Immigration Law Blog

Religious Workers R-1 Visa January 16, 2026

DHS Eases Path for Religious Workers: One-Year Wait Requirement Eliminated

DHS has removed 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 their five-year term.

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 abroad for one year before seeking readmission.
• Who Should Be Concerned: Religious organizations that sponsor foreign religious workers and R-1 visa holders nearing the end of their status.
• Timeline for Action: The rule is effective immediately as of January 14, 2026.
• Next Steps: Sponsoring organizations should consult with an immigration attorney to understand how to utilize this new rule for current and future employees who have reached or are approaching their maximum stay.

Source: Uscis

Immigrant Visas Public Charge January 16, 2026

U.S. Suspends Immigrant Visa Processing for 75 Countries Citing Public Charge Concerns

The State Department is halting immigrant visa issuance for nationals of 75 countries, effective January 21, 2026, due to concerns about their potential reliance on public benefits.

What This Means for You:

• Key Point 1: If you are a national of one of the 75 listed countries, your immigrant visa application will not be approved during this indefinite pause.
• Who Should Be Concerned: Nationals of the 75 affected countries with pending or planned immigrant visa applications.
• Timeline for Action: The policy takes effect on January 21, 2026. Action should be taken immediately to assess your options.
• Next Steps: Contact an immigration attorney immediately to understand the direct impact on your case and explore potential alternatives or waivers. If you are a dual national, determine if you can apply with a passport from an exempt country.

Source: Travel.State

USCIS Policy Vetting January 16, 2026

USCIS Launches New Vetting Center to Enhance Immigration Screening

USCIS has created a new vetting center to centralize and enhance the screening of immigration applications, focusing on identifying fraud and national security threats.

What This Means for You:

• Key Point 1: Expect increased scrutiny and potentially longer processing times for all immigration applications as USCIS implements more rigorous screening protocols.
• Who Should Be Concerned: All individuals applying for any U.S. immigration benefit, including visas, green cards, and citizenship.
• Timeline for Action: The center was established in December 2025 and its enhanced measures are being implemented now.
• Next Steps: Ensure that all information provided in your immigration applications is completely accurate and well-documented. Be prepared to respond to any Requests for Evidence (RFEs) from USCIS promptly and thoroughly. Consulting with an immigration attorney can help ensure your application is as strong as possible.

Source: Uscis

TPS DHS Policy January 14, 2026

DHS Ends Temporary Protected Status for Somalia: What You Need to Know

The Department of Homeland Security has announced the termination of Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Somalia, effective March 17, 2026.

What This Means for You:

• Key Point 1: Your TPS and work authorization will expire on March 17, 2026.
• Who Should Be Concerned: Somali nationals currently holding TPS in the United States.
• Timeline for Action: You have until March 17, 2026, to secure a different immigration status or depart the U.S.
• Next Steps: It is crucial to speak with an immigration lawyer immediately to evaluate your eligibility for other immigration benefits, such as asylum or family-based petitions.

Source: Uscis

H-1B Visas USCIS Policy January 14, 2026

H-1B Lottery Overhaul: New Rules Favor Higher-Paid, Higher-Skilled Workers

The Department of Homeland Security is replacing the random H-1B lottery with a weighted selection process that prioritizes higher-skilled and higher-paid foreign workers.

What This Means for You:

• Key Point 1: The H-1B selection process will no longer be a random lottery.
• Who Should Be Concerned: Employers who sponsor H-1B workers and foreign nationals seeking H-1B visas.
• Timeline for Action: The new rule is effective February 27, 2026, and will be used for the FY 2027 H-1B cap season.
• Next Steps: Employers should review their compensation structures for foreign workers and consider how the new weighted system will impact their H-1B petitions. Foreign nationals should discuss with their employers how this change may affect their application.

Source: Uscis

USCIS Policy Policy Change January 14, 2026

USCIS Announces Premium Processing Fee Increase for 2026

USCIS is increasing the fees for its premium processing service, effective March 1, 2026.

What This Means for You:

• Key Point 1: The cost of premium processing will increase for many common immigration forms.
• Who Should Be Concerned: Anyone planning to file for immigration benefits with premium processing on or after March 1, 2026.
• Timeline for Action: The new fees are effective for any premium processing request postmarked on or after March 1, 2026.
• Next Steps: If you plan to request premium processing, ensure you submit the correct new fee to avoid rejection of your request. Check the USCIS website for the updated fee for your specific form.

Source: Uscis

USCIS Policy Policy Change January 10, 2026

USCIS Freezes Immigration Applications for 39 Countries: What You Need to Know

USCIS has frozen the final processing of all immigration applications for individuals from 39 countries, effective January 1, 2026, and will re-review cases approved since January 2021.

What This Means for You:

• Key Point 1: All immigration applications from the 39 listed countries are on hold indefinitely.
• Who Should Be Concerned: Anyone from the listed countries with a pending or recently approved immigration application.
• Timeline for Action: Immediate. The policy is already in effect.
• Next Steps: If you are from one of the affected countries, consult with an immigration attorney to understand the impact on your case and explore any possible options.

Source: Oiss.Yale.Edu

DHS Policy USCIS Policy January 10, 2026

DHS Launches Major Refugee Fraud Investigation in Minnesota

DHS and USCIS have launched Operation PARRIS in Minnesota, a major investigation into refugee fraud that will re-examine thousands of cases and refer suspected fraud to ICE.

What This Means for You:

• Key Point 1: Thousands of refugee cases in Minnesota are being re-investigated for fraud.
• Who Should Be Concerned: Refugees in Minnesota, particularly those who have not yet received a green card.
• Timeline for Action: Immediate. The operation is already underway.
• Next Steps: If you are a refugee in Minnesota, ensure all your information with USCIS is accurate and up-to-date. If you have any concerns, contact an immigration attorney.

Source: Uscis

H-1B Visas USCIS Policy January 05, 2026

Major Changes to H-1B Visa Lottery: What You Need to Know for 2026

DHS has finalized a new rule that significantly changes the H-1B visa selection process. Starting with the March 2026 lottery, the selection will be based on a weighted system that prioritizes higher-paid and higher-skilled workers.

What This Means for You:

• Key Point 1: The H-1B lottery will no longer be entirely random. Higher salaries will increase the chances of selection.
• Who Should Be Concerned: U.S. employers who rely on the H-1B program to hire foreign talent, and foreign nationals planning to apply for an H-1B visa.
• Timeline for Action: The new rule will be in effect for the March 2026 H-1B registration period.
• Next Steps: Employers should review their compensation structures for foreign workers to ensure they are competitive. Applicants should consult with an immigration attorney to understand how this change may affect their application strategy.

Source: Federalregister

ICE DHS Policy January 04, 2026

ICE Announces Major Enforcement Expansion with 12,000 New Officers

ICE has expanded its enforcement workforce by over 12,000 officers, signaling a significant increase in future immigration enforcement actions.

What This Means for You:

• Key Point 1: Expect a significant increase in ICE raids and arrests in communities and workplaces.
• Who Should Be Concerned: All undocumented immigrants, their families, and employers.
• Timeline for Action: Immediate. The new officers are already being deployed.
• Next Steps: Know your rights. Do not open your door to ICE unless they have a warrant signed by a judge. Consult with an immigration attorney to understand your options.

Source: Dhs

ICE Medicaid January 04, 2026

Court Ruling Allows ICE to Access Basic Medicaid Data

A court has ruled that ICE can access basic Medicaid data, raising privacy and public health concerns for immigrants.

What This Means for You:

• Key Point 1: ICE may be able to identify and locate immigrants through their use of Medicaid.
• Who Should Be Concerned: Immigrants and their families who are enrolled in or eligible for Medicaid.
• Timeline for Action: This ruling is recent and its implementation is likely underway.
• Next Steps: Understand your rights regarding healthcare privacy. Consult with an immigration attorney and a healthcare advocate to understand the risks and your options.

Source: Nbcnews

ICE Technology January 04, 2026

ICE Expanding Use of AI and Surveillance for Immigration Enforcement

ICE is using a growing web of AI and surveillance technologies to expand its immigration enforcement capabilities, raising significant privacy concerns.

What This Means for You:

• Key Point 1: Your personal data may be collected and used by ICE for immigration enforcement without your knowledge or consent.
• Who Should Be Concerned: All individuals, but especially immigrants, should be aware of the increasing government surveillance.
• Timeline for Action: This surveillance is ongoing and expanding.
• Next Steps: Be mindful of the digital footprint you leave. Support organizations that are fighting for stronger privacy protections. Consult with an attorney if you believe you have been unfairly targeted.

Source: Immigrationimpact

USCIS Policy Fee Increase January 01, 2026

USCIS Fees Increase January 2026: What Immigrants Need to Know

USCIS has implemented a fee increase for various immigration forms, including those for work permits and travel documents, effective January 1, 2026.

What This Means for You:

• Key Point 1: Submitting an application with the old fee amount after January 1, 2026 will result in rejection.
• Who Should Be Concerned: Anyone planning to file for immigration benefits with USCIS in 2026.
• Timeline for Action: The new fees are effective immediately for any application postmarked on or after January 1, 2026.
• Next Steps: Before filing any USCIS form, double-check the correct fee on the official USCIS website's form page or the G-1055 Fee Schedule.

Source: Uscis

Travel Ban Presidential Proclamation January 01, 2026

Expanded Travel Ban for 39 Countries Takes Effect in 2026

A new Presidential Proclamation has expanded the U.S. travel ban to 39 countries, with varying levels of restrictions, impacting travel and immigration for many.

What This Means for You:

• Key Point 1: Check if your country of nationality is on the full or partial ban list before making any travel plans to the U.S.
• Who Should Be Concerned: Nationals of the 39 listed countries, including those with valid visas or pending applications.
• Timeline for Action: The ban is effective immediately as of January 1, 2026.
• Next Steps: If you are from one of the affected countries, consult with an immigration attorney to determine if you are subject to the ban and if any waivers are available.

Source: Unzuetalaw

TPS Ethiopia January 01, 2026

DHS to Terminate Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Ethiopia in 2026

DHS will end Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Ethiopia on February 13, 2026, requiring beneficiaries to find alternative legal status.

What This Means for You:

• Key Point 1: Your TPS and work authorization will expire on February 13, 2026.
• Who Should Be Concerned: Ethiopian nationals currently holding TPS in the United States.
• Timeline for Action: You have until February 13, 2026, to secure a different immigration status or depart the U.S.
• Next Steps: It is crucial to speak with an immigration lawyer immediately to evaluate your eligibility for other immigration benefits, such as asylum or family-based petitions.

Source: Jdsupra

Asylum DHS Policy January 01, 2026

New Rule Allows DHS and DOJ to Bar Asylum for Security and Health Risks

A new rule empowers DHS and DOJ to deny asylum to applicants who are considered a risk to national security or public health, effective December 31, 2025.

What This Means for You:

• Key Point 1: The government can now deny your asylum application early in the process if they believe you are a security or health risk.
• Who Should Be Concerned: All individuals planning to seek asylum in the United States.
• Timeline for Action: This rule is now in effect.
• Next Steps: If you are seeking asylum, it is more important than ever to have a well-documented case and legal representation to navigate these new screening procedures.

Source: Uscis

USCIS Policy Screening January 01, 2026

USCIS Establishes New Center for Enhanced Immigration Screening

USCIS has created a new center to improve the screening of immigrants, aiming to better identify security risks and fraudulent applications.

What This Means for You:

• Key Point 1: Expect more thorough background checks and potentially longer waiting times for your immigration application.
• Who Should Be Concerned: All applicants for U.S. immigration benefits.
• Timeline for Action: This new screening process is already being implemented.
• Next Steps: Ensure that your application is complete and accurate, and be prepared to provide additional documentation or attend interviews if requested. Working with an immigration attorney can help you prepare for this increased scrutiny.

Source: Uscis

TPS Burma December 29, 2025

DHS Ends Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Burma (Myanmar)

DHS will terminate Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Burma (Myanmar) on January 26, 2026, requiring beneficiaries to find another legal status or depart the U.S.

What This Means for You:

• Key Point 1: Your TPS and work authorization will expire on January 26, 2026. You will no longer have legal status or be able to work in the U.S. under TPS after this date.
• Who Should Be Concerned: All Burmese nationals who currently hold Temporary Protected Status in the United States.
• Timeline for Action: You have until January 26, 2026, to either leave the U.S. or secure another form of lawful immigration status.
• Next Steps: Immediately consult with an experienced immigration attorney to explore all possible options for remaining in the U.S. legally. Do not wait until the deadline approaches, as immigration processes take a long time.

Source: Uscis

H-1B Visas USCIS Policy December 24, 2025

DHS Overhauls H-1B Visa Lottery, Prioritizing High-Skilled Workers

DHS is replacing the random H-1B lottery with a weighted system that favors higher-paid, higher-skilled workers, effective for the FY 2027 cap season.

What This Means for You:

• Key Point 1: The H-1B selection process will no longer be a pure lottery. Higher salary offers will directly increase the chances of selection.
• Who Should Be Concerned: U.S. employers and H-1B applicants, especially for entry-level or lower-paid positions. Companies will need to reassess their salary structures for foreign workers to remain competitive in the new system.
• Timeline for Action: The new rule applies to the H-1B cap registration season for Fiscal Year 2027, which will take place in early 2026. Employers should begin planning their H-1B strategy for 2026 now.
• Next Steps: Employers should consult with an immigration attorney to understand how this policy change affects their specific circumstances. It may be necessary to adjust salary offerings for H-1B positions to increase the likelihood of selection.

Source: Uscis

DHS Policy CBP December 24, 2025

DHS Offers $3,000 Stipend for Voluntary Departure Through CBP Home App

DHS is offering a limited-time $3,000 stipend and a free flight home for undocumented immigrants who agree to self-deport via the CBP Home app by December 31, 2025.

What This Means for You:

• Key Point 1: A financial incentive is being offered for voluntary departure, but it is extremely time-sensitive.
• Who Should Be Concerned: Undocumented individuals currently residing in the United States who may be considering returning to their home country.
• Timeline for Action: This offer is only valid until December 31, 2025. Individuals must sign up through the CBP Home app by this date to be eligible.
• Next Steps: This is a serious decision with permanent consequences. Individuals should immediately consult with an experienced immigration attorney to understand the full legal ramifications of accepting this offer, including the potential for a permanent bar to re-entry.

Source: Dhs