Backlog of Pending Immigration Cases Increases

Number of pending immigration cases increases

Number of pending immigration cases increases

It is no secret that the US has always had a high flow of immigrants throughout history. However, despite having a fairly extensive immigration system, several existing policies, programs, and processes do not allow for efficient or optimal case processing to keep up with current demand, that is, the number of immigration applications received by the USCIS (US Citizenship and Immigration Services) on a daily basis.

It is important to clarify that the USCIS is the branch of the DHS (Department of Homeland Security) in charge of processing immigration cases in the country. This agency has recently reported a growing number of immigration applications and also a shortage of workers to meet demand related to the immigration system and international traffic. Therefore, there is currently a fairly high and alarming backlog of pending immigration cases.

Let’s look at some important facts:

  • The previous administration, with former President Donald Trump leading from early 2017 to 2021, made hundreds of changes to all kinds of immigration policies, hindering certain processes and narrowing the alternatives available to foreigners in general, from skilled workers to vulnerable populations in need of international assistance.
  • The global Coronavirus pandemic worsened the situation regarding immigration processes in the US as it paused international traffic almost completely for a considerable period of time.
  • When President Biden took office in late January 2021, the number of pending immigration cases already exceeded 1 million, mostly related to humanitarian programs available to the most vulnerable immigrants such as political asylum and refuge. However, there are also other processes with surprisingly long waiting times such as employment-based Green Cards.

Adding to that, TRAC (Transactional Records Access Clearinghouse) recently revealed that the backlog of immigration cases has increased even more during fiscal year 2021 (October-September).

In fact, according to official figures, as of May 2021 (eighth month of the fiscal year), immigration courts across the US had received 126,911 new immigration applications, but processed only 68,260 during the same period. In other words, immigration courts are receiving twice as many applications as they can process with current resources.

Do you need help with an immigration case of any kind? Feel free to contact Motion Law Immigration, schedule a FREE Consultation and follow the advice of our experienced attorneys.

The right time for you to start your immigration process!

As alarming or even discouraging as the backlog of immigration cases might sound, the situation is not an impediment for you to have a successful immigration process. This is because current delays and the number of pending immigration applications are related to outdated policies and protocols from the previous administration, which can be improved considering that there is a new administration and that most, if not all, immigration processes are already functioning normally after the massive global outbreak of COVID-19.

What is the best alternative to have a successful immigration process?

This is undoubtedly the best time to start your immigration journey. However, the best alternative will always be to seek reliable help from immigration experts to protect your future in the US.

We understand that starting an immigration process requires constant dedication and expert help. Our team is highly qualified to guide you through your immigration journey in the US, so please don’t hesitate to contact us for a FREE Phone Consultation with one of our expert immigration attorneys.

Simply call Motion Law today at: (202) 918-1799.