Major Immigration Policy Changes Transform US System in 2025
Immigration policy changes in December 2025 represent the most significant overhaul of US immigration in decades. More than 1.6 million immigrants have lost their legal status this year under sweeping new enforcement measures, affecting asylum seekers, temporary visa holders, and lawful permanent residents alike.
The Department of Homeland Security announced these changes as part of enhanced vetting protocols and national security measures. Understanding these developments is essential for anyone planning to travel to the United States or renew their immigration status.
Key Immigration Policy Changes for 2026
The following major changes take effect starting January 1, 2026:
- Expanded Travel Ban: Presidential Proclamation 10998 fully or partially suspends entry and visa issuance to nationals of 39 countries, plus Palestinian Authority document holders
- Full Entry Restrictions: 19 countries face complete bans on both immigrant and nonimmigrant visas, including Syria, South Sudan, and Niger
- Partial Restrictions: 20 additional countries face restrictions on B-1/B-2 visitor visas, F, M, and J student visas, and immigrant visas
- H-1B Lottery Replacement: Random lottery replaced with skills-based selection prioritizing higher-paid workers, effective February 27, 2026
- Green Card Biometrics: All lawful permanent residents must submit photographs at every entry and exit point
- Work Permit Reduction: Asylum work permits reduced from 5 years to 18 months validity
Additionally, the Diversity Visa Lottery program has been paused, and USCIS has suspended processing of all Form I-589 asylum applications pending comprehensive review.
Who Is Affected By These Immigration Changes
These immigration policy changes impact multiple categories of foreign nationals in distinct ways. Here's what specific groups need to know:
For Green Card Holders
Lawful permanent residents from 19 flagged countries now face intensive green card reviews. These countries include Afghanistan, Iran, Somalia, Venezuela, Cuba, and Haiti. All green card holders must provide biometric photographs at every US port of entry and exit, regardless of nationality.
For H-1B Visa Applicants
The new skills-based selection process replaces the random lottery starting with FY 2027 registrations. All H-1B and H-4 applicants must undergo social media reviews beginning December 15, 2025. A $100,000 annual fee on certain H-1B workers has been challenged in court by the US Chamber of Commerce.
For TPS Beneficiaries
Temporary Protected Status has been terminated for Burma (Myanmar) and Ethiopia. TPS designations for El Salvador, Lebanon, Somalia, Sudan, and Yemen expire in 2026. Without renewals, the US could have no TPS beneficiaries for the first time since the program's 1990 creation.
For Asylum Seekers
All Form I-589 asylum applications are currently suspended pending review. Work permits issued to asylum seekers are now valid for only 18 months instead of five years, requiring more frequent renewals and creating employment uncertainty.
How to Check Your Immigration Status - Step by Step
Follow these steps to verify your current status and prepare for upcoming changes:
- Review Your Documents: Check your visa, green card, or work permit expiration dates and note any approaching deadlines
- Check USCIS Case Status: Visit uscis.gov and enter your receipt number to view pending applications
- Verify Country Restrictions: Confirm whether your country of nationality is on the full or partial restriction list
- Update Your Passport Photo: Ensure your passport photo meets current requirements for any renewal applications
- Consult an Immigration Attorney: Complex cases involving multiple status changes require professional legal guidance
- Gather Supporting Documents: Collect employment records, tax returns, and proof of continuous residence for potential reviews
Important Dates and Timeline
Mark these critical dates on your calendar:
- December 15, 2025: Social media reviews began for all H-1B and H-4 visa applicants
- December 26, 2025: New biometric entry-exit requirements for green card holders took effect
- January 1, 2026: Presidential Proclamation 10998 travel restrictions become effective
- February 27, 2026: New H-1B skills-based selection rule takes effect for FY 2027 cap season
- Throughout 2026: TPS designations for six countries scheduled to expire
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Green Card Holders Still Travel Internationally?
Yes, but with new requirements. All lawful permanent residents must submit biometric photographs at every entry and exit point. Those from 19 flagged countries face additional intensive reviews. Extended absences of more than 180 days may trigger residency verification checks.
What Happens If My TPS Expires?
When TPS expires without renewal, beneficiaries lose work authorization and lawful status. Affected individuals should consult an immigration attorney immediately to explore alternative visa options. Some may qualify for other humanitarian programs or employment-based visas.
How Does the New H-1B Selection Process Work?
The random lottery system is replaced with skills-based selection prioritizing higher wages and advanced qualifications. Employers must register employees during the annual cap season. The new process aims to allocate visas to workers commanding higher salaries as a proxy for skill level.
Are Visa Applications From Banned Countries Still Processed?
It depends on the restriction type. Countries with full bans see all immigrant and nonimmigrant visa processing suspended. Countries with partial restrictions may still process certain visa categories like diplomatic or transit visas. Check travel.state.gov for country-specific guidance.
What You Need to Know - Bottom Line
These immigration policy changes represent a fundamental shift in US immigration enforcement and processing. With over 1.6 million people already affected and new restrictions taking effect January 1, 2026, staying informed is critical for anyone with US immigration ties.
Travelers and visa applicants should ensure their passport photo meets current requirements and all documentation is up-to-date before applying. For complex situations involving multiple visa categories or country restrictions, consulting with a qualified immigration attorney remains the safest approach. Visit VisaPics for current passport and visa photo specifications to ensure your application materials meet the latest standards.
--- Sources: - [DHS End-of-Year Review](https://www.dhs.gov/news/2025/12/19/under-president-trump-and-secretary-noem-department-homeland-security-has-historic) - [NPR: 1.6 Million Immigrants Lost Legal Status](https://www.npr.org/2025/12/23/g-s1-103001/trump-immigration-deportation-migration-legal-status) - [Newsweek: Green Card Travel Restrictions](https://www.newsweek.com/green-card-update-new-visa-travel-restrictions-come-into-force-11259295) - [USCIS: H-1B Visa Changes](https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/news-releases/dhs-changes-process-for-awarding-h-1b-work-visas-to-better-protect-american-workers) - [White House: Travel Restrictions Proclamation](https://www.whitehouse.gov/presidential-actions/2025/12/restricting-and-limiting-the-entry-of-foreign-nationals-to-protect-the-security-of-the-united-states/) - [NAFSA: December 2025 Travel Ban](https://www.nafsa.org/regulatory-information/proclamation-december-16-2025-travel-ban-effective-january-1-2026)