Lawsuit Challenged Two USCIS Green Card Policies
A coalition of groups filed a lawsuit in federal court to block new policies impacting green card applications.
Updated on Oct. 6, 2026 in Immigration
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The American Association of University Professors and other organizations have filed a federal lawsuit challenging two policies enacted by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services. The plaintiffs are seeking a court injunction to block the policies, which they claim violate the Administrative Procedure Act.
Why it matters
This litigation aims to overturn regulations governing the adjustment of status green card application process. By challenging the policies under the Administrative Procedure Act, the plaintiffs argue that the current government procedures are legally invalid.
The lawsuit, filed in the federal district court of Massachusetts, bears the case number 1:26-cv-14527. The challenged USCIS policies remain in effect pending the outcome of the litigation.
The players
American Association of University Professors
This nonprofit organization represents the interests of professors and academic professionals across the United States.
U.S. Department of Homeland Security
This federal agency is responsible for public security, including the management of immigration and citizenship services.
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services
This agency oversees the legal immigration system and administers the green card application process in the United States.
The details
The plaintiffs, led by the American Association of University Professors, contend that the U.S. Department of Homeland Security exceeded its authority with these two specific green card policies. They have formally requested a temporary injunction to halt the implementation of these rules while the legal battle proceeds.
Timeline
The lawsuit was filed in federal court on October 5, 2026.
Political Context
Opponents of the lawsuit argue that the Department of Homeland Security has broad discretionary authority to manage immigration backlogs and status adjustments. Critics of the filing suggest that the Administrative Procedure Act is frequently used to stall necessary updates to federal processing systems.
Applicants currently navigating the green card process may face continued procedural uncertainty until the court resolves the request for an injunction. Taxpayers should note that the litigation may result in additional federal oversight of immigration processing guidelines.
The takeaway
Legal challenges against federal immigration policies can significantly alter the timeline for applicants seeking adjustment of status. Residents affected by these changes should monitor future court orders for updates on whether current regulations remain valid.
Further reading
For more information on legal standards for visa applications, see our Immigration section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Fragomen - Immigration attorneys, solicitors, and consultants worldwide - Brazil: Visa Requirement Date for Nationals of Australia, Canada and the United States Postponed.
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