USCIS Form Changes, Social Media Rules & New Language Order | Newsletter
Ruttle Law, PC
Immigration law firm with an emphasis on work visas, green cards, and citizenship for business professionals.
Latest Updates on U.S. Immigration Every week we put together this newsletter to keep our readers informed.\
Sudden?Changes to Several USCIS Visa?Application Forms
USCIS has updated at least nine immigration forms with immediate effect, backdating them to January 20, 2025—the start of President Trump’s second term.
After a lawsuit filed by the American Immigration Lawyers Association and Benach Collopy LLP, USCIS has now granted a 30-day grace period for previous form versions.
?? Key Changes:
? Gender identity options removed – Applicants can now only select Male or Female.
? “Noncitizen” replaced with “Alien” – A term widely used in U.S. law but previously phased out.
?? Immigrant Forms Changed:
?? Why This Matters:
? The grace period applies to forms issued on February 24, March 3, and March 4.
? USCIS will enforce the new forms starting late March and early April.
? Applicants must ensure they use the correct versions before the deadline.
?? What to do now?
? Check all forms before submitting to ensure you’re using the latest versions. Be sure to check with your attorney to avoid any rejections.
? Stay informed?with our newsletter to see?how these changes might affect your case.
Social Media Required for Green Card & Citizenship Applicants
The White House has proposed new rule requiring immigrants applying for green cards, citizenship, and other benefits to provide their social media handles as part of their application.
?? What’s happening?
? The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) will collect social media usernames (but not passwords) to verify identities and assess security risks.
? This applies to 9 immigration forms, including green card and naturalization applications.
? The rule could impact 3.5 million applicants per year.
?? What does this mean for you?
? USCIS officers already check social media for immigration fraud. Now, they will formally collect handles.
? Public social media content could affect your immigration status.
? The public has 60 days to comment on this proposal before it is finalized.
?? Tip: Make sure your online presence reflects accurate information and aligns with your immigration application.
Trump Signs Executive Order Declaring English as Official U.S. Language, Affecting Immigrants
President Trump has signed an executive order declaring English as the official languageof the United States—the first time in U.S. history this has been formally established.
?? What This Means:
? Rescinds Clinton-era policies requiring federal agencies to provide language assistancefor non-English speakers.
? Agencies can still voluntarily offer support.
? Aims to promote unity and streamline government operations, according to the White House.
?? The Debate:
? Supporters say a national language strengthens cohesion and civic engagement.
? Critics argue it hurts immigrant communities and contradicts the U.S.’s multilingual history.
?? With 1 in 10 Americans now speaking a language other than English, this move is expected to spark major debate.? Immigrant groups warn this could limit access to critical services, like healthcare and voting, for non-English speakers. Immigrants are encouraged to pursue English learning and stay informed about any changes in language access policies.
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