Weekly Immigration News Roundup: December 18
This week, Manifest immigration attorney Ana Gabriela Urizar chimes in on the top headlines. Below are the latest developments you should be paying attention to.
Trump Administration Expands Travel Ban, Adds 22 Countries
A new executive order covers a total of 39 countries, plus restrictions on those carrying Palestinian Authority documents.
Attorney insight: “If you’re under the affected 39 countries or have travel documents from the Palestinian Authority, and you do not fall under the exemptions listed on the executive order, it is recommended that you avoid travel outside of the U.S.,” Urizar says. “Those who are away from the country and haven’t been impacted yet have until January 1 to return without the new travel ban affecting them.”
The suspension only applies to foreign nationals from the listed countries who are outside the U.S. on the effective date and do not have a valid visa as of January 1, 2026.
DHS plans to end Family Reunification Parole programs
As of December 15, most people who entered the U.S. under a Family Reunification Parole will have 30 days to leave the country or find another legal immigration status, unless an exemption applies.
Attorney insight: “Many people may have to continue waiting for their Green Cards abroad,” Urizar says. “The best step to take right now is reaching out to an immigration lawyer and checking your options.”
USCIS Narrows Photo Reuse to 3 Years
Starting December 12, immigration officers cannot repurpose photographs collected more than 36 months ago at an Application Support Center.
Attorney insight: “For people, this update essentially means that you may have to attend more biometrics appointments to update the photograph USCIS has on file,” she says. “Even if you’ve taken a photo at an Application Support Center within the last three years, an immigration officer can still request you to get another picture taken.”
January 2026 Visa Bulletin Released
Final action dates have jumped forward for EB-1 applicants in India. Other highlights include USCIS honoring dates of filing, and several advancements for employment- and family-based Green Card applicants.
Attorney insight: “This Visa Bulletin is just full of amazing news,” Urizar says. “If your priority date falls under the ‘Dates for Filing’ chart, you can now petition for an adjustment of status and request a work permit based on that application.”
