Although USCIS has temporarily suspended the adjudication of asylum applications and other benefits for nationals of the 19 countries classified as “high-risk countries,” there is no prohibition on filing new applications. The agency has only paused decisions—not the right of immigrants to begin or continue their processes (Memorandum PM-602-0192).
During this period of uncertainty, many applicants are consulting with Immigration Lawyers in Miami to understand how to proceed without jeopardizing their cases. The primary recommendation is to continue submitting all necessary applications on time—such as asylum, adjustment of status, renewals, work permits, and family-based petitions—to keep cases active, document your current situation, and avoid gaps that could later complicate your case.
Waiting too long could result in serious consequences, including loss of eligibility or additional delays once USCIS resumes adjudications. Furthermore, when the suspension is lifted, USCIS will process cases in the order they were filed, so starting early places applicants in a stronger position. For this reason, Immigration Lawyers in Miami emphasize the importance of keeping processes moving.
In summary:
- There is no ban on filing applications.
- Keeping cases active helps prevent future complications.
- Filing now may prevent additional delays when adjudications resume.
All affected applicants are encouraged to keep their processes active and comply with deadlines while USCIS completes its internal review.