29 May 2025
The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has introduced significant enhancements to the Systematic Alien Verification for Entitlements (SAVE) program, expanding the capabilities of state and local governments to verify U.S. citizenship and immigration status.
This update is designed to support election integrity, improve access to federal verification tools, and streamline processes for public agencies.
Key Features of the SAVE Program Update
The new changes, effective immediately, allow state and local agencies to:
- Use Social Security Numbers for Verification: Previously, a Department of Homeland Security (DHS) identification number was required to verify status, which many state agencies did not collect. Now, Social Security numbers can be used to initiate SAVE cases.
- Submit Multiple Cases Simultaneously: For the first time, agencies can process multiple cases at once, improving the efficiency and responsiveness of status verification workflows.
- Access Robust Federal Databases: With the integration of Social Security Administration data, SAVE is now a more reliable tool for confirming both citizenship and lawful immigration status.
Implications for Voter Integrity
This development comes in response to ongoing concerns about the accuracy of voter registration databases and the eligibility of individuals registering to vote in U.S. elections. According to USCIS, the enhancements are part of a broader federal initiative to help states maintain accurate voter rolls and uphold the provisions of Executive Order 14248, Preserving and Protecting the Integrity of American Elections.
SAVE is now positioned as a critical resource for preventing unauthorized individuals from participating in federal, state, and local elections by providing agencies with up-to-date immigration and citizenship verification capabilities.
No-Cost Access for Governments
In a notable shift, as of April 1, 2025, USCIS has eliminated all SAVE-related fees for state, local, tribal, and territorial government agencies. This move is expected to encourage broader adoption of the program nationwide.
Agencies can now register with USCIS to access the SAVE system at no charge, removing a key barrier to participation for budget-conscious local governments.
Why This Matters
For immigration practitioners and individuals navigating the immigration system, this update reinforces the increasing overlap between immigration verification and civic processes such as voting. While SAVE is not new, its expanded role in voter eligibility verification highlights a growing emphasis on accurate status tracking at every level of government.
It also underscores the importance of maintaining current and accurate immigration records. Individuals who may have questions about their status or fear misclassification should consult with an immigration attorney to ensure proper documentation is in place.
How VKM Law Group Can Help
At VKM Law Group, we assist clients in navigating complex federal systems like SAVE and provide legal guidance on status verification issues. Whether you are a state agency evaluating your verification procedures, or an individual concerned about your legal status, our immigration attorneys in New Jersey are here to help.
Understanding your rights and obligations in the face of increased scrutiny is critical to protecting your immigration future.
Contact VKM Law Group today for guidance on how SAVE and related immigration policies may affect you or your agency.