A lot is happening in immigration right now. Below is a clear and straightforward summary of the most important updates we’re tracking — what’s changed, what’s coming, and what to be aware of👇

The Diversity Visa Lottery has been suspended following a directive from the White House. This program normally provides up to 50,000 green cards each year to applicants from countries with lower rates of U.S. immigration.

Winning the lottery has never guaranteed a green card — applicants must still complete interviews and pass background checks. At this point, there’s no official guidance on how long the suspension will last or how pending cases may be handled.

Some B-1/B-2 visa applicants may now be required to post a bond ranging from $5,000 to $15,000.

Important notes:

• Only required if instructed by a consular officer

• Paid directly through Pay.gov

• Does not guarantee visa approval

• Specific airports must be used for entry and exit

This is part of a pilot program tied to visa overstay data.

Big changes are coming to the H-1B program. DHS finalized a rule that replaces the random lottery with a weighted system favoring higher-paid and higher-skilled positions.

What stays the same:

• Annual cap numbers

• Employer sponsorship requirements

What changes:

• Higher wages and skill levels will increase selection chances

• Effective February 27, 2026

• Applies starting with the FY 2027 cap season

A federal judge ruled that Venezuelan nationals deported under the Alien Enemies Act were denied due process. The court emphasized that individuals must have a chance to contest removal before being deported.

The government plans to appeal the ruling.

DHS has started charging a $5,000 fee to individuals arrested for unlawful entry and deemed inadmissible.

If unpaid:

• The fee becomes government debt

• It may impact future immigration options

At the same time, enforcement efforts have expanded beyond border areas into interior cities.

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