On Aug. 19, 2025, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) updated its policy manual to provide guidance on how USCIS officers should exercise discretion when reviewing immigration benefit requests. Specifically, the guidance clarifies that USCIS officers will carefully consider an applicant’s entire immigration record and weigh both positive and negative factors before making a decision on whether to grant an immigration benefit. This update specifically emphasizes considerations related to any involvement in anti-American or terrorist organizations, past requests for parole, and antisemitic activity.

The updated policy also provides guidance on how USCIS officers should exercise discretion when adjudicating EB-5 investor petitions in cases involving threats to national interest

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