Dorcas v. USCIS: Applications Moving Forward, But Uncertainty Remains

The ongoing litigation in Dorcas v. USCIS continues to create rapid developments for thousands of pending immigration applications.

Court Vacates USCIS Freeze Policies

On June 5, 2026, a federal district court ruled that four USCIS freeze policies—including the Benefits Hold and Global Asylum Hold—were unlawful and vacated them. The ruling effectively removed the legal basis for these application holds.

USCIS Resumes Processing

Following the court’s decision, USCIS announced on June 15, 2026, that it is complying with the ruling agency-wide. As a result, the affected hold policies are currently being treated as though they are not in effect, allowing eligible applications to move forward in the adjudication process.

Government Seeks a Stay

Despite the ruling, the legal battle is far from over. On June 19, 2026, the government filed a motion requesting a stay of the court’s order. A stay would temporarily pause the effect of the ruling while the appeal proceeds.

The plaintiffs have until July 6, 2026, to respond to the government’s request.

What Happens Next?

The court’s decision on the stay request will significantly impact affected applicants:

If the stay is granted:

• USCIS may reimpose freezes on applications from the affected 39 travel-ban countries while the appeal is pending.
• Processing delays could return for many applicants.

If the stay is denied:

• USCIS must continue processing eligible applications during the appeal process.
• Applicants may continue to see movement on pending cases over the coming months.

Which Cases May See Movement First?

Current indications suggest that the following case types may experience the most immediate progress:

• Employment Authorization Documents (EADs)
• Family-based petitions, including Form I-130

Applicants should continue monitoring official USCIS announcements and court developments, as the situation remains fluid and subject to change.

Looking Ahead

The period leading up to and immediately following July 6, 2026, may be critical for applicants affected by the litigation. While USCIS is currently processing cases under the court’s order, the outcome of the stay request could determine whether that progress continues or is temporarily halted during the appeal.

We will continue to monitor developments in Dorcas v. USCIS and provide updates as new information becomes available.