While reviewing FBI The database used to review immigration applications is not a new process, and U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has now gained more access to federal agency criminal history information as it begins a new, enhanced security verification process.
The government has requested a temporary halt to certain cases while these new changes are in effect, CBS News reported. Last week, USCIS issued internal guidance to its officers instructing them to resubmit pending applications for immigration benefits, including asylum, green cardand U.S. citizenship to learn more about FBI Background checks.
Green Card Alert: Everything we know about pending cases
Officials have been instructed to avoid approving any pending cases that have not undergone comprehensive background checks.
The order directs the Justice Department, which oversees the FBI, to allow the immigration agency to access its criminal history database “to the fullest extent permitted by law” to identify criminals.
“Such criminal actors may include aliens with criminal histories who have violated U.S. immigration laws by entering or remaining in the United States or who have otherwise attempted to violate U.S. criminal laws,” Trump said in the order.
Who will be affected by the new review process?
The improved verification process will impact pending benefit applications that require applicants to provide fingerprints, including green cards (U.S. permanent residence) and naturalization applications, as outlined in internal guidance. This also applies to sponsorship applications filed for relatives or fiancées of U.S. citizens or green card holders.
Fingerprint-based screening
If the FBI obtains information relevant to the case before April 27, USCIS officials will be directed to resubmit for fingerprint screening. Officials were told they did not need to resubmit if they planned to reject the application.
USCIS spokesman Zach Kahler told CBS News, “Processing is still ongoing as we apply these enhanced background check requirements. Any delays in issuance of decisions should be brief and resolved quickly.” He added, “USCIS will always prioritize the safety of the American people.”
The tightened security checks are the latest move by the Trump administration to rigorously evaluate people seeking immigration benefits and limit access to the U.S. immigration system.
