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policies between January 2017 and March 2024

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Current Status
  1. January 2017

    1. January 24, 2017

      DOS amends FAM to allow for DNA tests to establish sibling relationships

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

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    2. January 25, 2017

      POTUS issues EO 13768, broadly expanding enforcement priorities and mandating enhancements to interior enforcement

      DetentionInteriorSanctuary Restrictions AGDOSICE Final/ActualIn Litigation Presidential Orders
    3. 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
    4. 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 9, 2017

      POTUS issues EO 13773, prioritizing enforcement against transnational crime

      Enforcement DOSDOJICECBP Final/Actual Presidential Orders

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    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 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
    5. March 17, 2017

      DOS issues new guidance for heightened vetting of visa applicants

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

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
  1. April 2017

    1. April 7, 2017

      DOS accepts EU Laissez-Passer as "passport"

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

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    2. 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
    3. April 26, 2017

      DOS requests comment on revisions to Form DS-7699, Affidavit of Relationship for Minors from El Salvador, Guatemala, or Honduras

      MinorsRefugees DOSBureau of Population, Refugees, and Migration Rescinded Forms and Information Collection
  1. May 2017

    1. May 4, 2017

      DOS issues new supplemental questionnaire (Form DS-5535) for enhanced vetting

      Non-Immigrant VisasImmigrant Visas DOS Final/ActualIn Litigation Forms and Information Collection

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
  1. June 2017

    1. June 21, 2017

      POTUS issues EO 13802, removing three-week timeline requirement for consular non-immigrant visa interviews

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

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    2. 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 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
    2. July 14, 2017

      DOS issues expanded definition of "close familial relationship" under EO 13780

      Non-Immigrant Visas Bureau of Consular Affairs 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 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
    3. 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 5, 2017

      DOS allows CBP to waive visa requirements in emergencies

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

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    2. 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
    3. 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
    4. 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
    5. September 29, 2017

      POTUS caps refugee admissions at 45,000 for Fiscal Year 2018

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

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
  1. October 2017

    1. October 8, 2017

      White House releases details on interior enforcement principles and policies

      Sanctuary RestrictionsInteriorDetention ICEBureau of Consular Affairs Final/Actual Presidential Orders

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    2. October 10, 2017

      DOJ and DOS sign agreement on employer visa misconduct

      EnforcementWorkplace EnforcementEmployment Verification IERBureau of Consular Affairs Final/Actual Agency Directive

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    3. 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
  1. November 2017

    1. 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
    2. November 20, 2017

      USCIS issues new standards for adoption from Hague Convention countries.

      Immigrant Visas: Family-BasedCitizenship USCISBureau of Consular Affairs Final/Actual Agency Directive

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
  1. December 2017

    1. December 2, 2017

      U.S. ends participation in Global Compact on Migration

      RefugeesImmigrant Visas USCISBureau of Consular AffairsBureau of Population, Refugees, and MigrationOther Final/Actual Program Termination

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    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 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
  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 26, 2018

      State Department issues guidance on issuing visas for less than full reciprocity period

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

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    3. January 29, 2018

      DHS announces new extreme vetting measures for refugees

      Refugees Bureau of Population, Refugees, and MigrationUSCISDOJOther Final/Actual Change in Practice

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
  1. February 2018

    1. February 1, 2018

      USCIS announces additional extreme vetting measures for "following-to-join" refugees

      Refugees USCISICECBPBureau of Population, Refugees, and Migration Final/Actual Change in Practice

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    2. February 6, 2018

      POTUS issues memorandum ordering creation of a National Vetting Center

      Enforcement DOSDHSDOJDODOther Final/Actual Presidential Orders

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    3. February 27, 2018

      State Department publishes FAQ on terrorism designations

      Enforcement DOS Final/Actual Change in Practice

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
  1. March 2018

    1. March 1, 2018

      State Dept. plans to propose rule creating a presumption against waiver of J-visa two-year return requirement

      Non-Immigrant Visas: StudentNon-Immigrant Visas Bureau of Consular Affairs Rescinded Rule

      Current Status

      Not in effect
    2. March 1, 2018

      State Dept. considers amending regulation to include medical examinations for all K Visa applicants

      Non-Immigrant Visas: Family-Based Bureau of Consular Affairs In Regulatory Agenda Rule

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    3. March 6, 2018

      Reported: State Dept. grants few travel ban waivers

      Non-Immigrant Visas Bureau of Consular Affairs Reported Change in Practice
    4. March 10, 2018

      State Department announces New Delhi consulate will cease to issue certain family-related visas

      Immigrant Visas: Family-Based USCISBureau of Consular Affairs Final/Actual Change in Practice

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    5. March 12, 2018

      DOS updates language on inadmissibility for application denials.

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

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    6. March 30, 2018

      DOS adds social media questions to Form DS-260, Immigrant Visa and Alien Registration Application

      Immigrant Visas: Employment-BasedImmigrant Visas: Family-BasedImmigrant Visas: DiversityImmigrant Visas: Special Immigrant DOS Final/ActualIn Litigation Forms and Information Collection
  1. April 2018

    1. April 10, 2018

      POTUS issues Presidential Proclamation, removing Chad from Travel Ban

      Non-Immigrant Visas: VisitorImmigrant Visas Bureau of Consular Affairs Final/Actual Presidential Orders
    2. 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
  1. May 2018

    1. 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
    2. Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    3. May 31, 2018

      Secretary of State delegates Special Immigrant authority

      Immigrant Visas: Special Immigrant USCISBureau of Consular Affairs Final/Actual Agency Directive

      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 14, 2018

      DOS proposed revisions to Form DS-7655, Iraqi Citizens and Nationals Employed by Federal Contractors and Grantees

      Asylum, Withholding and CATRefugeesImmigrant Visas: Special Immigrant DOS Rescinded Forms and Information Collection

      Current Status

      Not in effect
    3. June 25, 2018

      State Department requires electronic filing for EB-5 applications

      Immigrant Visas: Employment-Based Bureau of Consular Affairs 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. Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    3. July 6, 2018

      DHS eliminates H-2A visa exemption for certain Caribbean residents

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

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    4. July 10, 2018

      DHS imposes visa sanctions on Laos and Burma (Myanmar) for failure to accept nationals.

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

      Current Status

      Partially in effect
    5. July 26, 2018

      DOS proposes revisions to Form DS-230, Application for Immigrant Visa and Registration

      HumanitarianImmigrant Visas: Family-Based DOS Final/Actual Forms and Information Collection
  1. August 2018

    1. August 9, 2018

      DOS requests comment on proposed revisions to Form DS-5507, Affidavit of Physical Presence for Birth Abroad

      Citizenship DOS Final/Actual Forms and Information Collection
    2. August 28, 2018

      DOS adds social media questions to Forms DS-156 and DS-160, Applications for Nonimmigrant Visa

      Non-Immigrant Visas DOS Final/ActualIn Litigation Forms and Information Collection
    3. August 29, 2018

      Reports of denials of passports to US citizens born near Mexican border

      Citizenship USCISDOS Reported Change in Practice

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
  1. September 2018

    1. September 12, 2018

      State Department certifies immigration enforcement cooperation agreements with Guatemala, El Salvador and Honduras

      BorderAsylum, Withholding and CAT DOS Final/Actual Agency Directive

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    2. September 12, 2018

      Report that State Department plans to pay Mexico $20 million to deport unauthorized immigrants

      BorderAsylum, Withholding and CAT DOS Reported Agency Directive

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
  1. October 2018

    1. October 1, 2018

      DOS stops issuing diplomatic visas to unmarried same-sex partners

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

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    2. October 4, 2018

      POTUS caps refugee admissions at 30,000 for Fiscal Year 2019

      Refugees USCISBureau of Population, Refugees, and MigrationORR Final/Actual Presidential Orders

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
  1. November 2018

    1. November 9, 2018

      USCIS amends guidance on suitability of prospective parents for intercountry adoption

      Immigrant Visas: Family-BasedCitizenship USCISDOS Final/Actual Agency Directive

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
  1. December 2018

    1. December 6, 2018

      DOS revises Form DS-3077, Request for Entry into Children's Passport Issuance Alert Program

      Citizenship DOS Final/Actual Forms and Information Collection
    2. December 6, 2018

      DOS proposes revisions to Form DS-5506, Local U.S. Citizen Skills/Resources Survey

      Citizenship DOS Final/Actual Forms and Information Collection

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    3. December 11, 2018

      DOS proposes revision to Form DS-234, Special Immigrant Visa Biodata

      Immigrant Visas: Special Immigrant DOS Final/Actual Forms and Information Collection

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    4. Current Status

      Fully in Effect
  1. January 2019

    1. 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 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
  1. March 2019

    1. March 29, 2019

      State Department cuts aid to Northern Triangle countries

      Border DOS Final/Actual Change in Practice

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
  1. April 2019

    1. April 8, 2019

      DOS to designate Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps as Foreign Terrorist Organization

      Enforcement DHSDOSAG Final/Actual Agency Directive

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    2. April 9, 2019

      Secretary of State delegates authority to waive visa bans for certain Burmese nationals

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

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    3. 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
    4. 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
    5. April 22, 2019

      White House directs agencies to tighten B-1/B-2 and Visa Waiver Program enforcement

      Non-Immigrant Visas: VisitorNon-Immigrant Visas ICEDOSDHS Final/Actual Presidential Orders
    6. Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    7. 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 15, 2019

      DHS suspends flights to Venezuela

      Enforcement DHSDOSOther 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 23, 2019

      POTUS issues memo ordering strict enforcement of sponsor-reimbursement laws

      Humanitarian DOJDHSHHSDOS Final/Actual Presidential Orders
  1. June 2019

    1. June 5, 2019

      DOS requires Diversity Visa Program petitioners to provide more passport information

      Immigrant Visas: Diversity DOS Final/Actual Rule
    2. June 7, 2019

      United States and Mexico sign joint statement on immigration enforcement

      BorderAsylum, Withholding and CAT USCISICECBPDOS Final/Actual Change in Practice

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    3. 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
    4. June 19, 2019

      DOS seeks approval to collect information from A, G, or NATO visa applicants

      Non-Immigrant Visas Bureau of Consular Affairs Final/Actual Forms and Information Collection

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
  1. July 2019

    1. July 8, 2019

      Report: Immigration Officials Use Secretive Gang Databases to Deny Asylum Claims

      Asylum, Withholding and CATBorderInterior ICECBPUSCISDOS Reported Change in Practice

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    2. July 8, 2019

      The Under Secretary of State re-delegates authority to invoke privilege related to refugee vetting

      RefugeesBorder Bureau of Population, Refugees, and MigrationUSCISCBP Final/Actual Change in Practice

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    3. July 11, 2019

      POTUS issues EO 13880 on Collecting Information about Citizenship Status in Connection with 2020 Census

      Citizenship DHSDOSHHSSSA Final/Actual Presidential Orders
    4. 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
    5. July 23, 2019

      State Department issues final rule implementing Adoptive Family Relief Act

      MinorsImmigrant Visas DOS Final/Actual Rule

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    6. 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
  1. August 2019

    1. August 1, 2019

      State Department designates additional aliases of Al-Shabaab

      Enforcement DOS Final/Actual Agency Directive

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    2. 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
    3. August 5, 2019

      POTUS imposes sanctions on Venezuela via EO

      Enforcement CBPUSCISDOS Final/Actual Presidential Orders

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    4. August 9, 2019

      USCIS announces closure of Seoul office

      Citizenship USCISDOS Final/Actual Change in Practice

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    5. August 9, 2019

      USCIS plans to close several international field offices

      Immigrant VisasCitizenship DOSUSCIS Final/Actual Change in Practice

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    6. August 20, 2019

      Reported: DOS Changes Validity Of E Visas For French Citizens

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

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    7. August 21, 2019

      Reported: More than 2,000 migrants returned to Central American countries under "Assisted Voluntary Return" program.

      BorderAsylum, Withholding and CAT DHSDOS Reported Change in Practice

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
  1. September 2019

    1. 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
    2. September 25, 2019

      POTUS suspends entry of Iranian senior officials

      Non-Immigrant VisasImmigrant Visas USCISDHSDOS Final/Actual Presidential Orders

      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
  1. October 2019

    1. 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
    2. 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
    3. 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 1, 2019

      POTUS reduces refugee admissions to 18,000 for Fiscal Year 2020

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

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    2. November 8, 2019

      DHS designates Poland as Visa Waiver Program country

      Non-Immigrant Visas CBPDHSDOS Final/Actual Rule

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    3. November 19, 2019

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

      BorderAsylum, Withholding and CAT EOIRUSCISCBPDOS Final/ActualIn Litigation Rule
  1. December 2019

    1. December 9, 2019

      DOS clarifies passport regulations for applicants with delinquent tax debt

      Citizenship DOS Final/Actual Rule

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    2. December 30, 2019

      U.S. Census Bureau reports drop in net migration between U.S. and abroad in 2018-19

      Non-Immigrant VisasImmigrant Visas DHSDOS Final/Actual Data and Reports

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
  1. January 2020

    1. January 10, 2020

      State Department designates Asa'ib Ahl al-Haq as a foreign terrorist organization

      InteriorBorder DOSDHSDOJ Final/Actual Agency Directive

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    2. January 14, 2020

      POTUS issues EO 13902, suspending entry of Iranians with certain industry connections

      Non-Immigrant VisasImmigrant VisasBorder CBPBureau of Consular Affairs Final/Actual Presidential Orders

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    3. January 14, 2020

      State Department clarifies adoption policies for non-citizens living in the United States

      Minors USCISDOS Final/Actual Agency Directive

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    4. 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
    5. 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
    6. January 31, 2020

      USCIS shifts to requiring citizens residing abroad to file Form I-130 online except in very limited circumstances

      Immigrant Visas: Family-BasedCitizenship USCISDOS Final/Actual Change in Practice

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    7. 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
    8. January 31, 2020

      COVID-19: POTUS issues proclamation suspending entry of immigrants and nonimmigrants previously physically present in China

      Non-Immigrant VisasImmigrant Visas DHSDOS Final/Actual Presidential Orders
  1. February 2020

    1. February 19, 2020

      USCIS opens application period for new status for long-term residents of CNMI

      HumanitarianImmigrant Visas USCISBureau of Consular Affairs Change in Practice

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
  1. March 2020

    1. March 3, 2020

      DOS changes case status updates on online portal for visa applicants

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

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    2. March 11, 2020

      COVID-19: POTUS issues proclamation suspending entry of immigrants and nonimmigrants previously physically present in Schengen Area

      Non-Immigrant VisasImmigrant Visas DOSDHS Final/Actual Presidential Orders
    3. March 18, 2020

      COVID-19: DOS suspends visa services worldwide

      Non-Immigrant VisasImmigrant Visas Bureau of Consular Affairs In LitigationReplaced Agency Directive

      Current Status

      Partially in effect
    4. March 19, 2020

      Reported, COVID-19: Trump administration temporarily pausing refugee admissions

      Refugees USCISBureau of Population, Refugees, and Migration ReportedExpired Change in Practice

      Current Status

      Not in effect
    5. 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
  1. April 2020

    1. April 3, 2020

      COVID-19: DOS temporarily limits in-person passport services

      Citizenship DOS Final/Actual Change in Practice

      Current Status

      Not in effect
    2. April 10, 2020

      COVID-19: POTUS imposes visa sanctions on countries that refuse to accept return of foreign nationals

      Non-Immigrant VisasImmigrant Visas DHSDOS Final/ActualRenewed Presidential Orders

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    3. 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
    4. April 23, 2020

      COVID-19: ICE to test some immigrants for coronavirus before deportation

      Interior ICEDOS Reported Change in Practice

      Current Status

      Partially in effect
    5. April 27, 2020

      COVID-19: DOS postpones Entrance Status Check for Diversity Visa applicants

      Immigrant Visas: Diversity CBPUSCISDOS Final/Actual Change in Practice

      Current Status

      Not in effect
  1. May 2020

    1. May 4, 2020

      National Visa Center no longer accepts inquiries by mail

      Immigrant Visas: Family-BasedImmigrant Visas: Employment-BasedImmigrant Visas: Special Immigrant Bureau of Consular Affairs Final/Actual Change in Practice

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    2. May 24, 2020

      COVID-19: POTUS suspends entry of immigrants and nonimmigrants previously physically present in Brazil

      Non-Immigrant VisasImmigrant Visas DHSDOS Final/Actual Presidential Orders
    3. May 28, 2020

      COVID-19: CBP/TSA restrict arrivals of flights carrying persons traveling from Brazil

      Enforcement CBPTSABureau of Consular Affairs Rescinded Change in Practice
    4. 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 11, 2020

      POTUS issues EO 13928, suspending entry of noncitizens working for the ICC

      Non-Immigrant VisasImmigrant Visas DHSDOS Final/Actual Presidential Orders
    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. Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    4. June 26, 2020

      DOS removes defunct immigrant visa classification regulation for certain former U.S. citizens

      Immigrant Visas: Special ImmigrantCitizenship DOS Final/Actual Rule

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
  1. July 2020

    1. July 7, 2020

      DOS proposes revisions to medical examination form for refugees and visa applicants

      RefugeesImmigrant VisasNon-Immigrant Visas DOS Final/Actual Forms and Information Collection
    2. July 7, 2020

      DOS proposes revisions to Form DS-7994, Electronic Medical Examination for Visa Applicant

      Immigrant Visas DOS Proposed Forms and Information Collection
    3. July 14, 2020

      POTUS issues Executive Order on Hong Kong, affecting visas

      Immigrant VisasNon-Immigrant Visas Bureau of Consular Affairs Final/Actual Presidential Orders

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    4. July 30, 2020

      DOS amends Educational and Cultural Exchange Program Records system

      Non-Immigrant VisasNon-Immigrant Visas: Student DOS Final/Actual Forms and Information Collection

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
  1. August 2020

    1. August 24, 2020

      State Department requires Confucius Institute U.S. to provide list of Chinese citizens

      Non-Immigrant Visas DOS Final/Actual Agency Directive

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    2. August 25, 2020

      DOS temporarily expands nonimmigrant visa interview waiver eligibility

      Non-Immigrant Visas Bureau of Consular Affairs Final/Actual Agency DirectiveChange in Practice
    3. August 31, 2020

      DOS announces high prioritization of K visas

      Non-Immigrant Visas: Family-Based Bureau of Consular Affairs Final/Actual Agency Directive

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
  1. September 2020

    1. September 1, 2020

      DOS suspends entry of certain Syrian persons allegedly connected to military action

      Non-Immigrant VisasImmigrant Visas DOS Final/Actual Agency Directive

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    2. September 15, 2020

      DOS publishes FAQ on J Visa Processing Under Presidential Proclamation 10052

      Non-Immigrant Visas: Employment-Based Bureau of Consular AffairsDOS Final/Actual Agency Directive
    3. September 15, 2020

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

      Immigrant Visas: Diversity Bureau of Consular Affairs Final/ActualIn Litigation Agency Directive
    4. September 25, 2020

      DOS announces changes to publicly available refugee admissions data

      Refugees Bureau of Population, Refugees, and Migration Final/Actual Data and Reports

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    5. September 30, 2020

      DOS releases instructions for the 2022 Diversity Immigrant Visa Program

      Immigrant Visas: Diversity Bureau of Consular Affairs Final/Actual Agency Directive
  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 7, 2020

      DOS proposes revisions to J-1 visa waiver recommendation application

      Non-Immigrant Visas: Employment-Based Bureau of Consular Affairs Proposed Forms and Information Collection

      Current Status

      Not in effect
    3. October 9, 2020

      DOS announces immediate moratorium on au pair exchange visitor program growth

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

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    4. October 13, 2020

      Unauthorized CBP operation in Guatemala relocates Honduran migrants to the Guatemala-Honduras border

      BorderAsylum, Withholding and CAT DOSDHSCBP Final/Actual Change in Practice

      Current Status

      Not in effect
    5. October 17, 2020

      POTUS issues EO 13894, excluding individuals related to conflict in Syria, Turkish officials

      Non-Immigrant VisasImmigrant Visas Bureau of Consular AffairsCBP Final/Actual Presidential Orders

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    6. 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
    7. October 21, 2020

      DOS proposes rule ending "B-1 in lieu of H" policy

      Non-Immigrant Visas: Employment-BasedNon-Immigrant Visas: Visitor Bureau of Consular Affairs Proposed Rule

      Current Status

      Not in effect
    8. October 21, 2020

      DOS proposes revisions to Form DS-5535, Supplemental Questions for Visa Applicants

      Immigrant VisasNon-Immigrant Visas Bureau of Consular Affairs Proposed Forms and Information Collection
    9. October 23, 2020

      DOS proposes revisions to Form DS-7794, Electronic Medical Examination

      Immigrant Visas DOS Proposed Forms and Information Collection

      Current Status

      Partially in effect
    10. October 26, 2020

      DOS proposes revisions to Form DS-2019, Certificate of Eligibility for J-1 Status

      Non-Immigrant Visas: Visitor Bureau of Consular Affairs Proposed Data and Reports

      Current Status

      Not in effect
    11. 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
  1. November 2020

    1. November 5, 2020

      DOS revokes designation of ETIM as a foreign terrorist organization

      InteriorBorder DOSDOJDHS Final/Actual Agency Directive

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    2. November 5, 2020

      DOS proposes revisions to Form DS-234, Special Immigrant Visa Biodata

      Immigrant Visas: Special Immigrant DOS Proposed Forms and Information Collection

      Current Status

      Not in effect
    3. November 20, 2020

      State Department proposes new rule impacting intercountry adoption

      Immigrant Visas: Family-BasedCitizenship Bureau of Consular Affairs Proposed Rule

      Current Status

      Not in effect
    4. November 24, 2020

      DOS imposes bond pilot program for business, tourists visas from certain countries

      Non-Immigrant Visas: Visitor Bureau of Consular AffairsICE Final/Actual Rule

      Current Status

      Not in effect
  1. December 2020

    1. December 2, 2020

      DOS tightens visa restrictions for Chinese Communist Party members

      Non-Immigrant Visas: Visitor Bureau of Consular Affairs Final/Actual Agency DirectiveChange in Practice

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    2. December 8, 2020

      State Department proposes revisions to Refugee Biographic Data Sheet

      Refugees DOSBureau of Population, Refugees, and MigrationUSCIS Proposed Forms and Information Collection
    3. December 15, 2020

      DOS reimposes sanctions on Chinese companies, individuals for Iranian oil dealings

      Non-Immigrant Visas DOS Final/ActualRenewed Agency Directive

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    4. December 18, 2020

      Department of State rescinds designation of Sudan as a state sponsor of terrorism

      Non-Immigrant VisasImmigrant Visas DOS Final/Actual Agency Directive

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
  1. January 2021

    1. Current Status

      Not in effect
    2. January 6, 2021

      DOS reimposes sanctions on Chinese, Indian, and Iranian individuals for Iranian petroleum business

      Non-Immigrant Visas DOS Final/ActualRenewed Agency Directive

      Current Status

      Fully in Effect
    3. January 14, 2021

      DOS designates various organizations, individuals as terrorists

      EnforcementNon-Immigrant VisasNon-Immigrant Visas: Visitor DOS Final/ActualRenewed Agency Directive
    4. January 19, 2021

      DOS designates Ansarallah as a foreign terrorist organization

      EnforcementNon-Immigrant VisasImmigrant Visas DOS Final/Actual Agency Directive