This week’s immigration updates include a presidential proclamation extending restrictions on certain H-1B workers, the public charge rule now in effect, and 47 new immigration judges appointed nationwide. Here’s a practical overview of what you should know. 👇

On September 18, 2026, President Trump signed Proclamation 11069, extending for an additional 12 months the restriction on entry of certain H-1B nonimmigrant workers, now through September 21, 2027. New H-1B petitions for beneficiaries outside the United States who do not have a valid H-1B visa remain subject to a $100,000 payment requirement, with limited national interest exceptions. The fee is not currently being collected as it remains subject to ongoing court proceedings. H-1B workers already in the United States with valid visas or approved petitions filed prior to September 21, 2026 are not affected.

Effective September 18, 2026, USCIS began applying updated public charge guidance to all Form I-485 applications postmarked or submitted on or after that date. Officers will assess each applicant's likelihood of becoming a public charge based on a totality of the circumstances, and use of certain means-tested public benefits received on or after September 18 may also be considered. A coalition of states and cities has filed suit challenging the new rule. Refugees and asylees remain exempt.

3️⃣ EOIR Appoints 47 New Immigration Judges 🏛️

On September 24, 2026, the Executive Office for Immigration Review announced the investiture of 47 immigration judges and 6 temporary immigration judges. The new judges will serve in immigration courts across California, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Louisiana, Massachusetts, Michigan, New Jersey, New York, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Virginia, and Washington.

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