If you’re petitioning for a family member to join you in the United States—or are in the process of applying as a family-based immigrant—you should be aware of a recent policy update that may affect your case.
On August 1, 2025, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) released new policy guidance aimed at enhancing how it screens and adjudicates family-based immigrant visa petitions. According to the official update, this move is part of USCIS’s ongoing efforts to ensure that family-based petitions are legitimate and supported by verifiable relationships and documentation.
What’s Changing?
The updated guidance does not introduce new eligibility rules but instead clarifies existing standards and outlines how USCIS will evaluate family-based petitions more consistently. Here are a few key takeaways:
✅ Stronger vetting of family relationships: USCIS will enhance fraud detection efforts to ensure that marriages and family ties are genuine and compliant with all applicable immigration laws.
✅ Interview clarification: The update provides clearer criteria for when interviews will be required for family-based petitions—something that can impact how long your process takes.
✅ Overseas filings: USCIS now clearly explains when it may authorize the U.S. Department of State (DOS) to accept Form I-130 filed abroad by U.S. citizens, including military and government personnel.
✅ Multiple petitions: The guidance also addresses how USCIS handles cases where multiple or related petitions are filed—helping to avoid delays or inconsistencies.
✅ Potential removal proceedings: It’s important to note that filing a family-based petition does not protect someone from removal (deportation). USCIS clarified that it may issue a Notice to Appear (NTA) if the beneficiary is otherwise removable.
Why Does This Matter?
This update reinforces the importance of preparing family-based petitions carefully, with strong documentation that reflects genuine relationships and meets all eligibility requirements. Even minor mistakes or inconsistencies can trigger delays, additional requests for evidence, or even a denial.
At Zhang-Louie PLLC, we’ve successfully helped countless families reunite through legal immigration pathways. With increased scrutiny and evolving policies, having a trusted legal team by your side can make a significant difference in your case’s outcome.
Whether you’re just starting the process or you’re facing complications with an ongoing petition, our team is here to help. We stay current on every USCIS policy shift and offer personalized strategies to protect your family’s immigration goals.
Schedule a consultation with Zhang-Louie PLLC today and move forward with clarity and confidence.
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