Major Immigration Update: USCIS Pauses Applications for TPS, Asylum, EADs, and More for Parolees

Recent news from USCIS has sent ripples through the immigration community. The agency recently announced a pause on all benefit requests for parolees, including applications for Employment Authorization Documents (EADs), family petitions (I-130s), and employment-based petitions (I-140s and I-129s). 

This decision has raised significant concerns, particularly for those in the Uniting for Ukraine (U4U) program, but it extends to other parolee groups as well. 

In this blog post, we’ll break down what this pause means for you, why it’s happening, who it affects, and what you can do to navigate this new situation.

Which applications have been paused?

Starting immediately, USCIS has paused processing for several key immigration benefit applications. This includes petitions and requests for:

• I-140 (Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker)
• I-129 (Petition for a Nonimmigrant Worker)
• I-130 (Petition for Alien Relative)
• Employment Authorization Documents (EADs)
• Other related immigration benefits for individuals on parole.

For many, these applications are a vital part of securing legal work status, family reunification, or permanent residency in the U.S. So, if you’re waiting on approval for any of these petitions or benefits, you’ll now be facing uncertainty and delays.

Why is USCIS pausing these applications?

The primary reason for this pause is a government-led review of parolee applications, due to concerns about potential fraud within these cases. Specifically, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has indicated that they are conducting a thorough investigation to ensure that the parole process is not being abused. The pause on processing these applications is a temporary measure while the review takes place.

While the government has not disclosed the full details of what they are investigating, the concern seems to center around whether certain individuals are abusing parole programs to enter the U.S. under false pretenses. This pause will give USCIS and DHS time to conduct their internal review and ensure the integrity of the immigration process.

Who is affected by this pause?

The pause has the most direct impact on individuals enrolled in the U4U (Uniting for Ukraine) program. This program was launched to provide temporary parole to Ukrainian nationals fleeing the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, allowing them to stay and work in the U.S. 

While U4U participants are most affected by this pause, other groups on parole are also impacted. These groups could include individuals who entered the U.S. under various humanitarian parole programs or parole-related pathways.

If you’re a parolee—whether through U4U or another parole program—and you’re waiting for any of the benefits listed above (EADs, family petitions, work visas), then your case is likely on hold.

Potential Consequences of This Pause 

The decision to pause the processing of applications for parolees has far-reaching consequences. Here are the key impacts you should be aware of:

• Delays in Application Processing: USCIS has stopped processing benefit requests for all parolees, which means that if you were waiting on any of the benefits (such as your EAD or family petition), you’ll now be facing additional delays. 
• Risk of Denial: If fraud is uncovered during the review of your application, there’s a possibility that your petition could be denied. While we don’t have full details on what the government is looking for, applicants should be prepared for the possibility of their petitions being rejected.
• Impact on Work Authorization: For those awaiting EADs, the delay is particularly concerning. Without an EAD, you won’t have legal authorization to work in the U.S.
• Uncertainty for Family Reunification: Family petitions (I-130s) are also paused, so if you’re hoping to bring a family member to the U.S. or secure legal status for your relatives, their cases are now on hold. 

What We Know, and Don’t Know About the Memo

The pause is based on an internal memo from the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), but the memo has not been made public. This has left many applicants in the dark about the exact reasons behind the pause and what the government is specifically looking for during the review.

While DHS has acknowledged the existence of this memo and confirmed the pause, they have not shared the details of the review process or the criteria for fraud detection. This lack of transparency means that we are still waiting for more information about the exact scope of the investigation and what applicants can expect.

What to Do If You’re Affected

If your application has been impacted by this pause, it’s natural to feel uncertain and frustrated. While the situation is out of your control, there are several steps you can take to stay on top of things and be prepared:

• Stay Up to Date on Official Updates: USCIS and DHS are expected to release more information about the pause and when processing might resume. Be sure to keep an eye on official channels for any news, including announcements on their websites and social media profiles. You can also check back here at Manifest Law for the latest updates.
• Reach out to an Immigration Lawyer: Our team of immigration lawyers can help you understand the impact of the pause on your specific case, provide guidance on your next steps, and advocate for your best interests. Book a free consultation today.
• Prepare for Longer Delays: Although it’s frustrating, this review process may take time. Be prepared for a longer wait than you initially anticipated, and make sure you have a backup plan if your ability to work or reunite with family is uncertain.

How Manifest Law Can Help

If you’re affected by this pause or need further guidance on how it impacts your immigration case, Manifest Law is here to help. Our experienced immigration attorneys can provide you with personalized advice tailored to your unique situation. We understand how stressful and uncertain this pause can be, and we’re committed to supporting you through this challenging time.

Check back here on the Manifest Law blog for regular updates on this situation and other important immigration news.