Why internal HR changes should always be reviewed through an immigration lens.Promotions, raises, and title changes are typically viewed as positive milestones. However, for foreign national employees, even well-intentioned internal HR changes can create immigration compliance issues if they are implemented without review.
In employment-based immigration, job details matter. When those details change, immigration filings may need to change as well. Why Job Changes Matter in Immigration Law Many work visas are employer-specific and position-specific. Approval is based on:
When any of these elements change, the terms of the approved petition may no longer match the employee’s actual role. Common Changes That Can Trigger New Filings Immigration review is often required when there is:
What appears to be an internal business decision can have legal consequences if it alters the basis of an approved petition. Which Visa Types Are Most Affected Job changes most commonly impact:
Failure to address these changes may result in noncompliance, even if the employee continues working for the same employer. Why Timing Is Critical Immigration filings often must be submitted before the job change takes effect. Implementing changes first and reviewing later can:
Early review allows employers to maintain compliance without disrupting operations or employee advancement. How Employers and Employees Can Stay Compliant Best practices include:
Proactive planning protects both the employer and the employee. Why This Matters Promotions should move careers forward, not create legal risk. With proper review and planning, companies can support employee growth while maintaining immigration compliance. At the Law Office of Julia L. Stommes, we help employers and foreign national professionals navigate promotions, role changes, and internal restructuring with clarity and confidence. For guidance on how job changes may affect immigration status, contact us at [email protected]
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Immigration Update: A Government Shutdown Is Looming — Here Is What It Means for Immigration1/15/2026 Congress is once again approaching a funding deadline at the end of January. If lawmakers fail to act, the federal government will shut down — and immigration systems will feel the impact immediately.
While a shutdown has not yet begun, history makes one thing clear: immigration services are often among the first to experience disruption, delay, and compounding backlogs. USCIS Will Likely Stay Open — But That Does Not Mean Business as Usual USCIS is funded primarily through filing fees, which means it will continue accepting and adjudicating cases during a shutdown. However:
A shutdown does not pause responsibility for applicants — it only adds friction. Employment-Based Immigration Will Be Hit Hard The Department of Labor depends on congressional funding. During a shutdown:
This disrupts hiring, extensions, green card sponsorship, and compliance for thousands of employers and workers — many of whom are already navigating fragile timelines. Immigration Courts Will Back Up — Again Immigration courts are funded through annual appropriations. If the government shuts down:
Every shutdown deepens a court backlog that already stretches into years, keeping families, workers, and asylum seekers in limbo. E-Verify Will Go Dark E-Verify shuts down during government closures:
Visa Processing Abroad Will Continue — With Delays Most embassies and consulates are fee-funded and remain open, but:
Why This Matters Immigration systems are already strained. A shutdown does not simply pause government operations — it creates ripple effects that last long after funding is restored. Workers miss opportunities. Families wait longer. Employers lose certainty. Courts fall further behind. Shutdowns are a policy choice. Their consequences are not abstract. What You Should Do Now
We will continue tracking developments and holding decision-makers accountable as this situation unfolds. The Department of State has released the February 2026 Visa Bulletin, which determines visa availability for family-sponsored and employment-based green card applicants. This month’s bulletin shows very limited movement in key categories, underscoring ongoing backlogs and the slow pace of progress for many applicants, particularly those from high-demand countries.*
Key Highlights from the February 2026 Visa Bulletin Family-Sponsored Categories
Employment-Based Categories
Dates for Filing vs. Final Action Dates
Why This Matters
What You Should Do Now Check Your Priority Date Compare your priority date to the Final Action Dates and the Dates for Filing charts in the February 2026 Visa Bulletin for your category and country. Prepare Your Documents If you are eligible under the Dates for Filing chart, consider gathering your supporting documents and filing your adjustment application early. Plan for Continued Delays Even with filing eligibility, green card issuance depends on visa availability. Expect processing delays and plan for extended timelines. Consult an Attorney Visa bulletins can be complex. An immigration attorney can help interpret your priority date, filing eligibility, and strategy based on current bulletin trends. Final Note The February 2026 Visa Bulletin reaffirms what applicants have seen for months: backlogs continue, and advancement in many categories is slow. Understanding your filing options and priority dates is critical for planning your immigration process. 📩 If you have questions about this month’s bulletin or need help reviewing your eligibility, email us at [email protected] In 2025, the U.S. Department of Justice oversaw the termination of nearly 100 immigration judges across the country, a change that has significantly affected the structure and operation of the nation’s immigration courts. This development has reshaped how immigration cases are handled and raised questions about the future of due process and case backlogs in the system as policy priorities shift under the current administration.
The Extent of the Personnel Changes An independent tally reported by NPR shows that nearly 100 immigration judges were fired over the course of 2025. Many of these judges were dismissed without publicly stated reasons and included both newer adjudicators still in their probationary periods and experienced judges who had served for years. At the same time, a substantial number of judges have voluntarily retired or resigned, further shrinking the pool of experienced adjudicators in an already strained system. Nationwide, this reshaping has reduced the number of immigration judges available to hear cases at a time when immigration court backlogs remain near historic highs. Court Closures and Case Reassignments One immediate consequence of the personnel changes was revealed this week with the planned closure of one of the busiest immigration courts in San Francisco. Staff were informed that the building’s lease will not be renewed, and remaining cases and personnel are expected to move to another immigration court location. The San Francisco court’s shrinkage follows multiple judicial firings and retirements in the region, leaving only a handful of judges to manage tens of thousands of pending cases. Shifts in Adjudication and Hiring Practices As these terminations continue, the administration has also moved to expand the pool of temporary immigration judges, including authorizing military lawyers and other attorney categories to serve in adjudicatory roles. Observers note that the Justice Department’s own job announcements refer to these positions as “deportation judges,” reflecting an emphasis on enforcement and expedited decision-making. At the same time, critics of the personnel actions point to concerns about the independence and consistency of the immigration court system. Immigration judges operate within the Justice Department, and abrupt terminations — especially without published explanations or performance summaries — have raised questions about transparency and how future adjudicators will be selected and trained. Impact on Backlogs and Case Processing Because hiring and training new immigration judges typically take more than a year, the immediate effect of these reductions is likely to be longer delays and heavier workloads for remaining judges. Some courts are already pushing hearing dates years into the future. With fewer experienced adjudicators available, there is concern that case continuity may suffer and litigants could face additional wait times for decisions. What to Watch
For additional questions about immigration, contact the Law Office of Julia L.Stommes at [email protected]. U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has announced an increase in the fee for Form I-907, Request for Premium Processing, set to take effect March 1, 2026. Premium processing allows petitioners and applicants to request expedited handling of certain immigration benefit requests for an additional fee, generally resulting in adjudication within 15 calendar days.
What the Change Entails
USCIS has not indicated that the scope of premium processing eligibility is changing at this time; the update pertains only to the fee amount. Why This Matters Premium processing is widely used by employers, beneficiaries, and individuals seeking faster resolutions for time-sensitive immigration needs, including:
A fee increase impacts planning and budgeting for employers, applicants, and legal counsel. Organizations that routinely use premium processing must factor the higher cost into project timelines, staffing decisions, and client recommendations. Practical Implications For Employers:
For Applicants:
For Legal and HR Teams:
Planning Ahead Because premium processing often expedites decision-making that affects employment authorizations, project starts, international travel, and other life or business events, a fee increase will have real consequences for:
Filing earlier is not always possible—especially where regulatory windows dictate filing timing—but understanding when the fee increase takes effect can help reduce unnecessary costs. Conclusion The upcoming I-907 fee increase underscores the importance of proactive immigration planning. Applicants and petitioners should review anticipated filings against their operational and personal timelines and coordinate with counsel to minimize avoidable expenses. If you have questions about how this fee change may affect your immigration costs or filing strategy, our office can help you evaluate timing and options moving forward. Thursday Immigration Update: Expanded Deportation Efforts Raise Concerns Over Farm Labor Shortages1/8/2026 A recent report highlights growing concerns among U.S. farmers as increased funding and enforcement for deportations are expected to significantly reduce the available agricultural workforce. Agriculture in the United States has long relied on immigrant labor, particularly for labor-intensive tasks like harvesting, planting, and dairy work. With the current administration moving to increase deportation actions, many in the agricultural sector are warning that labor shortages could worsen, compounding existing challenges.
Expansion of Enforcement The federal government plans to substantially increase funding for Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and Border Patrol through 2029, with the goal of significantly expanding deportation activity. This initiative is expected to raise the number of removal actions to roughly one million individuals per year. This ramp-up in enforcement comes at a time when the agriculture industry already faces chronic labor shortages and persistent difficulty recruiting workers for physically demanding farm jobs. Farmers’ Workforce Challenges Farmers across multiple states report that they depend heavily on immigrant workers, including those without legal status, because few native-born workers are willing to perform demanding farm labor. For example, one blueberry grower noted that he was only able to fill a fraction of the seasonal positions he needed, resulting in millions of pounds of unharvested fruit and significant financial loss. Similarly, dairy and crop farmers have expressed concern that enforcement actions could leave them without enough workers to sustain basic operations. Data from the U.S. Department of Agriculture shows that a large share of farm laborers were born overseas, and a significant percentage do not have permanent authorization, making enforcement actions particularly disruptive. Many farmers report that finding U.S. citizens or legal residents willing to fill these roles has been difficult for years, even before recent enforcement increases. Potential Broader Effects Industry groups warn that reduced labor availability could have ripple effects beyond individual farms, potentially affecting food supply chains, rural economies, and consumer prices. In labor-intensive sectors such as fruit and vegetable production, insufficient staffing can lead to crops going unharvested, financial losses for producers, and interruptions in the consistent distribution of fresh produce. Agricultural employers have also noted that temporary worker programs like H-2A address only seasonal needs and may not fully cover labor requirements for operations that run year-round, such as dairy farms or livestock facilities. Because of these longstanding labor dynamics, many advocates stress that workforce stability remains critical to agricultural viability. What to Watch
For case-specific questions or assistance related to employment-based immigration, contact the Law Office of Julia L. Stommes at [email protected]. What to Know Wednesday: 2025 Year-End Immigration Policy Review — Where We Are and What Comes Next1/7/2026 As 2025 comes to a close, U.S. immigration policy has undergone sweeping changes that have fundamentally altered how immigration laws are enforced, how applications are processed, and how noncitizens and even U.S. citizens are treated under the law. The cumulative effect of these actions has raised significant concerns about due process, humanitarian protections, government accountability, and the rule of law.
Below is a comprehensive review of the most consequential immigration developments in 2025, followed by what immigrants, families, and employers should be watching as we move into 2026. Major Immigration Changes in 2025 Widespread Termination of Humanitarian Protections In 2025, the administration moved aggressively to end or phase out humanitarian immigration programs, including:
While limited court orders temporarily delayed some actions, many individuals ultimately lost legal protection, work authorization, and stability. Families who had lived in the United States for decades were suddenly placed at risk of removal with little warning or transition. These changes have had severe humanitarian and economic consequences, particularly in healthcare, construction, agriculture, hospitality, and caregiving sectors that rely heavily on long-term immigrant workers. Collapse of the Asylum System Asylum, a right protected under U.S. and international law, was functionally dismantled in 2025 through:
As a result, individuals fleeing persecution were left in prolonged legal limbo or removed without meaningful opportunity to present their claims. Immigration courts and legal service providers reported record backlogs and a surge in wrongful denials. Expanded Enforcement and Local Policing Authority Federal enforcement increased dramatically through:
These policies blurred the line between local policing and federal immigration enforcement, heightening fear in immigrant communities and discouraging cooperation with law enforcement, even among crime victims and witnesses. Detention, Transfers, and Due Process Failures One of the most alarming developments in 2025 involved systemic breakdowns in custody and accountability:
These incidents exposed serious failures in verification, oversight, and due process, raising concerns that enforcement actions are proceeding faster than accuracy or legality. Increased Vetting and Re-Review of Approved Cases USCIS expanded vetting procedures across nearly all immigration benefits, including:
While framed as security measures, these changes have led to prolonged delays, reopened cases, and unexpected denials for individuals who had already complied with extensive screening requirements. Restrictive Changes to Employment-Based Immigration Employment-based immigration was also reshaped in 2025:
These changes reduced access to lawful work visas while increasing costs and uncertainty for U.S. employers and foreign workers alike. Proposed Immigration Moratorium In late 2025, lawmakers aligned with the administration proposed sweeping legislation that would:
Although not enacted, the proposal reflects the direction of future policy efforts and signals continued pressure on legal immigration channels in 2026. What to Expect in 2026 Looking ahead, several trends are likely to continue or intensify:
Immigrants, employers, and families should expect longer processing times, stricter adjudications, and greater enforcement risk, even for those pursuing lawful immigration benefits. Final Note The immigration changes implemented in 2025 represent more than routine policy shifts. Taken together, they mark a significant departure from longstanding legal norms, humanitarian commitments, and procedural safeguards. Staying informed, maintaining proper documentation, and seeking qualified legal guidance have never been more important. If you have questions about how these changes affect you or your family, or if you need help preparing for what lies ahead in 2026, you can email us at [email protected] Tuesday Immigration Update: Federal Government Signals Further Restrictions on Asylum Access1/6/2026 Recent reporting indicates that the federal government has signaled to asylum seekers that they should consider applying for refuge outside the United States under current and pending policy changes.
Administration Messaging to Asylum Seekers According to media reporting, senior officials have publicly stated that individuals who qualify for asylum should pursue protection through other countries’ systems rather than the United States. This messaging reflects broader shifts in enforcement posture and policy direction that have already narrowed avenues for asylum over the past year. Internal planning documents and statements from administration representatives suggest a desire to close what officials describe as “loopholes” in the legal immigration system, including asylum eligibility. Reported comments urging asylum seekers to seek refuge elsewhere align with other actions that have dramatically reduced asylum processing capacity and access. Asylum Policy Changes In recent weeks, a new regulation originally drafted during the COVID-19 pandemic was finalized and will allow U.S. authorities to deny asylum on "public health grounds" if applicants are determined to "pose a health-related security risk," even in the absence of an active pandemic. Potential Impacts on Asylum Seekers If official guidance and public messaging continue in this direction, individuals seeking asylum in the United States may face:
In the absence of clear, agency-issued regulations or formal policy documents, these shifts are unfolding through verbal statements, internal guidance leaks, and regulatory actions rather than through traditional notice-and-comment rulemaking. What to Watch Next
Our office will continue to follow these developments and provide updates as additional information becomes available. The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has officially published a new version of Form I-765, the application used by non-citizens to request an Employment Authorization Document (EAD), commonly known as a work permit. The updated form, with an edition date of 08/21/25, was announced on the USCIS Forms Update page and will soon become the required version for all filings.
The USCIS states that starting March 5, 2026, applicants must use only this newest edition of Form I-765 when submitting their applications. After that date, filings using older editions of the form may be rejected or delayed. Proposed Immigration Moratorium and Its Legal Impact
A proposed bill is to be introduced in Congress when the floor reopens. This proposed bill would impose a broad immigration moratorium, halting new entries into the United States. If enacted, the policy would suspend the processing and issuance of new visas, green cards, and other forms of lawful entry, even for individuals who otherwise qualify under existing immigration law. What the Proposal Would Do The proposed moratorium would:
Rather than addressing unlawful activity, the proposal would stop lawfully authorized immigration processes, leaving applicants in prolonged uncertainty despite full compliance with current legal requirements. Who Would Be Affected If enacted, the moratorium could impact:
Even a temporary halt could have permanent consequences for individuals whose eligibility depends on age, timing, or ongoing employment. Why It Matters A moratorium of this scope raises serious concerns:
Historically, broad immigration pauses have failed to resolve systemic issues while creating long-term administrative and humanitarian harm. Key Takeaway An immigration moratorium halting new entries does not fix the immigration system. It delays lawful immigration, deepens existing backlogs, and imposes real consequences on families and employers without addressing underlying policy failures. Developments like this highlight the importance of staying informed as immigration policy continues to shift. For questions about how proposed legislation may affect your immigration plans, contact our office at [email protected] Employer site visits are no longer rare or limited to large corporations. Federal agencies increasingly conduct worksite inspections to verify compliance with employment-based immigration filings, and both employers and foreign national employees should be prepared.
These visits are not necessarily triggered by wrongdoing. Many are routine compliance checks designed to confirm that information submitted to the government remains accurate. Who Conducts Site Visits Site visits may be conducted by:
Visits can occur for a variety of visa categories, including H-1B, L-1, O-1, and employment-based green card cases. Why Site Visits Happen Common reasons include:
A site visit does not mean there is a problem, but how the visit is handled can impact current and future immigration filings. What Officers May Ask or Review During a site visit, officers may:
Officers are verifying consistency between the petition filed and real-world employment conditions. Common Compliance Risks Issues often arise when:
Even well-intentioned changes can create compliance concerns if they are not reviewed in advance. How Employers and Employees Should Prepare Preparation is key:
Employees should answer questions truthfully but narrowly, without speculating or guessing. Why This Matters Employer site visits can affect:
Proactive planning helps protect both employers and foreign national employees from unnecessary risk. At the Law Office of Julia L. Stommes, we assist employers with compliance preparation, site visit response planning, and post-visit follow-up to ensure immigration filings remain aligned with real-world operations. For guidance on employer compliance or responding to a site visit, contact us at [email protected] U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) periodically adjusts its field office operations due to staffing changes, security concerns, emergency weather events, national holidays, or internal reorganization. These office closures can affect scheduled interviews, biometrics appointments, and other in-person services. Knowing how to check for closures and rescheduled appointments helps you avoid delays and unnecessary travel.
Why This Matters
Common Reasons USCIS Offices Close Office closures may occur for reasons such as:
Closures may affect primary appointments, biometrics services, interviews, or public intake. How to Check USCIS Office Closures 1. USCIS Alerts Page USCIS posts official Alerts and Status Updates on its website for all service centers, field offices, and Application Support Centers. These alerts often include dates, locations, and the reason for closure. How to use it:
This is the most reliable source for official closure information directly from USCIS. 2. USCIS Field Office Status Tool USCIS has a Field Office Locator that includes office contact information and may list closure updates. How to use it:
This tool is useful when you want information specific to the office handling your case. 3. Appointment Notices and Emails USCIS may notify you directly via:
Always check your USCIS online account and mail for official communication about closures or changes to your appointment. What to Do if Your Appointment Is Affected If USCIS closes an office and cancels or reschedules your appointment:
Missing a rescheduled interview or biometrics appointment can lead to application delays or denials. Final Note USCIS office closures can create uncertainty and scheduling challenges, especially for time-sensitive filings and interviews. Staying informed, checking official USCIS notices regularly, and keeping contact information current are the best ways to minimize disruptions to your case. 📩 If you have questions about a rescheduled appointment or how a closure could affect your case, email us at [email protected] A growing number of H-1B visa holders who traveled abroad for routine visa renewals have been left in prolonged limbo after U.S. consulates, particularly in India, abruptly cancelled or rescheduled visa interviews. In many cases, new appointment dates have been pushed well into 2026 or later, disrupting careers, family life, and long-term planning for affected workers and their dependents.
What Has Happened Visa interviews originally scheduled for late 2025 were cancelled with little advance notice across multiple U.S. consular posts. Many of these appointments were later rescheduled months or even years into the future. Individuals who had already completed biometrics and were awaiting final interviews received notices extending their timelines significantly, leaving them unable to return to U.S. employment or reunite with family members. These disruptions appear tied to expanded screening and vetting procedures now being applied to H-1B and dependent visa applicants, including additional background and digital presence reviews. While framed as a security measure, the rollout has resulted in widespread backlogs and uncertainty. Impact on Workers and Families For many H-1B holders, the delays have resulted in sudden career interruptions. Some workers have been forced to negotiate remote work arrangements, while others face unpaid leave or the risk of job loss due to prolonged absence from the United States. Employers reliant on specialized talent are also experiencing operational challenges as key employees remain stranded abroad. Families have been particularly affected. Spouses and children have experienced extended separations, disrupted schooling, and emotional strain as visa timelines stretch indefinitely. What were expected to be short, routine trips have turned into months-long or longer periods of uncertainty. Official Position and Practical Reality U.S. consular communications indicate that interviews are being postponed to accommodate enhanced screening requirements. However, immigration practitioners report a lack of clear guidance on how long delays will last or how backlogs will be resolved. The absence of predictable timelines has made travel for visa stamping increasingly risky, even for individuals with long-standing employment and compliance histories. Importantly, individuals in valid H-1B status may remain in the United States without a new visa stamp. The risk arises primarily when traveling abroad, as reentry depends on successful and timely visa issuance. What This Means Going Forward Employers may need to reassess international travel policies for H-1B employees and plan for alternative work arrangements where possible. Foreign nationals considering travel for visa stamping should carefully evaluate timing, risk tolerance, and emergency appointment options. Until additional guidance is issued, uncertainty around consular processing timelines is likely to persist. Our office will continue monitoring developments and provide updates as more information becomes available. USCIS has issued a significant update to Volume 3 of the USCIS Policy Manual affecting the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) self-petition process. While the agency frames this change as "a response to fraud and unprecedented filing trends," the practical impact raises serious concerns for survivors of domestic violence who rely on VAWA as a critical humanitarian protection. What Changed USCIS reports that between fiscal years 2020 and 2024:
USCIS characterizes these trends as “alarming” and "outside historical norms." In response, the agency states it is clarifying and tightening guidance to "protect program integrity and reduce misuse." Importantly, the statutory eligibility requirements for VAWA have not changed. However, the updated guidance substantially affects how applications are evaluated and what evidence is required. Key Policy Updates The revised guidance:
These changes apply to VAWA self-petitions pending or filed on or after December 22, 2025. Why This Is Concerning While USCIS emphasizes fraud prevention, these policy shifts place additional burdens on survivors—many of whom already face extreme barriers to accessing evidence, documentation, and safety. Survivors often flee abusive households without records, financial documents, or the ability to safely collect proof of cohabitation or marital intent. Requiring stricter evidence and reinforcing discretionary credibility determinations risks:
Tightening evidentiary standards may have the opposite effect—harming precisely those VAWA was designed to protect. The Bigger Picture VAWA is a humanitarian safeguard created by Congress to protect immigrant survivors of domestic violence, not a fraud enforcement mechanism. Policies that overcorrect in response to "misuse" risk undermining congressional intent and placing survivors at greater risk of remaining in or returning to abusive situations. What Survivors Should Know If you are considering or have filed a VAWA self-petition:
This update underscores the growing tension between fraud enforcement and humanitarian protection in U.S. immigration policy—and the real-world consequences survivors may face as a result. If you would like to discuss how this policy may affect your case, professional legal guidance is strongly recommended. Many employment-based immigration statuses in the United States are directly tied to a specific employer, job role, and work location. While this structure allows U.S. employers to sponsor global talent, it also means that even small employment changes can have serious immigration consequences if they are not reviewed in advance.
Understanding how employer sponsorship works is essential for both foreign professionals and the companies that employ them. Which Visas Are Employer-Specific Several common work-authorized statuses are employer-dependent, including:
In these categories, authorization is limited to the sponsoring employer and the specific job described in the approved petition. Working outside those parameters, even unintentionally, can result in a status violation. Why Job Changes Must Be Reviewed Before They Happen Not all employment changes are immigration-neutral. Seemingly routine updates may require an amended filing with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, including:
If these changes are implemented without prior review, an employee may fall out of compliance, which can jeopardize current status and future immigration benefits. How Amendments Protect Both Employers and Employees When required, filing an amendment is not a setback. It is a proactive compliance tool that protects all parties involved. For employers, amendments demonstrate good-faith compliance with immigration regulations and reduce exposure during audits or site visits. For employees, amendments help preserve lawful status, work authorization, and eligibility for future extensions or permanent residence. Why This Matters Employer-sponsored immigration is not static. It evolves as businesses grow and careers advance. The key is recognizing that immigration compliance must move in step with those changes. Before making any employment adjustment involving a foreign national employee, legal review can prevent costly delays, denials, or status violations. At the Law Office of Julia L. Stommes, we help employers and professionals evaluate employment changes before they occur, ensuring continued compliance and long-term stability. For guidance on employer-sponsored immigration compliance, contact us at [email protected] The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has finalized a regulation that changes how H-1B cap visas will be selected in future years.
What Is Changing Under the new rule, the H-1B cap selection process will move away from a purely random lottery and instead use a weighted selection system. Registrations will be given different odds of selection based on the wage level offered for the position, using the Department of Labor’s prevailing wage framework. Higher wage levels will receive greater weight in the selection process, while lower wage levels will still remain eligible but with reduced odds. What Is Not Changing The annual H-1B cap remains the same: 65,000 visas under the regular cap and 20,000 visas reserved for U.S. advanced degree holders Employers may continue to register H-1B beneficiaries at all wage levels. The H-1B program itself is not being eliminated or paused. When This Takes Effect The rule becomes effective February 27, 2026. It will apply to the FY 2027 H-1B cap registration season. The FY 2026 H-1B lottery process is not affected by this change. Why This Matters This change may impact how employers approach wage setting and registration strategy for future H-1B filings. Both employers and foreign national workers should understand that selection odds may vary depending on the wage level listed in the registration, even though eligibility remains unchanged. Key Takeaway The H-1B cap will continue, but selection will no longer be entirely random. Starting with FY 2027, wage levels will play a role in determining which registrations are more likely to be selected. If you have questions about how this change could affect future H-1B registrations or workforce planning, consulting with an immigration attorney is recommended. The Trump administration has announced a significant expansion of its travel ban and entry restrictions, broadening the list of countries whose citizens face limits on travel to the United States. This latest action builds on earlier travel restriction policies.
What Has Changed
Exceptions to the bans apply to certain groups, including lawful permanent residents, existing valid visa holders, diplomats, athletes, and others whose entry is deemed to serve U.S. interests. Criticism and Concerns Critics argue the expanded travel ban unfairly restricts travel based on nationality rather than individualized security assessments. Civil liberties advocates have expressed concerns that the restrictions could harm tourism, family reunification, educational exchange, and economic ties without demonstrable security benefits. Practical Implications
For detailed guidance on how this may affect specific visa categories or travel plans, please contact the Law Office of Julia L. Stommes at [email protected]. USCIS filing fees must be paid correctly for an application or petition to be accepted. In recent months, payment issues related to ACH withdrawals and credit card limits have become a common cause of rejected filings and processing delays. Understanding how these payment methods work—and their limitations—can help applicants avoid unnecessary setbacks.
Accepted Payment Methods USCIS allows filing fees to be paid by:
While both options are permitted, each carries specific risks that applicants should plan for in advance. Common Payment Issues Applications may be rejected if:
Even a properly prepared application can be rejected if the fee payment does not process successfully. Why Advance Planning Matters Rejected filings can lead to missed deadlines, loss of priority dates, or lapses in work authorization. To reduce risk, applicants should:
Key Takeaways
If you have questions about filing fees or want help reviewing your submission before it is sent, you may contact our office at [email protected]. Fast Facts Friday: Family Reunification Parole (FRP) — Why It Exists and What Has Changed12/19/2025 The Family Reunification Parole (FRP) program has long been used as a temporary humanitarian tool to reunite families who are already approved for immigrant visas but face years-long delays due to statutory visa limits. Recent action by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), however, has significantly altered the future of this program. Below is an overview of what FRP is, why it has been necessary, and what the latest DHS decision means for families and petitioners. What Is the Family Reunification Parole Program Family Reunification Parole allows certain family members of U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents to enter the United States temporarily under humanitarian parole while waiting abroad for their immigrant visas to become available. Key features of FRP historically included:
FRP did not replace the immigrant visa process. Instead, it addressed the gap created by long visa backlogs by allowing families to remain together during the wait. Why FRP Has Been Necessary Family-based immigration backlogs are not incidental. They are the result of decades-old numerical caps that have not kept pace with demand. As a result:
FRP was developed to mitigate the human cost of these delays. It recognized that family unity is a core principle of U.S. immigration law, even when statutory limits prevent immediate permanent admission. Recent DHS Update: Termination of Family Reunification Parole In a recent decision, DHS announced the termination of the Family Reunification Parole process, stating that the program had been subject to misuse and expanded beyond its intended scope. According to DHS:
The agency emphasized a renewed focus on enforcement, vetting, and adherence to statutory immigration frameworks, effectively ending new FRP intake. Importantly, DHS has clarified through a Federal Register notice that while the termination of the Family Reunification Parole programs does not invalidate approved immigrant petitions, it does end the temporary parole pathway and imposes defined wind-down rules. Individuals currently paroled under FRP whose parole has not expired by January 14, 2026, will see their parole terminate on that date unless they have a pending Form I-485 that was filed on or before December 15, 2025, and remains pending as of January 14, 2026, in which case parole will remain valid only until its expiration or a final decision on the adjustment application, whichever occurs first; denial of the Form I-485 will result in immediate termination of parole, revocation of employment authorization, and the requirement to depart the United States, with DHS providing individualized notice of parole and work authorization termination. What This Means for Families and Petitioners For families affected by visa backlogs:
For many, this decision highlights the growing disconnect between existing immigration quotas and the realities of family-based migration. Why This Matters Moving Forward The end of FRP underscores a larger issue within the U.S. immigration system: Humanitarian tools are being scaled back without corresponding legislative reform to address visa backlogs. Without statutory change, families remain subject to:
For questions about family-based petitions, parole changes, or alternative strategies, contact us at [email protected]. Jewish immigrants have long played a vital role in shaping American culture, from education and science to the arts and civic life. Arriving in waves from Eastern Europe, Russia, and the Middle East in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, these families brought traditions, faith, and a deep commitment to community—contributing to the rich mosaic of American society.
Many Jewish immigrants fled persecution, seeking safety and opportunity. They established neighborhoods, schools, synagogues, and businesses, becoming anchors in cities like New York, Chicago, and Los Angeles. Their contributions range from pioneering scientific research to founding cultural institutions that remain central to American life today. Tragically, recent events such as the shooting at Bondi Beach in Australia remind us that anti-Semitism persists globally. Honoring the resilience and impact of Jewish immigrants is a reminder that their work, culture, and traditions continue to strengthen the communities they join. Jewish immigrant communities have not only preserved their heritage—they have also shaped American holidays, cuisine, music, and civic activism, blending old-world traditions with new-world opportunities. During Hanukkah, communities across the U.S. light menorahs, share traditional foods like latkes and sufganiyot, and celebrate the enduring values of faith, courage, and hope—an enduring testament to their contributions and perseverance. Did You Know?
Happy Hanukkah to all who celebrate—your traditions illuminate our communities and remind us of the power of resilience and hope. U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has announced a change to its photo policy that affects how applicant photographs are collected and reused across immigration applications.
What Is Changing
Why This Matters
What Applicants Should Do
USCIS has stated that this policy is intended to standardize identity verification, but it also introduces new procedural requirements that applicants should be aware of. For questions about how this change may affect your case, contact us at [email protected] New reporting indicates that the U.S. government is considering a significant expansion of vetting requirements for foreign visitors ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico. Under the plan currently under discussion, travelers from dozens of visa-eligible and visa waiver countries—countries whose citizens can enter the United States under the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA)—would be required to provide extensive social media and digital account information as part of the screening process.
What the Proposal Entails
International and Community Reactions The concept has generated criticism from privacy advocates, free speech organizations, and international travel groups. Critics argue that such requirements may:
There are also broader implications for global mobility and public perceptions of U.S. entry policies, especially when welcoming international visitors for cultural and sporting events. What This Means for Immigration and Travel If implemented, the proposal could signal a shift toward more intrusive data collection for routine travel authorizations, extending beyond traditional visa processes into general tourism and international events. Such changes are likely to impact:
Critics warn that overly broad vetting risks reducing international travel, raising compliance burdens, and stretching enforcement resources. Next Steps The policy remains under discussion and has not been enacted. Stakeholders should monitor announcements from the Department of Homeland Security and U.S. Customs and Border Protection, which administers ESTA, for any formal rulemaking or implementation timelines. For up‑to‑date policy tracking, and to understand how this may affect specific travel or immigration plans, contact the Law Office of Julia L. Stommes at [email protected] The Department of State has issued an update to 9 FAM 402.2-5(C)(10), creating a specific framework for issuing B-1 visas to FIFA-accredited volunteers selected to support the 2026 FIFA World Cup in the United States. This update clarifies that certain volunteer activities associated with World Cup operations qualify as permissible business activities under the B-1 category, allowing consular officers to issue visas to volunteers who have been formally designated by FIFA or its partner organizations.
What the Update Covers The revised guidance confirms that:
Broader Consular Preparations for 2026 This change is part of a larger set of preparations for the World Cup. Across global consulates, the Department of State is planning for:
These operational changes are designed to manage exceptionally high demand, but they do not expand visa eligibility requirements for the general public. Who Is Not Covered by the Update The new FAM language applies only to accredited volunteers. It does not provide any special visa pathway or relaxed standard for:
All other applicants remain subject to the same requirements that apply outside of World Cup activities. Ongoing 214(b) Concerns Recent trends in INA 214(b) adjudications have resulted in higher rates of refusal for applicants unable to demonstrate strong ties to their home country. These trends are expected to continue, especially given the anticipated surge in World Cup-related travel. As a result:
Key Takeaways
For questions about visitor visa eligibility, documentation strategies, or planning travel around the World Cup, you may contact our office at [email protected] |
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