Update: Naturalization Processing Updates
Naturalization Processing Updates
USCIS Will Automatically Extend Green Cards for Naturalization Applicants
Starting December 12, 2022, all applicants for N-400 (naturalization) will receive an automatic extension of their green card for up to 24 months. Applicants no longer need to file a separate I-90 to extend their green cards. The automatic extension will be stated on the N-400 receipt notice. The receipt notice can be presented with the expired Green Card as evidence of continued status as well...
USCIS Schedules and then Cancels Multiple Interviews Repeatedly
Update 10/29/2021 This is not over yet! The interview scheduled for 10/28/2021 was canceled on the date of the interview. We received a case update that a new interview date has been scheduled. Original Post 09/29/2021 No one knows what's going on but these things do happen from time to time. Naturalization client attended the first interview in June 2021 and did not pass the civics test. That's...
Naturalization Processing Updates
Update 04/05/2023 Processing time for Baltimore Field Office remains unchanged—about 7 to 8 months from filing to the interview date. Posted time frame has improved. Update 01/27/2023 Here's a recent sample for the Baltimore Field Office showing processing time from filing to interview in about 7 months. Update 01/16/2023 USCIS continues to adjudicate naturalization applications faster than...
Applicants for Naturalization may be Forgiven if They Had Unknowingly Registered to Vote
USCIS issued new policy guidance on May 27, 2021 regarding an applicant's registration to vote and its impact on good moral character determination during naturalization. Some of the policy highlights include: USCIS will not penalize an applicant who unknowingly or unwilfully registers to vote.USCIS does not consider an applicant to have unlawfully registered to vote if the applicant did not...
Qualified Veterans Living Overseas May File for Naturalization
On May 28, 2021, USCIS issued additional clarifications in its policy alert that certain veterans who served and were honorably discharged from the military but are not lawful permanent residents (LPRs) may file an Application for Naturalization (Form N-400) to naturalize under INA 329 even if they are currently residing outside the United States. The policy guidance also clarifies that...
USCIS Receipt Notice Update: N-400
As of March 12, 2021, we have received all receipt notices in connection with naturalization applications filed in November 2020. We have not received biometrics notices yet.
USCIS Reverts Back to Administering the Old Civic Test
The civics test component of the naturalization test had previously required applicants to study from a list of 100 possible questions. This was known as the 2008 civics test. On December 1, 2020, USCIS increased that list to 128 and updated the number of questions applicants must answer correctly to pass from six out of 10 to 12 out of 20 questions. On February 22, 2021, USCIS scratched out the...
CIS Ombudsman Provides Case Assistance on Receipt Delays, Biometrics Appointment, EAD delays
The CIS Ombudsman has issued an update regarding its services for case assistance. Receipt Delays If more than 90 days have passed since you filed a petition/application with USCIS, you may submit a request for case assistance with the CIS Ombudsman, and our office will reach out to USCIS to resolve your issue. If less than 90 days have passed since you filed a petition/application with USCIS,...
Update on the Receipt Notice Delays
Due to significant visa number movements in October 2020 which opened the door to a record influx of Green Card applications and the ongoing Covid Pandemic, USCIS has been slow in issuing receipt notices of petitions and applications. Even to this month, we have been receiving receipt notices for I485, I765, I131 that were filed in October 2020 although only a few remain outstanding. The...