US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USICS) has implemented protocols to streamline and clarify the procedure, for family-based visas with the following notable revisions;
1. Updated Forms
- The guidelines impact Form I130, known as the “Petition, for Alien Relative “. Occasionally extend to Form I360 for immigrant petitions.
- Applicants must clearly state their preference, for processing or adjustment of status (if eligible) when submitting Form I130.
2. Fixing Errors
- The USCIS has provided guidance on how to rectify mistakes or make changes to details, in a pending or approved application form. For example, updating the applicant’s address or indicating a preference, for processing over adjusting status.
3. More Efficient Processing
- If an applicant’s preference (consular processing or adjustment of status) isn’t specified, USCIS will now make that determination based on the applicant’s address, helping to speed up the process.
- In the past, applicants who did not indicate their preference faced delays and were required to file Form I-824 to transfer the application to the National Visa Center (NVC). This step is now streamlined.
4. Transparency in Decision-Making
- USCIS has outlined how it decides to approve or deny family-based immigrant petitions, providing more clarity and ensuring applicants are kept informed throughout the process.
These updates are designed to reduce delays and create a smoother, more predictable family-based immigration process. Applicants should ensure they provide accurate information to avoid complications and delays.
