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 I File EAD Renewal or Initial Application During a Shutdown?
USCIS typically stays open during a shutdown because it is fee-funded; file Form I-765 on time. Many renewals get up to a 540-day automatic extension, but other agencies may cause…
H-1B Premium Processing in a Government Shutdown: 15-Day Decision?
USCIS is accepting the $2,805 premium processing fee and promises 15-day adjudication for eligible H-1B filings after receipt…
Can I Enter the U.S. on a K-1 Visa During a Government Shutdown?
A government shutdown does not by itself block entry for someone with a valid K-1 visa; CBP ports…
What Happens to H-1B Cap-Exempt Petitions During a Government Shutdown
During a federal shutdown USCIS continues H-1B processing, but the Department of Labor pauses LCA certification. New cap-exempt…
Impact of Government Shutdown on Your Approved Visa Before Start Date
A government shutdown does not void already approved visas or work authorization; employees with valid approvals can usually…
Can U.S. Citizens File I-129F for K-1 During a Shutdown?
USCIS will accept I-129F petitions during the October 1, 2025 shutdown due to fee-based funding. The main risk…
Are I-131 Advance Parole Applications Processed During a Shutdown?
USCIS remains open in October 2025 and continues adjudicating Form I-131 Advance Parole because it is fee-funded. Median…
TN Status Extensions by Mail During Shutdown: Will They Be Accepted?
USCIS will keep receiving and adjudicating TN extension mail filings during a federal shutdown, though decisions may slow…
K-1 Visa Interviews During a Shutdown: Delays and Rescheduling
During government shutdowns, fee-funded K-1 visa services often continue but posts may reduce capacity. Applicants should monitor consulate…
Can You File Standalone I-765 for Asylum or TPS During a Shutdown?
USCIS continues processing fee-funded I-765 filings during a shutdown, allowing asylum (c)(8) and TPS applicants to apply or…