USCIS ANNOUNCES END OF COVID-RELATED FLEXIBILITIES

On March 23, 2023, the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) announced the end of certain flexibilities initially introduced during the COVID-19 pandemic. Prior to March 23, 2023, applicants and petitioners were granted an automatic 60-day extension when responding to certain notices and requests.

Effective immediately, notices and requests dated after March 23, 2023, must be responded to by the deadline listed in the notice or request. This includes:

• Requests for Evidence;
• Continuations to Request Evidence (N-14);
• Notices of Intent to Deny;
• Notices of Intent to Revoke;
• Notices of Intent to Rescind;
• Notices of Intent to Terminate regional centers;
• Notices of Intent to Withdraw Temporary Protected Status; and
• Motions to Reopen an N-400 Pursuant to 8 CFR 335.5, Receipt of Derogatory Information After Grant.

Applicants who wish to file Form I-290B, Notice of Appeal or Motion, or Form N-336, Request for a Hearing on a Decision in Naturalization Proceedings, must also comply with the deadlines stated on the form instructions.

Upon request, the USCIS will continue to provide certain flexibilities on a case-by-case basis if the petitioner or applicant is affected by an emergency or unforeseen circumstance, such as such as natural catastrophes, national emergencies, or severe illness.