.C. 1367 protections beyond naturalization created burdens for some naturalized U.S. citizens. This policy will result in naturalized citizens having full access to USCIS electronic benefit processing and critical customer service tools that are available to other U.S. citizens. This guidance became effective July 12, 2024.

Affected Sections

1 USCIS-PM A.7 - Chapter 7 - Privacy and Confidentiality

POLICY ALERT - Customer Service Options for Refugee/Asylee Relative Petition (Form I-730)

June 25, 2024

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is issuing policy guidance in the USCIS Policy Manual to clarify the customer service options available to petitioners of Refugee/Asylee Relative Petition (Form I-730).

Affected Sections

1 USCIS-PM A.7 - Chapter 7 - Privacy and Confidentiality

POLICY ALERT - Customer Service and Interpretation of 8 U.S.C. 1367 Confidentiality Protections for U.S. Citizens

June 12, 2024

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is issuing guidance in the USCIS Policy Manual that interprets the confidentiality protections under 8 U.S.C. 1367 as ending at naturalization. USCIS is making this change as the previous practice of maintaining 8 U.S.C. 1367 protections beyond naturalization created burdens for some naturalized U.S. citizens. This policy will result in naturalized citizens having full access to USCIS electronic benefit processing and critical customer service tools that are available to other U.S. citizens. This guidance becomes effective July 12, 2024.

Affected Sections

1 USCIS-PM A.7 - Chapter 7 - Privacy and Confidentiality

POLICY ALERT - Availability of Additional Gender Options for Certain Benefit Requests

April 01, 2024

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is revising policy guidance in the USCIS Policy Manual to clarify the availability of an “X” gender marker option on certain USCIS forms and secure documents.

Affected Sections

1 USCIS-PM E.5 - Chapter 5 - Verification of Identifying Information

POLICY ALERT - Fee Schedule and Changes to Certain Other Immigration Benefit Request Requirements Final Rule

April 01, 2024

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is revising its policy guidance in the USCIS Policy Manual to align with the Fee Schedule and Changes to Certain Other Immigration Benefit Request Requirements Final Rule, published in the Federal Register on January 31, 2024, and effective April 1, 2024.

Affected Sections

1 USCIS-PM B.1 - Chapter 1 - Purpose and Background

1 USCIS-PM B.3 - Chapter 3 - Fees

1 USCIS-PM B.4 - Chapter 4 - Fee Waivers and Fee Exemptions

1 USCIS-PM B.6 - Chapter 6 - Submitting Requests

2 USCIS-PM E.1 - Chapter 1 - Purpose and Background

2 USCIS-PM E.3 - Chapter 3 - Filing and Documentation

2 USCIS-PM J.7 - Chapter 7 - Admissions, Extensions of Stay, and Change of Status

2 USCIS-PM M.7 - Chapter 7 - Documentation and Evidence

2 USCIS-PM N.3 - Chapter 3 - Petitioners

5 USCIS-PM B.5 - Chapter 5 - Action on Pending or Approved Suitability Determinations

5 USCIS-PM C.7 - Chapter 7 - Documentation and Evidence

5 USCIS-PM C.8 - Chapter 8 - Adjudication

5 USCIS-PM D.4 - Chapter 4 - Eligibility Requirements Specific to Convention Adoptees

7 USCIS-PM A.3 - Chapter 3 - Filing Instructions

7 USCIS-PM A.7 - Chapter 7 - Child Status Protection Act

7 USCIS-PM A.8 - Chapter 8 - Transfer of Underlying Basis

POLICY ALERT - Customer Service Procedures for Persons Protected by 8 U.S.C. 1367

March 29, 2024

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is updating the USCIS Policy Manual to provide guidance on customer service procedures for persons protected by the confidentiality provisions found at 8 U.S.C. 1367(a)(2).

Affected Sections

1 USCIS-PM A.7 - Chapter 7 - Privacy and Confidentiality

Technical Update - Safe Address and Special Procedures for Persons Protected by 8 U.S.C. 1367

March 29, 2024

This technical update incorporates the policy guidance that U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) announced April 11, 2023, on mailing address and case handling procedures for persons protected under 8 U.S.C. 1367. This guidance became effective March 29, 2024.

Affected Sections

1 USCIS-PM A.7 - Chapter 7 - Privacy and Confidentiality

POLICY ALERT - Clarifying Expedite Requests

March 21, 2024

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is updating policy guidance in the USCIS Policy Manual to clarify how USCIS considers expedite requests related to government interests and requests related to emergencies and urgent humanitarian situations. This update also clarifies how to make an expedite request and explains how USCIS processes expedite requests.

Affected Sections

1 USCIS-PM A.5 - Chapter 5 - Expedite Requests

POLICY ALERT - Anti-Discrimination Policy

March 15, 2024

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is issuing policy guidance in the USCIS Policy Manual to further clarify its anti-discrimination policy pertaining to USCIS employees and contractors interacting directly or indirectly with members of the public.

Affected Sections

1 USCIS-PM A.6 - Chapter 6 - Disability Accommodation Requests

1 USCIS-PM A.8 - Chapter 8 - Conduct in USCIS Facilities

1 USCIS-PM A.9 - Chapter 9 - Feedback, Complaints, Misconduct, and Discrimination

POLICY ALERT - Mobile Biometrics Collection in Remote Locations

March 07, 2024

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is updating guidance in the USCIS Policy Manual to further clarify existing policy on providing mobile biometrics collection services to benefit requestors residing in remote locations within the United States.

Affected Sections

1 USCIS-PM C.2 - Chapter 2 - Biometrics Collection

POLICY ALERT - Application Support Center Reschedule Requests and Missed Appointments

July 06, 2023

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is issuing policy guidance in the USCIS Policy Manual to address procedures related to biometric services appointments at an Application Support Center (ASC).

Affected Sections

1 USCIS-PM C.2 - Chapter 2 - Biometrics Collection

POLICY ALERT - Safe Address and Special Procedures for Persons Protected by 8 U.S.C. 1367

April 11, 2023

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is updating policy guidance in the USCIS Policy Manual to provide guidance on mailing address and case handling procedures for persons protected under 8 U.S.C. 1367. This guidance becomes effective July 11, 2023. Note: The effective date for this policy has changed to March 29, 2024.

Affected Sections

1 USCIS-PM A.7 - Chapter 7 - Privacy and Confidentiality

POLICY ALERT - Selecting Gender on USCIS Forms

March 31, 2023

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is revising policy guidance in the USCIS Policy Manual to clarify that benefit requestors may select their gender on USCIS forms (or change a prior gender selection) without the need to provide supporting documentation. Documents issued by USCIS as a result of the benefit adjudication will reflect the gender selected by the benefit requestor.

Affected Sections

1 USCIS-PM E.5 - Chapter 5 - Verification of Identifying Information

11 USCIS-PM A.2 - Chapter 2 - USCIS-Issued Secure Identity Documents

12 USCIS-PM K.2 - Chapter 2 - Certificate of Citizenship

12 USCIS-PM K.3 - Chapter 3 - Certificate of Naturalization

12 USCIS-PM K.4 - Chapter 4 - Application for Replacement of Naturalization/Citizenship Document

POLICY ALERT - Filing Periods and Response Timeframes Ending on Saturdays, Sundays, or Federal Holidays

March 29, 2023

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is updating guidance in the USCIS Policy Manual to address instances where the last day of filing a benefit request or response to a Request for Evidence or a Notice of Intent to Deny, Revoke, Rescind, or Terminate, falls on a Saturday, Sunday, or federal holiday.

Affected Sections

1 USCIS-PM B.6 - Chapter 6 - Submitting Requests

1 USCIS-PM E.6 - Chapter 6 - Evidence

1 USCIS-PM E.10 - Chapter 10 - Post-Decision Actions

5 USCIS-PM B.2 - Chapter 2 - Eligibility, Documentation, and Evidence (Orphan Process)

6 USCIS-PM B.3 - Chapter 3 - Filing

6 USCIS-PM E.6 - Chapter 6 - Permanent Labor Certification

POLICY ALERT - Domestic Mobile Biometrics Collection and Remote Domestic Applicant Biometrics Collection

March 07, 2023

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is issuing policy guidance in the USCIS Policy Manual to address mobile biometrics collection and the biometrics collection of benefit requestors in remote locations.

Affected Sections

1 USCIS-PM C.2 - Chapter 2 - Biometrics Collection

Technical Update - Disability Accommodation Requests

August 31, 2022

This technical update to Volume 1, General Policies and Procedures provides that anyone, including asylum and NACARA 203 applicants, may submit a disability accommodation request online.

Affected Sections

1 USCIS-PM A.6 - Chapter 6 - Disability Accommodation Requests

Technical Update - Updating USCIS Mission Statement

February 23, 2022

This technical update to Volume 1, Part A, incorporates the new USCIS mission statement: USCIS upholds America’s promise as a nation of welcome and possibility with fairness, integrity, and respect for all we serve.

Affected Sections

1 USCIS-PM A.1 - Chapter 1 - Purpose and Background

POLICY ALERT - USCIS Expedite Criteria and Circumstances

January 25, 2022

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is updating policy guidance in the USCIS Policy Manual regarding criteria used to determine whether a case warrants expedited treatment.

Affected Sections

1 USCIS-PM A.5 - Chapter 5 - Expedite Requests

POLICY ALERT - General Adjudications

November 23, 2021

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is incorporating and superseding existing guidance into the USCIS Policy Manual addressing topics in the context of general adjudications, including evidence, sworn statements, and adjudicative decisions.

Affected Sections

1 USCIS-PM E.1 - Chapter 1 - Purpose and Background

1 USCIS-PM E.6 - Chapter 6 - Evidence

1 USCIS-PM E.9 - Chapter 9 - Rendering a Decision

1 USCIS-PM E.10 - Chapter 10 - Post-Decision Actions

POLICY ALERT - Rescinding Guidance on Discretionary Employment Authorization for Parolees

August 12, 2021

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is rescinding policy guidance in the USCIS Policy Manual on discretionary employment authorization for parolees.

Affected Sections

1 USCIS-PM C.1 - Chapter 1 - Purpose and Background

3 USCIS-PM F.1 - Chapter 1 - Purpose and Background

10 USCIS-PM B.2 - Chapter 2 - Employment Authorization for Certain H-4, E, and L Nonimmigrant Dependent Spouses

POLICY ALERT - USCIS Expedite Criteria and Circumstances

June 09, 2021

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is updating policy guidance in the USCIS Policy Manual regarding criteria used to determine whether a case warrants expedited treatment.

Affected Sections

1 USCIS-PM A.5 - Chapter 5 - Expedite Requests

POLICY ALERT - Requests for Evidence and Notices of Intent to Deny

June 09, 2021

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is issuing policy guidance in the USCIS Policy Manual to address the circumstances in which officers should issue Requests for Evidence (RFEs) and Notices of Intent to Deny (NOIDs).

Affected Sections

1 USCIS-PM E.6 - Chapter 6 - Evidence

1 USCIS-PM E.9 - Chapter 9 - Rendering a Decision

Technical Update - Replacing the Term “Alien”

May 11, 2021

This technical update replaces all instances of the term “alien” with “noncitizen” or other appropriate terms throughout the Policy Manual where possible, as used to refer to a person who meets the definition provided in INA 101(a)(3) [“any person not a citizen or national of the United States”].

Affected Sections

1 USCIS-PM - Volume 1 - General Policies and Procedures

2 USCIS-PM - Volume 2 - Nonimmigrants

6 USCIS-PM - Volume 6 - Immigrants

7 USCIS-PM - Volume 7 - Adjustment of Status

8 USCIS-PM - Volume 8 - Admissibility

9 USCIS-PM - Volume 9 - Waivers and Other Forms of Relief

10 USCIS-PM - Volume 10 - Employment Authorization

11 USCIS-PM - Volume 11 - Travel and Identity Documents

12 USCIS-PM - Volume 12 - Citizenship and Naturalization

POLICY ALERT - Fee Schedule and Changes to Certain Other Immigration Benefit Request Requirements Final Rule

September 02, 2020

Affected Sections

1 USCIS-PM A - Part A - Public Services

1 USCIS-PM B - Part B - Submission of Benefit Requests

2 USCIS-PM - Volume 2 - Nonimmigrants

7 USCIS-PM A - Part A - Adjustment of Status Policies and Procedures

7 USCIS-PM F - Part F - Special Immigrant-Based Adjustment

7 USCIS-PM M - Part M - Asylee Adjustment

11 USCIS-PM A - Part A - Secure Identity Documents Policies and Procedures

POLICY ALERT - Applying Discretion in USCIS Adjudications

July 15, 2020

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is consolidating existing policy guidance in the USCIS Policy Manual regarding the discretionary analysis required in the adjudication of certain benefit requests, including certain applications for employment authorization.

Affected Sections

1 USCIS-PM E.8 - Chapter 8 - Discretionary Analysis

10 USCIS-PM A.5 - Chapter 5 - Reserved

Technical Update - Moving the Adjudicator’s Field Manual Content into the USCIS Policy Manual

May 21, 2020

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is updating and incorporating relevant Adjudicator’s Field Manual (AFM) content into the USCIS Policy Manual. As that process is ongoing, USCIS has moved any remaining AFM content to its corresponding USCIS Policy Manual Part, in PDF format, until relevant AFM content has been properly incorporated into the USCIS Policy Manual. To the extent that a provision in the USCIS Policy Manual conflicts with remaining AFM content or Policy Memoranda, the updated information in the USCIS Policy Manual prevails. To find remaining AFM content, see the crosswalk between the AFM and the Policy Manual.

Affected Sections

1 USCIS-PM - Volume 1 - General Policies and Procedures

2 USCIS-PM - Volume 2 - Nonimmigrants

3 USCIS-PM - Volume 3 - Humanitarian Protection and Parole

4 USCIS-PM - Volume 4 - Refugees and Asylees

5 USCIS-PM - Volume 5 - Adoptions

6 USCIS-PM - Volume 6 - Immigrants

7 USCIS-PM - Volume 7 - Adjustment of Status

8 USCIS-PM - Volume 8 - Admissibility

9 USCIS-PM - Volume 9 - Waivers and Other Forms of Relief

11 USCIS-PM - Volume 11 - Travel and Identity Documents

12 USCIS-PM - Volume 12 - Citizenship and Naturalization

Technical Update - Incorporating Existing Guidance into the Policy Manual

May 15, 2020

This technical update is part of an initiative to move existing policy guidance from the Adjudicator’s Field Manual (AFM) into the Policy Manual. This update does not make major substantive changes but consolidates and incorporates existing AFM guidance into the Policy Manual, streamlining USCIS’ immigration policy while removing obsolete information. This guidance replaces Chapters 1, 3.4, 10.2, 10.3(a), 10.3(c), 10.3(e), 10.3(i), 10.4, 10.22, 11.1(c), 13, 14, 17, 23.8, 31.7, 33.10, 34.5, 35, 41.6, 42, 44, 56.1, 56.3, 56.4, 62, 81, 82, 83.1, 83.2, and 83.3 of the AFM, related appendices, and policy memoranda.

Affected Sections

1 USCIS-PM E - Part E - Adjudications

2 USCIS-PM O - Part O - Religious Workers (R)

7 USCIS-PM O.5 - Chapter 5 - Other Special Laws

Technical Update - Use of Photographs as Biometrics

March 11, 2020

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is incorporating general information on USCIS’ use of photographs as biometrics.

Affected Sections

1 USCIS-PM C - Part C - Biometrics Collection and Security Checks

POLICY ALERT - Submission of Benefit Requests

March 05, 2020

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is issuing policy guidance in the USCIS Policy Manual regarding submission of benefit requests to USCIS.

Affected Sections

1 USCIS-PM B - Part B - Submission of Benefit Requests

POLICY ALERT - Biometrics Services Updates

January 30, 2020

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is issuing policy guidance in the USCIS Policy Manual to address the availability of mobile biometrics services and clarify guidance on the validity period for fingerprint waivers.

Affected Sections

1 USCIS-PM C.2 - Chapter 2 - Biometrics Collection

Technical Update - Implementation of Fees for Submission of Benefit Requests

December 02, 2019

This technical update incorporates into Volume 1 the policy guidance that U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) announced October 25, 2019, regarding submission and acceptance of fees for immigration benefit requests. USCIS published this guidance with an effective date of December 2, 2019. Note: On December 11, 2019, the Federal District Court for the Northern District of California in Seattle v. DHS enjoined the Department of Homeland Security from requiring use of the new version of Form I-912, Request for Fee Waiver. USCIS has noted this in the corresponding Policy Manual guidance and reinstated the prior fee waiver policy guidance at AFM 10.9 and 10.10 .

Affected Sections

1 USCIS-PM B.3 - Chapter 3 - Fees

1 USCIS-PM B.4 - Chapter 4 - Fee Waivers and Fee Exemptions

POLICY ALERT - Fees for Submission of Benefit Requests

October 25, 2019

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is issuing policy guidance in the USCIS Policy Manual regarding submission and acceptance of fees for immigration benefit requests, with an effective date of December 2, 2019. Note: On December 11, 2019, the Federal District Court for the Northern District of California in Seattle v. DHS enjoined the Department of Homeland Security from requiring use of the new version of Form I-912, Request for Fee Waiver. USCIS has noted this in the corresponding Policy Manual guidance and reinstated the prior fee waiver policy guidance at AFM 10.9 (PDF, 2.87 MB) and 10.10 (PDF, 2.87 MB) .

Affected Sections

1 USCIS-PM B.3 - Chapter 3 - Fees

1 USCIS-PM B.4 - Chapter 4 - Fee Waivers and Fee Exemptions

Technical Update - Replacing the Term “Foreign National”

October 08, 2019

This technical update replaces all instances of the term “foreign national” with “alien” throughout the Policy Manual as used to refer to a person who meets the definition provided in INA 101(a)(3) [“any person not a citizen or national of the United States”].

Affected Sections

1 USCIS-PM - Volume 1 - General Policies and Procedures

2 USCIS-PM - Volume 2 - Nonimmigrants

6 USCIS-PM - Volume 6 - Immigrants

7 USCIS-PM - Volume 7 - Adjustment of Status

8 USCIS-PM - Volume 8 - Admissibility

9 USCIS-PM - Volume 9 - Waivers and Other Forms of Relief

10 USCIS-PM - Volume 10 - Employment Authorization

11 USCIS-PM - Volume 11 - Travel and Identity Documents

12 USCIS-PM - Volume 12 - Citizenship and Naturalization

POLICY ALERT - USCIS Public Services

May 10, 2019

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is updating policy guidance in the USCIS Policy Manual regarding services USCIS provides to the public, including general administration of certain immigration benefits, online tools, and up-to-date information.

Affected Sections

1 USCIS-PM A - Part A - Public Services

POLICY ALERT - Customer Service

August 26, 2014

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is issuing policy guidance on its standards in customer service.

Affected Sections

1 USCIS-PM A - Part A - Public Services

Current as of September 18, 2026

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