Your Weekly U.S. Immigration News, Archived

Below are some of the latest headlines, curated by Manifest immigration attorney Ana Senior.

The BIA rules that advance parole travel counts as a departure

On August 13, the Board of Immigration Appeals overruled a 2012 precedent and held that leaving the U.S. on advance parole is a departure under immigration law. However, the change reaches one group only: people who have accrued a year or more of unlawful presence and then travel on advance parole, who can now trigger a 10-year bar.

Senior: “Often news like this one on Advanced Parole can feel overwhelming and overencompassing, but it’s important to break it down as to who it really applies to.”

A new DHS rule opens the door to mandatory e-filing

An interim final rule, effective August 11, established the process USCIS must follow before it can make a benefit request electronic-only.

Senior: “Forms have yet to be electronic-only, but I do anticipate this change will eventually be applied to various benefit applications. Implementation of electronic-only filings will be announced at least 60 days in advance before it is required, so it will be critical to continue checking for updates as cases are to be filed.”

New Form I-539 and I-765 editions take effect September 15

USCIS will publish updated editions of the forms used to extend/change nonimmigrant status and for employment authorization. There is no grace period, because the revised petitions are scheduled to go into effect with the Duration of Status final rule.

Senior: “I highly recommend utilizing an attorney for these forms as there will not be a grace period to accept old editions after this date unlike other updates in the past. Careful attention to the correct form edition and filing date is essential.”

DHS withdraws its employment-based Green Card reform plan

The Petition for Immigrant Worker Reforms rule, which would have codified evidentiary standards for the EB-1A and EB-2 NIW, will not be published. EB-1, EB-2, and EB-3 cases will continue to be judged under the current regulations.

Senior: “It appears this withdrawal helped us avoid more restrictive standards for employment-based cases for the time being, but we must stay alert as this retreat may simply be an effort to properly implement stricter standards. In the meantime, we keep preparing clients within the current policy manual framework.”

Nonprofits can register people to vote during citizenship ceremonies

A federal court made U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) reverse a 2025 restriction on who could register new U.S. citizens during an oath ceremony.

Senior: “This is welcome news for more convenient voter registration as you become a citizen. Keep in mind that only U.S. Citizens are permitted to vote and you must not register if you are not a U.S. Citizen.”

This week, Manifest immigration attorney Ana Gabriela Urizar offers her insights on the latest headlines.

Supreme Court upheld birthright citizenship in landmark case

In a 6-3 decision issued on June 30, the Supreme Court affirmed that children born in the U.S. to parents unlawfully or temporarily present are citizens at birth, striking down Executive Order 14160. A U.S. birth certificate remains proof of citizenship.

Urizar: “The Supreme Court’s decision preserves a principle that has existed for more than 150 years: If you are born in the United States, you are a U.S. citizen, regardless of your parents' immigration status. For thousands of families, this provides certainty and prevents children from becoming caught in the middle of immigration policy changes.”

Homeland Security proposed big changes to the EB-5 program

If finalized, the proposed rule would implement the EB-5 Reform and Integrity Act of 2022 by formally codifying the current minimum investment amounts of $1,050,000 for a standard EB-5 investment and $800,000 for investments in a Targeted Employment Area (TEA) or qualifying infrastructure project. The proposal would also establish a new $1,400,000 investment threshold for projects located in high-employment (low-unemployment) areas, subject to future implementation, while tightening job-creation proof and expanding audits and enforcement.

Urizar: “The biggest takeaway for investors is that DHS is providing greater regulatory clarity while signaling a much stronger emphasis on compliance, transparency, and oversight. Investors should understand that a successful EB-5 case is no longer just about making the qualifying investment. It's equally important to choose a compliant project, work with experienced professionals, and ensure the investment continues to satisfy the program's evolving requirements throughout the process.”

The Labor Department released its 2026-27 prevailing wage data

On July 1, the Department of Labor published its 2026-27 prevailing wages. Across the frequently sponsored roles we reviewed, wages rose about 2.7% on average, but one in four figures fell, and entry-level (Level I) wages rose the fastest at 3.9%.

Urizar: “Prevailing wage updates can have a direct impact on hiring budgets and immigration strategy. Even relatively small wage adjustments can affect whether an employer moves forward with a sponsorship, particularly for PERM labor certifications and H-1B petitions. Reviewing the updated wage data early allows employers to plan ahead and avoid surprises during the filing process.”

EB-5 closes for India for the rest of the fiscal year

After a surge in demand from Indian applicants, the State Department's July 2026 Visa Bulletin marked India's EB-5 unreserved category as “unavailable.” It will remain this way until the new fiscal year begins on October 1, 2026.

Urizar: “For Indian nationals, this development reinforces the importance of filing as early as possible and evaluating all available EB-5 options. As demand continues to grow, visa availability can become just as important as having a strong petition. Filing early secures an earlier priority date, even if you can’t file for adjustment of status yet.”

A final rule ending automatic EAD renewals enters White House review

This policy, first implemented as an interim final rule in October 2025, would continue to end the automatic extension of employment authorization documents for almost all those applying for a work permit renewal.

Urizar: “If this rule takes effect, many applicants renewing their work permits could face unnecessary gaps in employment authorization if they don't file early enough. Individuals and employers should plan well in advance of EAD expiration dates, as timely filing will become even more critical to maintaining uninterrupted work authorization.”

This week, Manifest immigration attorneyAna Gabriela Urizar offers her insights on the latest headlines.

Priority dates for family-based Green Card applicants advance in the latest Visa Bulletin

Final action dates for the F1 category (unmarried children over 21 of U.S. citizens) moved forward by 5 months for all areas, China, and India.

Urizar: “I find it particularly noteworthy that USCIS continues to honor the Dates for Filing chart for family-based adjustment of status applicants. At a time when obtaining immigrant visas abroad has become increasingly uncertain for some applicants, this policy continues to provide an important pathway for eligible individuals already in the United States to move forward with their green card process and obtain interim benefits while waiting for final adjudication."

USCIS released Q1 FY 2026 approval data

On June 15, the federal agency USCIS published approval data for the first quarter of fiscal year 2026, which covers October through December 2025.

Urizar: “One of the most noteworthy takeaways from USCIS's first-quarter Fiscal Year 2026 data is that the EB-2 National Interest Waiver approval rate increased to 42.6%, up from 35.7% in the fourth quarter of Fiscal Year 2025. The data suggests that despite the heightened scrutiny USCIS has applied to NIW petitions in recent years, well-prepared cases with a clearly defined proposed endeavor, strong evidence of national importance, and compelling proof that the applicant is well-positioned to advance that endeavor continue to succeed.”

Court strikes down the $100,000 H-1B fee

A federal judge vacated the $100,000 H-1B fee on June 8, but a stay keeps the policy in effect pending appeal.

(Note: A judge has struck down the $100,000 fee, but it remains in effect while the government appeals the ruling.)

Urizar: "The stay serves as an important reminder that a favorable court ruling does not always translate into immediate relief. Although the district court found serious legal issues with the $100,000 H-1B fee, employers and foreign nationals must continue navigating the current requirements until the appeals process is resolved."

Four USCIS processing holds policies are vacated

A U.S. district court struck down four USCIS policies (the Global Asylum Hold, the Benefits Hold, the Comprehensive Re-Review of Adjudicated Benefits Requests) on June 5, with the judge ruling that the agency violated the Administrative Procedure Act.

Urizar: “For many applicants whose cases were delayed or placed on hold, this decision represents a meaningful step towards addressing uncertainty and processing delays."

USCIS drops its appeal in an EB-1A final merits case

While the court decision only applies directly to the plaintiff’scase, the ruling gives attorneys a non-binding case to cite when responding to Requests for Evidence (RFEs) and Notices of Intent to Deny (NOIDs).

Urizar: “Although this decision is not binding on USCIS in other cases, it provides practitioners with valuable legal authority to cite when responding to RFEs and NOIDs. It offers a persuasive framework for challenging adjudications where USCIS improperly substitutes its own judgment for the evidence presented in the petition."

Tourists will soon be able to skip the visa interview line

Starting July 1, B-1/B-2 visa applicants can pay $750 to secure an interview appointment within 10 business days at select consular posts.

Urizar: “This new expedited interview option may provide much-needed flexibility for travelers facing urgent business or personal needs.”

This week, Manifest immigration attorney Guilherme Zaia offers his insights on the latest headlines.

USCIS made adjustment of status harder to win on discretion

A new policy memorandum, issued May 21, guides officers to treat adjustment of status as an “extraordinary” form of relief. Applicants may also need to show “unusual or even outstanding equities” to file Form I-485.

Zaia: “For most well-prepared cases, this memo doesn’t change who qualifies for an adjustment of status. However, the standard will be stricter. It is highly recommended that you consult with a licensed attorney prior to filing. Anyone planning to file Form I-485 should make a clear, evidence-backed case for their U.S. ties: career progression, family, tax history, and community involvement.”

EB-2 India hit its FY 2026 visa cap

The State Department announced on May 22 that no more EB-2 visas are available to Indian-born applicants this fiscal year. Pending cases remain unadjudicated until the cap resets on October 1.

Zaia: “While the government cannot issue EB-2 Green Cards at this time, it can keep your case moving and issue related benefits like work and travel authorization. Use this time to make sure your application is airtight, and check with your attorney about whether the EB-1 might be a realistic upgrade if you need to file soon.”

A new executive order tightens bank ID rules for foreign nationals

The order, signed May 19, directs the Treasury, federal bank regulators, and the CFPB to update customer ID requirements and let lenders factor immigration status into mortgage and consumer loan decisions. Agencies have 60 days to issue guidance.

Zaia: “While this executive order doesn’t cancel out existing mortgages or accounts, it does open the door for lenders to ask more questions when you renew, refinance, or apply for new credit. If you’re applying for a major loan in the next few months, talk to your attorney about timing before federal guidance drops.”

Three U.S. embassies in Africa paused visa appointments due to an Ebola outbreak

Effective May 18, the State Department halted all visa appointments at U.S. embassies in Juba, Kinshasa, and Kampala. The pause covers every nonimmigrant and immigrant visa category that requires a consular appointment, with no restart date set.

Zaia: “A pause is not a denial, and your eligibility hasn’t changed. The State Department says it will contact applicants directly when scheduling reopens, so keep your contact information current with the embassy and keep building your case in the meantime.”

This week, Manifest immigration attorney Ana Gabriela Urizar offers her insights on the latest headlines.

USCIS proposed adding employment and benefits questions to address change form

A Federal Register notice reveals USCIS wants to collect employment, schooling, and public benefits data through Form AR-11. The proposal is open for public comment through July 6, 2026, and has not yet taken effect.

Urizar: “The scope of information requested is notable, as it suggests even small procedures like address changes will now be further scrutinized by immigration agents. Foreign nationals should monitor this closely and consider submitting public comments.”

DHS student visa duration limit rule advanced to final review

The proposed rule, which would cap F and J visa stays at four years, has reached the last step before it goes into effect. An effective date is not yet confirmed, but late summer or early fall 2026 is anticipated.

Urizar: “While the final version of this rule isn’t guaranteed approval, students should begin reaching out to their attorneys and international university offices and start reviewing their timelines now. Proactive planning is the best protection against mid-program disruptions.”

USCIS codified officer authority to deny petitions with invalid signatures

An interim final rule published May 11 codifies the federal agency’s ability to deny already-accepted petitions if a signature is later found to be invalid. Filing fees may not be returned in those cases.

Urizar: “This fits into a broader USCIS trend of scrutinizing filings more closely and enforcing procedural requirements more strictly. The biggest takeaway from this particular rule is that already-accepted petitions can be denied if a signature is later determined to be invalid, which means one small mistake could result in months of lost progress.”

Deferred action is tightened under new USCIS policy update

New guidance says deferred action will be treated as an extraordinary, case-by-case use of prosecutorial discretion.

Urizar: “Now more than ever, individuals should consult with an experienced immigration attorney before filing to fully understand the risks, eligibility requirements, and the potential impact a request may have on their overall immigration history.”

This week, Manifest immigration attorney Ana Gabriela Urizar offers her insights on the latest headlines.

USCIS lifted processing holds for doctors, oath ceremonies and other cases

An updated USCIS policy alert confirms holds were lifted for doctors, oath ceremonies, and other cases that experienced pauses in adjudication.

Urizar: “This could signal that USCIS is lifting the ban or willing to admit professionals in fields of national interest and shortage, such as specialized physicians. In the meantime, I recommend those affected to continue monitoring their cases and the news for policy updates.”

A federal court ordered USCIS to resume Green Card processing for 83 immigrants

A Maryland judge found that the plaintiffs were likely to show USCIS acted arbitrarily and capriciously under the Administrative Procedure Act (APA).

Urizar: “This ruling only covers 83 people, but the judge’s reasoning — that the federal agency did not have the right to stop adjudicating adjustment of status applications entirely — could matter for a lot of other cases, too. If your case has been stuck, keep an eye on how this legal challenge develops.”

Several Congressmen proposed a three-year pause on H-1B visas

The End H-1B Visa Abuse Act of 2026 would freeze H-1B issuance, slash the annual cap to 25,000, and eliminate OPT. Neither chamber of Congress has voted on it.

Urizar: “Since this bill is not currently in effect, you should not change your H-1B filing strategy. Instead, continue to monitor its progress closely as you work towards your work visa.”

The State Department expanded its Western Hemisphere visa restriction policy

The updated policy targets individuals believed to be acting on behalf of adversarial countries in the region. The government has already restricted 26 people but has not named them.

Urizar: “The lack of published criteria could create uncertainty. If you are concerned about your case, consult an attorney before applying or traveling.”

Some USCIS cases saw delays under a new biometrics vetting process

According to AILA, USCIS began requiring some applicants to re-submit fingerprints starting April 27 as part of expanded FBI criminal-history checks. Adjustment of status, naturalization, and asylum cases appear most affected.

Urizar: “These biometrics delays, which primarily affect adjustment of status applications, are unlikely to impact underlying I-140 or I-130 petitions, as they rarely require fingerprinting. They also don’t mean cases will be denied, just that USCIS needs time to implement a new internal procedure.”

A federal judge partially blocked USCIS processing freezes for 22 foreign nationals

A Massachusetts court found that USCIS’s adjudicative hold and significant negative factor policies are likely unlawful, granting immediate relief to 22 plaintiffs. The ruling does not restart every frozen case nationwide.

Urizar: “Even if this decision also feels narrow in its effects, its rationale opens another pathway for others to legally challenge recent USCIS processing freezes.”

USCIS closed the second H-2B filing window for returning workers

USCIS announced it received enough petitions to reach the second supplemental FY 2026 H-2B cap allocation. Employers must now wait until May 1 to file, when the returning worker requirement no longer applies.

Urizar: “If you missed the cap, you can still file starting May 1, but now you’ll be competing with employers filing for brand-new H-2B workers too. Since this only covers so many visas, my suggestion is to file as early as possible.”

International student enrollment dropped for the first time since the pandemic rebound

Manifest’s analysis found that total F and M visa enrollment fell to 1,279,758 in March 2026, down from a record 1,325,800 in 2025. Washington and Hawaii saw the steepest state-level declines, at 15.8% and 10.5% respectively.

Urizar: “If you’re thinking of studying in the U.S., now is the time to start preparing your finances and documents. Students who start late often run into hiccups in the application process, so being proactive can help you avoid a lot of unnecessary stress.”

Five countries drove the majority of EB-2 NIW approvals in FY 2025

China, India, Iran, Nigeria, and Bangladesh together accounted for the largest share of the 19,532 NIW petitions approved last fiscal year. Each country reached those numbers through a distinct pipeline of graduate talent and national circumstances.

Urizar: “The EB-2 NIW is one of the most flexible Green Card paths because it rewards measurable impact and merit over traditional employer sponsorship.”

This week, Manifest immigration attorney Ana Gabriela Urizar offers her insights on some of the latest headlines.

We released our H-1B lottery selection results

Manifest’s Fiscal Year 2027 data reveals how the new wage-weighted system has reshaped the odds, and how that could affect hiring strategies for employers hiring H-1B workers.

Urizar: “The rules of the H-1B game are changing, and so must your strategy. We now have evidence that higher wage levels will continue to have a meaningful advantage in the H-1B lottery.”

The VAWA case backlog hit record numbers

Nearly 200,000 petitions for domestic abuse survivors remained pending at the end of FY 2025. USCIS processing times data also shows VAWA I-360 applications can take as long as four years to complete.

Urizar: “There are legitimate reasons why these numbers may have grown. There is more awareness today about domestic violence today than even five years ago, and less stigma around coming forward.”

USCIS resumed processing select asylum petitions, reports claim

According to anonymous DHS sources, those from countries listed under the travel ban will continue to have their asylum cases frozen.

Urizar: “It’s important to remember that we don’t have official confirmation or guidance from government officials. Until then, I recommend all foreign nationals with pending asylum cases to hold tight and avoid making any major decisions that could jeopardize their application.”

This week, Manifest immigration attorney Ana Gabriela Urizar offers her insights on some of the latest headlines.

H-1B lottery results for the Fiscal Year 2027 began trickling in

USCIS intends to notify all selected registrants by March 31, 2026. Employers will receive the results through their myUSCIS account.

Urizar: “Don’t assume you haven’t won the lottery if you haven’t received notice yet. As we continue to see results roll out in the coming days, I suggest remaining in contact with either your employer or immigration attorney for updates regarding your registration.”

The Labor Department plans to increase prevailing wage tiers

If implemented, the suggested changes could make it more expensive for employers to hire foreign workers through an LCA‑based category such as the H‑1B or a PERM‑based category like the EB‑2.

Urizar: “This policy could make it harder to hire international talent with salaries that are currently deemed acceptable. Compensation planning will be imperative here, as many U.S. companies will need to offer more competitive salaries to sponsor someone.”

Nearly 250,000 immigration cases remained unopened in FY 2025

USCIS’s frontlog went from zero to nearly a quarter million in 2025, compounding the already-long processing backlogs for employment and humanitarian visas.

Urizar: “This likely has contributed to wait times climbing across popular categories such as the O-1, EB-1A, and EB-2 NIW. There are simply more cases in the queue than the agency is resolving.”

The State Department expanded social media screening to 14 more visa categories

To facilitate the vetting process, applicants affected by this policy must set the privacy settings on their social media profiles to “public” or “open.”

Urizar: “This rule already applies to those seeking an H-1B, H-4, F, M, and J visa through consular processing. This rule has already caused months-long delays at U.S. embassies, and this broadening of the online presence policy may have a similar effect.”

USCIS released Q4 approval data for fiscal year 2025

The latest statistics from the federal government include updated approval numbers for the O-1, EB-1A, and EB-2 NIW categories.

Urizar: “Approval rates data only informs one part of your filing strategy. If you have questions about this data and want to explore your visa or Green Card options, I suggest seeking a consultation with an immigration attorney.”

This week, Manifest immigration attorney Ana Gabriela Urizar offers her insights on some of the latest headlines.

Several consulates remain closed due to ongoing conflict in the Middle East

The U.S. embassy in Muscat has resumed limited immigrant and emergency nonimmigrant visa services, but all other locations have paused consular processing for foreign nationals.

Urizar: “Right now, my best recommendation is to stay on top of news updates and, if you’re in the U.S., stay put until the situation stabilizes. If you’re already abroad in an area affected by the conflict, follow government guidance.”

The State Department expanded its visa bond list

Effective on April 2, tourists from fifty countries must pay either a $5,000, $10,000, or $15,000 bond prior to entering the U.S.

Urizar: “Interestingly, there’s some overlap between the countries affected by the travel ban and those whose TPS designations have been successfully challenged in court. For anyone affected by these policies, I recommend staying on top of legal developments and consulting with a qualified immigration attorney to understand how these changes apply to your case.”

The April 2026 Visa Bulletin showed major forward movement

For EB-2 final action dates, China showed no movement while India surges forward by 303 days. All other areas also became current.

Urizar: “This update brought hope for many employment-based Green Card candidates. If you’d like to see a fuller breakdown of these changes, I highly recommend checking out my colleague Nicole Gunara’s Legal Brief on the April 2026 Visa Bulletin.”

USCIS proposed revisions to Form I-140G

The suggested changes to the Trump Gold Card petition expands the items required to complete the spousal and children section.

Urizar: “From my perspective as an attorney, this proposal to expand the information required to include a spouse and children in an I-140G applicant may signal that the federal government may be increasing scrutiny of a Gold Card applicant’s entire family. If implemented, this could affect which dependents can be included in the initial application.”

The State Department brings back a passport requirement for the Diversity Visa (DV) lottery

In addition, the federal agency suggests the registration window for this upcoming season may be delayed, but didn’t indicate by how much.

Urizar: “These changes are meant to strengthen identity verification, but it does add an additional challenge to anyone who doesn’t have a valid passport. If you’re planning to register for the Diversity Visa lottery, start gathering documents as soon as possible, as it’s not guaranteed that the window to register will be significantly delayed.”

This week, Manifest immigration attorney Ana Gabriela Urizar offers her insights on some of the latest headlines.

Several U.S. embassies closed due to tensions in the Middle East

As of March 4, the Department of State has closed 20 consular posts after a conflict in Iran escalated into broader regional instability.

Urizar: “Those affected should follow instructions from local authorities and look to their respective U.S. embassies for guidance on reopenings. In some cases, the government may instruct you to seek consular processing in another nearby country.”

Florida public universities issue an H-1B hiring freeze

Effective as of March 3, the pause applies to new hires across Florida public universities and will remain in effect until January 5, 2027. The news follows a similar hiring freeze in Texas.

Urizar: “While the Florida Board of Governors has no authority to pause H-1B visa processing, they can withdraw funding from colleges like Florida A&M. Right now, we’re waiting for more guidance to see if the freeze will be similar to the one in Texas, which does allow state agencies to hire new H-1B workers but only with prior approval.”

USCIS phased out older editions of Form I-765

Applicants must now request a work permit through the latest version, which removes the ability to request a Social Security number directly on their petition.

Urizar: “Nothing has changed as far as eligibility for employment authorization goes. However, this change means that you must apply for a Social Security Number separately through the Social Security Administration office.”

The federal government may require banks to collect citizenship data

White House officials are considering whether to implement this rule through an executive order or a policy update from the Treasury Department’s Financial Crimes Enforcement Network.

Urizar: “As of now, this is just speculation of future policy. Until a federal agency or government official announces otherwise, banks are not required to report whether you’re a U.S. citizen or not.”

This week, Manifest immigration attorney Ana Gabriela Urizar offers insights on some of the latest headlines.

The State Department released the March 2026 Visa Bulletin

This bulletin features several major movement updates. Most notably, EB-2 filing dates for India surged forward by 335 days, while Mexico, the Philippines, and the rest of the world became current.

Urizar: “The last time the EB-2 filing date was current for Mexico, the Philippines, and the rest of the world was November 2022. This is major news for EB-2 applicants - thousands are now eligible to apply for a Green Card.”

Homeland Security announced the end of Yemen’s TPS designation

Yemeni TPS holders have 60 days after the notice is published in the Federal Register to leave the country.

Urizar: “While TPS terminations can be blocked by successful litigation, court cases take months to adjudicate. Given that DHS only gives you 60 days to exit the country or find another underlying status, I recommend consulting with an attorney who can walk you through immediate next steps.”

USCIS closed its first filing window for returning H-2B workers

Employers who have not filed on behalf of a returning short-term employee must now wait until April 1 to submit Form I-129.

Urizar: “The H-2B program has strict deadlines and complex compliance requirements. If you’re interested in sponsoring a former employee through this visa, be prepared to file as soon as April 1 comes or start exploring alternative work authorization options.”

This week, Manifest immigration attorney Ana Gabriela Urizar offers insights on some of the latest headlines.

The SBA released new policy that bars Green Card holder from their loans

Starting March 1, the federal agency will only lend to businesses owned solely by U.S. citizens or nationals. Legal permanent residents won’t even be allowed to own a percentage interest in a business seeking an SBA loan.

Urizar: “For legal permanent residents looking to start a small business, I recommend consulting with an attorney on whether it makes sense to submit a loan application with the SBA before the new policy goes into effect.”

The federal government went into a partial shutdown

On January 31, the government briefly shut down after Congress did not pass the remaining funding package before its midnight deadline. That shutdown ended on Tuesday, but it may occur again if the Department of Homeland Security’s budget isn’t finalized by February 13.

Urizar: “Most government shutdowns don’t immediately affect immigration for several reasons. USCIS operates primarily from filing fees, and U.S. embassies don’t rely on federal funding entirely. The bigger issue comes from when LCAs and PERM processing get delayed, which wasn’t the case for this particular partial shutdown.”

USCIS updated its processing times data

In February 2026, several forms saw changes in adjudication time, including Form I-129, Form I-130, and Form I-140. This month, wait times went up slightly.

Urizar: “Processing times are important, because they offer a glimpse into how long USCIS takes to complete 80% of cases. Yes, individual case times vary due to several factors, but this data can be particularly useful for someone who’s trying to map out how long their application might take.”

The H-1B lottery registration dates were announced

The registration window for the FY 2027 H-1B lottery will open on March 4, 2026. This season, USCIS will shift from a purely random lottery selection to a system that prioritizes applicants with higher wages.

Urizar: “Now’s the time to start preparing for the H-1B lottery, whether you’re an employer or employee. Gather all the information required to fill out a registration, and be ready to submit by March 4.”

This week, Manifest immigration attorney Ana Gabriela Urizar offers insights on some of the top headlines.

A Federal Court Challenged USCIS’s “Final Merits Determination”

On January 28, a Nebraska judge ruled that USCIS must approve a journalist’s previously denied EB-1A petition after finding that the agency’s final merits determination was unlawfully adopted.

Urizar: “There’s no immediate impact yet, as USCIS hasn’t announced any actual changes regarding its final merits policy. However, people now have an edge in how they can respond to an RFE, a Noid or denial notice that has vague ‘final merits’ reasoning.”

The Texas Governor Ordered an H-1B Hiring Freeze

Effective as of January 27, the pause will remain in effect through May 2027. It also only applies to new H-1B petitions filed by public universities and select state agencies.

Urizar: “Nothing has changed in regards to who qualifies for an H-1B visa, or how USCIS adjudicates petitions. Essentially, the governor instructed these public institutions that they no longer have the clearance to add new H-1B workers to their budgets, unless they get written government approval before they can sponsor a foreign worker.”

Green Card Applicants Report Canceled Interview Appointments

An increase of social media posts this month suggests that USCIS is pausing Green Card interview appointments, seemingly affecting people from countries listed in the State Department’s immigrant visa processing freeze.

Urizar: “Without official guidance from USCIS, it’s difficult to determine who exactly is affected at this time. What’s clear is that the federal agency has not stopped taking petitions for permanent residence, which means your eligibility for a Green Card remains unaffected.”

This week, Manifest immigration attorney Ana Gabriela Urizar offers insights on some of the top headlines.

The State Department Froze Immigrant Visa Processing for 75 Countries

On January 14, the federal agency announced the pause would begin January 21 and continue indefinitely until it finalizes its public charge policies.

Urizar: “At this time, this would primarily impact foreign nationals attempting to secure a new immigrant visa approval at a U.S. consulate or embassy abroad. Nonimmigrant visas aren’t affected, so your tourist visa, student visa, or O-1 are still safe.”

The February 2026 Visa Bulletin Was Released

This month, USCIS has confirmed that it will continue to use the dates for filing chart to determine when people can apply for an adjustment of status.

Urizar: “Little movement in the February 2026 Visa Bulletin does not, by itself, signal bad news. It’s consistent with how the Department of State and USCIS often manage visa number usage over a fiscal year, especially after several months of forward movement.​”

USCIS and Department of Homeland Security reopened 5,600 refugee cases in Minnesota

Announced on January 9, Operation PARRIS will conduct additional background checks and interviews for refugees without a Green Card.

Urizar: “Now’s the time to pay close attention to these updates, especially if your case gets reopened. USCIS has already expressed that it wants to increase vetting for all foreign nationals, and it’s possible that not just refugees will be affected in the future.”

Somali Nationals Lost TPS Protections

Somali TPS holders have until March 17 to either leave the country or find another immigration status to cover them.

Urizar: “If you’re affected by this policy, talk with a lawyer on whether you qualify for a work visa or Green Card right away. Without a valid status, you may jeopardize your ability to remain in the U.S. legally after March 17.”

This week, Manifest immigration attorney Ana Gabriela Urizar comments on some of the top headlines.

More Indian women are applying and getting approved for the H-1B visa

The latest data from USCIS shows that female representation in the global skilled workforce has increased consistently for India.

Urizar: “These trends show that the gender gap in skilled professions continues to steadily decline. On top of being proud of their accomplishments, Indian women with H-1Bs should think strategically about their next steps, and consider long-term options such as the EB-1 or EB-2 Green Card.”

USCIS rules to increase premium processing fees

Effective on March 1, 2026, the cost to request expedited case review from USCIS will go up by 5.72% due to inflation.

Urizar: “These are standard inflationary adjustments, so no actual changes have been made to who qualifies for premium processing and how they can request that. If you need help filing Form I-907, consult with an immigration attorney first.”

Department of State adds several countries to visa bond list

As of January 1, several B-1/B-2 visa holders must pay either a $5,000, $10,000, or $15,000 bond prior to entering the U.S.

Urizar: “Those who have to pay bonds before traveling should closely review their approved arrival and departure dates. Even if accidental, a flight delay or cancellation could cause you to lose your ability to get your money back.”

TPS termination blocked for Honduras, Nepal, and Nicaragua

A California district judge ruled that DHS violated the law by making TPS termination decisions before reviewing current country conditions.

Urizar: “We must wait until USCIS releases guidance on whether people can remain, return, or even work in the U.S. It may be months before we see an official verdict, but those affected should continue to keep an eye out on the news for future updates.”

USCIS halts decisions for individuals from countries listed in latest travel ban

On January 1, USCIS released updated guidance on whose cases are on hold. The agency is freezing determinations for more countries while also removing exceptions for dual citizens and family members.

Urizar: “For those interested in a merit-based employment visa, it’s worth noting that USCIS is still processing applications of national interest. Those affected by the travel ban should still consider applying.”