Major Immigration Policy Changes Reshape U.S. Visa System in October 2025
October 2025 marks a watershed moment for U.S. immigration policy, with sweeping changes announced by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). The most dramatic change is a new $100,000 fee for H-1B visa petitions, effective September 21, 2025, representing a 2,000% increase from previous costs. Additionally, the DACA program is preparing to accept new applicants for the first time since 2021, potentially benefiting over 1 million eligible individuals.
These immigration policy changes come amid a broader federal government shutdown that began October 1, 2025, though USCIS operations continue as the agency is fee-funded. The timing creates uncertainty for applicants navigating new requirements while government services face potential delays.
Key Immigration Policy Changes in Effect Now
Here are the most significant immigration policy updates affecting travelers, workers, and applicants in October 2025:
- H-1B Visa Fee Increase: New $100,000 per-petition fee for H-1B specialty occupation workers, up from $2,000-$5,000 previously (effective September 21, 2025)
- DACA Program Reopening: Federal government preparing to accept new DACA applications after 4-year pause, with estimated 1 million+ eligible applicants
- Syrian TPS Terminated: Temporary Protected Status for Syria ended immediately on October 3, 2025, following Supreme Court decision
- Agricultural Worker Rule: Streamlined filing process for temporary agricultural worker petitions took effect October 2, 2025
- Travel Fee Increases: I-94 fees at land borders increased to $30, ESTA fees rose to $40
- Foreign Student Visa Changes: Proposed rule would limit student visa validity to 4-year maximum periods instead of "duration of status"
- New Civics Test: 2025 naturalization civics test implementation announced by USCIS
- Visa Bulletin Updates: October 2025 bulletin shows diversity visa limits reduced to 52,000 due to NACARA allocations
The H-1B fee applies only to new petitions filed after September 21, 2025, at 12:01 AM EDT, and does not affect existing visa holders, renewals, or previously submitted petitions. Moreover, the restriction expires 12 months after the effective date unless extended by the administration.
Who Is Affected by These Immigration Policy Changes
These sweeping immigration policy changes impact multiple groups across the United States and abroad. Understanding how these new rules affect your specific situation is crucial for planning your next steps.
For H-1B Specialty Workers and Employers
Employers seeking to hire foreign workers through the H-1B program now face dramatically higher costs—$100,000 per new petition compared to $2,000-$5,000 previously. This affects technology companies, healthcare organizations, consulting firms, and educational institutions that rely on skilled foreign talent. Current H-1B holders can still renew their visas without paying the new fee, and the requirement does not prevent travel in and out of the United States.
For DACA Recipients and Eligible Dreamers
After four years of limited enrollment, DACA is expected to reopen to new applicants pending final court approval. An estimated 1 million people could become eligible to apply for deferred action and work authorization. However, Texas residents face a significant caveat—while they can apply, they will not receive work permits due to state-specific legal restrictions in the ongoing litigation.
For International Students and Exchange Visitors
A proposed rule would fundamentally change how foreign students maintain status in the United States. Instead of "duration of status" admission, students would receive authorization for up to 4 years maximum and must apply to USCIS for extensions. This creates additional bureaucratic requirements and costs for students pursuing multi-year degree programs, requiring regular status assessments by DHS.
For Syrian TPS Beneficiaries
Individuals who held Temporary Protected Status based on Syria's designation face immediate termination of their protected status as of October 3, 2025. This follows a Supreme Court decision allowing immediate implementation and affects thousands of Syrian nationals who must now seek alternative immigration status or face removal proceedings.
How to Navigate the New Immigration Requirements - Step by Step
Follow these actionable steps to comply with the latest immigration policy changes and protect your status:
- Assess Your Current Immigration Status: Review your visa type, expiration date, and whether you fall under the new fee requirements. H-1B holders should verify their petition filing date to determine fee applicability.
- Prepare Documentation for DACA Applications: If eligible for DACA, begin gathering proof of continuous U.S. residence since June 15, 2007, educational records, and identity documents. Consult with an immigration attorney to ensure you meet all eligibility criteria.
- Update Your Passport Photos: Many visa applications require compliant passport photos. Ensure your passport photo meets current USCIS specifications before submitting any immigration applications to avoid costly delays.
- Budget for Increased Fees: Employers planning H-1B petitions must account for the $100,000 fee in hiring budgets. Individuals should prepare for higher I-94 ($30) and ESTA ($40) fees when crossing borders or applying for travel authorization.
- Monitor USCIS Updates: Check the USCIS website regularly for form updates, processing times, and policy clarifications. Sign up for USCIS email alerts to receive notifications about changes affecting your case.
- Consult Immigration Counsel: Given the complexity and rapid changes in immigration policy, professional legal advice is essential. An experienced immigration attorney can help navigate new requirements and avoid application errors.
Important Dates and Timeline for Immigration Policy Changes
Mark these critical dates on your calendar to stay compliant with new immigration requirements:
- September 21, 2025: H-1B $100,000 fee requirement took effect at 12:01 AM EDT for all new petitions
- October 1, 2025: Federal government shutdown began, though USCIS operations continue as fee-funded agency
- October 2, 2025: New agricultural worker petition streamlining rule became effective
- October 3, 2025: Syrian TPS designation terminated immediately following Supreme Court decision
- October 2025 (Pending): Federal judge expected to issue order allowing DACA new applications to proceed
- September 21, 2026: H-1B $100,000 fee restriction expires unless extended by administration
- September 30, 2025: Religious Worker (SR) category extended through this date per H.R. 1968
Frequently Asked Questions About Immigration Policy Changes
Does the $100,000 H-1B Fee Apply to Visa Renewals or Extensions?
No, the $100,000 fee only applies to new H-1B petitions filed after September 21, 2025, at 12:01 AM EDT. Current H-1B visa holders can renew or extend their status without paying the new fee. The fee also does not prevent H-1B holders from traveling internationally or change any existing visa conditions.
When Will DACA Accept New Applications Again?
USCIS is expected to begin accepting new DACA applications in late October or November 2025, pending a federal judge's formal order. The Department of Justice has indicated plans to reopen the program for the first time since 2021, potentially making over 1 million people eligible. Interested applicants should begin gathering required documents now, including proof of continuous residence, educational records, and identity documentation.
How Does the Government Shutdown Affect Immigration Applications?
USCIS continues operating during the government shutdown because it is primarily fee-funded, not dependent on congressional appropriations. Green card, naturalization, and work permit processing should proceed normally. However, Department of Labor systems for Labor Condition Applications (LCAs) and PERM filings may experience delays, and E-Verify is likely offline affecting employer verification processes.
Can Syrian TPS Holders Apply for Other Immigration Status?
Yes, former Syrian TPS beneficiaries should immediately consult with an immigration attorney to explore alternative options such as asylum, adjustment of status through family relationships, employment-based visas, or other humanitarian programs. Time-sensitive applications should be filed promptly as TPS termination became effective October 3, 2025.
How Will the Foreign Student Visa Changes Affect Current Students?
The proposed rule to end "duration of status" for F-1 students is still in the proposal stage and not yet implemented. If finalized, it would require students to apply for extensions every 4 years maximum, creating additional costs and administrative burdens. Current students should monitor USCIS announcements and consult with their Designated School Officials (DSOs) for guidance specific to their programs.
What You Need to Know About These Immigration Policy Changes
October 2025 represents a pivotal moment in U.S. immigration policy with far-reaching consequences for foreign workers, students, and undocumented immigrants. The dramatic H-1B fee increase fundamentally changes the economics of skilled worker immigration, while DACA reopening offers hope to hundreds of thousands of young people who entered the U.S. as children. Syrian TPS termination and new student visa restrictions add urgency for affected individuals to secure alternative status.
If you're navigating these immigration policy changes, take immediate action to assess your situation and ensure compliance. Whether you're preparing a visa application, planning international travel, or seeking to adjust your status, make sure your passport photo meets all USCIS specifications to avoid application delays. Stay informed through official USCIS channels, consult with qualified immigration attorneys, and prepare your documentation well in advance of any deadlines. The immigration landscape continues evolving rapidly—proactive preparation is your best protection.
--- This article is based on official sources from USCIS, the Department of Homeland Security, the U.S. State Department, and verified news reports from October 2025. All information is current as of October 9, 2025.