Enhanced USCIS Services for Protected Individuals: New Privacy Measures and Access Procedures
USCIS has updated its Policy Manual to provide guidance on customer service and safe address procedures for individuals protected under 8 U.S.C. 1367. These confidentiality provisions safeguard information about those with pending or approved victim-based immigration relief, such as VAWA self-petitions (Form I-360), battery or extreme cruelty waivers (Form I-751), and T and U nonimmigrant status applications and petitions.
New procedures have been established to enhance access to information and customer service for these protected individuals while ensuring their privacy. Individuals can now submit inquiries or request services through the USCIS Contact Center by phone or secure message from their USCIS online account.
The USCIS Contact Center will verify the caller’s identity before providing services. For details, see the “Inquiries for VAWA, T, and U Filings” section on our Contact Us webpage. Callers should have the following documents ready:
A receipt notice for each form they are inquiring about
A copy of relevant pending or approved applications or petitions
These procedures apply only to protected individuals. Attorneys and representatives must use the dedicated VAWA/T/U email hotlines for customer service inquiries. To ensure efficient processing, they should avoid submitting duplicate requests through the USCIS Contact Center.
We have also updated mailing address procedures for protected individuals, ensuring timely receipt of correspondence from USCIS and allowing them to control which address is used. This update provides guidance on mailing address and adjudication procedures for all forms filed by protected individuals.
This guidance is effective immediately and can be found in the USCIS Policy Manual - Volume 1, Part A, Chapter 7, Section E.
About Us
The Law Office of Nicholas J. Mireles, APC is an experienced Los Angeles-based U.S. Immigration Law firm practicing since 2013. Our background makes us uniquely well suited to help you with any issue relating to your immigration status.
We are happy to provide free initial consultations for any and all immigration matters, including seeking second opinions for those already represented.
Law Office of Nicholas J. Mireles, APC
411 West 7th St. Ste 310
Los Angeles, CA 90014
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