All those with pending green card applications (Adjustment of Status) may be affected.
We are hearing consistent reports that individuals with pending green card applications filed in the U.S. (Adjustment of Status) may be required to undergo fingerprinting again—even if biometrics were already completed—and potentially additional vetting.
This appears to be tied to a broader rollout of enhanced security checks by USCIS, requiring updated background checks through expanded federal databases.
As background, applicants with pending AOS cases are typically fingerprinted early in the process. If USCIS now requires an additional round of biometrics and re-running of background checks, this can lead to additional delays in adjudication—especially for cases that had recently been moving at a faster pace.
Moreover, it is still unclear what additional security or vetting measures may be implemented beyond biometrics. That uncertainty alone can create further delays in green card issuance.
At this time, this reportedly affects both:
- Marriage-based green card applications
- Employment-based AOS cases
It is also important to note that USCIS officers have been instructed not to approve cases until these updated checks are completed, which may effectively place certain cases on hold until compliance with the new process.
If you believe you may be affected, I recommend scheduling a consultation to review your specific case strategy and timing.
I’m a U.S.immigration attorney with experience handling high-volume, complex employment- and family-based cases at one of the largest business immigration firms, now running a boutique practice focused on strategic, high-quality filings.
If you would like a case-specific assessment, you can schedule a consultation through my website.
I invite you to learn more about this topic on our social media. Follow the conversation in our most recent post.
