Federal Register #2026-17119

Proposed Rule: USCIS Genealogy Program Records Handling and Transfer to NARA

This opportunity concerns a proposed regulatory change by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS), specifically U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), regarding its genealogy program and the handling of historical immigration records. - Government Buyer: - U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) - Sub-agency: U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) - No Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) or commercial vendors are involved, as this is a regulatory update, not a procurement. - Products/Services Requested: - Genealogy Index Search Requests (Form G1041): - Approximately 8,953 requests processed annually - Service involves searching historical immigration records - Genealogy Records Requests (Form G1041A): - Approximately 5,790 requests processed annually - Service involves providing copies of historical immigration records - Unique/Notable Requirements: - The rule clarifies that once permanent historical immigration records are transferred to the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA), USCIS will no longer provide these records; requests must be made to NARA instead. - The change aims to align with federal records management policies, reduce administrative burden on USCIS, and improve transparency for requestors. - The rule affects the process for requesting genealogy index searches and records, but does not involve the procurement of goods or services from external vendors.

Description

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) proposes to amend its regulation governing genealogy program related records requests to revise its genealogy program regulations to clarify the impact of statutory and regulatory federal records requirements. This amendment aims to help individuals who request immigration records through the agency's genealogy program better understand which records may be requested. The proposed rule affects the handling and provision of historical genealogy records, particularly those transferred to the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA). Comments on the proposed rule are open until October 20, 2026.

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