USCIS Announces Updates to Case Assistance and Communication Guidelines

USCIS has updated its policy manual to make it easier for people to get help with their cases and provide feedback. These changes aim to improve the customer’s experience by making the process of managing cases and addressing concerns more efficient. The update also clarifies response times and provides new tools to help individuals interact with the USCIS more easily. Here is a summary of the key changes:

• No Automatic Address Updates
  1. If an address on a service request is different than the one in the USCIS system, it will not be considered an address change unless a formal change of address request is made. (Note: Prior to this change if the USCIS received a service request with a mailing address that differs from the one they have in the system, it was seen as a request to change the address on file.)
  2. USCIS suggests that people use the online self- service tool to submit a change of address request that is available in the individuals USCIS online account as soon as possible after moving or when an update is necessary.
• USCIS Response Time
  1. The policy now says that the USCIS aims to respond to service requests in 15 business days instead of 15 calendar days. (Note: This has been the current practice, however, this new change reflects their practice in the manual which was not there before.)
  2. The USCIS is also removing the specific timeframe for processing priority requests. Previously, there was a set time listed for how quickly priority requests would be processed. (Note: Priority processing for certain categories is still available and the USCIS will still prioritize certain types of service requests, but they are no longer committing to a fixed processing time.)
• Contact USCIS for Concerns
  1. The update replaced program-specific case assistance information with a direct link to the “Contact Us” webpage where individuals can find a more detailed, program-specific assistance information.

As this matter is subject to further updates, we encourage our readers to check the website regularly for updates regarding this and all matters regarding immigration law. Pasricha & Patel’s immigration department has extensive experience in handling business and personal immigration matters. Our team is happy to speak to you on your specific issues.