Checking FBI records as part of immigration screening is not new, but the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has now received broader access to the FBI’s criminal history database as part of enhanced security measures.
According to reports, the administration has temporarily paused some immigration case approvals while the updated screening system is being implemented.
USCIS has reportedly issued internal instructions asking officers to resubmit pending applications for additional FBI background checks.
The new checks apply to immigration benefits such as asylum applications, Green Cards, and US citizenship cases.
Officials have also been instructed not to approve pending applications unless they have completed the expanded background verification process.
The move follows directions issued to the Federal Bureau of Investigation to provide USCIS with maximum legally permitted access to its criminal history records in order to identify potential criminal threats.
USCIS officers were specifically told to resubmit fingerprint-based screenings if FBI data for a case had been received before April 27. However, officers do not need to repeat the checks if they are already planning to deny the application.
USCIS spokesperson Zach Kahler said the agency has introduced new security measures to strengthen applicant screening through wider access to federal criminal databases.
He added that processing of applications is continuing and that any delays caused by the new checks are expected to be temporary.
“USCIS will always prioritise the safety of the American people,” he said.
Who Will Be Affected?
The updated scrutiny may affect individuals whose immigration cases were still pending as of April 27. However, USCIS has said the delays should only be brief.
The new measures do not apply to H-1B visas and other temporary work visas, as those fall under non-immigrant categories rather than immigrant benefit applications.
