This week brought several major developments affecting visa processing, government fees, refugee screening, and enforcement trends. Here’s a practical overview of what you should know. 👇

The U.S. government announced an indefinite pause on immigrant visa processing for nationals of 75 countries.

This affects immigrant visas for employment and family sponsorship. Tourist, student, and other nonimmigrant visas are not impacted. The pause is scheduled to begin January 21.

Officials say the suspension allows time to reassess screening procedures under public charge standards. Several of the affected countries were already subject to travel restrictions.

For families and employers waiting for immigrant visa interviews abroad, this may lead to extended delays and uncertainty.

USCIS will increase premium processing fees to adjust for inflation.

Some notable increases include:

• Most I-129 petitions increasing to $2,965 (except H-2B or R-1 nonimmigrant status, old fee $1,685, new fee $1,780)

• I-140 employment petitions, including NIW cases, increasing to $2,965

• I-539 student and exchange applications increasing to $2,075

• I-765 OPT and STEM OPT applications increasing to $1,780

Any filing submitted on or after March 1, 2026 must include the new fee.

DHS launched Operation PARRIS in Minnesota to reexamine thousands of refugee cases through enhanced background checks and interviews.

Cases involving suspected fraud are now being referred to ICE. Refugees with pending benefits should expect stricter review standards and possible delays.

Somalia’s Temporary Protected Status designation will end on March 17, 2026.

Individuals who only hold TPS should begin reviewing alternative immigration options now. Consulting with an immigration professional early can help avoid last-minute complications.

A new rule removes the one-year foreign residency requirement for certain R-1 religious workers.

This change allows workers to return more quickly after reaching their maximum stay, helping religious organizations maintain continuity of services amid long visa backlogs.

Two non-citizens were indicted in New Jersey for allegedly voting in a federal election and making false statements during their naturalization applications.

The case highlights how misrepresentation and unlawful voting can create serious immigration consequences.

We’re happy to share that we received another approval of a family-based green card case this week, including both the I-130 and I-485 applications.

If you found this update helpful, please forward it to your friends or family who might benefit.

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