Green cards in the spotlight, more restrictive asylum, and the new FBI verification

In recent weeks, USCIS has implemented a series of measures that are directly impacting the Latino community. This is not an isolated change, but rather several executive orders and rules that went into effect in May 2026, or are about to. These changes affect everyday processes for our families: green card renewal, obtaining a work permit (EAD), asylum applications, and even the stability of those who are already permanent residents.

More restrictive asylum and the new FBI verification

The Trump administration ordered double verification of nearly 12 million accumulated cases at USCIS through Executive Order 14385, signed on February 6, 2026. Most cases with biometrics recorded before April 27 are being internally re-examined, which keeps approvals for residency, citizenship, and work permits on hold.

The measure responds to an executive order that instructed the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to expand FBI access to criminal history databases, including the next-generation identification system. USCIS Director Joseph Edlow defended the restrictions, stating that they seek to ensure each case meets stricter standards. Agency spokesperson Zach Kahler described the delays as "temporary" and explained that the agency expanded access to federal criminal history databases.

The American Immigration Lawyers Association (AILA) estimates that millions of files are undergoing this new review. Officers are instructed not to apply fingerprint re‑checks in cases headed for denial; the process applies exclusively to files that would otherwise receive an approval. If the original fingerprints are of poor quality or were taken many years ago, USCIS may send a notice for a new biometric appointment. Already scheduled interviews continue normally, although final approvals remain held until the new checks are completed.

Green cards under scrutiny: the new unit reviewing permanent residences

Since mid‑May, USCIS confirmed the creation of a special division, the Tactical Operations Division, under DHS supervision, designed to re‑examine files of legal permanent residents and verify possible fraud, omissions, or national security risks. According to The New York Times, the unit has already identified the first 50 permanent residents who will face removal proceedings and possible deportation.

The Tactical Operations Division functions as an immigration audit apparatus: it reopens old cases, cross‑references information with criminal and security databases, and looks for inconsistencies in previous statements. Its work aims to detect both fraud and administrative errors that, according to the government, would have allowed improper obtaining of residency.

The measure has raised alarm among civil rights organizations and Hispanic communities in cities like Los Angeles, Miami, and New York. Many recall raids and immigration "compliance" campaigns from past administrations. For immigrants who have been paying taxes and raising citizen children for decades, this measure feels like a deep setback to the promise of stability that the green card once offered.

In‑person asylum interviews: the end of remote participation for attorneys

As of May 18, 2026, USCIS no longer allows attorneys and accredited representatives to participate remotely in affirmative asylum interviews, including those conducted at field offices and interviews under the Nicaraguan Adjustment and Central American Relief Act (NACARA), except in very limited circumstances.

This measure puts an end to various flexibilities that had been allowed in recent years, especially those related to virtual or telephone participation of attorneys and legal representatives. The rule change has caused great concern among migrants and legal advocates, because failure to comply could directly affect the outcome of a case and even lead to administrative denial if the interview is not conducted properly.

This new rule applies not only to those applying for traditional asylum, but also to people with affirmative asylum processes and certain beneficiaries under NACARA. Immigration attorneys recommend carefully checking the interview date and confirming in advance that both the legal representative and the interpreter will be able to attend in person.

Asylum at risk: new question on visas that could close the door to protection

In parallel, the State Department implemented a new requirement for those applying for nonimmigrant visas (tourists, students, and temporary workers): they must explicitly declare that they do not fear persecution in their home countries.

The directive instructs consular officers to ask two key questions: whether the applicant has suffered harm or mistreatment in their country, and whether they fear experiencing any kind of persecution upon returning. To continue with the process, applicants must answer "no" to both questions.

Immigration specialists warn that this measure could have significant implications. According to attorney Jaime Barrón, if a person declares that they do not fear persecution when applying for their visa, but later tries to apply for asylum on U.S. soil, they could face accusations of fraud or have their case denied. Likewise, authorities could intensify the review of applicants' social media using artificial intelligence tools, which could influence visa approval or denial.

Nearly 12 million cases waiting: the timelines facing the Latino community

The system was already under heavy pressure before these provisions. At the close of fiscal year 2025, USCIS recorded 11.6 million pending cases, a figure more than triple that of ten years ago. In the fourth quarter of 2025, case resolutions fell 22% compared to the previous year, and the volume of applications received but not opened tripled in a single quarter, going from 60,000 to 248,000 cases.

Delays hit hardest the categories most common among the Latino community: renewing a permanent resident card (green card) takes a minimum of 10.5 months. An I-130 petition for a citizen's spouse indicates a wait of 62 months, while for DACA beneficiaries' work permits, the system no longer shows a wait time. Among the most affected categories are asylum applications, permanent residency, citizenship, work permits, adjustment of status, and humanitarian visas.

Additionally, DHS and USCIS confirmed that there is a list of 39 countries whose immigration benefit adjudications have been halted since November 2025. Among the countries with restrictions are Latin American nations, a measure that directly affects applicants with pending cases. Immigration attorney Vanessa Manzi, based in Los Angeles, warned that USCIS is referring many cases to court and forecasts a growing volume of deportation proceedings in the coming months.

What you can do today to protect your case

First, verify that your contact information is updated with USCIS. Many notices, including possible additional biometric appointments, are sent by postal mail. Second, do not assume that your work permit automatically renews. With the new controls, automatic extensions no longer apply to all cases. Third, consult with an immigration attorney before making important decisions about your case.

Clear information, not legal advice

We understand that these changes create uncertainty in our community. At RISE Immigration Services, our mission is to keep you informed through free resources like this blog, where we publish the latest USCIS news clearly and accessibly for the Latino community. We are not lawyers and do not provide legal advice. What we do is explain what is changing, so that you can make informed decisions and, if needed, consult with a qualified immigration professional. The Latino community grows stronger when we support each other with honest information and no deception.