USCIS has updated its signature verification policy, directly affecting H-1B applicants, green card applicants, and employers of foreign workers.
The interim rule published in the Federal Register on May 11 stated that USCIS has expanded its authority to reject or deny immigration applications if problems with signatures are discovered.
These strict new rules will come into force on July 10, 2026. Immediate compliance is essential.
What changes for applicants
The new rules allow USCIS to reject applications for lack of valid signatures at the time of admission or reject cases during adjudication if there is an issue with the signature. In particular, the agency will continue to maintain filing fees even after rejection or treating the case as fully adjudicated. This means applicants risk losing thousands of dollars and jeopardizing their immigration status.
Which signatures are not valid?
USCIS considers the following signatures invalid:
- Copy and paste signatures.
- Digitally generated signatures
- Signature stamps
- Images of reused signatures
- Signatures submitted by unauthorized persons
Acceptable standard signatures are handwritten copies, scanned copies, original wet ink signatures, faxed signatures, and photocopies.
Impact on H-1B and Green Card Applicants
However, immigration experts have warned that these signature issues can arise even after filing. The denial will have repercussions on the authorization period, status, priority dates and work authorization. Employers are strongly encouraged to review their compliance procedures and retain copies of the original wet-ink signature.
