For immigrants in the United States, the adjustment of status process is a critical step on the path to permanent residency. At Guerra Sáenz, PL, a respected South Florida immigration law firm, our team works diligently to help clients navigate the complexities of immigration law—including the adjustment of status interview. A recent update from U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has made important changes that asylees, refugees, and their family members must understand before proceeding with their application.
Understanding Adjustment of Status
Adjustment of status allows eligible individuals already in the U.S. to apply for lawful permanent resident (green card) status without having to return to their home country to complete visa processing. The process includes completing and submitting Form I-485 to USCIS, gathering supporting documentation, and in many cases, attending an in-person interview with an immigration officer.
At Guerra Sáenz, PL, we understand that preparing for this interview is often a stressful experience. Our team is here to ensure applicants are well-informed, thoroughly prepared, and legally protected every step of the way.
Recent USCIS Policy Update: What You Need to Know
USCIS has announced a major update to its Policy Manual that clarifies when interviews will be required for asylees, refugees, and certain family members applying for adjustment of status. This policy update is effective immediately and applies to all pending and future Form I-485 applications filed by these individuals.
Here are the key points of the update:
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Restoring a Standardized Interview Approach
USCIS is reestablishing a consistent baseline for screening and vetting applicants. This effort aligns with Executive Order 14161, which aims to enhance national security and public safety by improving immigration procedures. This change ensures that interviews are not skipped arbitrarily and that cases with red flags receive thorough scrutiny. -
Interview Triggers for Asylees and Refugees
USCIS officers are now explicitly instructed to refer applicants for interviews under several conditions, including:-
If identity cannot be verified through documents or biometrics
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If there are indications of fraud in obtaining asylum or refugee status
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If the FBI fingerprint check raises concerns or if questions about the applicant’s admissibility remain unresolved
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If the applicant has connections to countries with terrorism designations
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If there are any articulable national security concerns
These criteria aim to close gaps in the vetting process and ensure that only eligible individuals proceed to lawful permanent residency.
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Identity and Records Review
The policy clarifies that USCIS will require interviews if immigration records are incomplete or contain unresolved identity discrepancies. This is especially relevant for applicants who may have changed names, used aliases, or have insufficient documentation.
The full guidance is available in Volume 7 of the USCIS Policy Manual, and it represents a broader shift toward enhancing the integrity of the immigration process.
Why This Matters for Applicants
For asylees and refugees, this update means that interviews may now be required in more cases than before. What was once a waived step for many applicants may now become a mandatory part of the process. Therefore, preparation is more crucial than ever.
At Guerra Sáenz, PL, our experienced immigration attorneys help clients gather the right documentation, understand what USCIS officers are looking for, and prepare for interview questions that may involve sensitive personal history, security concerns, or past immigration proceedings.
How Guerra Sáenz, PL Can Help
Guerra Sáenz, PL is a premier immigration law firm serving clients throughout South Florida. Our lead attorney is Board Certified in Immigration and Nationality Law, a distinction that speaks to the depth of experience and specialized knowledge we bring to every case.
We assist clients in all aspects of the adjustment of status process, including:
- Determining eligibility for adjustment of status
- Preparing and filing Form I-485 and supporting evidence
- Guiding applicants through interview preparation
- Representing clients during the adjustment interview if necessary
- Addressing identity issues or records discrepancies that could delay the process
Whether you’re applying as an asylee, refugee, or family member, working with an experienced Fort Lauderdale immigration lawyer ensures that your case is handled professionally and with the care it deserves.
Contact a Fort Lauderdale Adjustment of Status Lawyer
USCIS’s recent policy update represents a renewed focus on screening and national security in the adjustment of status process. For those applying as asylees or refugees, it’s essential to understand how these changes may impact your application. The new guidance increases the likelihood of being called in for an interview—especially if there are questions about your identity, background, or previous immigration history.
If you are in the process of applying for adjustment of status or have questions about how this USCIS policy update affects you, contact Guerra Sáenz, PL today. Our team is ready to guide you with personalized attention and skilled legal representation.
To schedule a consultation with a Fort Lauderdale adjustment of status attorney, call our office at (954) 434-5800. We are here to help you achieve your immigration goals with clarity and confidence.