In a significant policy shift, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) announced on December 19, 2025, that it is rescinding a longstanding policy that provided for the expedited processing of naturalization applications for certain Supplemental Security Income (SSI) beneficiaries. This change eliminates a crucial pathway for a vulnerable group of immigrants who risk losing their benefits if they do not become citizens within a seven-year timeframe. The previous policy stemmed from the 2006 "Kaplan" class-action lawsuit, which addressed the challenges faced by refugees, asylees, and other specific humanitarian immigrants who rely on SSI. These individuals, often elderly or disabled, were at risk of having their benefits terminated due to processing delays for their naturalization applications. The now-rescinded policy ensured that applications for permanent residence (Form I-485) and naturalization (Form N-400) pending for more than six months would be expedited. With this change, these applicants will no longer receive prioritized processing, creating significant uncertainty and potential hardship. The keywords for this update include "immigration news 2025", "USCIS policy changes", and "naturalization updates".
USCIS Ends Expedited Naturalization for Certain SSI Beneficiaries
USCIS has rescinded its policy of expediting naturalization applications for certain SSI beneficiaries, potentially jeopardizing their benefits.
What This Means for You:
- Key Point 1: The automatic expedited processing for naturalization applications for certain SSI beneficiaries is no longer in effect.
- Who Should Be Concerned: Refugees, asylees, Amerasian immigrants, and Cuban/Haitian entrants who receive SSI benefits and are approaching their seven-year limit to naturalize.
- Timeline for Action: This policy change is effective immediately. Individuals with pending applications should anticipate potential delays.
- Next Steps: Affected individuals should consult with an immigration attorney to assess their case and explore any available options to request discretionary expedited processing based on their specific circumstances.
Source: Uscis.gov