Overview
- Homeland Security confirmed a pause affecting applicants from Venezuela, Cuba, Somalia, Iran and Afghanistan as cases undergo added scrutiny.
- A December 2 USCIS memo ordered enhanced, individualized security screening and temporary suspensions for nationals from a 19-country list.
- Reports describe canceled or halted naturalization ceremonies, including applicants pulled from lines at Boston’s Faneuil Hall and cases noted from Massachusetts to California.
- The directive covers naturalization, adjustment of status filings such as Form I-485, and green card processes, with possible delays, extra document requests or revocations.
- USCIS directed officers to prioritize rechecks within 90 days, conduct new interviews and refer cases to law enforcement, while attorneys note lawsuits to compel decisions remain an option.