In a March 23 press release, US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) announced that certain filing flexibilities implemented in March, 2020 to accommodate difficulties brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic have ended effective immediately.
Relevant parties are now once again required to respond to all USCIS notices or requests dated after March 23 no later than the deadline listed on the notice or request for the following:
- Requests for Evidence
- Continuations to Request Evidence
- Notices of Intent to Deny
- Notices of Intent to Rescind
- Notices of Intent to Revoke
- Notices of Intent to Terminate regional centers
- Notices of Intent to Withdraw Temporary Protected Status
- Motions to Reopen an N-400 Pursuant to Receipt of Derogatory Information after Grant
The release also states that those filing a Form I-290B, Notice of Appeal or Motion, or Form N-336, Request for a Hearing on a Decision in Naturalization Proceedings (Under Section 336 of the INA) in regards to a decision dated March 24, 2023 or later are required to adhere to the deadlines in the form instructions.
There is a possibility that USCIS may continue offering some filing flexibilities on a case-by-case basis if the applicant or petitioner requests it due to an unforeseen emergency circumstance including but not limited to a natural disaster or national emergency. Those affected by emergency circumstances are encouraged to seek more information on the relevant USCIS webpage.
USCIS formerly accepted responses to requests for information or documents within 60 calendar days of the date listed in the request or form as part of safety measures meant to accommodate those affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. These filing flexibilities were in place from March 20, 2020 to March 23, 2023.
