Signatures on Immigration Forms: New Rule Starts July 10, 2026

TITLE: Signatures on Immigration Forms: New Rule Starts July 10, 2026

WHAT HAPPENED: DHS issued a rule that lets USCIS reject or deny an immigration benefit request later—even if USCIS already accepted it—if the request is found to lack a valid signature.

WHO IT AFFECTS: Anyone who submits a benefit request to USCIS (for example, an application for a green card, citizenship, work permit, or another immigration benefit).

WHAT TO DO NOW:

• Always sign your form correctly before you send it to USCIS.

• Starting July 10, 2026, USCIS can use its authority to deny or reject a request that was accepted earlier but has a missing or invalid signature.

• If you have a pending request that was already accepted and you are unsure whether your signature was proper, talk to an immigration attorney.

• There is no extra fee or form mentioned for this change—just check your signature carefully.

SOURCE: https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2026/05/11/2026-09289/signatures-on-immigration-benefit-requests

DISCLAIMER: General info from Homeland Security Department, not legal advice — check with an immigration attorney. English is authoritative.