Recent U.S. immigration policy changes may affect processing times for some applicants. Presidential Proclamation 10949 (June 2025) and Presidential Proclamation 10998 (December 2025) introduced expanded security review procedures for nationals of certain countries. These measures were implemented to address national security concerns and may result in longer processing times for some immigration applications.
What Is Happening
The proclamations place restrictions on visa issuance and entry to the United States for nationals of certain countries identified as having limited security-screening cooperation.
In response, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) issued internal policy guidance directing officers to temporarily hold final decisions on certain applications while additional security reviews are conducted, as outlined in USCIS Policy Memorandum PM-602-0192 and USCIS Policy Memorandum PM-602-0194.
During this time, normal processing steps such as receipt notices, biometrics appointments, and background checks may still occur. However, final adjudication may be delayed until the security review process is completed.
It is important to note that these holds are agency-wide operational measures. They do not mean that an application has been denied or that there is a specific issue with a particular case.
What This Means for Applicants
Nationals of affected countries may experience:
- Longer processing times while additional security checks are completed
- Delays in certain immigration benefits, including Adjustment of Status (Form I-485), Employment Authorization (Form I-765), and Advance Parole (Form I-131)
- Additional background review procedures as part of the government’s screening process
Although delays can be frustrating, they are part of a broader policy affecting many applications and do not necessarily reflect a problem with an individual case.
Countries Affected
The proclamations apply to nationals of a number of countries across Africa, the Middle East, the Caribbean, and parts of Asia. Some countries face broader entry restrictions, while others are subject to more limited visa-related measures. A full list of the affected countries can be found here.
What to Keep in Mind
Immigration policies continue to evolve, and new guidance can affect how applications are processed. While these additional security reviews may create delays for some applicants, they do not determine the outcome of a case.
Our firm continues to monitor policy developments closely. If you have questions about how these changes may affect your immigration application, please contact us.