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The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) announced a new measure that will mark an important step in the digitization of the immigration system.
Through an interim final rule, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) will have the authority to require that certain immigration forms be filed exclusively electronically, gradually moving away from paper-based processes.
According to the provision, USCIS may require the online filing of any immigration form that has been available for e-filing for at least 180 days.
Applicants will be required to have a USCIS online account to complete the form digitally or upload a PDF file along with the corresponding supporting documentation.
Authorities explained that this initiative seeks to eliminate reliance on physical document intake services and accelerate the transition toward electronic payment of immigration fees.
In addition to representing significant savings for the federal government, the new system aims to improve operational efficiency, reduce administrative costs, and streamline application processing.
According to the DHS, digitization will also strengthen security controls and fraud detection. By having faster access to information, USCIS will be able to optimize identity management, perform more efficient verifications, and leverage advanced analytical tools to support review processes.
Likewise, electronic filing "will help reduce errors, decrease incomplete applications, and improve response times for users," they note.
The agency highlighted that online filing is already part of standard procedures for numerous immigration forms, so the measure does not represent a completely new change for many applicants.
However, those facing exceptional difficulties in using digital services may request an exemption. These requests will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis and will be subject to the discretion of USCIS.
The interim final rule went into effect on August 11, 2026, while the DHS will accept public comments until October 13, 2026.
With this action, the U.S. government seeks a digital transformation that could change the way millions of people carry out their USCIS filings in the coming years.
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