EAD
USCIS Policy
December 05, 2025
USCIS Reduces Work Permit Validity: What Immigrants Need to Know
USCIS is shortening the validity of work permits (EADs) for many immigrants, requiring more frequent renewals and increased vetting.
What This Means for You:
- Key Point 1: Your work permit may now be valid for a shorter period, requiring more frequent and costly renewals.
- Who Should Be Concerned: Refugees, asylees, individuals with pending asylum or adjustment of status applications, and TPS beneficiaries.
- Timeline for Action: The new policy applies to all applications pending or filed on or after December 5, 2025. Start preparing for your next renewal well in advance.
- Next Steps: Check your EAD expiration date and consult with an immigration attorney to understand how this policy change affects your specific case and to plan for timely renewal.
Travel Ban
DHS Policy
December 05, 2025
U.S. Expands Travel Ban to Over 30 Countries: Latest Immigration Updates
The U.S. government is expanding its travel ban to cover over 30 countries, increasing restrictions on travel and immigration.
What This Means for You:
- Key Point 1: If you are a citizen of a country that may be added to the travel ban, your ability to travel to the U.S. could be severely restricted or eliminated.
- Who Should Be Concerned: Individuals from all countries, especially those with unstable political situations or that have been previously flagged by the U.S. government.
- Timeline for Action: The expansion is expected to be implemented soon. Monitor official announcements from the Department of Homeland Security.
- Next Steps: If you have travel plans to the U.S., consult with an immigration attorney to assess your situation. If you are in the U.S. and from a potentially affected country, understand your rights and options.
H-1B Visas
State Department
December 05, 2025
H-1B Visa Applicants Face Stricter Vetting Over "Censorship" Concerns
H-1B visa applicants now face stricter scrutiny, with the U.S. government examining their backgrounds for any involvement in online "censorship."
What This Means for You:
- Key Point 1: Your professional history in roles related to content moderation or online safety could now be a factor in your H-1B visa application.
- Who Should Be Concerned: H-1B applicants, especially those working in the tech industry in roles related to trust and safety, content policy, or similar fields.
- Timeline for Action: This policy is effective immediately. Be prepared for additional questions and scrutiny during your visa interview.
- Next Steps: Review your online presence and be prepared to discuss your professional roles in detail. Consult with an immigration attorney to understand how to navigate these new vetting requirements.
TPS
USCIS Policy
December 04, 2025
TPS for Burma (Myanmar) Terminated: What Immigrants Need to Know - Immigration News 2025
DHS announced the termination of Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Burma (Myanmar), effective January 26, 2026, impacting around 4,000 individuals.
What This Means for You:
- Key Point 1: Current TPS beneficiaries from Burma will lose their legal status and employment authorization on January 26, 2026.
- Who Should Be Concerned: All Burmese nationals currently holding TPS status in the United States.
- Timeline for Action: Affected individuals have until January 26, 2026, to either depart the U.S. or secure an alternative legal immigration status.
- Next Steps: It is crucial to consult with an experienced immigration attorney immediately to explore other options, such as applying for asylum, a different type of visa, or another form of immigration relief. Do not wait until the deadline approaches.
Visa Updates
Policy Change
December 04, 2025
Trump Administration Rolls Out $1 Million Gold Card Visa for Wealthy Foreigners - Immigration News 2025
A new $1 million Gold Card visa program offers wealthy foreigners expedited immigration processing and a fast-track to legal status in the U.S.
What This Means for You:
- Key Point 1: High-net-worth individuals can now access a premium, expedited immigration pathway for $1 million.
- Who Should Be Concerned: Wealthy foreign nationals considering immigration to the U.S., as well as immigration attorneys advising high-net-worth clients.
- Timeline for Action: The program is now available. Interested individuals should act quickly to take advantage of this new opportunity.
- Next Steps: Consult with an immigration attorney experienced in investment-based visas to determine if you qualify and to navigate the application process. Ensure you understand all requirements and obligations associated with the Gold Card visa.
Policy Change
Public Charge
December 04, 2025
Trump Revives Public Charge Rule Penalizing Immigrants for Using Safety Net Programs - Immigration News 2025
The public charge rule has been reinstated, allowing immigration officials to deny applications from those who use or are likely to use government benefits.
What This Means for You:
- Key Point 1: Using public benefits like SNAP or Medicaid can now negatively impact your immigration application.
- Who Should Be Concerned: Immigrants applying for green cards, visa extensions, or adjustments of status, particularly those with low incomes or who have used public benefits.
- Timeline for Action: This policy is in effect now. If you have an upcoming immigration application, review your benefit usage immediately.
- Next Steps: Consult with an immigration attorney before applying for or using public benefits. Your attorney can help you understand how the public charge rule may affect your specific case and advise on strategies to minimize negative impacts.
USCIS Policy
Policy Change
December 04, 2025
USCIS Halts Immigration Applications for 19 Countries: What You Need to Know
USCIS has paused all immigration applications for individuals from 19 countries, citing national security concerns. The move also triggers a review of previously approved applications.
What This Means for You:
- Key Point 1: All pending and future applications for green cards, citizenship, and asylum from the 19 listed countries are on hold indefinitely.
- Who Should Be Concerned: Nationals of Afghanistan, Myanmar, Chad, Republic of Congo, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Haiti, Iran, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, Yemen, Burundi, Cuba, Laos, Sierra Leone, Togo, Turkmenistan, and Venezuela.
- Timeline for Action: The pause is effective immediately and has no end date. A review of past applications will occur within 90 days.
- Next Steps: If you are from one of the affected countries, it is imperative to consult with an immigration attorney to understand your options and prepare for potential re-interviews or requests for evidence. Do not assume your approved application is secure.
EAD
USCIS Policy
December 04, 2025
USCIS Ends Automatic Work Permit Extensions: What Immigrants Need to Know
USCIS has eliminated the 540-day automatic extension for many EAD renewal applications, which may cause gaps in work authorization for many immigrants.
What This Means for You:
- Key Point 1: Your work permit will expire on the date printed on your card, and you will not be authorized to work until you receive your new card.
- Who Should Be Concerned: Adjustment of status applicants (C09), refugees and asylees (A3 and A5), asylum applicants (C08), VAWA self-petitioners (A31), and H-4 spouses (C26).
- Timeline for Action: File your EAD renewal application as early as possible, up to six months before your current card expires.
- Next Steps: Consult with an immigration attorney to discuss your specific situation and ensure timely filing of your renewal application. Proactively communicate with your employer about the potential for a gap in employment authorization.
Visa Bulletin
Green Cards
December 01, 2025
December 2025 Visa Bulletin Released: Minimal Movement in Most Categories
The December 2025 Visa Bulletin shows minimal progress for most visa categories, highlighting the persistent backlogs in the U.S. immigration system.
What This Means for You:
- Key Point 1: Most applicants will see no change in their position in the visa queue, meaning longer waits for green card interviews and issuance. This affects both family-based and employment-based categories.
- Who Should Be Concerned: All individuals with pending immigrant visa applications, including those sponsored by family members or employers.
- Timeline for Action: The dates in the Visa Bulletin are effective December 1, 2025. Applicants should review the charts to see if their priority date is current or approaching.
- Next Steps: If your priority date is current, you should be prepared to receive communication from the National Visa Center (NVC) or USCIS regarding the next steps in your case. If not, continue to monitor the monthly Visa Bulletin and consult with your immigration attorney about your case and any potential strategies to expedite processing.
USCIS Policy
Fees
December 01, 2025
USCIS Announces Fee Increases for 2026: File Before December 31 to Save
USCIS will implement fee increases for several key immigration forms starting January 1, 2026, citing inflation as the reason for the adjustments.
What This Means for You:
- Key Point 1: Filing fees for several common immigration applications, including EADs and TPS applications, are increasing by approximately 2% in the new year.
- Who Should Be Concerned: Anyone planning to file for or renew an EAD, TPS, or other affected applications in early 2026, particularly asylum seekers, TPS beneficiaries, and parolees.
- Timeline for Action: To avoid the higher fees, applications must be postmarked by December 31, 2025. USCIS uses the postmark date to determine which fee applies.
- Next Steps: If you are eligible to file or renew an application before the end of the year, consider doing so to take advantage of the current, lower fees. Consult with an immigration attorney to confirm your eligibility, ensure your application is filed correctly, and avoid any delays that could result in your application being subject to the higher fees.
Asylum
USCIS Policy
November 30, 2025
US Halts All Asylum Decisions: What You Need to Know
The Trump administration has paused all asylum decisions and visa issuance for Afghan nationals following a shooting in Washington D.C., impacting thousands of applicants.
What This Means for You:
- Key Point 1: All pending and new asylum applications are currently frozen. No new decisions will be made until the administration lifts the pause.
- Who Should Be Concerned: Asylum seekers, particularly those from Afghanistan, and their families. Also, any individual with a pending asylum case.
- Timeline for Action: The duration of this pause is indefinite. Applicants should monitor official announcements from USCIS and the State Department closely.
- Next Steps: If you have a pending asylum application, it is crucial to consult with an experienced immigration attorney to understand how this policy change affects your specific case and to prepare for potential future requirements. Stay informed about 'visa updates' and other 'policy changes'.
Policy Change
Trump Administration
November 30, 2025
Trump Vows "Permanent Pause" on Migration from Certain Countries
President Trump announced his intention to "permanently pause" migration from what he termed "Third World Countries," creating widespread uncertainty.
What This Means for You:
- Key Point 1: The administration is considering a drastic and potentially illegal ban on immigration from a large number of countries.
- Who Should Be Concerned: Anyone planning to immigrate to the U.S. from a developing nation, as well as their U.S.-based family members and employers.
- Timeline for Action: This is an announced intention, not yet a formal policy. Monitor official government channels for any formal announcements or executive orders.
- Next Steps: Individuals with pending immigration applications should consult with their immigration attorney to assess potential risks. Keep abreast of 'visa updates' and other 'policy changes' that may follow.
USCIS Policy
Policy Change
November 28, 2025
USCIS Announces Stricter Vetting for 19 High-Risk Countries: What You Need to Know
USCIS has issued new guidance for stricter vetting of applicants from 19 high-risk countries, allowing officers to consider country-specific negative factors in their decisions.
What This Means for You:
- Key Point 1: Applicants from the 19 designated high-risk countries will face increased scrutiny and potential for denial based on their country of origin.
- Who Should Be Concerned: Individuals from Afghanistan, Burundi, Laos, Togo, Venezuela, Sierra Leone, and the other 13 listed countries with pending or new immigration applications.
- Timeline for Action: This policy is effective immediately, as of November 27, 2025.
- Next Steps: If you are from one of the affected countries, it is crucial to prepare a thoroughly documented application and consult with an experienced immigration attorney to understand how this new guidance may impact your case.
TPS
Haiti
November 28, 2025
Trump Administration to End TPS for Haiti: What It Means for 340,000 Haitians
The Trump administration is ending Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Haiti, effective February 3, 2026, impacting around 340,000 Haitians in the U.S.
What This Means for You:
- Key Point 1: Haitian TPS holders will lose their legal status and work authorization on February 3, 2026.
- Who Should Be Concerned: All Haitian nationals currently holding TPS, their families, and their employers.
- Timeline for Action: Affected individuals have until February 3, 2026, to find an alternative immigration status or prepare to depart the U.S.
- Next Steps: If you are a Haitian TPS holder, it is imperative to consult with an immigration attorney immediately to explore other potential immigration options, such as family-based petitions, asylum, or other forms of relief. Do not wait until your work permit is about to expire.
Refugees
USCIS Policy
November 25, 2025
Trump Administration to Review All Biden-Era Refugees, Halts Green Cards
The Trump administration will review all refugees admitted under the Biden administration and has suspended green card approvals for this group, affecting nearly 200,000 people.
What This Means for You:
- Key Point 1: All refugees admitted between January 20, 2021, and February 20, 2025, will be subject to a new review and re-interview process.
- Who Should Be Concerned: Any refugee who arrived in the U.S. during the Biden administration, as well as their families.
- Timeline for Action: The review is set to be completed within three months. Those affected should be prepared for potential contact from USCIS.
- Next Steps: If you are a refugee who arrived during this period, it is crucial to consult with an immigration attorney to understand your rights and prepare for a potential re-interview. Gather all your original documentation and evidence related to your refugee claim.
TPS
DHS Policy
November 25, 2025
DHS Terminates Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Burma (Myanmar)
The Department of Homeland Security has terminated Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Burma (Myanmar), stripping thousands of Burmese nationals of their work authorization and protection from deportation.
What This Means for You:
- Key Point 1: Burmese nationals currently on TPS will lose their work authorization and protection from deportation.
- Who Should Be Concerned: All Burmese nationals in the U.S. with TPS, as well as their families and employers.
- Timeline for Action: The termination is effective immediately. Action should be taken now to explore other immigration options.
- Next Steps: If you are a Burmese national with TPS, it is imperative to consult with an immigration attorney to explore alternative immigration options, such as asylum, family-based petitions, or other forms of relief. Do not wait until your work permit expires.
TPS
Somalia
November 22, 2025
Trump Administration Ends TPS for Somalia: What You Need to Know
The Trump administration has announced the immediate termination of Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Somali migrants, a move that primarily affects the large Somali community in Minnesota.
What This Means for You:
- Key Point 1: Somali nationals currently on TPS will lose their work authorization and protection from deportation.
- Who Should Be Concerned: Somali nationals in the U.S. with TPS, especially those in Minnesota.
- Timeline for Action: The termination is announced as "immediate," so action should be taken now.
- Next Steps: Consult with an immigration attorney to explore other immigration options, such as asylum or family-based petitions.
California
Education
November 22, 2025
U.S. Sues California Over In-State Tuition for Undocumented Students
The U.S. Department of Justice has filed a lawsuit against California, challenging the state's laws that allow undocumented students to receive in-state tuition rates and state-funded financial aid.
What This Means for You:
- Key Point 1: Undocumented students in California may lose access to in-state tuition and state financial aid.
- Who Should Be Concerned: Undocumented students currently enrolled in or planning to attend California public colleges and universities.
- Timeline for Action: The lawsuit has been filed, but the policy remains in effect for now. The situation could change depending on court rulings.
- Next Steps: Students should stay informed about the lawsuit's progress and consult with their university's financial aid office and legal aid services for guidance.
USCIS Policy
Fees
November 22, 2025
USCIS Announces Fee Increases for 2026
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has announced a series of fee increases for various immigration applications, which will take effect on January 1, 2026.
What This Means for You:
- Key Point 1: The cost of applying for various immigration benefits, including work permits and TPS, will increase in 2026.
- Who Should Be Concerned: Anyone planning to file for an EAD, TPS, or other affected benefits on or after January 1, 2026.
- Timeline for Action: Applications postmarked on or after January 1, 2026, must include the new fees.
- Next Steps: If you are eligible to file for any of the affected benefits, consider filing before the end of 2025 to avoid the fee increases. Always double-check the latest fee information on the USCIS website before filing.
Visas
World Cup
November 22, 2025
FIFA Pass to Expedite Visas for World Cup 2026
The Trump administration has announced a new program, the FIFA Pass, to expedite visa processing for individuals who have purchased tickets for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
What This Means for You:
- Key Point 1: Ticket holders for the 2026 World Cup will have access to a streamlined visa application process.
- Who Should Be Concerned: International soccer fans planning to attend the 2026 World Cup in the United States.
- Timeline for Action: The program is expected to be implemented in the lead-up to the 2026 tournament.
- Next Steps: If you plan to attend the World Cup, purchase your tickets through official channels to be eligible for the FIFA Pass. Keep an eye on the State Department and FIFA websites for more details on the program.
