Immigration Law Blog

R-1 Visa Religious Workers 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.

Source: Uscis

H-1B Visas 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.

Source: Uscis

Immigrant Visa Green Cards 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.

Source: Ogletree

H-2B 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.

Source: Uscis

H-1B Visas 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.

Source: Uscis

Public Charge Green Cards 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.

Source: Migrationpolicy.Org

USCIS Policy Premium Processing 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.

Source: Visahq

TPS Somalia 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.

Source: Uscis

H-1B Visas USCIS Policy January 25, 2026

New H-1B Visa Rule Prioritizes Higher-Skilled and Higher-Paid Workers

DHS is replacing the H-1B lottery with a weighted system that favors higher-skilled and higher-paid 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 random lottery. Higher salaries and skill levels will increase the chances of selection.
• Who Should Be Concerned: U.S. employers and foreign nationals planning to participate in the H-1B cap lottery.
• Timeline for Action: The new rule is effective February 27, 2026, for the FY 2027 H-1B cap season.
• Next Steps: Employers should review their compensation structures for foreign workers and consult with an immigration attorney to strategize for the upcoming H-1B season.

Source: Uscis

Visa Bulletin EB-3 January 25, 2026

February 2026 Visa Bulletin: Advancement for EB-3 Category

The February 2026 Visa Bulletin shows advancement in the EB-3 category for most countries, allowing more applicants to move forward with their green card process.

What This Means for You:

• Key Point 1: Applicants in the EB-3 category (excluding those from China and India) with a priority date before June 1, 2023, may be eligible for the final step of the green card process.
• Who Should Be Concerned: Foreign nationals with pending EB-3 petitions, particularly those from countries other than China and India.
• Timeline for Action: This is effective for February 2026. Applicants with newly current priority dates should act promptly.
• Next Steps: Check the February 2026 Visa Bulletin to see if your priority date is current. If so, consult with your immigration attorney to prepare and file your adjustment of status application or for consular processing.

Source: Ogletree

Public Charge DHS Policy January 25, 2026

Proposed Public Charge Rule Changes Could Impact Immigrant Families

The Trump administration's proposed changes to the public charge rule could make it harder for immigrants to obtain green cards and may discourage the use of public benefits by immigrant families.

What This Means for You:

• Key Point 1: The definition of 'public charge' may be broadened, giving immigration officers more discretion to deny green cards based on the use of public benefits.
• 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. It is important to stay informed about its potential finalization.
• 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.

Source: Migrationpolicy.Org

R-1 Visa Religious Workers January 25, 2026

DHS Eases Rules for R-1 Religious Workers, Eliminating One-Year Wait

DHS has eliminated the one-year foreign residency requirement for R-1 religious workers, allowing them to return to the U.S. much sooner after reaching their five-year limit.

What This Means for You:

• Key Point 1: R-1 religious workers no longer need to wait one year outside the U.S. before being eligible for readmission.
• Who Should Be Concerned: Religious organizations and R-1 visa holders who are approaching or have reached their five-year maximum stay.
• Timeline for Action: The rule is effective immediately.
• Next Steps: Religious organizations and their R-1 workers should consult with an immigration attorney to understand how to take advantage of this new rule and plan for the timely return of their religious workers.

Source: Uscis

USCIS Policy Premium Processing January 24, 2026

USCIS Announces Premium Processing Fee Increase Effective March 2026

USCIS will increase premium processing fees for various petitions, including H-1B and L-1, from $2,805 to $2,965, effective March 1, 2026.

What This Means for You:

• Key Point 1: Any Form I-907 postmarked on or after March 1, 2026, must include the new fee of $2,965 for most employment-based petitions.
• Who Should Be Concerned: Employers and foreign nationals filing petitions that require expedited processing, such as H-1B transfers, extensions, or I-140 immigrant petitions.
• Timeline for Action: The new fee is effective for all filings postmarked on or after March 1, 2026. Plan your filings accordingly.
• Next Steps: Double-check the fee amount before filing any premium processing request after the effective date. Consult with your immigration attorney to ensure your filing is correct and to discuss whether premium processing is the right choice for your case.

Source: Uscis

H-1B Visas USCIS Policy January 24, 2026

H-1B FY 2027 Registration Opening Soon with New Requirements

USCIS will soon open the H-1B FY 2027 electronic registration period, with the lottery expected in March and new, more extensive information requirements for all registrants.

What This Means for You:

• Key Point 1: Employers must be prepared to provide more detailed information during the H-1B registration process this year.
• Who Should Be Concerned: U.S. employers and foreign nationals planning to participate in the upcoming H-1B lottery for FY 2027.
• Timeline for Action: The registration period is expected in March 2026. Employers should start gathering necessary information now.
• Next Steps: Consult with an immigration attorney to understand the new registration requirements and prepare all necessary documentation in advance to ensure a smooth and timely submission.

Source: Jobbatical

DHS Policy USCIS Policy January 24, 2026

DHS Launches Operation PARRIS, Reexamining Minnesota Refugee Cases

DHS has initiated Operation PARRIS in Minnesota, a large-scale investigation to re-verify the cases of 5,600 refugees who have not yet received Green Cards, citing fraud and national security concerns.

What This Means for You:

• Key Point 1: Refugees in Minnesota who have not yet adjusted to permanent resident status are subject to having their cases re-opened and re-vetted.
• Who Should Be Concerned: Refugees residing in Minnesota, particularly those who have been in the U.S. for several years but have not yet become permanent residents, as well as refugee communities nationwide.
• Timeline for Action: The operation began in mid-December 2025 and is ongoing. Individuals who may be affected should seek legal advice immediately.
• Next Steps: If you are a refugee in Minnesota and have not yet obtained a Green Card, it is crucial to consult with an immigration attorney to understand your rights and what to expect if you are contacted by USCIS or ICE. Ensure all your personal information and immigration documentation is accurate and organized.

Source: Uscis

Immigrant Visa Public Charge January 23, 2026

State Department Suspends Immigrant Visas for 75 Countries: What You Need to Know

The U.S. State Department has indefinitely suspended immigrant visa processing for nationals of 75 countries, effective January 21, 2026, due to public charge concerns.

What This Means for You:

• Key Point 1: If you are a national of one of the 75 affected countries, your immigrant visa application will be paused indefinitely.
• Who Should Be Concerned: Nationals of the 75 listed countries with pending or future immigrant visa applications, as well as their U.S.-based family members and employers.
• Timeline for Action: This policy is effective immediately. There is no end date for the suspension.
• Next Steps: Contact your immigration attorney to understand how this policy impacts your specific case and to explore any potential alternative options. Stay informed about any updates from the Department of State.

Source: Aila.Org

H-1B Visas USCIS Policy January 23, 2026

DHS to Prioritize High-Skilled Workers in New H-1B Visa Selection Process

DHS is changing the H-1B visa selection process to prioritize petitions for higher-paid and higher-skilled workers, moving away from the current random lottery system.

What This Means for You:

• Key Point 1: The H-1B selection process will now prioritize petitions with higher offered wages, rather than being a purely random lottery.
• Who Should Be Concerned: U.S. employers who sponsor H-1B workers, and foreign professionals seeking H-1B visas, especially those in entry-level or lower-paying positions.
• Timeline for Action: This new rule will be in effect for the upcoming H-1B cap season. Employers should prepare for a more competitive selection process.
• Next Steps: Employers should review their compensation structures for H-1B positions and consult with an immigration attorney to develop a strategy for the new selection system. Foreign workers should discuss with their potential employers how this change might affect their application.

Source: Uscis

TPS USCIS Policy January 20, 2026

DHS Terminates Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Somalia: What You Need to Know

DHS has terminated Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Somalia, effective March 17, 2026, requiring current beneficiaries to find alternative immigration status or depart the U.S.

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 prepare to depart the U.S.
• Next Steps: It is critical to consult with an experienced immigration attorney immediately to evaluate your eligibility for other forms of relief, such as asylum, family-based petitions, or other visa options. Do not wait until the deadline approaches.

Source: Uscis

Religious Workers Visa Updates January 20, 2026

DHS Eases Wait Times for Religious Workers: What This Policy Change Means for You

DHS has issued a new rule to reduce wait times for religious workers, allowing them to resume services in the U.S. without waiting abroad.

What This Means for You:

• Key Point 1: Religious workers will no longer have to wait outside the U.S. to resume their services.
• Who Should Be Concerned: Religious organizations and foreign-born religious workers (priests, nuns, rabbis, etc.).
• Timeline for Action: The interim final rule is effective immediately.
• Next Steps: Religious organizations should consult with their immigration attorney to understand how to best utilize this new, streamlined process for their religious workers.

Source: Uscis

USCIS Policy Policy Change January 19, 2026

USCIS Expands Application Holds for Travel Ban Countries: What Applicants Need to Know

USCIS has expanded its hold on processing and re-reviewing immigration applications for individuals from travel ban countries, affecting approvals dating back to January 2021.

What This Means for You:

• Key Point 1: If you are from a travel ban country, your pending immigration application is now on hold, and even previously approved applications (since Jan 20, 2021) will be re-reviewed.
• Who Should Be Concerned: Nationals of countries on the U.S. travel ban list, as well as their family members and employers who have filed petitions on their behalf.
• Timeline for Action: This policy is effective immediately. Expect significant delays and be prepared for additional requests for information or interviews.
• Next Steps: Contact your immigration attorney immediately to discuss how this policy impacts your specific case. Gather all relevant documents and be prepared for a lengthy and uncertain adjudication process. Ensure all information you have provided to USCIS is accurate and consistent.

Source: Ogletree