USCIS introduces rule to mandate online e-filing for immigration forms
A new DHS rule allows USCIS to require online submission for forms that have been available for e-filing for at least 180 days.
Who this applies to & what you could do
Adjustment of Status
- Green card applications may eventually require electronic submission through a USCIS online account.
- Undue hardship waivers may be granted at USCIS's discretion if online filing is not possible for you.
- You can set up a free online account with USCIS, scan your civil documents into clear PDF files, and check official announcements before filing your green card application.
DACA
- Paper filings for DACA requests may be phased out once mandatory online filing is announced.
- Applicants facing severe barriers to digital submission may request an undue hardship waiver.
- You can log in to your existing USCIS online account or create one, save digital copies of your previous approval notices, and seek guidance from an legal service provider if you need help.
F-1 Academic Student
- Applications may require uploading documents through a USCIS online account instead of paper mailing.
- USCIS will give a 60-day advance web notice before any student form requires electronic filing.
- You can confirm your contact details with your school's international student advisor, prepare digital scans of your passport and student records, and check the USCIS website for mandatory filing updates.
TPS Temporary Protected Status
- TPS registrations and work permit requests may transition to required electronic filing.
- Hardship waivers may be available if you lack internet access or face other severe difficulties.
- You can gather digital scans of your identity and nationality documents, track your country's re-registration windows, and contact an accredited legal representative for digital filing assistance.
Timeline — newest first
USCIS rule permits mandatory online e-filing for eligible immigration forms
The Department of Homeland Security is introducing a rule that allows U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) to mandate online filing for immigration forms that have been available electronically for at least 180 days. USCIS will post a notice on its website at least 60 days before making online filing mandatory for any specific form. This policy is still developing and open for public comment through October 2026, so requirements may evolve over time.
Summaries are AI-generated from public government sources and news coverage. This is not legal advice.