In January 2026, USCIS placed a hold on final agency decisions for most immigration benefit applications filed by nationals of the 39 countries listed in the December 16, 2025, Proclamation restricting entry.  Those countries are:

USCIS Policy Memorandum PM-602-0194 provides background on the adjudication pause and specifies cases subject to the hold.  Paused cases include, but are not limited to:

• Adjustment of Status (green card applications filed inside the U.S.)

• Employment-based petitions (such as Forms I-129 and I-140)

• Family-based petitions and related applications

• Employment Authorization Documents (EADs)

• Advance Parole and travel documents

• Naturalization applications, including oath ceremonies

On March 30, 2026, USCIS issued an Update titled, USCIS’ Strengthened Screening and Vetting.  This update provides detailed information regarding the enhanced screening and vetting practices implemented by the agency and states that USCIS has established an internal review process for lifting holds for certain categories of cases, which include some EAD applications.  USCIS is conducting additional country-specific risk analyses to identify risk factors and develop an enhanced vetting plan to close remaining security gaps.  As new procedures are implemented, individuals with pending applications and petitions subject to the adjudication pause should anticipate slower processing times. 

You are a valued member of the CU Denver | CU Anschutz community and ISSS is here to support you. Please reach out to [email protected] with any immigration-related questions or make an appointment with an ISSS staff member here - https://www.ucdenver.edu/services/international-student-and-scholar-services/resources/appointments.