To strengthen national security, starting today, US immigration authority requires certain immigration forms to be filed …
The US Department of Homeland Security ( DHS ) has issued a new interim final rule that allows US Citizenship and Immigration Services ( USCIS ) to require electronic filing for certain immigration forms. The new rule goes into effect starting today, August 11. Under the rule, USCIS can make online filing mandatory for eligible forms after giving at least 60 days' public notice. The agency said the move is aimed at improving national security screening through faster data access, reducing costs, strengthening fraud detection and speeding up application processing.
“Under this IFR, USCIS may require future filings of any immigration form that has been available for e-filing for at least 180 days to be submitted online. USCIS will notify the public on its website at least 60 days before requiring e-filing of a form. Filers must use an online account to submit an immigration form to USCIS, either by completing the form online or by uploading a PDF of the completed form and related evidence,” USCIS said.
“By making data easier to receive, store, and access than with paper forms, e-filing enhances fraud detection, streamlines identity management, and improves national security screening through faster data access and expanded analytical capabilities. E-filing also reduces errors, incomplete submissions, and application decision times. The adjudication process becomes more secure, more transparent, and more efficient,” the immigration authority further added.
E-filing waivers available in hardship cases: USCISThe department noted that electronic filing is already available for many USCIS forms and is not a new process for applicants. People who cannot file online may request a waiver. DHS said USCIS may grant waivers in cases of undue hardship at its discretion.
“This is not a new process for aliens to file electronic benefit requests. Requestors who cannot file electronically may request a waiver. Waivers are granted at USCIS’ discretion for undue hardship,” the agency stated.
The interim final rule takes effect on August 11, 2026. DHS said it will accept public comments on the rule through October 13, 2026 before considering any further action.
“Under this IFR, USCIS may require future filings of any immigration form that has been available for e-filing for at least 180 days to be submitted online. USCIS will notify the public on its website at least 60 days before requiring e-filing of a form. Filers must use an online account to submit an immigration form to USCIS, either by completing the form online or by uploading a PDF of the completed form and related evidence,” USCIS said.
“By making data easier to receive, store, and access than with paper forms, e-filing enhances fraud detection, streamlines identity management, and improves national security screening through faster data access and expanded analytical capabilities. E-filing also reduces errors, incomplete submissions, and application decision times. The adjudication process becomes more secure, more transparent, and more efficient,” the immigration authority further added.
E-filing waivers available in hardship cases: USCISThe department noted that electronic filing is already available for many USCIS forms and is not a new process for applicants. People who cannot file online may request a waiver. DHS said USCIS may grant waivers in cases of undue hardship at its discretion.
“This is not a new process for aliens to file electronic benefit requests. Requestors who cannot file electronically may request a waiver. Waivers are granted at USCIS’ discretion for undue hardship,” the agency stated.
The interim final rule takes effect on August 11, 2026. DHS said it will accept public comments on the rule through October 13, 2026 before considering any further action.
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