In March 2020, during the COVID-19 pandemic, USCIS announced flexibilities for responding to certain USCIS notices and requests. These flexibilities gave applicants additional time to respond, beyond the deadline stated in the notices and requests. On March 23, 2023, USCIS announced that these flexibilities have ended.
Accordingly, for notices or requests from USCIS dated after March 23, 2023, you must respond by the deadline stated in the notice or request. This includes:
- Requests for Evidence;
- Continuations to Request Evidence (N-14);
- Notices of Intent to Deny;
- Notices of Intent to Revoke;
- Notices of Intent to Rescind;
- Notices of Intent to Terminate regional centers;
- Notices of Intent to Withdraw Temporary Protected Status; and
- Motions to Reopen an N-400 Pursuant to 8 CFR 335.5, Receipt of Derogatory Information After Grant.
USCIS also noted that “if you wish to file Form I-290B, Notice of Appeal or Motion, or Form N-336, Request for a Hearing on a Decision in Naturalization Proceedings (Under Section 336 of the INA), regarding a decision dated after March 23, 2023, you must comply with the deadlines in the form instructions.”
Going forward, USCIS will only provide certain flexibilities on a case-by-case basis (upon request) for applicants who have been affected by “an emergency or unforeseen circumstance, such as natural catastrophes (hurricanes, wildfires, severe weather, etc.), national emergencies (public health emergencies), or severe illness (including COVID).”
