Immigration
Policy changes, enforcement actions, and legal developments shaping U.S. immigration in 2026. From executive orders and congressional bills to USCIS processing updates — analysis that cuts through the noise.
Top questions about Immigration
Answers from VisaVerge guidesWhat changes occurred in immigration enforcement policies in 2025?
What are the risks for people with pending immigration applications under current policies?
People with pending applications and no criminal record may be less likely to face removal under Biden, but there are no guarantees.
Read: Comparing Deportation Policies Under Obama, Trump, and Biden AdministrationsWhat are the main defense strategies for immigrants facing increased enforcement under Immigration 2026?
Immigrants can protect their liberty through bond and procedural challenges in immigration court, and protect their benefits by preparing for USCIS holds, re-reviews, and follow-up evidence requests.
Read: House Judiciary Committee Advances Immigration 2026 Bills with Stephen MillerWhat are the key developments in immigration policies for 2025-2026?
Applicants face national-origin-based holds and enhanced security vetting under new policy developments, with an indefinite pause delaying green card processing for certain countries without being an outright denial.
Read: Immigration Suspensions Spark Discrimination Concerns Amid National Security JustificationsWhat are the potential risks for immigrants with pending cases due to these policy changes?
Immigrants with pending cases face higher arrest risks and should be aware that they could still be arrested by ICE if they are believed to be in the country without legal status.
Read: ICE Expands Arrest Discretion Near Courthouses Amid Legal Concerns
Is Your I-539 for B-2 Pending During a Shutdown Keeping Status?
If you filed I-539 before your I-94 expired, you generally remain in lawful B-2 status while USCIS processes the extension, and you won’t accrue unlawful presence until a denial notice.…
Can K-2 Children Attend Visa Interviews During a Government Shutdown?
K-2 visa interviews usually proceed during government shutdowns because consular services are fee-funded. Each child needs a DS-160…
J-1 Waivers During a Government Shutdown: IGA, Hardship, No Objection
USCIS will keep processing fee-funded I-612 J-1 waiver applications during a funding lapse, but delays may occur when…
Can Family-Based Green Card Interviews Occur During a Shutdown?
A shutdown on October 1, 2025 could delay or cancel family-based green card consular interviews. More applicants need…
Can You Start an H-1B Transfer After Termination? 60-Day Grace Rules
H-1B workers in 2026 must navigate a 60-day grace period amid new 'Hold and Review' delays and increased…
Are U Visa EADs Processed and Issued During Government Shutdowns?
USCIS continues processing U Visa EADs during shutdowns because it’s fee-funded, though prolonged closures may slow timelines. E-Verify…
Can L-2 Dependents File for EAD During a Government Shutdown?
Because USCIS is largely fee-funded, L-2 dependents can file Form I-765 for EADs during a government shutdown. USCIS…
What to Expect for E-2 Visa Renewal Appointments During a Shutdown
E-2 renewals usually proceed early in a shutdown due to fee funding, but prolonged stoppages can reduce services…
Can H-4 Dependents File for Initial EAD During a Government Shutdown?
H-4 dependents can file initial H-4 EAD (Form I-765) during a government shutdown because USCIS is fee-funded and…
H-1B Approved During a Shutdown: Will My Visa Interview Be Canceled?
USCIS usually continues H-1B approvals during shutdowns because of fee funding, but consular visa interviews may be delayed,…