Weekly Immigration News Roundup: November 21

This week, the U.S. government announced several important changes to immigration policy, such as the creation of a FIFA Pass and increasing scrutiny towards Green Card applicants who used public benefits in the past. 

Below are the top headlines you should be paying attention to: 

U.S. Government Plans to Expedite Visa Appointments For World Cup Ticket Holders

On November 17, President Trump said the Department of State is currently working on implementing the “FIFA Prioritized Appointment Scheduling System” at embassies and consular offices. Once in place, the president said this “…will allow World Cup ticket-holders with long wait times to opt with FIFA for a prioritized interview.”

Under new Proposal, USCIS may deny Green Cards to immigrants who’ve used public benefits

On November 19, the Department of Homeland Security proposed that immigration officers should have greater power to deny permanent residency to noncitizens who use public benefit programs. If implemented, USCIS could deem immigrants benefiting from food, healthcare, and housing assistance as inadmissible.

U.S. Introduces $250 Visa Integrity Fee for Nonimmigrant Travelers

The Department of Homeland Security is finalizing a new Visa Integrity Fee, which is expected sometime during fiscal year 2026. If implemented, it will cost a minimum of $250 per visa issuance by the State Department and can be increased annually for inflation.

USCIS Announces Inflation-Driven Fee Increases for 2026

On November 21, the federal agency announced that it would adjust the price of several petitions due to inflation, including Form I-765 and Form I-589. According to the notice, the new fees will apply to any petition filed on or after January 1, 2026.