USCIS Launches Enhanced FBI Security Vetting System on April 27, 2026 – Delays Expected for Adjustment of Status, Naturalization, and Asylum Applications
- Xavi
- Apr 29
- 3 min read
Updated: Apr 29
Washington D.C., April 28, 2026 — U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has begun using a new, enhanced FBI security check system, causing immediate pauses in the adjudication of thousands of pending immigration benefit applications.
Starting April 27, 2026, USCIS officers are required to re-submit fingerprints for cases where background checks were previously sent to the FBI before the new system went live. This re-vetting process is affecting a wide range of applications, particularly adjustment of status (green card), naturalization (citizenship), and asylum cases.
What Is Happening?
On April 27, USCIS switched to an upgraded FBI vetting platform designed to strengthen national security screening. For any pending case where fingerprints were collected and submitted to the FBI prior to April 27, 2026, officers must now pull the existing fingerprints from the system and re-submit them under the new enhanced protocol.
No new action is required from applicants. USCIS is handling the re-submission internally. However, this process has resulted in a temporary pause on final decisions for affected cases while the new checks are completed.
Most Affected Application Types
The following case types are among the most likely to experience delays:
Adjustment of Status (Form I-485) – including employment-based and family-based green cards
Naturalization Applications (Form N-400)
Asylum Applications (affirmative and defensive)
Certain other benefit requests that require fingerprint-based FBI background checks
USCIS has stated that any delays caused by the re-vetting “should be brief and resolved shortly.” However, the agency has not provided a specific timeline for how long the enhanced checks will take.
Important Notes
This security vetting delay is separate from the existing USCIS adjudication hold that has been in place since January 2026 for individuals from countries subject to travel bans.
Applicants do not need to submit new fingerprints or contact USCIS about this issue.
USCIS is re-using fingerprints already on file.
Implications for Employers and Foreign Nationals
For Employers:
Employees with pending adjustment of status may see their green card approvals delayed.
Work authorization (EAD) and advance parole that are still valid remain unaffected for now.
Employers should review the status of key personnel and prepare contingency plans in case final adjudication takes longer than expected.
For Individuals:
Pending naturalization cases may face short delays before the oath ceremony can be scheduled.
Asylum applicants could experience slower decision-making.
Travel and work plans should be reviewed carefully, especially if relying on pending applications for status maintenance.
Practical Advice While Waiting
Check Case Status Regularly — Use the USCIS online account or Case Status Online tool.
Maintain Valid Status — Ensure current work authorization (EAD) and travel documents (Advance Parole) do not expire.
Avoid Unnecessary Travel — If your adjustment of status is pending, leaving the U.S. without valid Advance Parole could complicate your case.
Keep Records Updated — Notify USCIS immediately of any address or contact changes.
Consult an Immigration Attorney — Especially if your case is time-sensitive or involves employment.
USCIS has emphasized that the enhanced vetting is a security improvement and that they are working to minimize disruption. However, until the agency provides clearer timelines, applicants and employers should plan for possible short-to-medium term delays.
For the latest USCIS processing updates, adjustment of status news, naturalization timelines, and full 2026 U.S. immigration policy changes, explore our complete collection here: USA Visa & Immigration Updates
The rollout of USCIS’s new enhanced FBI security vetting system on April 27, 2026, is causing temporary pauses in many pending immigration cases. While the agency expects delays to be brief, individuals with pending adjustment of status, naturalization, or asylum applications should stay vigilant, maintain valid work and travel documents, and monitor their case status closely