Immigration News Updates
Updated 01/30/2026
We understand that U.S. immigration laws and policies are changing rapidly, and we recognize the uncertainty and stress this may be causing for you and your family. Please know that you are not alone.
Immediate Freeze on New (Initial) H-1B Petitions
Updated 01/28/2026
Texas Governor Greg Abbott has issued a directive requiring an immediate freeze on all new (initial) H-1B petitions through May 31, 2027. As a result, the Office of International Affairs can no longer process new H-1B petitions for pending employees, whether you are inside or outside the United States.
Updated 01/23/2026
We understand that U.S. immigration laws and policies are changing rapidly, and we recognize the uncertainty and stress this may be causing for you and your family. Please know that you are not alone.
Premium Processing Fee Increase
01/09/2026
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is publishing a final rule that will increase USCIS fees for Premium Processing (PP).
01/06/2026
Any citizen or national traveling on a passport issued by the following countries, who is found otherwise eligible for a B1/B2 visa, must post a bond for $5,000, $10,000, or $15,000. The amount is determined at the time of the visa interview.
12/26/2025
The U.S. Department of State has released the January 2026 Visa Bulletin (VB).
H-1B and H-4 Visa Holders: Appointment Cancellations and Delays
12/11/2025
The U.S. Department of State has begun reviewing the online presence of H-1B and H-4 visa applicants. As a result, several U.S. consulates in India have started cancelling and rescheduling visa appointments scheduled for December 15 or later.
12/10/2025
The U.S. Department of State has released the December 2025 Visa Bulletin (VB).
President Imposes $100,000 Fee on H-1B Visa Applications
Updated 11/14/2025
A recent memorandum from the Director of USCIS clarifies that individuals with approved H-1B petitions or valid H-1B visas are not impacted by the proclamation and may continue to travel to and from the United States without restriction under this directive. The International Affairs office will continue to monitor developments and share updates with for utsw’s international community as they become available.
End of 540-Day Extension for EADs
10/29/2025
Effective 30 October 2025, DSHS will end its automatic 540-day extension for EAD renewals.
10/27/2025
The U.S. Department of State has released the November 2025 Visa Bulletin (VB).
$30 I-94 Fee at Land Border Ports of Entry
10/27/2025
Customs and Border Protection introduced an additional $24 fee to the existing $6 fee for Form I-94 Arrival/Departure applications at land border ports of entry, bringing the total cost to $30.