USCIS imposes immediate processing freeze for "high risk" countries and all asylum procedures

On December 2, 2025, the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) issued the Policy Memorandum PM-602-0192 introduced a comprehensive processing freeze. This affects both certain applications under immigration law and all asylum procedures. The measures apply immediately and affect new, ongoing and partially already approved cases.

The USCIS memorandum specifically mentions some immigrant and benefit applications, including applications for adjustment of status (I-485), Green Card Extensions (I-90) or travel documents such as Advance Parole (I-131).

At the same time, it remains to be seen whether the processing hold also includes all other USCIS application procedures, such as work permit applications (I-129) or extensions of status (I-539). Many experts currently assume that all USCIS benefit requests could potentially be affected, as the authority has not yet published a complete list.

Re-examination of already approved cases

Particularly explosive: even cases that have already been approved, including green cards, can be reviewed again if the person concerned comes from one of the "high-risk" countries and has been in the country since the January 20, 2021 has entered the country. USCIS reserves the right to conduct additional background checks, new interviews, and even possible revocations of previously issued decisions.

Effects for applicants

The measures lead to longer processing times, delays and temporary procedural stops. Both private individuals and companies must expect uncertainties in ongoing residence and work permit processes.