This week, the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) unveiled a new policy aimed at progressively making electronic submission mandatory for certain immigration documents.
According to The New Herald, this change might impact applications for permanent residency (green card), citizenship, asylum, and employment authorization, among other services.
The adjustments are part of a "provisional final rule" that took effect on August 11 in the Federal Register by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), granting USCIS the power to mandate online filing as part of a strategy to "enhance national security."
Initially, the rule does not make online submission compulsory for all forms. Instead, it adopts a phased approach: USCIS can only require electronic submission for a specific form if it has been available electronically for at least 180 days, and the public must be notified at least 60 days in advance.
"USCIS will inform the public via its website at least 60 days before requiring electronic submission of a form. Applicants must use an online account to submit an immigration form to USCIS, either by completing it directly online or by uploading a PDF of the form along with supporting documents," the agency clarified.
Individuals unable to meet the electronic requirement may request a waiver for undue hardship using Form I-936, though approval is at USCIS's discretion.
The DHS anticipates that this measure will save applicants and petitioners approximately $518 million annually by eliminating paper submissions, reducing form rejections, and shortening processing times.
The rule also aims to decrease reliance on the Treasury Department's lockbox facilities, which handle mail-in applications, and expedite the move to electronic fee payments.
USCIS argues that the online system "enhances fraud detection, optimizes identity management, and strengthens national security investigations through quicker data access and improved analytical capabilities."
The public comment period for the new rule will remain open until October 13, 2026.
Adam Klein, a former DHS official, told Newsweek that the benefits of electronic processing have long been clear, as it provides the government with more structured data for decision-making.
Increasing Stringency in Immigration Processes by 2026
The introduction of this rule coincides with a broader tightening of the U.S. immigration system. Since August 5, USCIS has been able to deny applications without issuing a Request for Evidence or a Notice of Intent to Deny if the applicant fails to submit complete documentation initially.
This is in addition to memorandum PM-602-0199, effective since May, which tightened status adjustment processes and clarified that meeting technical requirements does not guarantee application approval.
In July, a regulation on electronic signatures in immigration documents also took effect.
Additionally, USCIS confirmed the resumption of benefit processing for Cubans and Venezuelans following a previous suspension.
Understanding USCIS's New Online Filing Requirements
What immigration forms are affected by USCIS's new online filing rule?
The rule applies to forms for permanent residency, citizenship, asylum, and employment authorization, among others, though it will be phased in gradually.
How will USCIS's online filing impact processing times?
The move to online filing is expected to reduce processing times by eliminating paper submissions and reducing form rejections.
Can applicants request a waiver for online filing?
Yes, applicants who face undue hardship can request a waiver using Form I-936, though approval is at the discretion of USCIS.