Diversity Visa (DV) Program Update: USCIS Holds AOS Cases, DOS Pauses Visa Issuances

This pause applies not only to DV-based Form I-485 cases, but also to related filings such as employment authorization (Form I-765), travel documents/advance parole (Form I-131), and associated waiver applications. USCIS will conduct enhanced reviews focused on national security, criminal history, and admissibility issues, and mandatory interviews will be required for all DV AOS cases, with additional interviews possible as needed. Each case will be reviewed individually with no automatic approvals or denials, and significant delays are expected. Importantly, DV fiscal-year quotas and eligibility timelines still apply, meaning delays could impact whether a case can be finalized in time.

Separately, the U.S. Department of State (DOS) announced that as of December 23, 2025, it has paused all diversity visa issuances worldwide, effective immediately. DOS clarified that visa interviews will continue and consulates will keep scheduling appointments, but final decisions and visa issuances will not be completed during this review period. DOS stated the pause is intended to allow a comprehensive review of DV screening and vetting procedures to ensure national security and public safety. At this time, there are no exceptions, and the update does not revoke any currently valid visas. DV applicants may continue submitting applications and attending interviews, but no DV visas will be issued until further notice.

Please see the following links for more information Diversity Visa Issuance Updated Guidance & PM-602-0193-DiversityVisaHolds-20251219.pdf

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