On April 27, 2026, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) confirmed that it has begun implementing a new security vetting process that is expected to delay adjudications of certain immigration benefits. 

Who Is Affected? 

The new vetting procedures apply to immigration benefit types that require fingerprint‑based background checks, including, but not limited to: 

• Applications for Adjustment of Status 
• Naturalization applications 
• Asylum applications 

As part of this enhanced process, USCIS will require immigration officers responsible for specific cases to resubmit fingerprint records previously obtained from applicants through a biometrics appointment for most pending cases where fingerprints were previously collected and submitted to the FBI before April 27, 2026. At this time, the new requirement does not appear to require the re-submission of fingerprints to the USCIS by applicants. 

One potential exception to this new security vetting process may be for certain naturalization applicants who already have oath ceremonies scheduled. Once all required pending cases complete the updated vetting process, USCIS is expected to begin submitting fingerprints for newly filed cases under the same enhanced procedures. Once pending cases complete the updated vetting process, USCIS is expected to begin submitting fingerprints for newly filed cases under the same enhanced procedures. 

Expected Impact and Processing Delays 

At this time, USCIS has not provided detailed guidance on the scope or duration of the resulting delays. It remains unclear whether this new vetting process will evolve into a broader “hold” affecting additional case types or adjudications across USCIS more generally. The total number of impacted applications and the length of anticipated delays are still unknown. 

Foster LLP is actively monitoring developments related to this new USCIS vetting process. We will continue to provide updates as additional information becomes available. 

For the latest alerts and guidance, please visit our website at www.fosterglobal.com or contact your Foster Global immigration professional with case‑specific questions.