USCIS Policy Memo on Adjustment of Status
USCIS released a policy memo addressing how the agency expects its officers to approach adjustment of status petitions moving forward.
On May 21, 2025, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) released a policy memo addressing how the agency expects its officers to approach adjustment of status petitions moving forward. Adjustment of status (AOS) is the last stage of the green card process inside the U.S. and is different from change of status (COS) which refers to the process by which a foreign national changes from one nonimmigrant status to another nonimmigrant status (e.g., F-2 to F-1).
In short, USCIS is instructing its officers to exercise tightened discretion when reviewing adjustment of status applications and to view consular immigrant visa processing abroad as the default pathway. Additionally, officers are encouraged to place greater emphasis on whether an applicant has maintained lawful status by complying with visa requirements.
It is important to note that the memo does not change the law governing employment-based green cards, nor does it eliminate adjustment of status. Dual-intent protections remain in place for H-1B status, which covers most of the cases processed by the Office of International Services for university departments and their international employees.
The Office of International Services is closely watching this issue and will share relevant updates as they become available, including “real-world” implementation or litigation. Advisors are reaching out to those currently in the adjustment of status process with our office to discuss their individual cases. Those with active green card petitions outside the university are encouraged to connect with the individual handling their case, especially those with nontraditional cases including employment or status gaps.
The Office of International Services is committed to providing high-level immigration guidance to the university community and to fostering a supportive environment for international students, scholars, and employees. Anyone with questions is welcome to connect with an advisor or email ois@uic.edu.
Please note that the information shared in this message is intended for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.