U.S. immigration offices, including U.S. Citizenship & Immigration Services (“USCIS”), Immigration Court, and the U.S. Consulates have all been closed to the public since the week of March 16, with some exceptions, due to COVID-19.
What does this mean for USCIS?
USCIS has not conducted any permanent residence or naturalization interviews, taken biometrics, or held naturalization oath ceremonies since March 17. Its regional offices have, however, continued to accept new applications, issue receipt notices, and make decisions on applications where an in-person interview was not required. Ramirez & Kain continues to file applications for its clients during this time.
For cases in the queue for a local interview, we expect significant delays in processing.
Can I get a visa right now?
Visa issuance has been suspended until further notice, except in emergency circumstances. A limited group of immigrant visas are subject to President Trump’s 60-day travel ban. For more information about that, please read this blog entry.
What does this mean for Immigration Court removal hearings?
All removal hearings, with the exception of those hearings for detained immigrants, have been suspended.
How does this impact ICE operations?
The Boston office of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has suspended in-person check-ins at their Enforcement and Removal Operation offices until August 1. Check-ins occur by telephone until then. Bond payment and, in some cases, first-time check-ins will still happen in person. ICE also reports that it continues to conduct enforcement operations, but with a focus on those with a criminal history or who may pose a public safety risk.
What is the plan for reopening?
We expect to see reopenings in the next month. At the moment, the following reopening dates have been announced, though these could be extended again. Some decisions will depend on rules set in place by the state and local governments regarding social distancing.
June 4: USCIS local offices reopen
June 15: Immigration Courts reopen (updated as of 5/15).
July 1: Naturalization oath ceremonies in Massachusetts may begin to be rescheduled
August 3: In-person check-ins at ICE-ERO resume
Not announced: Reopening of U.S. Consulates.
Have a question about your individual case? Please contact us directly.