USCIS Office Reopening Visitor Policy

USCIS offices have begun to reopen, but the pandemic is still ongoing. To minimize contagion, USCIS has announced that all visitors must wear a face mask/covering in their offices. Those that refuse to do so will not be allowed to enter. 

Other preventative procedures for office appointments are similar to what was announced in June. Applicants may only bring their attorney, an assistant for disability, or family members listed as dependents on the appointment notice. Minors are allowed one trusted adult with them. Interpreters are generally allowed but should be available by phone in certain cases. 

Naturalization ceremonies will only allow the citizen-to-be and any person assisting them with disability. This  means no family or friends can attend the actual ceremony. As always, anyone feeling sick or who has been around a sick person can and should reschedule as per their appointment notice and will not be penalized for doing so. 

Video interviews are also being rolled out slowly in different districts. 

Overall, while appointments have resumed, applicants and visitors must be prepared to comply with altered procedures. USCIS offices can deny entry to uncooperative people. It is in an applicant's best interest to follow these rules both for their own health and for the sake of their application.

(Immigration laws and policies change regularly.  If you have any questions regarding this article, please visit www.1visa1.com to schedule legal consultation.)