With immigration policies making headlines almost daily, many people are wondering whether now is still the right time to apply for a U.S. green card, citizenship or visa.
The answer is yes. Immigration applications are still being processed, and approvals are still happening. Despite tighter scrutiny and changing policies, the opportunity to pursue your immigration goals has not disappeared.
What has changed is the level of preparation required. Understanding your eligibility, submitting a properly prepared application, and having the right legal guidance are more important than ever.
Immigration Approvals Are Still Happening
USCIS continues to process applications across several immigration categories. Between October 2025 and June 2026, the agency approved more than 279,000 citizenship applications, with more than 8 in 10 decided cases resulting in approval.
While processing times have increased, with the median wait for a citizenship decision reaching 9.5 months, this does not mean applications have stopped moving forward.
Green card, family-based and employment-based applications are also continuing to move through the system. Delaying an application without understanding your options could mean losing valuable time.
How to Approach Your Immigration Application
With increased scrutiny, submitting an application without proper preparation can create unnecessary complications. Here are a few things to consider:
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Understand your eligibility. Review your immigration history, residency requirements, and personal circumstances before filing.
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Prepare a complete application. Missing information or supporting documents can lead to delays or even denial.
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Ensure accuracy and consistency. Your application should be truthful and consistent with your previous filings and supporting records.
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Plan ahead. Keep track of deadlines, renewals, and important immigration notices.
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Seek legal guidance. Previous arrests, immigration violations, extended trips outside the U.S. or expiring TPS status may require careful legal review before you apply.
Don't Let Uncertainty Put Your Immigration Goals on Hold
The immigration landscape may be changing, but that does not mean you should give up on your plans. The right time to apply depends on your individual circumstances, and having an experienced immigration attorney review your situation can help you understand your options and avoid preventable mistakes.
At Lewis Law PA, Attorney Nadia Lewis provides personalized immigration guidance to help individuals and families navigate the process with greater clarity and confidence.
Wondering whether you should still apply? Don't make that decision based on headlines alone. Contact Lewis Law PA at 954-530-1717 to schedule a consultation and discuss your immigration options.
This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Every immigration case is different. Reading this article does not establish an attorney-client relationship. Information current as of November 5, 2026.
This article provides general information and is not legal advice. Immigration law changes frequently, and information in older articles may be out of date. For advice about your situation, schedule a consultation.