The latest USCIS data for the second quarter of 2025 Financial Year (Jan–Mar) reveals a huge surge in pending immigration cases—jumping to a record 11.3 million and vaulting past the 10 million mark for the first time in over a decade. This is a historically high number of cases in process by USCIS, an agency bombarded daily by Trump’s Administration with changes and attempts to curtail LEGAL immigration to the U.S. The current immigration backlog has now reached historic levels.
Meanwhile, case completions by USCIS plunged by 18% year-on-year. Many applicants are frustrated by the USCIS processing time, which continues to grow across nearly all immigration categories.
USCIS Form Delays at a Glance
Here are some important statistics about specific USCIS forms:
Form I‑90 (green card replacement) median processing time skyrocketed from 0.8 to over 8 months—a 938% increase.
Form I‑129 (employment visas) processing times rose ~25% from last quarter, and over 80% year-on-year.
Work permits (I‑765) saw initial case backlogs soar 87%, with total pending cases jumping 79%, now exceeding 2 million.
These unprecedented delays affect everyone—green card holders, H‑1B workers, asylum seekers, Deferred Action individuals, and more.
Trump’s extra fraud vetting is pushing this system towards an abyss. The immigration system that was once working, functional and mostly fair has become a trap for many.
Before filing, check the latest USCIS wait time tools to understand how long your case might take. These massive immigration case delays are impacting legal residents, asylum seekers, and employment-based applicants alike.
Why This Matters
Family unity at risk: Delays in I‑90s stall renewal or replacement, potentially leaving lawful permanent residents in a legal limbo. Extended immigration processing times can delay work, travel, and even family reunification.
Employment disruption: Pending I‑129 and I‑765 filings can jeopardize job retention, income, and career paths—especially if employers cannot wait.
Asylum & DACA uncertainty: Slower adjudications impact renewals and protections, prolonging anxiety for youth and vulnerable communities.
TPS Terminations
Terminating Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for vulnerable groups undermines the United States’ long-held reputation as a beacon of safety for refugees and asylum seekers. But it also throws those immigrants into a situation where they are forced to file for Asylum and increase asylum backlogs.
TPS is designed to shield individuals from deportation when their home countries are suffering from armed conflict, natural disasters, or extraordinary conditions. When the U.S. revokes this protection without meaningful improvements in those countries, it sends a clear message that humanitarian concerns are taking a back seat to political expediency.
Strategic Guidance for Immigration Seekers
- File Early & Track Diligently
Submit renewals 6 months ahead. Use USCIS Processing Times tools and set alerts for case status changes. A growing USCIS backlog means even simple green card renewals are taking months longer than expected.
- Consider Premium Processing
Where available (e.g., certain H‑1B or L‑1 petitions), premium processing can greatly accelerate decisions—worth the investment.
- Maintain Valid Status Always
Apply before your current documents expire. A lapse can cause gaps in status that are hard to remedy later.
- Legal Help is Essential
An experienced immigration attorney can file RFEs, expedite requests, or escalate issues through Congressional inquiries when delays are pressuring your status.
Build Redundancy & Contingencies
Diversify strategies: consider changing visa categories, using dual intent options wisely, or planning cross-border travel cautiously.
If you or a loved one are affected by the growing USCIS delays in your immigration journey, now is the time to take control of your future. Don’t let shifting policies or overwhelming backlogs jeopardize your chance at safety, stability, and legal status in the United States. Call Shepelsky Law Group today—we’re here to fight for your rights, guide you through the system, and improve your chances of success. Your immigration journey matters, and we’ll be with you every step of the way.
From an Attorney’s Lens
These backlog figures should be a wake-up call. USCIS is being stretched thin, and delays are now the norm—not the exception. But delays don’t have to derail your plans:
Early counsel matters: Engaging legal advice before deadlines can shape timelines to your advantage.
Document readiness prevents setbacks: Organized, comprehensive filings cut down on costly RFEs.
Active monitoring is key: Proactive follow-up can pivot your case from “pending” to “approved” faster than waiting passively.
Looking Ahead: Long-Term Solutions
USCIS has acknowledged the strain and is exploring process modernization: increased staffing, extended validity on work permits, and remote interview options. But systemic improvement will take time—so your best tool today is preparation, timing, and expert guidance.
Final Word
The current backlog—11.3 million pending cases, massive delays in green cards and work permits—is real and ongoing. But with strategic planning and expert legal support, your case can still move forward smoothly. As an immigration lawyer, I’m ready to help you navigate this complex system confidently—don’t let delays define your journey. Let’s work together to keep your future on track.
Disclaimer
The information provided is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. No attorney client relationship is established. For specific advice on your case, contact a qualified attorney.