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Original Date Announced
August 1, 2025USCIS issued policy guidance in the USCIS Policy Manual outlining eligibility criteria, adjudication standards, and interview requirements for family-based immigrant visa petitions. Changes were made to Volume 6 of the Policy Manual, specifically Part B (Family-Based Immigrants).
Among other things, the update identifies qualifying relationships for such visa petitions, including immediate and non-immediate relatives, and the impacts of certain life events on a pending application. The revision also recognizes various situations when an interview is required and presents a decision-making process. Under the policy guidance, USCIS must approve a petition that is properly filed and meets the eligibility requirements. However, the petition does not grant immigration status or bar removal for a beneficiary.
The revisions are effective immediately and apply to both pending and newly filed petitions. The past language for the family-based immigrant visa petitions can be found at this link.
Trump 2.0 [ID #1906]
2025.08.01 USCIS Issues Guidance Regarding Family-Based Immigration Policy 2025.08.01 USCIS Policy Manual, Volume 6 Part BEffective Date
August 1, 2025Subsequent Trump and Court Action
August 1, 20252025.08.01 USCIS - Policy Alert: Family-Based Immigrants
USCIS issues policy alert PA-2025-12 announcing that it issued new guidance in the USCIS Policy Manual regarding family-based immigrants. Among other things, the alert highlights that since a family-based immigrant visa petition does not accord immigration status or relief from removal, USCIS may issue a Notice to Appear to these immigrants.
View DocumentCurrent Status
NoneOriginal Trump Policy Status
Trump Administration Actions: Agency Directive Change in PracticeSubject Matter: Immigrant Visas: Family-BasedAgencies Affected: USCISPre Trump-Era Policies
- June 28, 2025 2025.06.28 USCIS Policy Manual, Volume 6 Part B
Documents
Trump-Era Policy Documents
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New Policy
Original Source:
USCIS Issues Guidance Regarding Family-Based Immigration Policy
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New Policy
Original Source:
USCIS Policy Manual, Volume 6 Part B
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Prior Policy
Original Source:
USCIS Policy Manual, Volume 6 Part B
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Subsequent Action
Original Source:
USCIS - Policy Alert: Family-Based Immigrants
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To provide information, corrections, or feedback, please email IPTP.feedback@gmail.com