US opens further comments on the I-936 electronic-filing waiver
The 30 October notice sets a 30 November deadline. It does not itself make every immigration application online-only.
USCIS published an additional 30-day consultation on Form I-936, Request for Waiver of Electronic Filing Requirement, on 30 October 2026. Comments on docket USCIS-2026-0463 are due by 30 November. This is an information-collection review stage.[1]
The notice describes discretionary paper-filing waivers for undue hardship, considering location, socioeconomic circumstances and public technology access. Applicants without personal internet access must explain why alternatives are unavailable. Unfamiliarity with the system or lacking an account will generally not suffice.[1]
The underlying interim final rule took effect on 11 August. Its operative text requires a form to have been available for e-filing for more than 180 days. USCIS must also complete the I-936 information-collection process and obtain Office of Management and Budget approval before issuing a separate e-filing mandate with 60 days of advance notice. This consultation does not itself end paper filing for all forms; applicants should check form-specific implementation notices.[2]
Official sources
This article provides general information. Individual applications are subject to the applicable rules and the competent authority’s assessment.