The Trump administration has implemented expanded background checks for immigration applicants through enhanced FBI database access, pausing thousands of pending cases until the new security screenings are completed.
New Vetting Requirements Implemented
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services distributed internal guidance last week instructing officers to resubmit pending applications for asylum, green cards, and citizenship to enhanced FBI background checks. Officers received orders to halt approvals on cases that have not undergone the expanded screenings. The changes stem from a February executive order directing the Justice Department to provide USCIS maximum access to FBI criminal history databases to identify foreign nationals with criminal backgrounds who may violate American laws.
Exclusive: The Trump administration issued new rules for visa applications that orders diplomatic missions to ask applicants for nonimmigrant visas if they fear returning home to their country — and to refuse U.S. travel documents for those who say yes. https://t.co/OhxYDV4t7C
— The Washington Post (@washingtonpost) April 28, 2026
Broad Impact on Legal Immigration Applications
The enhanced security checks affect all fingerprint-based applications, including permanent residency requests, naturalization petitions, and family sponsorship cases filed by American citizens or green card holders. Internal documents obtained by CBS News show officers must resubmit fingerprint screenings if FBI information was received before April 27. Resubmissions are only waived when officers intend to deny an application. USCIS spokesman Zach Kahler confirmed the agency implemented the new protocols through expanded access to federal criminal databases, stating that any processing delays should be brief and resolved shortly.
Administration’s Immigration Vetting Campaign
The expanded background checks represent the latest initiative in the administration’s effort to strengthen vetting procedures for immigration benefit applicants. While USCIS has historically used FBI databases to screen applications for national security and public safety concerns, the February executive order granted significantly broader access to criminal history records. The agency emphasized that the safety of the American people remains its top priority as it implements the enhanced screening requirements. The changes affect both current applicants and those with pending cases already in the review process.