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
Are P-4 Dependent Visas Processed During a Government Shutdown?
USCIS usually continues P-category petition processing during shutdowns because of fee funding, but consulates may limit routine visa services, delaying P-4 interviews and visa issuance. Families should file early, complete…
I-90 Green Card Renewals During a Shutdown: What to Expect
USCIS will continue processing I-90 renewals during a federal shutdown and will produce and mail approved green cards.…
Can J-2 Dependents Apply for EAD During a Government Shutdown?
Despite the October 1, 2025 shutdown, USCIS continues to process J-2 EAD applications because it’s fee-funded. J-2s can…
Can I-140 Be Filed During a Shutdown? USCIS EB Petitions
USCIS stays open during a shutdown and accepts I-140 petitions for EB-1/EB-2/EB-3, but DOL suspends PERM and LCA…
Can We File L-1 Blanket Renewal During a Government Shutdown?
USCIS will process L-1 Blanket renewals during the October 1, 2025 shutdown because it’s fee-funded. DOL immigration services…
Are H-4 EAD Renewals Processed in a Federal Shutdown? Timelines
USCIS generally maintains H-4 EAD processing during shutdowns. Processing in 2025 is often 3–6 months but can extend…
Can You Re-Enter the U.S. with Advance Parole During a Shutdown?
During a government shutdown, Advance Parole holders can request re-entry but CBP decides admission. Ports stay open, yet…
Can F-1 Students Apply for OPT or STEM OPT During a Shutdown?
USCIS remains open to OPT and STEM OPT filings during a shutdown and will issue EADs, thanks to…
N-400 During a Federal Shutdown: Do Permanent Residents Qualify
USCIS remains operational during shutdowns and will accept Form N-400 filings because it is fee-funded. Core services like…
Are L-1 Extension Petitions Processed During a Federal Shutdown?
USCIS usually continues processing L-1 extension petitions during shutdowns because it is fee-funded and L-1s don't require a…