Major Immigration Policy Changes Reshape U.S. Visa System
Immigration policy changes implemented throughout 2025 have fundamentally transformed the U.S. visa and immigration landscape. Starting January 1, 2026, expanded travel bans, new biometric requirements, and stricter vetting procedures will affect millions of travelers and immigrants worldwide.
The sweeping reforms represent the most significant overhaul of U.S. immigration law in decades. More than 1.6 million immigrants have already lost their legal status under the new policies, and additional restrictions continue to roll out as we enter 2026.
Key Immigration Policy Changes for 2026
Here are the most critical immigration policy changes that will impact visa applicants, green card holders, and travelers:
- Expanded Travel Ban: 39 countries now face full or partial visa restrictions, more than double the original 19 countries
- H-1B Visa Lottery Reform: New merit-based selection replaces random lottery, prioritizing higher-skilled workers (effective February 27, 2026)
- Biometric Entry-Exit System: All non-citizens, including green card holders, must provide photographs at every border crossing
- Asylum Suspension: All Form I-589 asylum applications indefinitely paused nationwide
- Work Permit Reduction: Employment Authorization Documents (EADs) now limited to 18 months instead of 5 years
- TPS Terminations: Temporary Protected Status ending for Burma, Ethiopia, Haiti, and South Sudan in early 2026
These changes require immediate attention from anyone with pending immigration applications or upcoming visa renewals. Additionally, travelers should verify their passport photo meets current requirements before applying.
Who Is Affected by the New Immigration Rules?
The 2025 immigration policy changes impact virtually every category of foreign nationals seeking to enter or remain in the United States.
For Green Card Holders
Lawful permanent residents from the 19 high-risk countries now face enhanced scrutiny when traveling. All green card holders must provide biometric photographs at entry and exit points, and USCIS has tightened photo reuse policies—photos must be less than 3 years old.
For H-1B Visa Applicants
The new merit-based H-1B selection process takes effect for FY 2027 registrations. Higher salaries and advanced degrees will receive priority over the previous random lottery system, significantly impacting entry-level tech workers.
For TPS Beneficiaries
An estimated hundreds of thousands of TPS holders from Burma, Ethiopia, Haiti, and South Sudan must prepare for status termination in early 2026. Legal counsel should be consulted immediately to explore alternative immigration pathways.
For Asylum Seekers
All pending asylum cases with USCIS are indefinitely paused. No timeline has been provided for resuming adjudications. Applicants should maintain valid passport photos and documentation while awaiting further guidance.
How to Prepare for the New Visa Requirements
Follow these steps to ensure compliance with the 2025 immigration policy changes:
- Check Your Country's Status: Verify whether your nationality falls under the full ban (19 countries) or partial ban (20 additional countries) using the official State Department list
- Update Your Passport Photo: USCIS now requires biometric photos less than 3 years old—ensure your visa application photos meet current passport photo requirements
- Review Pending Applications: If you have pending immigration benefits, contact USCIS to check your case status, especially if you're from a high-risk country
- Consult Immigration Counsel: TPS holders and asylum applicants should immediately seek legal advice about alternative status options
- Gather Documentation: Prepare all supporting documents, including compliant visa photos, well in advance of any application deadlines
Important Dates and Timeline
Mark these critical deadlines for the new immigration policy changes:
- December 26, 2025: New biometric entry-exit system and enhanced screening measures take effect
- January 1, 2026: Expanded travel ban covering 39 countries becomes active at 12:01 AM EST
- January 26, 2026: TPS for Burma (Myanmar) officially terminates
- February 13, 2026: TPS for Ethiopia officially terminates
- February 27, 2026: New merit-based H-1B visa selection process takes effect
Countries Affected by the 2026 Travel Ban
The expanded travel ban proclamation issued December 16, 2025, affects nationals from the following countries:
Full Ban Countries (19 + Palestinian Authority)
Afghanistan, Burma, Burundi, Chad, Republic of Congo, Cuba, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Haiti, Iran, Laos, Libya, Sierra Leone, Somalia, Sudan, Togo, Turkmenistan, Venezuela, and Yemen. Additionally, individuals traveling on Palestinian Authority-issued documents face full entry suspension.
Partial Ban Countries (20 Additional)
These nations face restrictions on B-1/B-2 visitor visas, F/M student visas, and J exchange visas. Specific countries were added following security assessments by the Department of Homeland Security.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will my existing visa be revoked under the new travel ban?
No visas issued before January 1, 2026 will be revoked pursuant to the proclamation. However, travelers from affected countries may face enhanced scrutiny at ports of entry. Keep your documentation current and ensure your passport photo meets all requirements.
How does the H-1B lottery change affect current applicants?
The new merit-based selection process applies to FY 2027 H-1B cap registrations. Current H-1B holders and those with pending petitions are not immediately affected. The rule prioritizes applicants with higher salaries and advanced degrees.
What should TPS holders do before their status terminates?
TPS beneficiaries should consult with immigration attorneys immediately to explore options such as adjustment of status, employment-based visas, or family-sponsored petitions. Employment Authorization Documents remain valid until the termination date.
Are green card holders affected by the new policies?
Yes, lawful permanent residents must now comply with the biometric entry-exit system. Green card holders from the 19 high-risk countries face additional screening. Those with approved benefits who entered after January 20, 2021, may be subject to comprehensive re-review.
What You Need to Know Moving Forward
The 2025 immigration policy changes represent a fundamental shift in how the United States processes and vets foreign nationals. With over 1.6 million immigrants already losing legal status and additional restrictions taking effect January 2026, proactive preparation is essential.
Travelers and immigrants should ensure all documentation is current, including compliant passport photos that meet the latest visa photo specifications. VisaPics can help you create photos that meet official requirements for any country or document type. Stay informed about policy updates and consult with immigration professionals for case-specific guidance.