The United States is now grappling with a record immigration backlog of 11.3 million pending cases, after a sharp spike of 1.6 million cases in Q2 of FY2025 (January–March). This is the first significant dataset since Donald Trump returned to office, as per the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). USCIS completed only 2.7 million cases this quarter, a 12% drop from the previous quarter and lower than the 3.3 million from the same time last year. Alarmingly, over 34,000 cases remain unassigned—a “frontlog” not seen in over a year.
Severe USCIS Delays Disrupt Work Visas, Green Cards, and Business Operations
Processing delays for key immigration forms are severe. For example, Form I-129 (H-1B, L-1 visas) saw median processing time rise 25% quarter-over-quarter and 80% year-on-year. Form I-90 (green card replacements) experienced a shocking 938% increase in wait time—jumping from 0.8 to over 8 months. Meanwhile, pending Form I-765 (work permit) applications surged 87%, with total pending cases now over 2 million.
These delays are disrupting lives and businesses. For foreign workers, especially those on temporary work visas, slow processing can mean missing job start dates or lapses in work authorization. Employers are left uncertain about project timelines and workforce planning. Experts like Blake Miller and Charles Kuck stress that such delays create chaos and hinder both economic growth and lawful immigration. Michael Wildes added that even visa extensions are now significantly delayed.
Indian Green Card Hopes Hit Hard by Backlogs and Policy Shifts
Indian applicants face additional challenges due to per-country green card limits. Though Indians held the majority of approved H-1B petitions in FY2023, they now face even longer waits. Consular processing is slowing dramatically, affecting reunification, work renewals, and overall stability.
The backlog is attributed to staffing cuts, shifting priorities toward enforcement, and USCIS policy changes under the Trump administration. With no improvements in sight, experts suggest paying for premium processing where possible or exploring alternative visa routes. Applicants are advised to consult skilled immigration lawyers, prepare thoroughly for interviews, and brace for prolonged uncertainty in the system.
Summary:
The U.S. faces a record 11.3 million immigration backlog, worsened by Trump-era policies, staffing cuts, and slower processing. Key visa forms, including H-1B and work permits, face massive delays, disrupting jobs and businesses. Indian applicants are hit hardest, with growing uncertainty in green card approvals and consular processing timelines.
