Last week, I attended two green card interviews. Both times, USCIS was running behind, and I had about an hour to chat with our clients while we waited. Interestingly, both clients asked me the same question: “How have things changed this year?”
There’s a lot we could have talked about—but before an interview, I always want to keep things uplifting. My goal was to help them feel calm and hopeful. So I told them what I’ll tell you now: Yes, we’re still seeing cases approved.
That said, there are some important changes and realities that everyone should understand.
We’re Screening Cases More Carefully Than Ever
We’ve increased our diligence in reviewing new cases. Every potential client goes through a thorough screening to identify any red flags or past immigration issues that could affect their case.
That often means filing Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) requests to retrieve old immigration filings. We double-check that our clients have been consistent in their past applications and that USCIS handled their prior cases correctly. The more we know upfront, the better we can protect our clients from surprises later.
We’re Adapting Our Filing Strategy to Today’s Reality
In 2024, we often filed I-130 petitions for individuals with prior removal orders, hoping for an approval without an interview and then using that approval to reopen the old removal case.
This year, the landscape has changed. We’re now advising clients in that situation to wait—either for a new administration or for a safer path forward—rather than risk triggering removal proceedings. Our goal is to move cases forward strategically, not recklessly.
Fewer “On-the-Spot” Approvals, But Approvals Nonetheless
Under the Biden administration, we would see immediate approvals at interviews about half the time. Now, that number is closer to 10–20%.
This slowdown isn’t necessarily all bad news; it’s mostly due to internal USCIS factors:
- Many newer officers are still learning the law.
- New policies require supervisor review before a decision.
- More extensive background checks and interagency communication.
So while we may not walk out with an approval on the same day, decisions are still coming, and many are positive.
More Requests for Minor or Unrelated Information
We’ve noticed officers asking for documentation that, frankly, doesn’t always make sense. For example, one officer asked a naturalization applicant for proof of their “lawful entry.” That question is perfectly relevant in a green card case, but once you already have a green card, your last entry was, by definition, lawful.
While these requests can feel frustrating or unnecessary, they remind us of an important truth: officers have broad discretion. The best way to handle it is to be fully prepared, and we are.
Even with stricter reviews and longer wait times, approvals are still happening. Every week, we celebrate new green cards, family-based petitions, naturalizations, and waivers for our clients.
These successes remind us that hope and preparation still matter, and that fear should never be the deciding factor in your immigration journey.
We talk to families every day who ask the same questions:
- “Is it safe to file right now?”
- “Is the government even approving cases?”
- “Will this put me on their radar?”
We understand those fears deeply. The uncertainty, the shifting priorities, and the constant stream of alarming headlines can make anyone hesitate. But in many cases, waiting is the greater risk—missing eligibility windows, losing priority dates, or staying undocumented when relief could be available.
That’s why individualized legal advice is so important. Every situation is unique. The right attorney can help you understand your options, protect your rights, and move forward safely.
You Deserve Clarity, Confidence, and Hope
At Hope Immigration, we believe every family deserves clarity and confidence, not fear and confusion.
We take the time to listen, explain your options, and walk with you through each step of your case. If you’ve been hesitating to file, don’t let fear decide for you. Let knowledge, strategy, and preparation lead the way.
We’re still getting cases approved, and we’re here to help with yours.