Dec 1, 2025
USCIS has announced a temporary pause in the processing of asylum cases. Let’s break down who is affected and what applicants should do next.
Since late 2025, the United States has officially halted the processing of a number of political asylum applications. The decision immediately sparked nationwide concern, as it affects both newly filed petitions and many pending cases that were already in line for interviews or undergoing additional review.
USCIS Director Joseph Edlow announced on X (formerly Twitter) that the agency has paused all asylum-related decisions until it can ensure “maximum vetting of every noncitizen.” This is the most significant announcement of its kind in recent years.
Who Is Impacted?
Based on early reports, the temporary suspension may affect:
applicants waiting for their initial asylum interviews;
cases sent for secondary or enhanced review;
certain border-filed asylum applications;
cases transferred back to USCIS from immigration courts.
Although USCIS has not clarified whether the suspension applies to all asylum seekers, delays have already been reported across multiple states.
What Will Happen With Processing Times?
upcoming interviews may be pushed back indefinitely;
online case status updates may stall for extended periods;
court-related asylum cases could also experience additional delays.
Immigration attorneys warn that even once USCIS resumes processing, the backlog could extend timelines by another 6 to 12 months.
What Should Applicants Do Now?
Experts recommend that asylum seekers:
renew their Employment Authorization Document (EAD) under category C08 without delays;
keep their address updated with USCIS (Form AR-11);
gather additional evidence for their case;
be ready to respond to RFEs (Requests for Evidence);
avoid international travel without Advance Parole.
Further updates will be posted as USCIS releases official clarifications.