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 VAWA-Based EADs Processed During Federal Government Shutdowns?
USCIS, funded mainly by fees, continues adjudicating VAWA I-360 petitions and I-765 C31 EADs via the Vermont Service Center during funding lapses. VAWA EADs avoid DOL requirements, reducing shutdown delays.…
What Happens to P Visa Appointments During a Federal Shutdown
P visa interviews usually continue during the October 1, 2025 federal shutdown because fees fund operations, but reduced…
Shutdown Impact on T Visa Derivative Petitions: USCIS Continues
USCIS continues processing T visa derivative petitions during a federal shutdown because it is fee‑funded. Form I‑914, Supplement…
Do O-1 and P-1 Petitions Still Process During a Shutdown?
USCIS and fee-funded consular services usually continue handling O-1 and P-1 petitions during a shutdown; DOL suspensions do…
What Employers Should Do If E-Verify Is Unavailable During a Shutdown
E-Verify is suspended due to a government shutdown. Employers must still complete Form I-9 for all new hires…
E-3D Employment Authorization During Government Shutdown: What Happens
A government shutdown deactivates FLAG and stops LCA certifications, pausing E-3D work authorizations. USCIS stays open but cannot…
Can Employers File New H-1B Cap-Subject Petitions During a Shutdown?
During a government shutdown, the DOL stops LCA certification via FLAG, blocking H‑1B, H‑1B1, and E‑3 petition filings.…
Can TD Dependents Enter or Extend Status During a Government Shutdown?
During a shutdown, TD spouses and children can still travel, re-enter, and file Form I-539 because CBP and…
Can L-1A/L-1B Petitions Be Filed During a Government Shutdown?
Because USCIS is fee-funded, L-1A and L-1B petitions are processed during government shutdowns. They avoid DOL LCAs that…
Automatic Visa Revalidation During a US Government Shutdown: Key Facts
During a federal shutdown, automatic visa revalidation still allows eligible travelers to re-enter the U.S. after trips under…