yes, it’s expected

Yes, this is a real thing and immigration attorneys across the country are already seeing the effects. Starting around April 27, 2026, USCIS implemented expanded FBI background screening procedures for fingerprint based cases, including I 485 adjustment applications, naturalization, asylum, and other biometrics based filings. USCIS officers were reportedly instructed to rerun or resubmit fingerprint checks through expanded FBI databases before approving many pending cases. So the short answer is yes, it is expected to delay at least some green card approvals. A lot of attorneys are reporting cases that appeared ready for approval suddenly going quiet again while the new vetting clears. Right now, there is no indication this means denials are increasing across the board. It mostly appears to be an operational slowdown and re vetting process rather than a substantive change in eligibility standards. USCIS itself publicly stated that any delays should be “brief,” although many practitioners are skeptical because of the already massive backlog. Also, from what has been reported so far, applicants usually do not need to do anything themselves. USCIS is generally rerunning the fingerprints already on file internally unless they specifically issue a new biometrics notice. If you have any other questions, feel free to ask them in our next Lawfully office hours session! - Attorney Elizabeth Mavec (All information shared here is for general educational purposes only. It does not constitute legal advice or create an attorney - client relationship. Your situation may require fact-specific guidance. For personalized legal advice, please consult an immigration attorney directly.)