USCIS Follows Compliance Order to Resume Processing of Applications for Nationals From 39 Countries, But Files Appeal

Jun 15, 2026 | Immigration Articles

On June 12, 2026, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) issued an alert under a court order, and subsequent compliance order, in Dorcas v. USCIS. The court had vacated policy guidance (PM 602-0192, PM 602-0194, and PA 2025-26) based on several presidential proclamations that resulted in a freeze on the processing of hundreds of thousands of green card, work permit, and asylum applications for nationals of 39 countries. On June 12, USCIS filed an appeal of the decision vacating the policies.

The court has required processing of the applications, but not approval; applicants must still meet eligibility requirements. Travel bans on certain countries are also still in place, as is the USCIS adjustment-of-status memorandum. Due to the complexities involved, the Alliance of Business Immigration Lawyers (ABIL) recommends contacting an attorney in specific cases, especially before international travel. ABIL also recommends that foreign nationals carry proof of their immigration status while in the United States.

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