Major U.S. Immigration Changes Introduced: What Workers and Employers Should Know
The United States has announced several significant immigration updates in recent weeks. These changes impact visa programs, work authorization, government fees, and border procedures — creating a new landscape for both applicants and businesses.
Updates to the 2027 Diversity Visa Program
The U.S. State Department has confirmed that the DV-2027 Diversity Visa entry system will undergo undisclosed changes.
While the exact process is yet to be announced, officials have clarified that the visa application timeline for selected candidates will remain unchanged, from October 1, 2026, to September 30, 2027.
Applicants are now awaiting further guidance on when the new registration period will officially open.
Shifts in Temporary Protected Status (TPS)
Several Temporary Protected Status (TPS) designations have recently been terminated.
As of early October 2025, TPS has ended for:
- Afghanistan
- Cameroon
- Haiti
- Honduras
- Nepal
- Nicaragua
- Syria
Each country has a different end-date for Employment Authorization Documents (EADs).
Meanwhile, TPS continues for Burma, El Salvador, Ethiopia, Lebanon, Somalia, South Sudan, and Sudan.
Venezuela’s TPS status remains under review due to ongoing litigation, after being temporarily restored by the U.S. Supreme Court.
540-Day Automatic EAD Extension Removed
One of the most impactful changes is the end of the 540-day automatic extension for Employment Authorization Documents.
This rule, discontinued on October 30, 2025, previously allowed many workers to stay employed during long USCIS processing delays.
Without this extension:
- Workers must have a valid EAD in hand to keep working.
- Employers may face sudden staffing gaps.
- Over 900,000 EAD renewal cases are already pending for more than six months.
This shift could create considerable challenges for both employees and employers nationwide.
New $100,000 H-1B Proclamation Fee
A new $100,000 fee now applies to certain H-1B petitions filed on or after September 21, 2025.
This fee mainly affects:
- Applicants outside the U.S. without a valid H-1B visa
- Petitions filed with consular processing
- Cases where USCIS approved the petition but denied a change/extension of status
USCIS has listed situations where the fee does not apply, but employers remain concerned about unclear definitions — especially what qualifies as a “current valid H-1B visa.”
The fee must be paid online before filing, and petitions missing proof of payment will be denied unless a national interest exception is granted.
New $1,000 Parole Fee
Starting October 16, 2025, most individuals approved for U.S. immigration parole must pay a $1,000 fee.
This fee is collected only after DHS decides the applicant will be granted parole.
Ten exceptions exist — mainly for urgent medical, humanitarian, or certain green-card related circumstances.
Biometric Collection for Entry and Exit
Beginning December 26, 2025, DHS will start collecting fingerprints and photographs from non-citizens both when entering and exiting the U.S.
This update strengthens identity verification and border management processes.
USCIS Now Requires Electronic Payments Only
As of October 27, 2025, USCIS no longer accepts paper checks.
All immigration filing fees must be paid electronically using approved payment authorization forms.
This change aims to reduce errors and streamline processing.
Reminder on Public Charge Review
USCIS has reiterated that officers will continue to apply the public charge criteria when assessing green card applications.
Factors reviewed include financial stability, age, health, education, assets, and previous use of certain public benefits.
This is not a new rule — but a reaffirmation of existing policy.
Conclusion
The recent wave of U.S. immigration changes reflects a significant tightening of procedures, increased fees, and heightened verification measures.
From work permits to visa fees, applicants and employers should prepare for longer timelines, stricter rules, and higher costs.
