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
Can Employers Withdraw H-1B Petitions During a Government Shutdown?
A shutdown pauses DOL LCA certifications, blocking new H-1B filings that need an LCA, while USCIS usually continues processing filed petitions. Employers can withdraw petitions anytime; withdrawals after status begins…
Will an H-4 Visa Stamp Appointment Be Honoured During a Shutdown?
The Oct 1, 2025 U.S. shutdown may slow consular services for H-4 applicants. Fee-funded visa work should largely…
Can You Request Expedited Immigration During a Government Shutdown?
USCIS generally continues operations during shutdowns because it is fee-funded, and applicants may request discretionary expedite processing with…
USCIS Processing During Shutdown: Which Services Remain Available
Although a federal shutdown begins October 1, 2025, USCIS will largely keep processing applications due to fee funding.…
Can U Visa Petitions Be Filed During a Government Shutdown?
USCIS remains open for U visa (Form I-918) filings during the October 2025 shutdown because it is fee-funded;…
Can I-131 Re-Entry Permits Be Filed During a Federal Shutdown?
Because USCIS is fee-funded, Form I-131 Re-Entry Permit filings and biometrics continue during a shutdown. Applicants must file…
I-693 Processing During Shutdown: USCIS Accepts with I-485
USCIS remains operational during shutdowns and will accept and process sealed Form I-693 medicals. Exams signed on/after Nov…
Can Employers File H-1B Petitions and Lcas During a U.S. Government Shutdown?
A federal shutdown halts H-1B LCAs and E-Verify, creating major hiring delays despite USCIS remaining open. Early 2026…
Will My Visa Appointment Be Cancelled During a U.S. Government Shutdown?
Consular operations continue in many locations during the shutdown because of user‑fee funding, but service levels vary. Appointments…
H-4 EAD Pending 12 Months: Shutdown Adjudication and Delays
As of October 2025, USCIS keeps processing H-4 EAD applications during a shutdown because it’s fee-funded. DOL pauses…