In the attached memo, USCIS responds to the recommendations made in the USCIS Ombudsman Annual Report 2008:

  • Improving processing times
    • USCIS now adjudicates certain applications, including adjustment of status applications, if the FBI name check has been pending for more than 180 days, provided that the FBI fingerprint and IBIS checks have been completed and resolved.
      • Note: the FBI has processed all name checks pending more than 2 years and by June 2009, plans to process 98% within 30 days and the remaining 2% within 90 days.
    • USCIS has increased its staff by 1,702 government employees.
      • USCIS has added 1,011 adjudicators through August 16 of FY08, increasing the total number of adjudicators to 3,638. USCIS plans to add at least 430 more adjudicators by the end of FY08.
  • USCIS is providing an EAD with a validity period of two years for:
    • adjustment of status applicants applying under 8 C.F.R. § 274a.12(c)(9)2 in instances where immigrant visas are unavailable due to visa retrogression
    • initial work authorization documents for refugees
    • asylees
  • Improving file and processing systems
    • The Transformation Program Office anticipates awarding a solutions architect contract shortly and will provide updates to the public once a definitive timeline is established.
    • A Tri-Bureau working group (ICE, CBP, USCIS) was recently established to modify the current processes involving A-file requests and discuss ways to improve file tracking capabilities throughout ICE, CBP, and USCIS.
  • Improving customer service
    • The Office of Domestic Operations and the Information and Customer Service Division (ICSD) will ensure that new guidance and policies are incorporated into Call Center Scripts.
    • ICSD will post Call Center Scripts on the USCIS public Web site.
    • USCIS has increased staff and brought in two contractors to assist with Web site content management and development.
    • USCIS has developed an exchange program for Tier 2 personnel and IIOs who handle InfoPass appointments.
    • Develop additional “tip sheets” in the form of processing worksheets for each type of application and petition. These worksheets will make clear the initial evidence required and be made available to the public via the agency’s Web site.