Major Immigration Policy Changes Take Effect November 2025
The United States immigration landscape underwent significant transformations in November 2025, with the Department of Homeland Security implementing a controversial $1,000 immigration parole fee and terminating Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for multiple countries. These policy changes, which became effective between October 16 and November 21, 2025, affect thousands of immigrants, refugees, and asylum seekers across the nation.
Meanwhile, New York City made history on November 4, 2025, electing Zohran Mamdani as the city's first immigrant mayor in nearly 50 years. The 34-year-old naturalized citizen's victory comes amid heated debates over immigration reform and humanitarian protections.
New $1,000 DHS Parole Fee: What Changed
The Department of Homeland Security began charging the immigration parole fee on October 16, 2025, as mandated by the H.R. 1 Reconciliation Bill. This represents one of the most significant fee increases in recent immigration policy history.
- Fee Amount: $1,000 for fiscal year 2025, with annual inflation adjustments planned
- When It's Charged: Fee collected after parole approval is granted, not when application is filed
- Who Pays: Applies to humanitarian parole, parole in place, re-parole, and parole from DHS custody
- Exemptions Available: Individuals with pending adjustment of status (green card) applications are exempt
- Payment Methods: USCIS no longer accepts checks or money orders as of October 28, 2025
- Humanitarian Cases: Some humanitarian situations may qualify for fee exemptions
According to the Federal Register notice published October 16, 2025, the fee aims to address what DHS calls "rampant abuse of the parole program." However, immigrant advocacy groups have criticized the fee as creating barriers for vulnerable populations seeking humanitarian protection.
Temporary Protected Status Terminations Impact Thousands
Two major TPS designations ended in November 2025, affecting thousands of individuals who have lived and worked legally in the United States for years.
South Sudan TPS Ends January 5, 2026
Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem published the termination notice on November 5, 2025, giving South Sudanese nationals a 60-day wind-down period. Approximately 232 approved TPS holders and 73 pending applicants face deportation despite warnings from the United Nations about renewed violence in South Sudan. DHS justified the decision by citing improved diplomatic relations and the end of armed conflict, though humanitarian organizations strongly dispute these conditions.
Syria TPS Terminated November 21, 2025
The Syria TPS designation officially ended on November 21, 2025, affecting approximately 6,100 individuals. Syrian nationals who have been living in the U.S. since the designation was first granted now face uncertain futures, with several advocacy groups filing lawsuits to challenge the termination in federal court.
How to Navigate the New Parole Fee Requirements
If you're applying for parole or re-parole, follow these steps to understand your obligations:
- Submit Your I-131 Application: File Form I-131 (Application for Travel Document) with USCIS as usual without the parole fee
- Wait for USCIS Notification: If USCIS determines they can approve your request, they will send you a notice requiring payment
- Pay the $1,000 Fee: Use approved electronic payment methods only (no checks or money orders accepted)
- Check Exemption Eligibility: Verify if you qualify for an exemption (pending green card applications automatically exempt)
- Request Fee Waiver if Eligible: Submit documentation for humanitarian fee waiver if you meet specific criteria
- Await Final Approval: USCIS will not approve your parole request until the fee is paid or waiver is granted
Important Immigration Dates and Deadlines November 2025
Mark these critical dates on your calendar to stay compliant with the latest immigration policy changes:
- October 16, 2025: New $1,000 immigration parole fee takes effect
- October 28, 2025: USCIS stops accepting checks and money orders for all fees
- November 4, 2025: Zohran Mamdani elected as NYC's first immigrant mayor in 50 years
- November 5, 2025: South Sudan TPS termination notice published in Federal Register
- November 7, 2025: Venezuela 2021 TPS designation terminated (subject to ongoing litigation)
- November 21, 2025: Syria TPS designation officially ends
- January 5, 2026: South Sudan TPS benefits expire; deportations may begin
Who Is Affected by These Immigration Policy Changes
The November 2025 immigration policy changes impact diverse groups across the United States. Understanding how these changes affect your immigration status is critical for planning your next steps.
For Parole Applicants and Beneficiaries
If you've applied for humanitarian parole, parole in place, or re-parole, you'll need to pay the new $1,000 fee before USCIS approves your request. This applies even if you filed your application before October 16, 2025. However, individuals with pending adjustment of status applications are automatically exempt and won't be charged this fee.
For South Sudanese and Syrian Nationals
Approximately 6,332 TPS holders from South Sudan and Syria face deportation unless they secure alternative immigration status before their respective termination dates. These individuals should immediately consult with immigration attorneys to explore options such as asylum applications, family-based petitions, or other forms of relief. Time is critical, as the wind-down periods are short.
For Refugees and Asylum Seekers
The proposed reduction of refugee admissions to just 7,500 for fiscal year 2026 represents the lowest cap on record, down from 125,000 under the previous administration. Priority will be given to individuals facing illegal or unjust discrimination, with particular attention to certain South African applicants. This dramatic reduction significantly limits opportunities for those seeking refuge from persecution, violence, or humanitarian crises.
NYC's Historic Immigrant Mayor Sends Message of Hope
Amid restrictive federal immigration policies, New York City's election of Zohran Mamdani on November 4, 2025, signals a counter-narrative of immigrant inclusion and opportunity.
The 34-year-old naturalized citizen from Uganda becomes the city's first South Asian mayor, first Muslim mayor, and youngest mayor in over a century. In his victory speech, Mamdani declared: "New York will remain a city of immigrants: a city built by immigrants, powered by immigrants and, as of tonight, led by an immigrant." His historic win resonates with immigrant communities nationwide, offering hope during uncertain times.
Frequently Asked Questions About Immigration Policy Changes
Do I Have to Pay the $1,000 Parole Fee If I Already Applied?
Yes, the immigration parole fee applies to all parole approvals granted on or after October 16, 2025, regardless of when you submitted your application. USCIS will notify you before approving your request if you need to pay. However, if you have a pending green card (adjustment of status) application, you are automatically exempt from this fee.
What Happens If I Can't Afford the Parole Fee?
Some individuals may qualify for humanitarian fee waivers based on specific circumstances. You must provide documentation demonstrating financial hardship or qualifying humanitarian factors. However, the waiver criteria for the new parole fee are more restrictive than standard fee waivers. Contact an immigration attorney or accredited representative for guidance on your specific situation.
Can I Renew My TPS If My Country's Designation Was Terminated?
No, once USCIS terminates a TPS designation, you cannot renew your status under that designation. For South Sudan, TPS benefits end on January 5, 2026, and for Syria, they ended on November 21, 2025. You must seek alternative immigration status before your TPS expires to remain legally in the United States. Options include applying for asylum, adjusting status through family or employment, or exploring other forms of humanitarian relief.
How Does the Refugee Cap Reduction Affect Asylum Seekers?
The proposed 7,500 refugee admission cap for fiscal year 2026 is the lowest in U.S. history and significantly reduces opportunities for resettlement. However, this cap applies only to refugees processed overseas through the U.S. Refugee Admissions Program (USRAP). It does not directly affect asylum seekers who apply for protection after arriving in the United States, though the restrictive policy environment may impact asylum processing times and approval rates.
What You Need to Know About Immigration Policy Changes
The November 2025 immigration policy changes represent some of the most significant shifts in U.S. immigration enforcement and humanitarian protection in recent years. The new $1,000 parole fee, TPS terminations for South Sudan and Syria, and historic refugee cap reduction signal a more restrictive approach to immigration that will affect thousands of individuals and families seeking safety and opportunity in the United States.
If you're affected by these changes, take immediate action to understand your options and ensure compliance with new requirements. Whether you need to prepare for the parole fee, explore alternative immigration status after TPS termination, or ensure your passport photo meets current requirements for visa applications, acting quickly is essential. For those applying for visas or immigration benefits, using compliant documentation—including properly formatted passport photos that meet specific country requirements—can prevent costly delays and rejections during this period of heightened scrutiny.