The United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is set to enforce a new signature verification policy that could have significant implications for H-1B visa applicants and green card seekers. This interim final rule, published by the Department of Homeland Security, will take effect on July 10, 2026. Under this regulation, USCIS can reject or deny immigration petitions if signatures are deemed invalid, even after applications have been accepted for processing. The agency may retain filing fees upon denial, meaning applicants could lose substantial amounts of money. The rule specifically targets signatures that are questionable or fraudulent, emphasizing that handwritten signatures are the standard requirement. Formats such as copy-and-paste signatures and digitally generated signatures will be considered invalid. Immigration experts warn that issues with signatures could arise even after receipt notices are issued, which previously indicated acceptance. This change necessitates that employers and HR departments tighten their compliance checks and verify all signature fields to mitigate risks of denial.