USCIS Sets New Milestone: Issues 192,000 Employment-Based Visas in 2023

In a year of unparalleled success, USCIS new records in FY 2023 have set a benchmark in the realm of U.S. immigration services. Demonstrating exceptional strides in reducing processing times, slashing backlogs, and enhancing customer service, the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) proudly unveils its end-of-year accomplishments for fiscal year 2023.

This milestone achievement not only reflects the agency’s dedication to efficiency but also underscores its commitment to facilitating smoother immigration processes for individuals and employers alike.

Historic Milestones in Immigration Processing

1. Overall Backlog Reduction

USCIS processed a record-breaking 10 million cases in FY 2023, surpassing the 10.9 million filings received. This resulted in a 15% decrease in overall backlog, marking a significant milestone in agency efficiency.

2. Faster Naturalization

The median processing time for naturalization applications dropped from 10.5 months to 6.1 months, effectively eliminating the backlog and significantly reducing wait times for most individuals seeking U.S. citizenship. Over 878,500 individuals, including 12,000 military members, proudly took the Oath of Allegiance in FY 2023.

Empowering Workers and Employers

In a significant boost to the U.S. labor market, USCIS, in collaboration with the Department of State, issued more than 192,000 employment-based immigrant visas, surpassing pre-pandemic levels and ensuring no visas were wasted.

The agency also extended the maximum validity of Employment Authorization Documents (EADs) to five years for certain applicants, further aiding U.S. employers and foreign workers.

Clarification on eligibility for various immigration services was provided, enhancing understanding and access to the International Entrepreneur Rule, the EB-1 immigrant visa, and and waivers for J-1 exchange visitors.

Additionally, USCIS proposed new rules aimed at strengthening worker protections and enhancing the integrity of the temporary worker program.

Innovations and Customer Service Enhancements

USCIS launched several new online tools to enhance user experience, including:

• Biometrics appointment rescheduling: Over 33,000 appointments rescheduled.
• Online change of address: Over 430,000 address changes submitted, potentially reducing phone inquiries by 31%.
• Online field office appointment requests: Over 16,000 requests received.
• New Fee Schedule: To maintain financial sustainability, USCIS announced a new fee schedule to better recover operating costs.

USCIS in FY 2024

As USCIS moves into FY 2024, it remains focused on maintaining its momentum, with plans to keep median processing times low for certain applications and to modernize the H-1B Visa program.

The announcement of a new fee schedule reflects the agency’s need to recover operating costs effectively, ensuring continued excellence in service delivery.

Moreover, USCIS is set to enhance the online filing experience further by introducing organizational accounts and new electronic intake channels, demonstrating a forward-thinking approach to immigration services.

Conclusion

USCIS’s achievements in FY 2023 highlight the agency’s dedication to improving the immigration process for millions of applicants. Through strategic initiatives, technological advancements, and a commitment to service excellence, USCIS is setting new standards in the administration of U.S. immigration policies, paving the way for a more efficient and responsive future.