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 states that USCIS has expanded its authority to reject or deny immigration applications if signature issues are discovered.
These strict new rules come into force on July 10, 2026. Immediate compliance is essential.
What changes for candidates
The new rules allow USCIS to reject applications for missing valid signatures at intake or to reject cases at adjudication if there are problems with the signature. Notably, the agency will retain the filing fee even after dismissal or treating the case as fully adjudicated. This means applicants stand to lose thousands of dollars while putting their immigration status at risk.
Which signatures are invalid?
USCIS considers the following signatures invalid:
- Copy and paste the signatures.
- Digitally generated signatures
- Signature stamps
- Reused signature images
- Signatures submitted by unauthorized persons
Acceptable standard signatures are handwritten and 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 could appear even after filing. Denial will impact authorization duration, status, priority dates and work authorization. Employers are strongly advised to carefully review their compliance procedures and maintain copies of the original wet ink signature.
