Policy Updates
Immigration policy changes from the Federal Register, explained in plain language.
DHS Ends Somalia TPS — Thousands Lose Protected Status in March
The Department of Homeland Security is terminating Temporary Protected Status for Somalia, ending protections that have been in place since 1991. Somali TPS holders will lose their legal status and work authorization on March 17, 2026. If you or someone you know holds Somalia TPS, time is running out to explore other options.
PHMSA Finalizes Integrity-Management Alternative for Gas Pipeline Class Location Changes
The Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) has issued a final rule allowing gas pipeline operators to use modern integrity-management (IM) principles instead of costly pipeline replacements or pressure tests when population growth triggers a class location change. The rule, effective March 16, 2026, codifies an approach that has been available via special permits for over two decades. This rule primarily affects natural gas pipeline operators and does not directly impact visa holders or immigration processes.
DHS Ends Somalia's Temporary Protected Status Effective March 17, 2026
The Department of Homeland Security is terminating Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Somalia, ending protections that have been in place since 1991. Somali nationals currently holding TPS will lose their protected status and work authorization at 11:59 p.m. on March 17, 2026. Affected individuals should consult an immigration attorney immediately to explore other options for remaining lawfully in the United States.
USCIS Raising Premium Processing Fees on March 1 — What H-1B Filers Must Know
USCIS is hiking its premium processing fees starting March 1, 2026, driven by two years of inflation. If you're planning to file for expedited processing of an H-1B or other employment-based petition, anything postmarked on or after March 1 must include the new, higher fee — or it could be rejected.
USCIS Raises Premium Processing Fees March 1, 2026 to Keep Pace with Inflation
USCIS is increasing its premium processing fees effective March 1, 2026, adjusting for inflation from June 2023 through June 2025. The fee hike follows a congressionally mandated biennial adjustment tied to the Consumer Price Index. Anyone filing Form I-907 on or after March 1 must use the new, higher fees.
Army Corps Reissues 57 Nationwide Permits for Wetlands and Waterway Activities Through 2031
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is reissuing 56 existing Nationwide Permits (NWPs) and adding one new permit governing construction and development activities in wetlands and waterways. The updated permits take effect March 15, 2026, and expire March 15, 2031. These permits streamline environmental authorization for projects with minimal aquatic impact under the Clean Water Act and Rivers and Harbors Act.
DHS Overhauls H-1B Lottery: Higher Pay Now Means Better Odds Starting FY2027
The H-1B lottery is no longer truly random. Starting with the FY2027 registration season, DHS will give higher-paid applicants better odds of selection — meaning your salary level could determine whether you even get a shot at the cap. Here's exactly how the new weighted system works and what it means for workers and employers.
DHS Ends Family Reunification Parole for 7 Countries — Deportation Deadline January 14
DHS is shutting down Family Reunification Parole programs for nationals from Colombia, Cuba, Ecuador, El Salvador, Guatemala, Haiti, and Honduras. If you're in the US under one of these programs, your parole — and your work authorization — ends January 14, 2026, unless you already filed for a green card. Time is critically short.