U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services released updated guidance outlining the consideration process for the expedite request process specifically related to government interests and responses to humanitarian emergencies, including travel-related requests. The update also outlines in detail how to submit an expedite request and how requests are processed by USCIS.

Individuals can request that USCIS expedite the adjudication of their application, appeal, motion, petition, or request. All expedite requests are considered on a case-by-case basis and supporting documentation is required. It is at the sole discretion of USCIS as to which requests qualify for expedited processing.

An individual’s case may be expedited by USCIS if it meets any of the following situations:

• Identified as urgent by federal, state, tribal, territorial, or local U.S. governments because they impact public interest and safety, or national interest and security.
• If the request is submitted by a federal government agency or department focused on government interests, USICS defers to the agency’s assessment.
• Form I-131, Application for Travel Document, may be expedited for individuals in the U.S. if the applicant proves a critical need to leave the U.S., whether due to an unplanned or planned event.
• Expedite requests required due to a clear USCIS error.

USCIS also outlines the process to submit an expedite request through a USCIS online account, which offers online tools and secure messaging. Additionally, USCIS outlines the process they use to process the expedite requests.

As always, if you have questions about the need to request expedited adjudication or any other U.S. immigration-related issue, please contact us. Our team of experienced attorneys work with our clients every step of the way.