U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) updated its Policy Manual to clarify how they handle expedite requests. This update affects requests related to travel, urgent humanitarian needs, emergencies, and government interests. The update outlines the process on how to submit an expedite request and how they are processed.  The new policy is effective immediately.

For travel requests, USCIS reviews various travel documents. Applicants must be in the U.S. and show a strong need to leave the country for reasons like school, personal matters, or work. If the trip is for a planned event, USCIS will check if the application is timely submitted and if processing delays could affect the travel plans.

Requests related to government interests can also be expedited if they are urgent and involve national interest, national security interests, public interests or public safety. USCIS usually relies on the government agency’s judgment in these cases.

The updated policy provides details on how to submit and process expedite requests, including online tools for submitting requests, supporting documents, and online messaging. USCIS will notify applicants who send their requests through the USCIS Contact Center when a decision is made.

If you have questions about expedite requests or any other U.S. immigration-related issue, contact us.  Our attorneys work directly with our clients every step of the way. We take great pride in ensuring our clients are informed and involved throughout the process.