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policies between January 2017 and November 2024

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Current Status
  1. January 2021

    1. January 15, 2021

      USCIS requests comments on proposed revisions to Form N-400

      Naturalization USCIS Proposed Forms and Information Collection
    2. January 14, 2021

      USCIS issues policy guidance on discretionary EAD under adjustment or deferred action applications

      Immigrant VisasDACAEnforcement USCIS Final/Actual Agency Directive

      Current Status

      Partially in effect
    3. January 8, 2021

      DHS issues rule for wage-based H-1B cap selection process

      Non-Immigrant Visas: Employment-Based USCIS Final/ActualEnjoined/Vacated Rule
  1. December 2020

    1. December 29, 2020

      COVID-19: USCIS provides update on Application Support Centers

      HumanitarianNon-Immigrant VisasImmigrant Visas USCIS Final/Actual Forms and Information Collection

      Current Status

      Partially in effect
    2. December 23, 2020

      EOIR and USCIS issue communicable-disease security bars to asylum and withholding eligibility

      Asylum, Withholding and CAT USCISCBPDHSEOIR Final/Actual Rule
    3. December 15, 2020

      USCIS expands interview requirements for refugee/asylee adjustment of status

      Asylum, Withholding and CATRefugeesImmigrant Visas USCIS Final/Actual Agency DirectiveChange in Practice

      Current Status

      Partially in effect
    4. December 15, 2020

      COVID-19: USCIS updates stakeholders regarding significant delay in processing receipt notices at USCIS lockbox facilities

      Non-Immigrant VisasHumanitarianImmigrant Visas USCIS Final/Actual Forms and Information Collection

      Current Status

      Partially in effect
    5. December 11, 2020

      EOIR and DHS issue final rule significantly restricting asylum, withholding of removal, and CAT protections

      Asylum, Withholding and CAT CBPUSCISEOIR Final/ActualIn LitigationEnjoined/Vacated Rule
    6. December 8, 2020

      State Department proposes revisions to Refugee Biographic Data Sheet

      Refugees DOSBureau of Population, Refugees, and MigrationUSCIS Proposed Forms and Information Collection
  1. November 2020

    1. November 18, 2020

      USCIS to require I-730 petitioners to appear for interview

      RefugeesAsylum, Withholding and CAT USCIS Final/ActualRescinded Agency DirectiveChange in Practice
    2. November 17, 2020

      USCIS announces proposed revisions to Form I-914, Application for T Nonimmigrant Status for trafficking victims

      U/T/VAWA USCIS Proposed Forms and Information Collection
    3. November 16, 2020

      USCIS Provides Information on E-Verify TNC Requirements

      Employment Verification USCIS Final/Actual Agency Directive
    4. November 13, 2020

      USCIS revises naturalization test, making civics portion more difficult

      Naturalization USCIS Final/Actual Agency Directive
    5. November 5, 2020

      AG Barr issues Matter of Negusie, ruling there is no duress exception to "persecutor bar" for asylum and withholding of removal

      Asylum, Withholding and CAT AGEOIRICEUSCIS Final/Actual Adjudication
  1. October 2020

    1. October 27, 2020

      POTUS reduces refugee admissions to 15,000 refugees for fiscal year 2021

      Refugees Bureau of Population, Refugees, and MigrationORRUSCIS Final/Actual Presidential Orders

      Current Status

      Not in effect
    2. October 22, 2020

      USCIS proposes revisions to the H-1B electronic registration tool

      Non-Immigrant Visas: Employment-Based USCIS Proposed Forms and Information Collection
    3. October 21, 2020

      EOIR and USCIS issue final rule expanding criminal bars to asylum and limiting review of discretionary denials of asylum

      Asylum, Withholding and CATHearings and AdjudicationsInteriorBorder CBPICEUSCISEOIRBureau of Population, Refugees, and Migration Final/ActualIn LitigationEnjoined/Vacated Rule

      Current Status

      Not in effect
    4. October 8, 2020

      DHS issues interim final rule narrowing H-1B criteria

      Non-Immigrant Visas: Employment-Based USCISDOL Final/ActualIn LitigationEnjoined/VacatedRenewed Rule
    5. October 6, 2020

      USCIS issues guidance on TPS and eligibility for adjustment of status

      TPSImmigrant Visas USCISAG Final/Actual Agency DirectiveChange in Practice
    6. October 2, 2020

      USCIS proposes regulatory changes to affidavit of support requirements

      Immigrant Visas USCISDHS Proposed Forms and Information CollectionRule
    7. October 1, 2020

      COVID-19: DOS provides information on national interest exceptions for certain travelers from Europe

      Non-Immigrant Visas: StudentNon-Immigrant Visas: Employment-BasedNon-Immigrant Visas: Visitor Bureau of Consular AffairsUSCIS Final/Actual Agency DirectivePresidential Orders

      Current Status

      Partially in effect
    8. October 1, 2020

      POTUS signs spending measure expanding USCIS premium processing, extending expiring immigration programs

      Non-Immigrant Visas: Employment-BasedImmigrant Visas: Employment-BasedEmployment Verification USCIS Final/Actual Legislation
  1. September 2020

    1. September 29, 2020

      USCIS proposes revisions to Form I-134, Declaration of Financial Support

      HumanitarianNon-Immigrant Visas USCIS Proposed Forms and Information Collection

      Current Status

      Not in effect
    2. September 23, 2020

      DHS issues a temporary rule requiring the use of USCIS-contracted telephonic interpreters in asylum interviews

      Asylum, Withholding and CATHearings and Adjudications USCIS Final/ActualExpired Rule
    3. September 17, 2020

      USCIS issues policy alert updating guidance on O visas

      Non-Immigrant Visas: Employment-Based USCIS Final/Actual Agency Directive

      Current Status

      Partially in effect
    4. September 15, 2020

      DOS releases guidance on 2020 Fiscal Year (DV-2020) adjudications after Gomez v. Trump ruling

      Immigrant Visas: Diversity Bureau of Consular AffairsDOSUSCIS Final/ActualIn Litigation Agency Directive

      Current Status

      Not in effect
    5. September 11, 2020

      DHS proposes rule to expand biometric data collection

      Non-Immigrant VisasEnforcementImmigrant Visas USCIS Proposed Rule
    6. September 2, 2020

      USCIS revises guidance regarding forms and fees to align with USCIS fee rule

      Immigrant VisasNon-Immigrant VisasHumanitarianNaturalization USCIS Final/ActualIn LitigationEnjoined/Vacated Change in PracticeForms and Information CollectionRule
  1. August 2020

    1. August 21, 2020

      USCIS implements DHS guidance to reject, restrict, and shorten DACA program

      EnforcementDACA CBPICEUSCIS Final/ActualIn Litigation Agency DirectiveChange in Practice
    2. August 20, 2020

      USCIS designates decision in Matter of Z-R-Z-C- as adopted policy

      TPS USCIS Final/ActualRescinded Agency Directive
    3. August 19, 2020

      COVID-19: USCIS allows employees to use Form I-797 for Form I-9 verification during EAD production delays

      Employment VerificationImmigrant VisasNon-Immigrant Visas USCIS Final/Actual Agency Directive

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    4. August 3, 2020

      USCIS issues final rule increasing fees

      Asylum, Withholding and CATImmigrant VisasNon-Immigrant VisasNaturalization USCIS Final/ActualIn LitigationEnjoined/Vacated Rule
  1. July 2020

    1. Current Status

      Partially in effect
    2. July 21, 2020

      USCIS reduces capacity to print green cards and employment authorization documents

      Immigrant VisasNon-Immigrant Visas USCIS Final/Actual Change in Practice

      Current Status

      Partially in effect
    3. July 8, 2020

      DHS proposes revisions to Form I-191, Application for Relief Under Former Section 212(c)

      Immigrant Visas USCIS Proposed Forms and Information Collection
  1. June 2020

    1. June 29, 2020

      USCIS updates filing location for Forms I-918 and I-485 for applicants filing for U nonimmigrant status

      U/T/VAWANon-Immigrant VisasImmigrant Visas USCIS Final/Actual Forms and Information Collection

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    2. June 26, 2020

      DHS publishes final rule adopting one-year wait for asylum EADs

      Asylum, Withholding and CAT USCIS Final/ActualIn LitigationRescinded Rule
    3. June 25, 2020

      USCIS proposes cost recovery surcharge

      Immigrant VisasNon-Immigrant Visas USCIS Proposed Legislation
    4. June 22, 2020

      DHS amends regulation to remove 30-day processing provision for asylum employment authorization applications

      Asylum, Withholding and CATLabor USCISDHS Final/ActualIn LitigationEnjoined/Vacated Rule
    5. June 22, 2020

      COVID-19: POTUS issues proclamation freezing certain nonimmigrant visas through the end of 2020

      Non-Immigrant Visas USCISDOLDOS Final/Actual Presidential Orders
    6. June 8, 2020

      ICE informs SEVP-certified schools of a revised H-1B registration process and F-1 cap-gap extensions

      Non-Immigrant Visas: Student ICEUSCIS Final/Actual Change in Practice
  1. May 2020

    1. May 14, 2020

      USCIS publishes interim final rule implementing the Northern Mariana Islands U.S. Workforce Act

      Non-Immigrant Visas: Employment-Based USCIS Final/Actual Rule
    2. May 11, 2020

      DHS restricts admission periods for Chinese journalists

      Non-Immigrant Visas CBPUSCIS Final/ActualReplaced Rule

      Current Status

      Partially in effect
    3. May 6, 2020

      USCIS allows military personnel and veterans to file naturalization applications online

      Citizenship USCIS Final/Actual Change in Practice
  1. April 2020

    1. April 27, 2020

      USCIS releases updated I-9 handbook for employers

      Employment Verification ICEUSCIS Final/Actual Agency Directive

      Current Status

      Partially in effect
    2. April 22, 2020

      COVID-19: POTUS issues proclamation suspending entry of designated immigrants for 60 days

      Immigrant VisasBorderNon-Immigrant Visas CBPUSCISDOS Final/Actual Presidential Orders
    3. April 7, 2020

      USCIS issues policy guidance on Liberian Refugee Immigration Fairness law

      Immigrant Visas USCIS Final/Actual Agency Directive

      Current Status

      Partially in effect
  1. March 2020

    1. March 24, 2020

      USCIS changes intake process for Form I-914, rejects incomplete forms

      U/T/VAWA USCIS Final/Actual Change in PracticeForms and Information Collection
    2. March 21, 2020

      COVID-19: USCIS issues temporary E-Verify policies

      Employment Verification USCISSSA Final/Actual Agency Directive
    3. March 20, 2020

      COVID-19: USCIS announces temporary suspension of premium processing for I-129 and I-140 petitions

      Non-Immigrant Visas: Employment-Based USCIS Replaced Agency Directive
    4. March 20, 2020

      COVID-19: USCIS announces flexibility in submitting required signatures during COVID-19 national emergency

      HumanitarianImmigrant VisasNon-Immigrant Visas: Employment-Based USCIS Final/Actual Change in Practice
    5. March 9, 2020

      COVID-19: SEVP issues guidance for F and M nonimmigrant students

      Non-Immigrant Visas: Student ICEUSCIS Final/Actual Agency Directive
    6. March 5, 2020

      USCIS issues policy guidance on submission of benefit requests

      Immigrant VisasNon-Immigrant VisasHumanitarianCitizenship USCIS Final/Actual Agency Directive
  1. February 2020

    1. February 26, 2020

      USCIS clarifies effect of breaks in continuity of residence on eligibility for naturalization

      Naturalization USCIS Final/Actual Agency Directive

      Current Status

      Partially in effect
    2. February 24, 2020

      Reported: USCIS hiring freeze for positions related to programs for legal immigrants

      Immigrant Visas USCIS Reported Change in Practice
    3. February 10, 2020

      President Trump proposes further reduction in funding for E-verify

      Employment Verification USCIS Proposed Legislation
    4. February 10, 2020

      DHS to collect social media information on certain CBP and USCIS forms

      Immigrant VisasNon-Immigrant VisasNaturalization CBPUSCIS Proposed Forms and Information Collection
  1. January 2020

    1. January 31, 2020

      POTUS issues Presidential Proclamation 9983, adding six new countries to Travel Ban

      Immigrant Visas CBPUSCISBureau of Consular Affairs Final/Actual Presidential Orders
    2. January 31, 2020

      USCIS announces new version of Form I-9, Employment Eligibility Verification

      Employment Verification USCIS Final/Actual Forms and Information Collection

      Current Status

      Partially in effect
    3. January 30, 2020

      USCIS issues guidance on biometrics services and fingerprint waivers

      Immigrant VisasNon-Immigrant VisasNaturalizationHumanitarian USCIS Final/Actual Agency Directive
    4. January 29, 2020

      USCIS adjusts process for processing EB-5 immigrant investor petitions

      Immigrant Visas: Employment-Based USCIS Final/Actual Agency Directive

      Current Status

      Partially in effect
    5. January 23, 2020

      USCIS rejects certain application forms for incompleteness if any fields are left blank

      Asylum, Withholding and CATU/T/VAWA USCIS Final/Actual Change in Practice
  1. December 2019

    1. December 13, 2019

      USCIS issues policy guidance on "unlawful acts" for good moral character evaluations

      Citizenship USCIS Final/Actual Agency Directive

      Current Status

      Partially in effect
    2. December 6, 2019

      USCIS proposes substantial changes to the USCIS motions and appeals process (Form I-290B)

      Non-Immigrant VisasImmigrant VisasHumanitarian USCIS Proposed Forms and Information Collection
  1. November 2019

    1. November 19, 2019

      Interim final rule modifies existing regulations to implement the Asylum Cooperative Agreements

      BorderAsylum, Withholding and CAT EOIRUSCISCBPDOS Final/ActualIn Litigation Rule
    2. November 19, 2019

      EOIR memorializes policy regarding joint rule on the implementation of Asylum Cooperative Agreements

      Asylum, Withholding and CATBorderHearings and Adjudications USCISEOIRICE Final/ActualIn Litigation Agency Directive
    3. November 19, 2019

      USCIS issues policy guidance on Special Immigrant Juvenile classification

      Immigrant Visas: Special ImmigrantMinorsHumanitarian USCIS Final/Actual Agency Directive
    4. November 8, 2019

      USCIS publishes final rule requiring $10 fee per registration for H-1B cap selection process

      Non-Immigrant Visas: Employment-Based USCIS Final/Actual Rule
    5. November 6, 2019

      DHS begins implementing the Humanitarian Asylum Review Program

      Asylum, Withholding and CATBorderHearings and Adjudications USCISCBPEOIR Final/ActualIn Litigation Change in Practice
  1. October 2019

    1. October 11, 2019

      State Department acts on 'Public Charge' changes, including issuing Interim Final Rule

      Non-Immigrant VisasImmigrant Visas USCISBureau of Consular Affairs Final/ActualIn LitigationEnjoined/VacatedRescinded Rule
    2. October 7, 2019

      DHS begins implementing the Prompt Asylum Claim Review program

      Asylum, Withholding and CATBorderDetentionHearings and Adjudications CBPUSCISEOIR Final/ActualIn Litigation Change in Practice
    3. October 4, 2019

      POTUS issues proclamation suspending entry of immigrants unable to obtain health care

      Immigrant Visas CBPUSCISBureau of Consular Affairs In Litigation Presidential Orders
  1. September 2019

    1. September 30, 2019

      USCIS issues policy guidance for Matter of L-E-A-

      Asylum, Withholding and CATRefugees USCISICEEOIR Final/Actual Agency Directive
    2. September 27, 2019

      Student & Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) issues guidance on reporting relationship between employment and area of study for F-1 OPT

      Non-Immigrant Visas: Student ICEUSCIS Final/Actual Agency Directive

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    3. September 26, 2019

      POTUS issues EO 13888, limiting refugee resettlement to states and localities consenting to receive refugees

      Refugees Bureau of Population, Refugees, and MigrationUSCISORRState & Local Entities Final/ActualIn LitigationEnjoined/Vacated Presidential Orders
    4. September 25, 2019

      United States and Honduras sign Asylum Cooperative Agreement

      BorderAsylum, Withholding and CAT CBPUSCISDOJ Final/ActualIn Litigation Agency Directive
    5. September 20, 2019

      United States and El Salvador sign Asylum Cooperative Agreement

      BorderAsylum, Withholding and CAT DOJUSCISCBP Final/ActualIn LitigationRescinded Agency Directive
  1. August 2019

    1. August 23, 2019

      Final Rule terminating Flores Agreement on detention of migrant children

      DetentionMinors ICEUSCISCBPORR Final/ActualIn LitigationEnjoined/Vacated Rule
    2. August 19, 2019

      USCIS issues guidance on discretionary employment authorization for parolees

      HumanitarianEmployment VerificationEnforcement CBPICEUSCIS Final/Actual Agency Directive
    3. August 14, 2019

      USCIS issues final rule on public charge inadmissibility grounds

      Non-Immigrant VisasImmigrant Visas USCIS Final/ActualIn LitigationEnjoined/Vacated Rule
    4. August 14, 2019

      New Form I-944, Declaration of Self-Sufficiency, required for adjustment of status applications

      Immigrant Visas USCIS Final/ActualIn Litigation Forms and Information Collection
    5. August 14, 2019

      USCIS releases new forms, Form I-945 and I-356, to formalize the public charge bond process

      Non-Immigrant VisasImmigrant Visas USCIS Final/ActualIn LitigationEnjoined/Vacated Forms and Information Collection
    6. August 14, 2019

      USCIS publishes revised forms consistent with final rule on public charge ground of inadmissibility

      Immigrant VisasNon-Immigrant Visas USCIS Final/ActualIn Litigation Forms and Information Collection
    7. August 2, 2019

      USCIS to terminate Haitian Family Reunification Parole program and Filipino World War II Veterans Parole program

      Humanitarian USCISBureau of Consular Affairs Final/Actual Agency DirectiveProgram Termination
    8. August 2, 2019

      ICE releases Fact Sheet on Directive 11005.2 allowing ICE power to immediately remove U Visa Petitioners

      U/T/VAWANon-Immigrant Visas ICEUSCIS Final/Actual Agency Directive
  1. July 2019

    1. July 29, 2019

      AG decides Matter of L-E-A-, narrowing family-based PSGs

      Asylum, Withholding and CAT EOIRICEAGUSCIS Final/ActualIn Litigation Adjudication
    2. July 26, 2019

      United States and Guatemala sign Asylum Cooperative Agreement

      Asylum, Withholding and CATBorder DOJCBPUSCIS Final/ActualIn Litigation Agency Directive
    3. July 24, 2019

      USCIS makes significant changes to EB-5 immigrant investor program

      Immigrant Visas: Employment-Based USCISDHS Final/ActualIn LitigationReplaced Rule
    4. July 16, 2019

      DHS and DOJ issue joint third country asylum rule

      Asylum, Withholding and CATBorder ICEEOIRUSCISCBP Final/ActualIn LitigationEnjoined/Vacated Rule
    5. July 9, 2019

      Asylum seekers given less time to prepare for credible fear interviews

      Asylum, Withholding and CAT USCIS In LitigationEnjoined/Vacated Change in Practice

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
  1. June 2019

    1. June 30, 2019

      USCIS extends benefits for certain CNMI residents

      HumanitarianCitizenship USCIS Final/ActualRenewed Agency Directive
  1. April 2019

    1. April 30, 2019

      Asylum interviewers will no longer be trained to consider lack of asylum seekers' evidence

      Asylum, Withholding and CAT USCIS In LitigationEnjoined/Vacated Change in Practice

      Current Status

      Not in effect
    2. April 26, 2019

      USCIS proposes revisions to N-648, Medical Certification for Disability Exceptions

      Naturalization USCIS Final/ActualRescinded Forms and Information Collection
    3. April 1, 2019

      USCIS denies H-1B petitions at higher rates

      Non-Immigrant Visas: Employment-Based USCIS Final/Actual Change in Practice
  1. March 2019

    1. March 12, 2019

      USCIS to close most of its international field offices

      HumanitarianImmigrant VisasCitizenship USCIS Final/Actual Change in Practice

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    2. March 11, 2019

      White House FY2020 Budget Proposal includes $8.6 billion in border wall funding

      InteriorBorder CBPICEUSCISOther Proposed Legislation
    3. March 8, 2019

      DHS extends TPS designation for South Sudan

      TPS USCIS Final/Actual Agency Directive
  1. February 2019

    1. February 14, 2019

      USCIS tightens legal marriage requirement for refugee RE-2 derivative spouses

      Refugees USCIS Final/Actual Agency DirectiveChange in Practice
    2. February 11, 2019

      USCIS requires biometrics for all applicants submitting Form I-539, Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status

      Non-Immigrant Visas USCIS Final/ActualRescinded Change in PracticeForms and Information Collection
    3. February 1, 2019

      USCIS requests comment on proposed revisions to Form N-336, Request for Hearing on a Decision in Naturalization Proceedings

      Naturalization USCIS Final/Actual Forms and Information Collection
  1. January 2019

    1. January 28, 2019

      USCIS issues guidance for implementing the Migrant Protection Protocols (MPP)

      Asylum, Withholding and CATBorder CBPUSCIS Final/ActualIn Litigation Agency Directive

      Current Status

      Partially in effect
    2. January 28, 2019

      CBP issues guidance for implementing Migrant Protection Protocols (MPP)

      Asylum, Withholding and CATBorder CBPUSCIS Final/ActualIn Litigation Agency Directive

      Current Status

      Partially in effect
    3. January 18, 2019

      DHS removes Ethiopia and Philippines from H-2A and H-2B eligible list, removes Dominican Republic from H-2B list

      Non-Immigrant Visas: Employment-Based USCIS Final/Actual Agency Directive

      Current Status

      Partially in effect
  1. December 2018

    1. December 21, 2018

      EOIR issues guidance on Pereira v. Sessions, announcing changes in NTA filings and case scheduling

      Hearings and Adjudications EOIRUSCISICECBP Final/ActualIn Litigation Change in Practice

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    2. December 21, 2018

      USCIS seeks comment on proposed revisions of forms related to foreign adoptions

      Immigrant Visas: Family-Based USCIS Final/Actual Forms and Information Collection
    3. December 20, 2018

      DHS promulgates the Migrant Protection Protocols (MPP)

      Asylum, Withholding and CATBorder CBPUSCISICE Final/ActualIn Litigation Agency DirectiveChange in Practice
    4. December 11, 2018

      USCIS proposes revisions to Form G-639, FOIA/Privacy Act Request

      Immigrant VisasNon-Immigrant VisasHumanitarian USCIS Final/Actual Forms and Information Collection

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
  1. November 2018

    1. November 30, 2018

      USCIS revises interview waiver guidance for Form I-751, Petition to Remove Conditions on Residence

      Immigrant Visas: Family-BasedImmigrant Visas: Employment-Based USCIS Final/Actual Agency Directive
    2. November 9, 2018

      DOJ and DHS issue interim final rule restricting access to asylum for individuals who enter outside recognized POEs

      Asylum, Withholding and CATBorder USCISCBPICEDHSEOIR Final/ActualIn LitigationEnjoined/Vacated Rule
  1. October 2018

    1. October 16, 2018

      USCIS revises validity of Form I-693, Report of Medical Examination and Vaccination Record

      Immigrant Visas USCIS Final/Actual Change in PracticeForms and Information Collection
    2. October 1, 2018

      USCIS issues guidance for certain H-2B foreign workers in Guam and Northern Mariana Islands

      Non-Immigrant Visas: Employment-Based USCIS Final/Actual Agency Directive
  1. September 2018

    1. September 26, 2018

      USCIS clarifies naturalization eligibility for children

      Citizenship USCIS Final/Actual Agency Directive

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
  1. August 2018

    1. August 31, 2018

      USCIS increases premium processing fee for applications postmarked after October 1, 2018

      Non-Immigrant Visas: Employment-BasedImmigrant Visas: Employment-Based USCIS Final/Actual Rule
    2. August 30, 2018

      USCIS proposes revisions to Form N-565, Application for Replacement Naturalization/Citizenship Document

      Citizenship USCIS Final/Actual Forms and Information Collection
    3. August 27, 2018

      DHS extends TPS for Somalia through March 17, 2020

      TPS USCIS Final/Actual Agency Directive
    4. August 15, 2018

      USCIS proposes revisions to Form N-600, Application for Certificate of Citizenship

      Citizenship USCIS Final/Actual Forms and Information Collection
    5. August 15, 2018

      USCIS seeks comment on proposed revisions to Form G-845, Document Verification Request and Supplement

      EnforcementLabor USCIS Proposed Forms and Information Collection
    6. August 14, 2018

      DHS extends TPS for Yemen

      TPS USCIS Final/Actual Agency Directive
    7. August 9, 2018

      USCIS changes policy on when F, J, and M nonimmigrants start accruing unlawful presence

      Non-Immigrant Visas: StudentNon-Immigrant Visas ICEUSCIS In LitigationEnjoined/Vacated Agency Directive
  1. July 2018

    1. July 30, 2018

      USCIS backlog of citizenship applications reportedly grows

      Citizenship USCIS Final/Actual Agency Directive
    2. July 25, 2018

      Report that USCIS has increased rates of RFEs and denials of H-1B and L-1 petitions.

      Non-Immigrant Visas: Employment-Based USCIS Reported Change in Practice
    3. July 13, 2018

      USCIS directs adjudicators to deny more applications without issuing a Request for Evidence

      Non-Immigrant Visas: Employment-BasedNon-Immigrant Visas: Family-BasedImmigrant Visas: Family-BasedImmigrant Visas: Employment-Based USCIS Final/Actual Agency Directive
    4. July 11, 2018

      ICE issues guidance for OPLA attorneys on litigating asylum claims after Matter of A-B-

      Asylum, Withholding and CAT USCISICEEOIR Final/ActualIn LitigationEnjoined/Vacated Agency Directive
    5. July 11, 2018

      Reports of possible safe-third country agreement with Mexico

      Asylum, Withholding and CATBorder CBPUSCISDOS Reported Change in Practice

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    6. July 1, 2018

      DOS advises it is processing visas according to Travel Ban post-Supreme Court decision

      Non-Immigrant Visas USCISBureau of Consular Affairs Final/ActualIn Litigation Agency Directive
  1. June 2018

    1. June 28, 2018

      USCIS expands grounds for issuance of NTAs

      InteriorHearings and AdjudicationsImmigrant VisasNon-Immigrant Visas ICEUSCIS Final/Actual Agency Directive
    2. June 28, 2018

      USCIS retains NTA policy for DACA requestors

      EnforcementDACA ICEUSCIS Final/Actual Agency Directive
    3. June 22, 2018

      DHS updates DACA rescission memo

      DACA USCIS Final/ActualIn Litigation Agency Directive
    4. June 5, 2018

      DHS terminates TPS for Honduras

      TPS USCIS Final/ActualIn LitigationEnjoined/VacatedRescinded Program Termination
  1. May 2018

    1. May 31, 2018

      DHS authorizes temporary 15,000 increase in H-2B visas

      Non-Immigrant Visas: Employment-Based USCISDOL Final/Actual Rule
    2. May 29, 2018

      USCIS proposes revisions to Form N-426, Request for Certification of Military or Naval Service

      Naturalization USCIS Final/Actual Forms and Information Collection
    3. May 23, 2018

      USCIS issues policy guidance regarding Child Status Protection Act

      Immigrant Visas: Family-BasedImmigrant Visas: Employment-Based USCIS Final/Actual Agency Directive
    4. May 17, 2018

      AG Sessions issues Matter of Castro-Tum, restricting administrative closure

      Hearings and Adjudications EOIRAGUSCISICE Final/Actual Adjudication
    5. May 15, 2018

      USCIS no longer waives interviews for employment-based and fiancé-based adjustment cases

      Immigrant Visas: Family-BasedImmigrant Visas: Employment-Based USCIS Final/Actual Agency Directive
  1. April 2018

    1. April 27, 2018

      CBP's metering policy is confirmed through litigation

      Asylum, Withholding and CATBorder CBPUSCISEOIR Final/ActualIn LitigationEnjoined/Vacated Agency DirectiveChange in Practice
    2. April 26, 2018

      DHS terminates TPS for Nepal

      TPS USCIS Final/ActualIn LitigationEnjoined/VacatedRescinded Agency DirectiveProgram Termination
    3. April 18, 2018

      USCIS clarifies parental physical presence requirements for child born abroad

      Citizenship USCISBureau of Consular Affairs Final/Actual Agency Directive

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    4. April 13, 2018

      Increased processing delays reported

      Non-Immigrant VisasImmigrant Visas USCIS Final/Actual Data and Reports
    5. April 10, 2018

      USCIS seeks comment on proposed revisions to Form G-884, Request for Return of Original Documents

      Immigrant VisasNon-Immigrant VisasHumanitarian USCIS Final/Actual Forms and Information Collection
    6. April 6, 2018

      POTUS issues memorandum ending "catch and release" at the border

      Border CBPICEUSCISORRAG Final/Actual Presidential Orders
  1. March 2018

    1. March 27, 2018

      POTUS terminates DED for Liberia

      Humanitarian USCIS Final/Actual Presidential Orders

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    2. March 23, 2018

      USCIS expands prohibition on multiple H-1B cap-subject filings by "related entities"

      Non-Immigrant Visas: Employment-Based USCIS Final/Actual Agency Directive
    3. March 7, 2018

      AG Sessions issues Matter of A-B-, restricting asylum claims based on domestic or gang violence

      Asylum, Withholding and CATHearings and Adjudications EOIRAGICEUSCIS Final/ActualIn LitigationEnjoined/Vacated Adjudication
  1. February 2018

    1. February 27, 2018

      USCIS proposes revisions to Form I-192 for T or U visa applicants

      U/T/VAWA USCIS Final/Actual Forms and Information Collection
    2. February 22, 2018

      USCIS changes third party placement and contract/itinerary requirements for H-1Bs

      Non-Immigrant Visas: Employment-Based USCIS Final/ActualIn LitigationReplaced Agency Directive
    3. February 15, 2018

      USCIS issues new DACA guidelines after federal judge reinstates DACA

      DACA USCIS Final/ActualIn Litigation Agency Directive
  1. January 2018

    1. January 31, 2018

      DHS extends TPS for Syria

      TPS USCIS Final/Actual Agency Directive
    2. January 26, 2018

      USCIS announces "last in-first out" processing for affirmative asylum interviews

      Asylum, Withholding and CAT USCIS Final/Actual Change in Practice

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    3. January 24, 2018

      USCIS disallows OPT work at third-party locations

      Non-Immigrant Visas: Student USCIS Replaced Agency Directive

      Current Status

      Not in effect
    4. January 18, 2018

      DHS terminates TPS for Haiti

      TPS USCIS Final/ActualIn LitigationEnjoined/Vacated Program Termination
    5. January 18, 2018

      DHS terminates TPS for El Salvador

      TPS USCIS Final/ActualIn LitigationEnjoined/VacatedRescinded Program Termination
    6. January 18, 2018

      DHS removes Belize, Haiti and Samoa from countries eligible for H-2A and H-2B visas

      Non-Immigrant Visas: Employment-Based USCIS Final/Actual Agency Directive

      Current Status

      Partially in effect
    7. January 4, 2018

      Visa approvals for family preference categories fall significantly in FY 2017

      Immigrant Visas: Family-Based USCIS Reported Change in Practice

      Current Status

      Partially in effect
  1. December 2017

    1. December 22, 2017

      USCIS updates procedures for Cubans following suspension of operations at Havana field office

      Immigrant VisasCitizenship USCISBureau of Consular Affairs Final/Actual Agency Directive
    2. December 14, 2017

      DHS plans to propose rule to rescind work authorization for H-4 spouses of H-1B visa holders

      Non-Immigrant Visas: Employment-Based USCIS In Regulatory Agenda Rule
  1. November 2017

    1. November 6, 2017

      DHS terminates TPS for Nicaragua

      TPS USCIS Final/ActualIn LitigationEnjoined/VacatedRescinded Agency DirectiveProgram Termination
  1. October 2017

    1. October 24, 2017

      POTUS issues EO 13815, announcing resumption of refugee admissions with new extreme vetting procedures

      Refugees Bureau of Population, Refugees, and MigrationUSCISDOJ Final/Actual Presidential Orders
    2. October 23, 2017

      USCIS ceases deference to past decisions for nonimmigrant petition extension requests

      Non-Immigrant Visas: Employment-Based USCIS Final/Actual Agency Directive
    3. October 13, 2017

      DOD increases naturalization requirements for military service

      Citizenship USCISDOD In LitigationEnjoined/Vacated Agency Directive
    4. October 12, 2017

      USCIS begins requiring I-129 petitioners to file in the location of the company's primary office

      Non-Immigrant Visas: Employment-Based USCIS Final/Actual Agency Directive
    5. October 11, 2017

      DHS terminates TPS for Sudan

      TPS USCIS Final/ActualIn LitigationEnjoined/Vacated Agency DirectiveProgram Termination
  1. September 2017

    1. September 24, 2017

      POTUS issues Presidential Proclamation 9645, restricting visas as part of travel ban Executive Order 13780

      Non-Immigrant VisasImmigrant Visas CBPUSCISBureau of Consular Affairs Final/Actual Presidential Orders
    2. September 18, 2017

      DHS publishes notice of DACA rescission in Federal Register

      DACA USCIS In LitigationRescinded Change in Practice
    3. September 5, 2017

      DHS terminates DACA (Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals) Program

      DACA USCISDHS Final/ActualIn Litigation Agency DirectiveProgram Termination
  1. August 2017

    1. August 28, 2017

      USCIS expands required in-person interviews for certain permanent residency applicants

      Immigrant Visas: Employment-BasedImmigrant Visas USCIS Final/Actual Change in Practice
    2. August 16, 2017

      DHS terminates Central American Minors (CAM) Parole Program

      Minors USCISBureau of Population, Refugees, and MigrationDOSDHS Final/ActualIn Litigation Program Termination

      Current Status

      Partially in effect
  1. July 2017

    1. July 11, 2017

      DHS delays International Entrepreneur Rule

      Non-Immigrant Visas USCIS ProposedIn Litigation Rule
  1. June 2017

    1. June 28, 2017

      DOS implements Travel Ban after preliminary injunctions lifted

      Non-Immigrant VisasImmigrant Visas CBPUSCISBureau of Consular Affairs Final/ActualIn Litigation Agency Directive
    2. June 26, 2017

      USCIS publishes new version of Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status

      Immigrant Visas USCIS Final/Actual Change in PracticeForms and Information Collection
  1. April 2017

    1. April 18, 2017

      POTUS issues "Buy American and Hire American" EO 13788, calling for H-1B reform proposals

      Non-Immigrant Visas: Employment-Based USCISDOLBureau of Consular Affairs Final/Actual Presidential Orders
    2. April 10, 2017

      USCIS recommends termination of Temporary Protected Status for Haiti

      TPS USCIS Final/ActualIn LitigationEnjoined/Vacated Program Termination
    3. April 5, 2017

      USCIS issues guidance on changing from B-1 or B-2 status

      Non-Immigrant Visas: VisitorNon-Immigrant Visas: Student USCIS Final/Actual Agency Directive

      Current Status

      Partially in effect
    4. April 3, 2017

      USCIS increases "targeting" of site visits to detect H-1B fraud

      Non-Immigrant Visas: Employment-Based USCIS Final/Actual Agency Directive
  1. March 2017

    1. March 31, 2017

      USCIS restricts H-1B eligibility for computer programmers

      Non-Immigrant Visas: Employment-Based USCIS Final/Actual Agency Directive
    2. March 14, 2017

      DHS proposes changes to Affidavit of Support forms (Form I-864, Form I-864A, Form I-864EZ and Form I-864W)

      Immigrant Visas: Family-Based USCISBureau of Consular Affairs Final/Actual Forms and Information Collection

      Current Status

      Partially in effect
    3. March 10, 2017

      DOS issues guidance for issuing visas under EO 13780 (Travel Ban 2)

      Non-Immigrant Visas USCISBureau of Consular Affairs Final/Actual Agency Directive
    4. March 6, 2017

      POTUS issues EO 13780, extending travel ban and instructing agencies to enhance screening of certain foreign nationals

      Non-Immigrant Visas CBPUSCISBureau of Consular Affairs Final/Actual Presidential Orders
    5. March 6, 2017

      President issues memo implementing heightened vetting of visa applications and reporting requirements

      RefugeesNon-Immigrant Visas Bureau of Consular AffairsBureau of Population, Refugees, and MigrationORRUSCISDHSDOJ Final/Actual Presidential Orders
  1. February 2017

    1. February 21, 2017

      DHS proposes adding social media question to Electronic Visa Update System

      Non-Immigrant Visas: VisitorNon-Immigrant Visas CBPUSCIS Final/Actual Forms and Information Collection
    2. February 20, 2017

      DHS implements EO 13767 on "Border Security and Immigration Enforcement Improvements"

      HumanitarianInteriorBorderDetention USCISCBPICE Final/ActualIn Litigation Agency Directive
    3. February 13, 2017

      USCIS raises standard for initial credible fear and reasonable fear interviews

      Asylum, Withholding and CAT USCIS Final/ActualIn Litigation Change in Practice
  1. January 2017

    1. January 27, 2017

      POTUS issues EO 13769, implementing travel ban and limiting refugee admissions

      Immigrant VisasNon-Immigrant VisasRefugees USCISBureau of Population, Refugees, and Migration Final/ActualIn Litigation Presidential Orders