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policies between January 2017 and March 2024

179 Policies

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Current Status
  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
    2. January 27, 2017

      DOS revokes nonimmigrant and immigrant visas for seven countries subject to Travel Ban

      Non-Immigrant VisasImmigrant Visas USCISBureau of Consular Affairs Final/Actual Agency Directive

      Current Status

      Not in effect
  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 22, 2017

      DOS changes guidance for B-1 Visa eligiblity for noncitizens seeking E-2 or EB-5 visas.

      Immigrant Visas: Employment-BasedNon-Immigrant Visas: Employment-Based Bureau of Consular AffairsUSCIS Final/Actual Agency Directive

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
  1. March 2017

    1. 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
    2. 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
    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 31, 2017

      USCIS restricts H-1B eligibility for computer programmers

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

    1. April 3, 2017

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

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

      USCIS creates email address for reporting H-1B fraud

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

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    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 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
  1. May 2017

    1. May 16, 2017

      USCIS requests comment on proposed revisions to Form I-290B, Notice of Appeal or Motion

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

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    2. May 23, 2017

      USCIS clarifies school criteria for H-1B master's cap-exempt petitions

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

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
  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
  1. July 2017

    1. July 11, 2017

      DHS delays International Entrepreneur Rule

      Non-Immigrant Visas USCIS ProposedIn Litigation Rule
    2. July 12, 2017

      DOS issues vetting standards for countries under EO 13780 Travel Ban

      Non-Immigrant Visas CBPUSCISBureau of Consular Affairs Final/Actual Agency Directive

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    3. July 19, 2017

      DHS & DOL allocate additional non-agricultural H-2B visas for FY 2017

      Non-Immigrant Visas: Employment-Based USCISDOL Final/Actual Rule

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    4. July 24, 2017

      USCIS resumes premium processing for certain cap-exempt H1B visas

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

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
  1. August 2017

    1. August 1, 2017

      DOS expands presumption of misrepresentation for nonimmigrants

      Non-Immigrant Visas USCISBureau of Consular Affairs Final/Actual Agency Directive

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    2. August 1, 2017

      Reported: USCIS denies applications for advance parole where applicant leaves U.S. while application pending

      Non-Immigrant VisasImmigrant Visas USCIS Rescinded Change in Practice

      Current Status

      Not in effect
    3. August 9, 2017

      USCIS redefines "affiliate" and "subsidiary" for ACWIA Fee

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

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    4. August 27, 2017

      Reported: Administration considers removing programs from J-1 visa eligibility

      Non-Immigrant Visas: Employment-Based USCISDOS Reported Change in Practice

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
  1. September 2017

    1. September 13, 2017

      DHS imposes visa sanctions on four countries for failure to accept return of nationals

      EnforcementNon-Immigrant Visas Bureau of Consular AffairsUSCISICECBP Final/Actual Agency Directive

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    2. September 18, 2017

      Immigration attorneys report that USCIS is now conducting site visits for L-1B visa holders

      Non-Immigrant Visas: Employment-Based USCIS Reported Change in Practice

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    3. September 19, 2017

      Report that USCIS increases RFEs for H-1B petitions

      Non-Immigrant Visas: Employment-Based USCIS Reported Change in Practice

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    4. September 21, 2017

      POTUS issues EO 13810, barring categories of North Koreans from entry

      Non-Immigrant VisasImmigrant Visas CBPUSCISBureau of Consular Affairs Presidential Orders

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    5. 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
  1. October 2017

    1. October 4, 2017

      USCIS permits concurrent application for employment authorization and Social Security Number

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

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    2. 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
    3. October 23, 2017

      USCIS ceases deference to past decisions for nonimmigrant petition extension requests

      Non-Immigrant Visas: Employment-Based USCIS Final/Actual Agency Directive
    4. October 26, 2017

      ICE imposes new removal deadline on noncitizens with pending U visa applications

      U/T/VAWANon-Immigrant VisasInterior ICEUSCIS Final/Actual Change in Practice

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
  1. November 2017

    1. November 8, 2017

      USCIS adopts test for identifying "function managers"

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

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    2. November 16, 2017

      DOS restricts visas for certain Cambodian officials

      Non-Immigrant Visas USCISBureau of Consular Affairs Final/Actual Change in Practice

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    3. November 20, 2017

      USCIS restricts eligibility for TN economist category to professional economists

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

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    4. November 22, 2017

      Administration drastically reduces transitional worker visa allotments for Northern Mariana Islands for FY 2017-2019

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

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
  1. December 2017

    1. 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
    2. December 15, 2017

      DHS adds requirements for countries to participate in Visa Waiver Program

      Non-Immigrant Visas: Visitor CBPUSCISBureau of Consular Affairs Final/Actual Agency Directive

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    3. December 29, 2017

      USCIS clarifies requirements for establishing corporate relationship for L-1 visa

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

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
  1. January 2018

    1. January 5, 2018

      State Department expands travel restrictions for Eritreans

      Non-Immigrant Visas: StudentNon-Immigrant Visas: VisitorNon-Immigrant Visas: Employment-Based ICEUSCISDOS Final/Actual Agency Directive

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    2. 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
    3. Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    4. January 24, 2018

      USCIS disallows OPT work at third-party locations

      Non-Immigrant Visas: Student USCIS Replaced Agency Directive

      Current Status

      Not in effect
  1. February 2018

    1. February 8, 2018

      USCIS revises Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization to include question about prior arrests and convictions

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

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    2. February 15, 2018

      USCIS restricts employers' outside counsel from signing H-1B petitions

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

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    3. 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
  1. March 2018

    1. March 19, 2018

      USCIS restricts multinational employment exception, requires an additional year of qualifying employment abroad

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

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    2. March 20, 2018

      USCIS suspends premium processing for H-1B cap-subject petitions

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

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    3. March 22, 2018

      USCIS redesigns processing times webpage and tests new way of calculating processing times

      Immigrant VisasNon-Immigrant VisasNaturalization USCIS Final/Actual Data and ReportsForms and Information Collection

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    4. 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
    5. March 30, 2018

      USCIS and CBP establish pilot program on immediate admissibility determination for Canadian L-1 applicants

      Non-Immigrant Visas: Employment-Based CBPUSCIS Final/Actual Change in Practice

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
  1. April 2018

    1. April 4, 2018

      USCIS reports efforts to narrow eligibility for nonimmigrant worker programs

      Non-Immigrant Visas: Employment-Based USCIS Final/Actual Change in Practice

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    2. 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
    3. April 13, 2018

      Increased processing delays reported

      Non-Immigrant VisasImmigrant Visas USCIS Final/Actual Data and Reports
  1. May 2018

    1. May 2, 2018

      USCIS uses lottery to allocate FY19 CW-1 visas for Northern Mariana Islands

      Non-Immigrant Visas: Employment-Based USCIS Final/Actual Change in Practice

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    2. May 5, 2018

      DOS announces end of bilateral investment treaty with Ecuador and limits future E-2 visas for Ecuadorians

      Non-Immigrant Visas: Employment-Based USCISBureau of Consular Affairs Final/Actual Program Termination

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    3. May 18, 2018

      ICE clarifies that certain F-1 student volunteer positions are disqualified from OPT

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

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    4. May 30, 2018

      USCIS launches first phase of new FOIA request system allowing digital access to records

      Immigrant VisasNon-Immigrant VisasHumanitarianCitizenship USCIS Final/Actual Agency DirectiveChange in PracticeForms and Information Collection

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    5. May 31, 2018

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

      Non-Immigrant Visas: Employment-Based USCISDOL Final/Actual Rule
    6. May 31, 2018

      USCIS announces lottery for H-2B visas

      Non-Immigrant Visas: Employment-Based USCIS Final/Actual Change in Practice

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
  1. June 2018

    1. June 11, 2018

      Reported: Visas for Chinese students and researchers in sensitive areas restricted

      Non-Immigrant Visas: Student USCISBureau of Consular Affairs Reported Change in Practice

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    2. June 28, 2018

      USCIS expands grounds for issuance of NTAs

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

      DHS extends employment authorization for Nepali F-1 nonimmigrant students for one year

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

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
  1. July 2018

    1. 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
    2. 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
    3. July 20, 2018

      Report: DHS increasing deportation and detention of U-1 status applicants

      U/T/VAWANon-Immigrant Visas ICEUSCIS Reported Change in Practice

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    4. 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
  1. August 2018

    1. 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
    2. 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
  1. September 2018

    1. September 14, 2018

      USCIS accepts negative consultation letters for O visa petitions directly from unions

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

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    2. September 17, 2018

      USCIS revises Form G-28, Notice of Entry of Appearance as Attorney or Accredited Representative

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

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    3. September 28, 2018

      USCIS warns students about accrual of unlawful presence if they work after "cap gap" period

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

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    4. September 28, 2018

      USCIS requests comment on proposed revisions to Form I-912, Request for Fee Waiver

      HumanitarianNon-Immigrant VisasImmigrant Visas USCIS In LitigationEnjoined/Vacated Forms and Information Collection

      Current Status

      Not in effect
  1. October 2018

    1. 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
    2. October 26, 2018

      ICE changes unemployment calculations for students while on post-completion/STEM OPT

      Non-Immigrant Visas: Student ICEUSCIS Final/Actual Change in Practice

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    3. October 30, 2018

      DOL updates H-1B labor condition application form

      Non-Immigrant Visas: Employment-Based USCISDOL Final/Actual Forms and Information Collection

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
  1. November 2018

    1. November 15, 2018

      USCIS issues guidance on L-1 one-year foreign employment requirement

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

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    2. November 16, 2018

      USCIS consolidates data on its website into one page entitled Immigration and Citizenship Data

      CitizenshipImmigrant VisasNon-Immigrant VisasHumanitarian USCIS Final/Actual Data and Reports

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
  1. December 2018

    1. 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
    2. December 21, 2018

      USCIS eliminates certain Service Center e-mail addresses

      Non-Immigrant VisasImmigrant Visas USCIS Final/Actual Change in Practice

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
  1. January 2019

    1. January 16, 2019

      USCIS updates guidance regarding secure identity documents

      Immigrant VisasNon-Immigrant VisasCitizenship USCIS Final/Actual Agency Directive

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    2. 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
    3. January 31, 2019

      USCIS Imposes H-1B Pre-Registration Process for Cap Lottery; Prioritizes Advanced Degree Holders

      Non-Immigrant Visas: Employment-Based USCIS Final/Actual Rule

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    4. January 31, 2019

      DHS and DOS impose visa sanctions on Ghana

      Non-Immigrant Visas USCISBureau of Consular Affairs Final/Actual Agency Directive

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
  1. February 2019

    1. February 1, 2019

      USCIS requests comment on proposed revisions to Form I-693, Report of Medical Examination and Vaccination Record

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

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    2. February 5, 2019

      USCIS closes field office in Moscow, Russia

      Non-Immigrant Visas USCISBureau of Consular Affairs Final/Actual Agency Directive

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    3. 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
    4. February 26, 2019

      DOL plans to randomize processing of H-2B visa applications, rather than first-come-first-serve

      Non-Immigrant Visas: Employment-Based USCISDOL Final/Actual Change in Practice

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
  1. March 2019

    1. March 15, 2019

      DOL imposes new LCA electronic notice obligations on employers and end-clients

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

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
  1. April 2019

    1. April 1, 2019

      USCIS launches H-1B data hub

      Non-Immigrant Visas: Employment-Based USCIS Final/Actual Change in Practice

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    2. April 1, 2019

      DOL publishes interim final rule on CW-1 visa

      Non-Immigrant Visas: Employment-Based USCISDOL Final/Actual Rule

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    3. April 1, 2019

      USCIS denies H-1B petitions at higher rates

      Non-Immigrant Visas: Employment-Based USCIS Final/Actual Change in Practice
    4. April 8, 2019

      DHS increases Greece ESTA validity to two years

      Non-Immigrant Visas: Visitor CBPUSCIS Final/Actual Agency Directive

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    5. April 22, 2019

      State Department and DHS announce reciprocal investor visa with Israel

      Non-Immigrant Visas: Employment-Based USCISBureau of Consular AffairsDHS Final/Actual Agency Directive

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    6. April 22, 2019

      DOS instructs consular officers to "discontinue granting" visas in countries that do not accept their citizens when removed from the United States

      Non-Immigrant VisasImmigrant Visas ICEUSCISBureau of Consular Affairs Final/Actual Rule

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    7. April 25, 2019

      CBP Further Restricts Canadian L-1 Applications at the Border

      Non-Immigrant Visas: Employment-Based CBPUSCIS Final/Actual Agency DirectiveChange in Practice

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    8. April 29, 2019

      Secretary of State excepts activities related to Kataeb militias from terrorism related inadmissibility grounds under INA 212(a)(3)(B)(i)

      Non-Immigrant VisasImmigrant Visas ICEUSCISBureau of Consular Affairs Final/Actual Agency Directive

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
  1. May 2019

    1. May 6, 2019

      State Department limits requirement to refer nonimmigrant inadmissibility waiver requests

      Non-Immigrant Visas USCISBureau of Consular Affairs Final/Actual Rule

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    2. May 9, 2019

      USCIS issues guidance on P-1S visa validity period

      Non-Immigrant Visas USCIS Final/Actual Agency Directive

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    3. May 16, 2019

      State Department Imposes and Waives PLO and PA Visa Denials

      Non-Immigrant Visas USCISBureau of Consular Affairs Final/Actual Agency Directive

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    4. May 21, 2019

      State Department confirms effective date for final rule on Electronic Visa Update System

      Non-Immigrant Visas: VisitorNon-Immigrant Visas USCISBureau of Consular Affairs Final/Actual Rule

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    5. May 22, 2019

      DHS finalizes new & increased fees charged by SEVP

      Non-Immigrant Visas: Student ICEUSCIS Final/Actual Rule

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
  1. June 2019

    1. June 4, 2019

      USCIS updates rejection criteria for Form I-129

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

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    2. June 7, 2019

      US recognizes five-year extension of validity for Venezuelan passports

      Non-Immigrant VisasImmigrant Visas CBPUSCISBureau of Consular Affairs Final/Actual Agency Directive

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    3. June 10, 2019

      New Zealand Nationals Eligible for E-1 and E-2 Nonimmigrant Classifications

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

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    4. June 27, 2019

      USCIS Seeks Comments on Proposed H-1B Registration Tool Information Collection

      Non-Immigrant Visas: Employment-Based USCIS Final/Actual Forms and Information Collection

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
  1. July 2019

    1. July 23, 2019

      DOS imposes visa restrictions on Nigerians

      Non-Immigrant VisasImmigrant Visas USCISBureau of Consular Affairs Final/Actual Agency Directive

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    2. July 24, 2019

      DHS begins conducting on-site inspections of F-1 STEM OPT employment

      Workplace EnforcementNon-Immigrant Visas: Student ICEUSCIS Reported Change in Practice

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    3. July 26, 2019

      POTUS issues EO 13882, suspending entry of persons engaged in certain activities in Mali

      Non-Immigrant VisasImmigrant Visas USCISBureau of Consular Affairs Final/Actual Presidential Orders

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    4. July 26, 2019

      H-2B petitioners must include FLAG system temporary labor certification final determination with Form I-129

      Non-Immigrant Visas: Employment-Based USCISDOL Final/Actual Change in Practice

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    5. July 30, 2019

      United States and Guatemala sign agreements on H-2 nonimmigrant visas

      Non-Immigrant Visas: Employment-Based USCISDOL Final/Actual Change in Practice

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    6. July 31, 2019

      USCIS publishes U Visa Law Enforcement Resource Guide

      U/T/VAWANon-Immigrant Visas USCISState & Local Entities Final/Actual Agency Directive

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
  1. August 2019

    1. 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
    2. August 14, 2019

      USCIS issues final rule on public charge inadmissibility grounds

      Non-Immigrant VisasImmigrant Visas USCIS Final/ActualIn LitigationEnjoined/Vacated Rule
    3. 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
    4. 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
  1. September 2019

    1. September 3, 2019

      DHS rescinds parole into Guam and CNMI for Russians, restricting issuance to case-by-case determination

      HumanitarianNon-Immigrant Visas: Visitor CBPUSCIS Final/Actual Agency Directive

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    2. September 20, 2019

      DOL publishes final rule transitioning to electronic advertising for H-2A worker recruitment

      Non-Immigrant Visas: Employment-Based USCISDOL Final/Actual Rule

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    3. September 25, 2019

      POTUS issues proclamation suspending entry of certain members of the Maduro government in Venezuela

      Non-Immigrant VisasImmigrant Visas USCISDHSDOS Final/Actual Presidential Orders

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    4. September 25, 2019

      POTUS suspends entry of Iranian senior officials

      Non-Immigrant VisasImmigrant Visas USCISDHSDOS Final/Actual Presidential Orders

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    5. 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
  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 31, 2019

      State Department clarifies standard of review for blanket L visa applications

      Non-Immigrant Visas: Employment-Based USCISBureau of Consular Affairs Final/Actual Agency Directive

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
  1. November 2019

    1. 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
    2. November 15, 2019

      DOL & USCIS final rule eliminates print ads for H-2B recruitment

      Non-Immigrant Visas: Employment-Based USCISDOL Final/Actual Rule

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
  1. December 2019

    1. 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
    2. December 19, 2019

      DOL announces AEWR annual update for H-2A herding and livestock range workers

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

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
  1. January 2020

    1. January 16, 2020

      USCIS proposes changes to Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization

      Non-Immigrant VisasHumanitarianImmigrant Visas USCIS Proposed Forms and Information Collection

      Current Status

      Not in effect
    2. January 23, 2020

      USCIS announces Iranian nationals are no longer eligible for E-1 or E-2 visas due to treaty termination

      Non-Immigrant Visas: Employment-Based Bureau of Consular AffairsUSCIS Final/Actual Agency Directive

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    3. January 24, 2020

      State Department aims to limit 'birth tourism' with new visa rule

      Non-Immigrant Visas: Visitor USCISBureau of Consular Affairs Final/Actual Rule

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    4. January 30, 2020

      USCIS issues guidance on biometrics services and fingerprint waivers

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

    1. February 10, 2020

      Trump's FY2021 budget proposal would double H-1B training fees

      Non-Immigrant Visas: Employment-Based USCISDOL Proposed Legislation

      Current Status

      Not in effect
    2. 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
    3. February 14, 2020

      USCIS Suspends H-1B Pre-Paid Mailer

      Non-Immigrant Visas: Employment-Based USCIS Final/Actual Change in Practice

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    4. February 26, 2020

      SEVP Changes the Recertification Notification Process

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

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    5. February 28, 2020

      USCIS publishes updated guidance on H-2A petitions for sheep/goat herders

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

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
  1. March 2020

    1. March 5, 2020

      USCIS issues policy guidance on submission of benefit requests

      Immigrant VisasNon-Immigrant VisasHumanitarianCitizenship USCIS Final/Actual Agency Directive
    2. March 6, 2020

      USCIS requires FLAG system temporary labor certification final determination to be submitted with H-2A petition

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

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    3. March 9, 2020

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

      Non-Immigrant Visas: Student ICEUSCIS Final/Actual Agency Directive
    4. 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
    5. 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
    6. March 26, 2020

      COVID-19: DOS informs medical professionals of continuing ability to request visa appointments

      Non-Immigrant Visas: Employment-Based USCISBureau of Consular Affairs Final/Actual Agency Directive

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    7. March 30, 2020

      COVID-19: USCIS Continues Processing Applications for Employment Authorization Extension Requests Despite Closures

      Non-Immigrant VisasImmigrant Visas USCIS Expired Change in Practice

      Current Status

      Not in effect
  1. April 2020

    1. April 13, 2020

      COVID-19: USCIS announces delay in data entry and receipt notice generation for H-1B petitions

      Non-Immigrant Visas: Employment-Based USCIS Expired Change in Practice

      Current Status

      Not in effect
    2. Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    3. April 17, 2020

      COVID-19: CBP offers extension for Visa Waiver Program travelers

      Non-Immigrant Visas: Visitor CBPUSCIS Final/Actual Agency Directive

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    4. April 20, 2020

      COVID-19: USCIS issues temporary final rule, lifting certain H-2A program limitations

      Non-Immigrant Visas: Employment-Based USCISDOL Final/ActualRenewed Rule

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    5. 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
  1. May 2020

    1. May 11, 2020

      COVID-19: USCIS issues temporary guidance for certain H-1B foreign medical graduates

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

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    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 14, 2020

      COVID-19: USCIS issues temporary final rule modifying H-2B requirements

      Non-Immigrant Visas: Employment-Based USCISDOL Final/Actual Rule

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    4. 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
    5. May 26, 2020

      USCIS publishes instructions for electronic registration for H-1B cap sponsoring entities

      Non-Immigrant Visas: Employment-Based USCIS Final/Actual Agency DirectiveForms and Information Collection

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    6. May 29, 2020

      POTUS issues proclamation suspending entry of certain students and researchers from China

      Non-Immigrant Visas: Employment-BasedNon-Immigrant Visas: Student CBPUSCISBureau of Consular Affairs Final/Actual Presidential Orders

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
  1. June 2020

    1. 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
    2. 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
    3. June 25, 2020

      USCIS proposes cost recovery surcharge

      Immigrant VisasNon-Immigrant Visas USCIS Proposed Legislation
    4. 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
  1. July 2020

    1. 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
  1. August 2020

    1. August 3, 2020

      USCIS issues final rule increasing fees

      Asylum, Withholding and CATImmigrant VisasNon-Immigrant VisasNaturalization USCIS Final/ActualIn LitigationEnjoined/Vacated Rule
    2. 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
  1. September 2020

    1. 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
    2. September 11, 2020

      DHS proposes rule to expand biometric data collection

      Non-Immigrant VisasEnforcementImmigrant Visas USCIS Proposed 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 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
  1. October 2020

    1. 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
    2. 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
    3. October 8, 2020

      DHS issues interim final rule narrowing H-1B criteria

      Non-Immigrant Visas: Employment-Based USCISDOL Final/ActualIn LitigationEnjoined/VacatedRenewed Rule
    4. October 15, 2020

      USCIS updates Policy Manual guidance on nonimmigrant cultural visitor (Q) visas

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

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    5. October 22, 2020

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

      Non-Immigrant Visas: Employment-Based USCIS Proposed Forms and Information Collection
  1. November 2020

    1. November 12, 2020

      USCIS announces new form G-1558, Report of Request/Receipt of Benefits by Non-Citizens

      Immigrant VisasHumanitarianNon-Immigrant Visas USCISState & Local EntitiesOther Proposed Forms and Information Collection

      Current Status

      Not in effect
    2. November 13, 2020

      DHS provides information on how to request case assistance from the CIS Ombudsman

      Immigrant VisasNon-Immigrant Visas USCIS Final/Actual Agency Directive

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    3. November 30, 2020

      USCIS provides new edition of Form I-905, Application for Authorization to Issue Certification for Health Care Workers

      Non-Immigrant Visas: Employment-Based USCIS Final/Actual Forms and Information Collection

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
  1. December 2020

    1. December 15, 2020

      DOL announces AEWR annual update for H-2A herding and livestock range workers

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

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    2. 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
    3. 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
  1. January 2021

    1. January 8, 2021

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

      Non-Immigrant Visas: Employment-Based USCIS Final/ActualEnjoined/Vacated Rule