Quick Answer (What This Means for YOU)

On December 2, 2025, USCIS issued internal policy memorandum PM-602-0192, ordering:

Understanding the USCIS memo PM-602-0192 national security hold is crucial for all applicants.

A freeze on all pending asylum cases (all nationalities)This USCIS memo PM-602-0192 national security hold affects asylum seekers from various nations.
A temporary hold on all benefit applications submitted by nationals of 19 “high-risk” countriesNationals of specified countries are subject to the USCIS memo PM-602-0192 national security hold.
A retroactive re-review of green cards approved since January 20, 2021Those impacted by this USCIS memo PM-602-0192 national security hold should prepare for lengthy processes.
No timeline for resuming adjudications
Expanded security vetting with DOS, FBI, DHS intelligence, and interagency data-sharing

USCIS Memo PM-602-0192 national security hold does NOT mean automatic denials.

Consultation regarding the USCIS memo PM-602-0192 national security hold is advisable.

The USCIS memo PM-602-0192 national security hold does not guarantee automatic denials.

It DOES mean months to years of unpredictable delays.

Understanding delays associated with the USCIS memo PM-602-0192 national security hold is vital.

Source:
USCIS memo — PM-602-0192

Media confirmations:
CBS News coverage
AOL News investigation

Why People Are Panicking (The Human Reality)

The USCIS memo PM-602-0192 national security hold brings a wave of anxiety for many.

For millions of immigrant families, the biggest fear is uncertainty.

How the USCIS memo PM-602-0192 national security hold affects families is a pressing concern.

Instagram DMs, Reddit posts, WhatsApp family chats — they all sound like:

“Do I show up to my interview?”
“Will I get deported if I go to my biometrics?”
“Why is my case stuck in ‘actively reviewed’ for 8 months?”The implications of the USCIS memo PM-602-0192 national security hold raise questions for many.
“Should I withdraw my case?”
“Does a hold mean NO?”

Let’s be blunt:

The memo created fear by design.

The USCIS memo PM-602-0192 national security hold contributes to a climate of fear.

Not because people are terrorists — but because national security policy never prioritizes transparency.

This guide answers those real questions one by one, using actual policy language (not rumors).

Part I — Understanding the Memo: In Plain Language

What the memo does

The directive orders USCIS to:

STOP making final decisions on many cases
PAUSE interviews and adjudicationThe effects of the USCIS memo PM-602-0192 national security hold on applicants cannot be understated.
FLAG cases for “national security” re-screening
RE-REVIEW some cases already approved
COORDINATE with DOS on consular cases
REPORT “risk findings” to DHS/ICE

What the memo does NOT do

Key aspects of the USCIS memo PM-602-0192 national security hold include case reviews.

It does NOT:

Automatically deny cases
Cancel existing immigration benefits
Order mass arrests or deportations

(Important — this clarity stops panic.)

Part II — Who Is Affected (Specific Case Types)

Below, we explain exactly what happens for different categories of cases. This section is written to answer the real questions we see in consults and Reddit threads.

Each case under the USCIS memo PM-602-0192 national security hold will be evaluated individually.

A. Marriage-Based Green Cards (Inside the U.S.)

Symptoms of memo impact:

“Interview cancelled” notice
“Case is being held for supervisory review”
No movement after biometrics
Work permit stuck in “Case Was Received”
“Additional background checks required”The USCIS memo PM-602-0192 national security hold introduces new layers of complexity.

USCIS family immigration page:
USCIS Family Immigration Overview

Real HLG deep dives on this:

What to expect:

Delays, not denials.

But… if your spouse is from a listed country, expect:

Long background checks
Potential RFEs for country documentation
“National security hold” notes (internal, visible in FOIA)

IMPORTANT:
Work permits (I-765) will slow down even if your marriage is bona fide.

Immigrants facing the USCIS memo PM-602-0192 national security hold should stay informed.

B. Consular Processing (IR-1 / CR-1, NVC Cases)

DOS is now required to:

Add Security Advisory Opinions (SAOs)
Initiate 221(g) administrative processing
Delay interview scheduling

State Department policy reference:
State Dept: Suspension of Visa Issuance

If your spouse is stuck at NVC:

The implications of the USCIS memo PM-602-0192 national security hold extend across many areas.

Expect a long wait with no visibility.

C. Naturalization (N-400)

What applicants are reporting:

“2nd biometrics request”
“Case transferred to a different field office”
Interview delayed by 6–12 months

USCIS citizenship overview:
USCIS Citizenship Resources

Understanding the USCIS memo PM-602-0192 national security hold helps in planning ahead.

Key question people ask:

“Will my citizenship be denied because of my country?”

Answer:
No. Denial is rare.

Delay is guaranteed.

USCIS needs time to re-vet your prior green card approval if it happened after January 20, 2021.

D. Affirmative Asylum (All Nationalities)

This is the biggest impact category of the memo.

For asylum applicants, the USCIS memo PM-602-0192 national security hold presents significant challenges.

FACT:

Every pending asylum case is now on hold.

AOL coverage:
AOL: USCIS Holding Pending Asylum Applications

What this looks like in real life:

The USCIS memo PM-602-0192 national security hold impacts the asylum process directly.

Interviews canceled
No final decisions issued
“Pending security checks”
Work authorization delays

Real HLG asylum deep dive:

Asylum on Hold: Guide to the Nationwide Suspension of Asylum Decisions

Good news:

Understanding the USCIS memo PM-602-0192 national security hold can alleviate some concerns.

If you had 180+ days pending, EAD renewals still eligible.

Bad news:

Renewals may move slowly.

E. Employment-Based Cases (EB-2, EB-3, PERM, H-1B)

We are seeing:

The USCIS memo PM-602-0192 national security hold complicates employment-based cases.

PERM approvals unaffected
USCIS adjudications stalled
I-140 delayed
I-485 employment adjustments frozen

HLG explainer:
USCIS’s New Security Vetting Rules — What Immigrants Should Know

Important distinction:

DOL is NOT affected.

USCIS IS affected.

That means:

PERM → normal
I-140 → slow
I-485 → possibly frozen

This matters a lot for employers.

Analyzing the USCIS memo PM-602-0192 national security hold is essential for understanding risks.

Part III — The 19 Countries: Why Them? (National Security Logic)

The list:

Afghanistan, Algeria, Iraq, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Lebanon, Libya, Nigeria, Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, Somalia, South Sudan, Sudan, Syria, Tajikistan, Tunisia, Turkey, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan

Why these 19?

Historic intelligence flags
Travel records to conflict zonesHistorical context helps explain the USCIS memo PM-602-0192 national security hold.
Third-country passport shopping
Document authenticity risks
Civil registry reliability issues

This is NOT “racist policy.”

It is counterterrorism bureaucracy — blunt, flawed, but real.

Think of it like an airport security list on steroids.

Part IV — What Happens to YOUR Case (The Real Questions)

1. Will USCIS deny my case?

The potential for denial exists under the USCIS memo PM-602-0192 national security hold, but it is rare.

Almost never solely because of country of origin.

2. Will USCIS arrest me at interview now?

Rare.
BUT: If you have overstay + old deport order, risk rises.

HLG arrest guide:
Why ICE Is Now Waiting at USCIS Interviews

3. Should I withdraw my green card application?

Almost always: NO.

Considerations regarding the USCIS memo PM-602-0192 national security hold are important for applicants.

Withdrawals can trigger ICE referral.

4. Should I still attend my interview if scheduled?

Yes. Bring an attorney if from listed countries.

5. Should I FOIA my case?

YES.

Absolutely yes.

USCIS FOIA:
File a FOIA request

FOIA reveals:

Being aware of the USCIS memo PM-602-0192 national security hold can help navigate challenges.

“Security hold” notes
SAO referral info
FBI name check status

6. Will things go back to normal?

Eventually.

But not soon.

Part V — Table: Likelihood of Delays by USCIS Field Office

Understanding the implications of the USCIS memo PM-602-0192 national security hold is crucial.

The USCIS memo PM-602-0192 national security hold adds complexity to the process.

Addressing issues related to the USCIS memo PM-602-0192 national security hold is vital.

Office	Delay Risk
San Diego	Very High
Newark	High
Houston	High
Atlanta	Medium
Minneapolis	Medium
Medium
Miami	High
Los Angeles	Very High

Why these offices?

Addressing issues related to the USCIS memo PM-602-0192 national security hold is vital.

Patterns:

Diversity immigrant communities
Syrian, Iraqi, Somali, Nigerian, Pakistani populations
High asylum caseloads
High marriage interview scheduling

Part VI — REAL Strategy (Do This, Not That)

DO:

To manage the USCIS memo PM-602-0192 national security hold, staying proactive is key.

FOIA your file
Keep your address updated
Save ALL USCIS notices
Keep a unified travel record file
Have attorney review your civil documentsSeek guidance on the USCIS memo PM-602-0192 national security hold to avoid pitfalls.
Contact Congress for case inquiry

DON’T:

Withdraw
File duplicates
Travel internationally
Ignore RFEs
Try to expedite
Assume your case is “lost”

Resources for understanding the USCIS memo PM-602-0192 national security hold can be beneficial.

Part VII — HLG Internal Resource Hub

These articles help explain specific panic questions:

Part VIII — 50-QUESTION FAQ — USCIS Memo PM-602-0192 (2025–26 Edition)

Q1. What exactly is USCIS memo PM-602-0192?

A: It is an internal directive issued December 2, 2025 that orders a pause and additional security review on pending benefit applications from nationals of 19 “high-risk” countries and freezes all pending affirmative asylum cases, regardless of nationality.

Q2. Does this apply to marriage-based green card cases?

A: Yes. Adjustment of Status (I-485) cases involving nationals of the listed countries may be paused or sent for security screening.

Q3. Is my case automatically denied if I am from one of the 19 countries?

A: No. The memo does not order automatic denials — only additional review and delayed adjudication.

Q4. Will USCIS still schedule interviews?

A: Yes, but many interviews are being cancelled or postponed for additional security review.

Q5. Does this affect naturalization (N-400)?

A: Yes. Interviews may be delayed while USCIS re-reviews the underlying green card approval.

Q6. Does this affect work permits (I-765)?

A: Yes. EAD renewals and initial work permit applications may be delayed due to background checks.

Q7. Does this impact travel documents (I-131)?

Understanding the USCIS memo PM-602-0192 national security hold can guide your application process.

A: Yes. Advance parole is under heightened scrutiny and travel is not recommended.

Q8. My case says “actively reviewed by USCIS.” Is that good or bad?

A: It means your case is in internal processing, but under this memo it may stay in that status for months or longer.

Q9. Can USCIS reopen previously approved green cards?

The USCIS memo PM-602-0192 national security hold remains a focal point in immigration discussions.

A: Yes. The memo authorizes re-review of approvals issued on or after January 20, 2021.

Q10. Will USCIS send me a notice if my case is flagged?

A: Not necessarily. Most people only see standard case status messages online.

Q11. Can this memo cause RFEs?

A: Yes. RFEs requesting identity documents, military history, travel records, or prior passports are now common.

Q12. Should I respond to an RFE differently under this memo?

A: Yes. Respond with complete civil documentation, translations, and evidence of identity consistency.

Q13. Does this freeze affect asylum applicants from all countries?

A: Yes. All pending affirmative asylum interviews and decisions are paused nationwide.

Q14. Can asylum applicants still get work permits?

A: Yes, but EAD adjudications are slower and may be held for security checks.

Q15. Can I still apply for asylum while the memo is in effect?

A: Yes, but don’t expect quick movement or interview scheduling.

Impacts of the USCIS memo PM-602-0192 national security hold will shape policy discussions.

Q16. Will USCIS accept new filings?

A: Yes. The freeze affects adjudication, not submission.

Q17. Should I file now or wait?

A: Filing now is recommended to preserve priority dates and EAD eligibility timelines.

Q18. Will USCIS automatically transfer my case to another office?

A: Possibly. Cases may be transferred to specialized fraud or national security review units.

Q19. Can Congress help?

A: Congress can request case status, but cannot override security holds.

Q20. Can a lawyer speed up my case under this memo?

A: A lawyer cannot remove a national security hold, but can protect you, prepare documentation, and manage inquiries.

Staying informed about the USCIS memo PM-602-0192 national security hold is essential.

Q21. Will consular cases get stuck under administrative processing (221(g))?

Active awareness of the USCIS memo PM-602-0192 national security hold is necessary for applicants.

A: Yes. DOS is issuing many 221(g) security review notices for listed nationals.

Q22. What is an SAO (Security Advisory Opinion)?

A: It is an interagency background check triggered for national security review on consular cases.

Q23. Will NVC cases continue to be documentarily qualified?

A: Yes. NVC will still collect documents but interview scheduling may pause.

Q24. Can USCIS deny for “failure to appear” if they cancel my interview?

A: No. If USCIS cancels it, you will not be penalized.

Q25. Should I attend my interview alone if I’m from a listed country?

A: No. Bring counsel if possible.

Q26. Can USCIS arrest me at my interview?

A: Rare, but possible if you have an outstanding deportation order or criminal record.

Q27. Should undocumented family members attend interviews under this memo?

A: No. Do not bring anyone without lawful presence to a USCIS office.

Q28. Should I do a FOIA request under this memo?

A: Yes. FOIA can reveal “security hold” annotations or referral history.

Q29. Can USCIS enforce “de novo review” of my old approval?

A: Yes. Officers can re-examine earlier green card approvals if issued on or after January 20, 2021.

Q30. Will USCIS ask for military service records?

A: Yes. Applicants from listed countries may be asked for complete military history.

Q31. Does the memo affect VAWA, U, or T visas?

A: Yes, but humanitarian relief will continue; adjudications may be slower.

Q32. Are I-751 removals of conditions delayed?

A: Yes. Joint petitions and waiver filings may both face review delays.

Q33. Are K-1 fiancé visas affected?

A: Yes. Consulates are subject to SAO requirements under this memo.

Q34. Does this affect DACA?

A: Indirectly. Only if the applicant’s identity intersects with listed countries.

Q35. Do children filing SIJS face slowdowns?

A: Yes, but age-out priority may result in some movement.

Q36. Does this affect humanitarian parole from listed countries?

Implications of the USCIS memo PM-602-0192 national security hold are significant for many.

A: Yes. Parole may undergo multi-agency security review.

Q37. Will USCIS still issue biometrics appointments?

A: Yes, but biometrics does not guarantee case movement.

Q38. Will fingerprint checks take longer?

A: Yes. FBI name checks are part of the expanded screening.

Q39. Can USCIS request a second biometrics appointment?

Legal implications of the USCIS memo PM-602-0192 national security hold are critical for applicants.

A: Yes. Repeat biometrics is becoming common for listed nationals.

Q40. What if USCIS requests a declaration about no affiliation with armed groups?

A: Provide a truthful statement and supporting documentation if possible.

Q41. Is traveling internationally a bad idea right now?

A: Yes. Travel is discouraged if any USCIS application is pending.

Q42. Should I update my address (AR-11) during the freeze?

A: Yes. Address issues can lead to missed notices and case delays.

Q43. Do I need to redo my medical I-693 if my case is delayed?

A: Possibly. Medicals expire after two years; long delays may require a new exam.

Q44. Will USCIS lose my case because of the freeze?

A: No. Cases are not lost; they are in extended review.

Q45. Can I request expedition because hardship?

A: Hardship expediting is rarely granted under national security hold conditions.

Q46. Is it risky to respond to an RFE without an attorney now?

The USCIS memo PM-602-0192 national security hold is a critical factor in many cases.

A: Yes. RFE responses under this memo should be strategic and comprehensive.

Q47. Are green card renewals (I-90) delayed?

A: Yes. I-90 cases are subject to additional security checks for listed nationals.

Q48. Does filing multiple applications help?

A: No. Multiple filings may complicate security review and slow adjudication.

Q49. Should I withdraw my pending immigration application?

A: No. Withdrawals can trigger further scrutiny or potential ICE referrals.

Assessing the effects of the USCIS memo PM-602-0192 national security hold is vital for planning.

Q50. Will this policy ever end?

A: Yes, but no timeline has been announced; USCIS will need to issue subsequent policy guidance to lift security holds.

Part IX — Conclusion: The Law Is Changing and You Need a Strategy

The bottom line:

This memo is not temporaryAwareness of the USCIS memo PM-602-0192 national security hold can lead to better outcomes.
This policy is not transparent
This delay is not personal
This hold is not denial
This situation is not hopelessStrategies for dealing with the USCIS memo PM-602-0192 national security hold can improve chances.

But it IS serious if:

You have overstay
You worked without authorization
You have previous immigration history
You are from one of the 19 flagged countries

What to do next:

FOIA request
Attorney case review
Do NOT travel
Keep everything in writing
Prepare for long waits

If you want case-specific strategy, you can schedule a memo screening session:

Book a consultation with Herman Legal Group

You Are Not Alone. We Are With You.

Understanding the USCIS memo PM-602-0192 national security hold is crucial for success.

If your immigration case is suddenly on hold, flagged, or stuck in “background checks,” do not wait.
The policy landscape is changing daily, and silence from USCIS does not mean safety, approval, or forward movement.

A 60-minute review with the Herman Legal Group can clarify:

whether your application is trapped under the new USCIS memo,
if your past travel or nationality creates a re-review risk,
what documents to prepare before an interview gets rescheduled,
whether FOIA can uncover the real reason for delay, and
how to avoid mistakes that trigger denials, RFEs, or ICE referrals.

Book a confidential, same-day consultation with a senior immigration attorney at Herman Legal Group — serving families nationwide for more than 30 years — at the link below:

👉 Schedule a consultation now

We also provide:

Memo-specific case triage (PM-602-0192 analysis)
FOIA and background vetting strategy
Consular delay troubleshooting (221(g), SAOs, NVC holds)
Asylum freeze legal optionsDeveloping a response plan concerning the USCIS memo PM-602-0192 national security hold is essential.
Marriage interview defense and risk assessment

If you are a journalist, researcher, or legal advocate, and you want:

an on-record quote,
policy analysis, or
a case study for reporting,

Every week of delay matters now.
Get clear answers, written strategy, and legal protection from a team that has navigated post-9/11 security holds, the 2017 “travel ban,” and the new 2025 USCIS national-security vetting directives.

We don’t guess. We investigate. We protect families.

The USCIS memo PM-602-0192 national security hold could define the future of immigration procedures.

Resource Directory: Comprehensive Reference Guide (2025–26)

HLG Signature Articles

Marriage & Interview Enforcement

Asylum Freeze & Security Holds

Consultation / Case Strategy

Official USCIS Sources (Primary Documents)

USCIS Policy Memo PM-602-0192 — Pending Applications From High-Risk Countries (Dec. 2, 2025)
USCIS Case Status Checker
USCIS Citizenship Resource Center
USCIS FOIA Request PortalTracking the USCIS memo PM-602-0192 national security hold developments is recommended.
USCIS Humanitarian Asylum Page
USCIS Family Immigration Guidance

U.S. Department of State (Consular & Visa Information)

Stay updated on the USCIS memo PM-602-0192 national security hold to navigate challenges.

DHS, DOJ & EOIR (Security & Enforcement)

Federal Register & Legal Authorities

The USCIS memo PM-602-0192 national security hold must be understood for informed decision-making.
INA §212(f) — Suspension of Entry Statutory Authority
INA §235(c) — Security & Terror-Related Removal Proceedings

The USCIS memo PM-602-0192 national security hold must be understood for informed decision-making.

Non-Profit, Think Tank & Civil Liberties Analysis

Media Coverage & Journalist Referencing

University & Research Data Sources

Human Rights & Virtual Legal Aid

Ohio State & Local Community Tools

Legal implications arising from the USCIS memo PM-602-0192 national security hold are critical for applicants.

US National Immigrant Support Organizations

Legal Help (Nationwide)

Staying aware of the USCIS memo PM-602-0192 national security hold will help navigate the process.

National Immigration Law Center – Policy, impact litigation, “Know Your Rights” guides. Best for: Low-income immigrants needing system-level advocacy.
National Immigrant Justice Center – Direct legal representation (asylum, detention defense, removal defense). Best for: People in deportation or refugee cases.
Immigrant Legal Resource Center – Training for attorneys, community organizations, immigration resources. Best for: Legal info + technical guidance.
Immigration Advocates Network Legal Directory – Largest free directory of nonprofit immigration legal providers in every U.S. state. Best for: Finding a lawyer near you.
Catholic Legal Immigration Network (CLINIC) – 400+ legal service affiliates nationwide. Best for: Low-cost family, asylum, naturalization representation.
American Immigration Lawyers Association (AILA) Referral Tool – Find licensed immigration attorneys. Best for: Private attorney referrals.

Refugee & Asylum Support

Being informed about the USCIS memo PM-602-0192 national security hold can influence case outcomes.

U.S. Committee for Refugees & Immigrants (USCRI) – Refugee resettlement, trafficking survivor support, child services.
Church World Service – Resettlement, housing, social services, legal referral network.
HIAS – Jewish-rooted immigrant and refugee rights org, strong legal and social support nationally.
Lutheran Immigration and Refugee Service – Refugee & migrant resettlement nationwide.

Youth, DACA & Students

United We Dream – Largest youth immigrant network in U.S. Best for: DACA, undocumented student rights, organizing.
Immigrant Youth Coalition – Youth advocacy & organizing support (California based, national resources).The USCIS memo PM-602-0192 national security hold is critical for understanding current policies.
Informed Immigrant – Practical DACA and undocumented student guides.

Latino, Asian, African, Middle Eastern & Regional Communities

UnidosUS – Latino civil rights, immigrant integration, policy advocacy.
Asian Americans Advancing Justice – Immigration, civil rights, language access, policy advocacy.
African Communities Together – Legal services & community organizing for African immigrants.Navigating the USCIS memo PM-602-0192 national security hold requires careful attention.
Make the Road New York – Legal & community services, organizing, education.
Casa (MD, VA, PA) – Legal services, worker rights, community centers for immigrants.

Detention, Deportation Defense & Rapid Response

RAICES – Bond assistance, detention representation, asylum support.
Freedom for Immigrants – Detention visitation, reporting abuses, detention facility help.Understanding the USCIS memo PM-602-0192 national security hold will help mitigate risks.
Detention Watch Network – Nationwide advocacy, tracking detention conditions.

Civil Rights, Policy, Data & Research

American Immigration Council – Reports, facts, immigrant data visualization, policy analysis.
Migration Policy Institute – Non-partisan research and data on immigration trends worldwide.
National Network for Immigrant & Refugee Rights – Community education, migrant rights advocacy.

Trafficking, Domestic Violence, VAWA & Humanitarian Support

Tahirih Justice Center – Free legal services for immigrant women and girls fleeing gender-based violence.
ASISTA – Expert support for attorneys working on VAWA, U visas, T visas.
Polaris Project (Human Trafficking Hotline) – Hotline + protection resources for trafficking survivors.
National Hotline: 1-888-373-7888

Success Stories

2025–26 Guide to USCIS Memo PM-602-0192 and What Happens to Your Case Now

Table of Contents