USCIS Reaches Historic Record of Case Backlogs

The United States immigration system is experiencing one of the most severe crises in its history. According to data from USCIS (U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services), the agency is currently handling a backlog of 11.3 million pending applications, the highest volume ever recorded. The figures, covering the first quarter of 2025, reflect an operational collapse, with processing times stretching for months or even years beyond expected timelines.

One of the most alarming indicators is the so-called “frontlog”, an accumulation of over 34,000 cases that have not yet been opened or entered the system. This shows that delays begin even before formal case review starts.

Several factors contribute to this scenario. Immigration attorneys point to policies from the Trump administration that deliberately slowed down case processing, which continue to have a lasting impact. The suspension of fast-track programs such as Streamlined Case Processing has worsened the situation, with no clear timeline for reinstatement.

In addition, USCIS operates as a self-funded agency, relying exclusively on fees paid by applicants. Limited financial resources and staffing shortages have further hindered the agency's ability to function effectively.

Among the most affected forms are Form I-90 (green card replacement) and Form I-765 (work authorization). While Form I-131 (travel document) has shown some improvement —with a reduction of 60,000 cases— it still has over 260,000 pending applications. In total, there are approximately 775,000 pending work authorizations, of which 531,000 fall under category C11 (humanitarian parole), many tied to programs for nationals of Cuba, Haiti, Nicaragua, and Venezuela (CHNV).

Despite the overwhelming delays, the approval rate remains high: 90.2% of applications processed between January and March 2025 were approved.

The growing use of artificial intelligence in case processing has raised concerns about automated decision-making and lack of transparency. On the other hand, the transition to e-filing (electronic filing system) is seen as a promising step toward mitigating the backlog.

Meanwhile, immigration courts are also facing a significant overload, with more than 3.7 million cases currently pending a situation that directly impacts families awaiting reunification, asylum seekers, and foreign workers.

Full digital transformation is expected to increase USCIS productivity by up to 30% by 2027, and legislative proposals currently under discussion in Congress aim to reallocate resources for hiring additional personnel at USCIS. According to the Immigration Policy Institute, the average wait time for green card issuance through adjustment of status already exceeds 20 months.