Why USCIS Is Getting Stricter in 2025

USCIS is issuing more Requests for Evidence (RFEs), Notices of Intent to Deny (NOIDs), and has increased scrutiny on both employment and family-based immigration cases in 2025. Processing times have also slowed across categories, and the new fee schedule implemented in April 2025 is making it more expensive to file key petitions.

Why USCIS is Getting Stricter?

USCIS getting stricter in 2025 stems from a complex mix of political pressure, agency reforms, and post-pandemic backlog management. The Republican-led House continues to push for tighter control on immigration, especially in the aftermath of a contentious 2024 election cycle where immigration was a central issue. Although the executive branch remains Democratic, USCIS is attempting to demonstrate accountability by tightening adjudications.

In addition, internal policy memos have signaled that adjudicators should apply more rigorous standards. This reflects an agency-wide effort to curb perceived abuse of “flexible” standards, particularly by entrepreneurs, researchers, artists, and startup founders.

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How It Affects Immigrants

Whether you're applying for a work visa, a self-petition green card, or sponsoring a family member, you are likely to face more hurdles than in previous years. Immigrants with extraordinary abilities or national interest waivers are being asked to provide excessive levels of evidence, while even H-1B and L-1 petitions are seeing more RFEs.

This stricter environment creates anxiety for immigrants who must now worry not only about eligibility — but about proving that eligibility beyond reasonable doubt. Even clearly qualified candidates are being delayed or denied.

Shan Potts Law Offices Perspective

At Shan Potts Law Offices, we’ve seen a clear uptick in clients reaching out after receiving unexpected RFEs or NOIDs — including in well-prepared cases. Why USCIS is getting stricter in 2025 isn’t just a matter of politics; it’s a reality shaping how we must approach every application.

We are adapting by helping clients submit preemptively stronger petitions, with strategic documentation, expert opinion letters, and tailored legal memos anticipating USCIS scrutiny. In this climate, experience and foresight make all the difference.

Next Steps:

If you’re considering a visa or green card application in 2025, the time to act is now. File early. Prepare thoroughly. Work with a law firm that understands how to build cases for a stricter USCIS.

Schedule a free strategy session with attorney Shan Potts to assess your eligibility, understand your risks, and build a plan that withstands today’s challenges.