The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) recently published a 60-Day Notice in the Federal Register, introducing a new data collection process for immigration benefit applicants. This update, mandated by Executive Order 14161, aims to strengthen national security and public safety through rigorous identity verification and vetting procedures. At Ahluwalia Law Offices P.C., we break down these changes and what they mean for your immigration journey.
Why Is USCIS Collecting Additional Information?
Under Executive Order 14161, USCIS must implement enhanced screening standards to assess whether granting immigration benefits poses security risks. The agency will now collect 24 new data elements across key forms to:
- Validate applicants’ identities.
- Detect potential security or public safety threats.
- Streamline interagency vetting processes.
This initiative aligns with the Paperwork Reduction Act (PRA), and public comments on the changes are accepted until May 2, 2025.
Key Data Elements Added to Immigration Forms
The 24 core data points fall into three categories:
- Biographic Identifiers
- Full name, aliases, sex, date of birth, place of birth, citizenship countries, and current residence.
- Identity Verification
- Passport/travel document details (country, issue/expiration dates).
- Contact and Family History
- Phone numbers, email addresses, U.S./foreign addresses.
- Family member names, contact details, dates/places of birth.
- Business contact information from the past 5–10 years.
Forms Affected Include:
Form N-400 (Naturalization), Form I-485 (Adjustment of Status), Form I-589 (Asylum), Form I-751 (Removal of Conditions), Form I–131( Application for Travel Document) Form I–192 (Application for Advance Permission to Enter as a Nonimmigrant) Form I–590 (Registration for Classification as Refugee) Form I–829 (Petition by Entrepreneur to Remove Conditions on Permanent Resident Status), Form I–730 (Refugee/Asylee Relative Petition), Form I–751 (Petition to Remove Conditions on Residence)
What Does This Mean for Applicants?
- Longer Forms, Stricter Scrutiny
Expect more detailed questions on USCIS applications. Accuracy is critical—errors or omissions could delay processing or lead to denials.
- Extended Processing Times
Enhanced vetting may prolong adjudication timelines. Plan ahead and submit applications early.
- Public Comment Opportunity
Stakeholders can submit feedback on the proposed changes via the Federal eRulemaking Portal (Docket: USCIS-2025-0002) until May 2, 2025.
How Ahluwalia Law Offices Can Help
Navigating these updates requires precision and expertise. Our attorneys assist with:
- Form Preparation: Ensuring all new data elements are accurately completed.
- Compliance Guidance: Advising on documentation to meet heightened requirements.
- Case Strategy: Mitigating delays and addressing complex security concerns.
Need Assistance? Contact Us for a consultation.
Stay Informed, Stay Protected
USCIS’s enhanced vetting reflects the evolving landscape of U.S. immigration policy. By understanding these changes, applicants can avoid pitfalls and improve their chances of success.
Ahluwalia Law Offices P.C. is committed to keeping you updated on critical immigration updates. Follow our blog for more insights, or reach out at 972-361-0606 for personalized legal support.
