International Institute St. Louis

Important Community Update Regarding Recent USCIS Guidance

The International Institute is aware of recent USCIS guidance related to adjustment of status applications and many members of our community have questions and/or concerns.

At this time, the new guidance does not change any existing laws or statutes related to adjusting status in the United States. It is a proposed policy that instructs USCIS officers to consider certain factors prior to approving an adjustment application. It is important not to panic, assume that adjustment applications are no longer permitted, or that you need to leave the United States to apply for your permanent residence.

This new guidance may affect how USCIS evaluates certain adjustment of status applications. However, any impact will depend on the specific facts, eligibility, and circumstances of each individual case. Every immigration case is unique. If you or someone you know may be eligible for adjustment of status in the United States, we recommend speaking with an experienced immigration attorney before filing a new application. Individuals with pending adjustment applications should also consult with an experienced immigration attorney to understand whether this new guidance may affect their application.

Please rest assured that all of us at IISTL are closely monitoring the impact of this new guidance and will provide updates as more information becomes available. In the meantime, please be cautious when relying on information from social media platforms like YouTube, TikTok, and similar sources. The information shared on these platforms is often incomplete, inaccurate, or misleading. We encourage you to seek trusted legal advice before making any immigration-related decisions.

Thank You

🏃‍♀️ Registration is NOW OPEN for Race For Refugees! 🏃‍♂️

We're excited to announce that you can now officially sign up to be part of the 8th Race for Refugees! Join us for the 5k or 1M fun run and be part of an incredible community committed to advocating and raising critical funds that supports refugees and immigrants in St. Louis.

There are so many ways to get involved! You can register as an individual runner, form a team with friends and family, or participate virtually if you can't join us in person. Not a runner? No problem! We need enthusiastic volunteers to help make race day a success. You can also support the Race for Refugees by becoming a sponsor or making a donation. Head to our website now to sign up and join us in making the 8th Race For Refugees the best one yet!



link to race roster: https://raceroster.com/events/2026/114379/race-for-refugees

For generations, families have arrived with courage, hope, and the determination to build something in St. Louis. As 2025 winds down, we reflect on their journeys and on the community that makes those journeys possible. Thank you for helping dreams take root.

Throughout the year, we are honored to support individuals and families as they build new lives in our community. We’ve had the privilege of walking alongside Smith and his family as they’ve made St. Louis home.

Learn more about their journey via this video.

Through the link below, you can also help make a meaningful difference in the lives of those joining our community in 2026! https://bit.ly/4ov9nWK

https://youtu.be/Mdx5e3JR4gU?si=IYVl0ds1lfq-_4CH

International Institute: Smith's story Enjoy the videos and music you love, upload original content, and share it all with friends, family, and the world on YouTube.