DHS Policy
Policy Change
February 22, 2026
DHS Proposes Indefinite Pause on Asylum Seeker Work Permits
DHS has proposed a new rule that would effectively create an indefinite pause on work permits for asylum seekers by tying their issuance to unachievable processing time goals.
What This Means for You:
- Key Point 1: You may be unable to obtain a work permit based on a pending asylum application for the foreseeable future if this rule is finalized.
- Who Should Be Concerned: Anyone who has recently applied for asylum or is planning to apply for asylum in the United States.
- Timeline for Action: The rule is in a 60-day public comment period. It is not yet in effect. If you are currently eligible to apply for a work permit based on your pending asylum case, you should do so immediately.
- Next Steps: Consult with an immigration attorney to understand how this proposed rule could impact your case. Consider submitting a public comment to voice your concerns about the proposed changes.
Policy Change
Green Cards
February 22, 2026
March 2026 Visa Bulletin: EB-2 Becomes Current for Most, Offering Hope for Green Card Applicants
The March 2026 Visa Bulletin shows significant advancement in the EB-2 category, allowing many skilled workers to file for their green cards.
What This Means for You:
- Key Point 1: If your priority date is now current under the "Dates for Filing" chart, you can submit your I-485 adjustment of status application.
- Who Should Be Concerned: Employment-based green card applicants, particularly those in the EB-2 and EB-3 categories, as well as family members in the F2A category.
- Timeline for Action: The March 2026 Visa Bulletin is effective on March 1, 2026. You should prepare your application for filing as soon as possible.
- Next Steps: Check the March 2026 Visa Bulletin to confirm your eligibility. If your priority date is current, contact your immigration attorney immediately to prepare and file your adjustment of status application and applications for related benefits like work and travel authorization.
DHS Policy
Policy Change
February 15, 2026
DHS Eases Rules for R-1 Religious Workers, Eliminating One-Year Exit Requirement
DHS has eliminated the one-year foreign residence requirement for R-1 religious workers, providing greater stability for religious organizations and their employees.
What This Means for You:
- Key Point 1: R-1 religious workers who have reached their five-year maximum stay are no longer required to leave the U.S. for one year before they can be readmitted.
- Who Should Be Concerned: R-1 visa holders, their families, and the religious organizations that employ them.
- Timeline for Action: This rule is already in effect. Religious organizations can now file for extensions of stay for their R-1 employees without the one-year gap.
- Next Steps: Religious organizations should consult with their immigration attorney to review the status of their R-1 employees and plan for future extensions. R-1 workers nearing their five-year limit should discuss their options with their employer and legal counsel.
TPS
Yemen
February 14, 2026
DHS Terminates Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Yemen: What You Need to Know
DHS has terminated Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Yemen, requiring beneficiaries to find alternative legal status or depart the U.S. within 60 days of the Federal Register notice.
What This Means for You:
- Key Point 1: Yemeni TPS beneficiaries will lose their legal status and work authorization 60 days after the Federal Register notice is published.
- Who Should Be Concerned: Yemeni nationals currently holding TPS, their families, and their employers.
- Timeline for Action: You must act within the 60-day window following the Federal Register notice. Do not wait until the last minute.
- Next Steps: Immediately consult with an experienced immigration attorney to explore all possible options, such as asylum, family-based petitions, or other forms of relief. Gather all documents related to your time in the U.S.
Policy Change
Immigrant Visas
February 14, 2026
U.S. Suspends Immigrant Visas for 75 Countries: A Major Policy Change
The U.S. Department of State has indefinitely suspended the issuance of new immigrant visas to nationals of 75 countries, citing public charge concerns.
What This Means for You:
- Key Point 1: If you are a national of one of the 75 listed countries and are applying for an immigrant visa from abroad, your application will be paused indefinitely.
- Who Should Be Concerned: Nationals of the 75 affected countries who are in the process of applying for a family-based or employment-based green card from outside the United States.
- Timeline for Action: This policy is already in effect. There is no specific timeline for when it will be lifted.
- Next Steps: If you are affected, it is crucial to consult with an immigration attorney to understand your options. This may include exploring alternative visa categories or strategies. Stay updated on any changes to this policy through official government channels.
Policy Change
DOJ
February 14, 2026
DOJ to End Most Immigration Appeals: Faster Deportations Ahead
A new DOJ rule, effective March 9, 2026, will drastically shorten the immigration appeal process, allowing for much faster deportations.
What This Means for You:
- Key Point 1: The window to appeal an immigration judge's decision is being reduced to just 10 days, and the BIA can dismiss your appeal without a full review.
- Who Should Be Concerned: Anyone who is currently in or may face immigration court proceedings.
- Timeline for Action: The new rule takes effect on March 9, 2026. If you have a pending case, it is more important than ever to be prepared.
- Next Steps: If you are in removal proceedings, it is imperative to have a qualified immigration attorney. With the appeals process being severely curtailed, the initial hearing before the immigration judge is more critical than ever. Do not delay in seeking legal advice.
Policy Change
USCIS Policy
February 14, 2026
H-2B Returning Worker Visa Cap Reached for First Half of FY 2026
The cap for the first allocation of H-2B returning worker visas for FY 2026 has been reached, impacting seasonal employers.
What This Means for You:
- Key Point 1: The H-2B visa cap for returning workers for the first half of FY 2026 has been met. No new petitions for this period will be accepted.
- Who Should Be Concerned: Seasonal employers in industries such as landscaping, hospitality, and construction who rely on H-2B workers.
- Timeline for Action: The filing period for this allocation is now closed. Employers should begin planning for future seasons and be aware of the next H-2B cap announcement.
- Next Steps: Employers who were not selected in the lottery should consult with an immigration attorney to discuss alternative staffing solutions. It is also important to prepare well in advance for the next H-2B filing period, as the cap is likely to be reached quickly again.
Policy Change
State Department
February 06, 2026
State Department Announces Non-Immigrant Visa Fee Increase for 2026
The U.S. Department of State will increase fees for most non-immigrant visas, including tourist, business, and work visas, effective May 30, 2026.
What This Means for You:
- Key Point 1: Individuals and employers should budget for higher visa application costs for travel and employment in the U.S. after May 30, 2026.
- Who Should Be Concerned: Anyone applying for a U.S. non-immigrant visa, including tourists, business travelers, students, and temporary workers, as well as the companies that sponsor them.
- Timeline for Action: The new fees take effect on May 30, 2026. Applicants with interviews scheduled after this date will need to pay the increased fee.
- Next Steps: Review your upcoming travel and employment plans to determine if you will be affected. Consider completing visa applications and interviews before the May 30 deadline to avoid the higher fees. Consult with an immigration attorney to understand the specific impact on your case.
USCIS Policy
H-1B Visas
February 06, 2026
USCIS to Hike Premium Processing Fees Starting March 2026
USCIS will increase premium processing fees for various visa categories, including H-1B, L-1, and I-140 petitions, effective March 1, 2026.
What This Means for You:
- Key Point 1: Employers and individuals utilizing premium processing will face higher costs for expedited application review after March 1, 2026.
- Who Should Be Concerned: U.S. employers, foreign professionals, and students who rely on the 15-day premium processing service for timely adjudication of their petitions and applications.
- Timeline for Action: The new fees are effective for all premium processing requests postmarked on or after March 1, 2026.
- Next Steps: File premium processing requests before March 1, 2026, to take advantage of the current, lower fees. Update budgets to account for the increased costs for future filings. Consult with an immigration attorney to ensure compliance with the new fee schedule.
Policy Change
USCIS Policy
February 06, 2026
Navigating the Rising Costs of U.S. Immigration: A Guide to 2026 Fee Increases
A comprehensive overview of the upcoming fee increases for U.S. visa applications and premium processing services in 2026, and what they mean for you.
What This Means for You:
- Key Point 1: Be prepared for a higher overall cost for U.S. immigration benefits in 2026, with separate fee increases from both the State Department and USCIS.
- Who Should Be Concerned: All prospective U.S. visa applicants, their families, and their employers, particularly those who rely on temporary work visas and expedited processing.
- Timeline for Action: The USCIS premium processing fee increase is effective March 1, 2026, and the State Department non-immigrant visa fee increase is effective May 30, 2026.
- Next Steps: Carefully review the effective dates for each fee increase and plan your application filings accordingly. Where possible, file before the deadlines to save on costs. It is highly recommended to consult with an immigration attorney to develop a strategic approach to your immigration plans in light of these new costs.
TPS
Policy Change
February 05, 2026
USCIS Extends Work Authorization for Haiti TPS Beneficiaries Following Court Ruling
USCIS automatically extended EADs for Haiti TPS beneficiaries until further notice after a federal court stayed DHS's termination of Haiti TPS.
What This Means for You:
- Immediate Work Authorization Protection: Haiti TPS beneficiaries with EADs expiring between July 2017 and February 2026 can continue working legally without interruption while litigation continues.
- Who Should Be Concerned: Haitian nationals with TPS status, their employers, and family members who depend on their income and stability in the United States.
- Timeline for Action: The extension is effective immediately and lasts until further notice, but beneficiaries should monitor USCIS announcements as an appeal is expected.
- Next Steps: Haiti TPS holders should keep copies of the USCIS announcement and their current EADs. Employers should update their I-9 records to reflect the automatic extension. Both parties should consult with an immigration attorney to understand their options and prepare for potential changes if the court order is appealed or modified.
TPS
DHS Policy
February 05, 2026
DHS Terminates Somalia Temporary Protected Status: What Somali Immigrants Need to Know
DHS terminated Somalia's TPS designation effective March 17, 2026, ending protection for thousands of Somali nationals despite ongoing security concerns.
What This Means for You:
- Loss of Protected Status: Somali TPS beneficiaries will lose their legal status and work authorization after March 17, 2026, unless they obtain alternative immigration status.
- Who Should Be Concerned: Somali nationals currently holding TPS, their family members, employers who rely on Somali TPS workers, and community organizations serving the Somali diaspora.
- Timeline for Action: Affected individuals have until March 17, 2026 to explore alternative immigration options, though immediate consultation with an attorney is strongly recommended.
- Next Steps: Somali TPS holders should immediately consult with an experienced immigration attorney to evaluate all possible options, including asylum, adjustment of status through family relationships, employment-based visas, or other forms of relief. Do not wait until the deadline approaches. Employers should work with their Somali TPS employees to understand their options and provide support. Document any evidence of ongoing ties to the United States, such as U.S. citizen children, long-term residence, or community involvement, as these factors may be relevant for alternative immigration pathways.
DHS Policy
Policy Change
February 03, 2026
DHS Eases Path for Religious Workers: One-Year Wait Requirement Eliminated for R-1 Visas
DHS has eliminated the one-year foreign residency requirement for R-1 religious workers, allowing them to return to the U.S. without a mandatory waiting period after reaching their five-year maximum stay.
What This Means for You:
- Key Point 1: R-1 religious workers who have reached their five-year maximum stay are no longer required to live outside the U.S. for one year before being eligible for a new R-1 visa.
- Who Should Be Concerned: Religious organizations and their R-1 employees who are nearing or have reached their five-year maximum stay.
- Timeline for Action: The rule is effective immediately. Religious workers who have departed the U.S. may be eligible to apply for a new R-1 visa without waiting a full year.
- Next Steps: Religious organizations should consult with an immigration attorney to determine the best course of action for their R-1 employees. This may include filing a new R-1 petition for workers who are currently abroad or planning for future visa applications.
Policy Change
USCIS Policy
February 03, 2026
H-1B Season for FY 2027: Registration Opens March 4 with New Rules
The H-1B registration period for FY 2027 will run from March 4-19, 2026, with a new weighted selection process prioritizing higher-skilled and higher-paid workers.
What This Means for You:
- Key Point 1: The H-1B registration period for FY 2027 is from March 4-19, 2026. A new weighted selection process will favor higher-skilled and higher-paid workers.
- Who Should Be Concerned: U.S. employers and foreign professionals seeking H-1B visas, particularly those in entry-level or lower-paying positions.
- Timeline for Action: Employers and prospective employees should prepare for the registration period opening on March 4, 2026. Selection results are expected by March 31, 2026.
- Next Steps: Employers should review their compensation structures for H-1B positions and consult with an immigration attorney to navigate the new weighted selection system and the potential for a new $100,000 fee.
Policy Change
State Department
February 02, 2026
State Department Suspends Immigrant Visas for 75 Countries: What You Need to Know
The U.S. State Department has indefinitely suspended issuing new immigrant visas to nationals of 75 countries, effective January 21, 2026, pending a security review.
What This Means for You:
- Key Point 1: If you are a national of one of the 75 listed countries and are applying for an immigrant visa from abroad, your case is on hold. No new visa will be issued until the suspension is lifted.
- Who Should Be Concerned: Nationals of the 75 affected countries applying for green cards through a U.S. embassy or consulate.
- Timeline for Action: The suspension is indefinite. Applicants should monitor official State Department announcements for updates.
- Next Steps: Consult with an immigration attorney to understand the specific impact on your case and explore any potential alternative options, such as eligibility for a nonimmigrant visa or adjustment of status if you are already in the U.S.
Policy Change
USCIS Policy
February 02, 2026
DHS Announces 64,716 New H-2B Visas for FY 2026 to Help Seasonal Businesses
DHS and DOL have made available up to 64,716 additional H-2B visas for FY 2026 to aid U.S. seasonal businesses facing labor shortages.
What This Means for You:
- Key Point 1: If you are a seasonal business facing a labor shortage, you may be eligible to petition for additional H-2B workers for FY 2026.
- Who Should Be Concerned: U.S. employers in seasonal industries like landscaping, hospitality, and seafood processing.
- Timeline for Action: The first allocation is available now. Subsequent allocations have specific filing windows based on the employment start date.
- Next Steps: Review the eligibility requirements and filing periods carefully. Employers must submit a new attestation form (ETA 9142-B-CAA-10) affirming their business will suffer irreparable harm without the workers. Consult with an immigration attorney to ensure a timely and accurate petition.
Policy Change
USCIS Policy
February 02, 2026
H-1B Lottery Overhaul: USCIS to Implement Weighted Selection for FY 2027
USCIS is replacing the random H-1B lottery with a weighted selection process for the FY 2027 cap season, prioritizing higher-skilled and higher-paid workers.
What This Means for You:
- Key Point 1: The chances of H-1B selection will now be influenced by the beneficiary's skill level and salary, not just luck.
- Who Should Be Concerned: U.S. employers and foreign nationals planning to participate in the H-1B cap lottery for FY 2027.
- Timeline for Action: The registration period is March 4-19, 2026. Employers should prepare their registrations in advance.
- Next Steps: Employers should review their compensation structures for foreign workers and consult with an immigration attorney to strategize for the new weighted selection process. Understanding how the new system may impact your specific case is crucial for a successful petition.
Policy Change
USCIS Policy
February 02, 2026
Proposed Public Charge Rule Could Create New Hurdles for Green Card Applicants
A proposed change to the public charge rule would give immigration officers more discretion to deny green cards based on the use of public benefits, potentially discouraging immigrant families from accessing needed services.
What This Means for You:
- Key Point 1: The definition of 'public charge' may be broadened, and the use of a wider range of public benefits could negatively impact a green card application.
- Who Should Be Concerned: Immigrants applying for green cards, especially those with low incomes or who have used or may need to use public benefits.
- Timeline for Action: The rule is still in the proposal stage but is expected to be finalized in early 2026. It is important to stay informed.
- Next Steps: Immigrant families should consult with an immigration attorney to understand how these potential changes could affect them. It is crucial to get accurate information before making decisions about using public benefits.
USCIS Policy
H-1B Visas
January 27, 2026
USCIS Premium Processing Fees Increase to $2,965 Starting March 2026
USCIS will increase premium processing fees by $160 to $2,965 for most petitions effective March 1, 2026, giving filers a narrow window to submit under current rates.
What This Means for You:
- Who Should Be Concerned: U.S. employers sponsoring foreign workers for H-1B, L-1, O-1, and other work visas, as well as individuals seeking employment-based green cards (EB-1, EB-2, EB-3) who want faster processing.
- Key Impact: Premium processing costs will increase by $160 per petition starting March 1, 2026. This adds to the already substantial costs of immigration petitions.
- Timeline for Action: File by February 29, 2026, to use the current $2,805 fee. Any petition postmarked on or after March 1, 2026, requires the new $2,965 fee.
- Next Steps: If you are planning to file a petition with premium processing, consult with your immigration attorney to determine whether you can prepare and submit a complete, high-quality petition before the February 29 deadline. Do not rush to file an incomplete petition just to save $160—a poorly prepared petition can result in costly delays or denials. For those not ready to file, budget for the higher fee in your immigration planning.
TPS
DHS Policy
January 25, 2026
DHS Terminates Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Somalia
DHS is terminating Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Somalia, effective March 17, 2026, requiring Somali nationals without other legal status to leave the U.S.
What This Means for You:
- Key Point 1: Somali nationals with TPS must find an alternative legal status to remain in the U.S. or prepare to depart by March 17, 2026.
- Who Should Be Concerned: Somali nationals currently residing in the U.S. under TPS.
- Timeline for Action: The termination is effective March 17, 2026. Individuals should seek legal advice immediately.
- Next Steps: Consult with an immigration attorney to determine eligibility for other immigration benefits. Those planning to depart should familiarize themselves with the CBP Home mobile app.
