On August 10, 2026, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) announced a new Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Interim Final Rule (IFR) authorizing USCIS to require electronic filing (e-filing) for certain immigration benefit requests (USCIS To Require Electronic Filing of Forms: Strengthening National Security | USCIS). The rule became effective on August 11, 2026. 

Under the new rule, USCIS may mandate electronic filing for any immigration form that has been available for online submission for at least 180 days. Before making e-filing mandatory for a particular form, USCIS will provide at least 60 days’ advance notice through its website. Applicants and petitioners will submit forms and supporting documentation through a USCIS online account, either by completing forms online or uploading completed PDF versions with supporting evidence.  

Electronic filing is already available for many immigration benefits, and the IFR does not immediately impose mandatory electronic filing for all forms. Individuals who are unable to file electronically may request a waiver based on undue hardship, subject to USCIS review and approval.  

The Interim Final Rule is open for public comment through October 13, 2026. Employers, foreign nationals, and practitioners should continue to monitor USCIS announcements for details regarding which forms may become subject to mandatory electronic filing and the timelines for implementation. Although no immediate changes to filing procedures are required, employers and practitioners should assess their readiness to use USCIS online accounts and electronic filing platforms as additional forms become subject to future e-filing mandates. 

Foster LLP has a multitude of experience in utilizing online USCIS forms for certain eligible case types. As USCIS expands online filing options and implements future e-filing requirements, Foster will continue to evaluate filing strategies on a case-by-case basis, taking into account form availability, usefulness and efficiency, case-specific considerations and client preferences. Foster remains well-positioned to assist clients with both paper-based and e-filing processes and look forward to any USCIS developments that may increase efficiency and decrease adjudication times.   

Foster will continue to monitor developments related to this rule and provide updates as USCIS identifies forms subject to mandatory electronic filing and clarifies any related procedural requirements through our Immigration Updates©, articles, and blogs at www.fosterglobal.com.