Major Visa Policy Changes Reshape Immigration in November 2025
Visa policy changes in November 2025 have introduced sweeping new requirements affecting millions of applicants worldwide. From mandatory interview location restrictions to controversial $100,000 H-1B fees, these updates represent the most significant immigration overhaul in recent years.
Whether you're applying for a tourist visa, work permit, or permanent residency, understanding these changes is critical to avoiding delays and denials. Here's everything you need to know about the latest visa policy updates.
Key Visa Policy Changes for November 2025
The following updates took effect between September and November 2025:
- Interview Location Restrictions: All immigrant visa applicants must now interview in their country of residence or nationality, effective November 1, 2025
- $100,000 H-1B Fee: New proclamation fee required for certain H-1B petitions filed after September 21, 2025
- EAD Extensions Terminated: Automatic Employment Authorization Document extensions ended October 30, 2025
- Visa Bulletin Freeze: No movement in employment-based green card processing dates for November
- Paper Checks Eliminated: USCIS stopped accepting paper check payments as of October 27, 2025
- TPS Terminations: Temporary Protected Status ended for Afghanistan, Cameroon, and Haiti on October 3, 2025
These changes reflect a broader push to tighten immigration controls while modernizing payment systems. Additionally, the Diversity Visa lottery for DV-2027 has been delayed pending unspecified changes to the entry process.
Who Is Affected by These Visa Policy Changes
These updates impact several distinct groups of applicants. Understanding which rules apply to you is essential for planning your visa application.
For H-1B Workers and Employers
The new $100,000 proclamation fee applies to H-1B petitions filed after September 21, 2025, for certain beneficiary categories. The U.S. Chamber of Commerce has filed a lawsuit challenging this fee as unlawful, arguing it overrides the Immigration and Nationality Act. Employers should budget accordingly while monitoring litigation outcomes.
For Immigrant Visa Applicants
You can no longer choose an embassy based on shorter wait times or convenience. As of November 1, 2025, you must interview at the consular post designated for your country of residence or nationality. Exceptions are extremely limited.
For Employment Authorization Holders
If your EAD is expiring, automatic extensions are no longer available as of October 30, 2025. You must file renewal applications well in advance to avoid gaps in work authorization. Plan for standard processing times of 3-6 months.
For Green Card Applicants
The November 2025 Visa Bulletin shows no movement in Dates for Filing or Final Action Dates across all employment-based categories. China EB-1 remains at May 15, 2023, and India EB-1 at April 15, 2023. Family-sponsored categories also remain unchanged.
How to Navigate the New Interview Location Requirements
Follow these steps to ensure compliance with the new interview rules:
- Determine Your Designated Post: Identify which embassy or consulate is assigned to your country of residence
- Gather Residence Proof: Prepare documents showing legal residence status if applying outside your country of nationality
- Request Nationality Interview: If preferred, formally request to interview in your country of nationality instead
- Check Wait Times Early: Research appointment availability at your designated post before submitting applications
- Prepare Required Photos: Ensure your passport photo meets the specific requirements for your visa type using services like VisaPics
Important Dates and Timeline
Mark these critical dates on your calendar:
- September 21, 2025: $100,000 H-1B proclamation fee took effect
- October 3, 2025: TPS terminated for Afghanistan, Cameroon, and Haiti
- October 27, 2025: USCIS stopped accepting paper check payments
- October 30, 2025: EAD automatic extensions ended
- November 1, 2025: Interview location restrictions began for immigrant visas
- November 5, 2025: DV-2027 lottery registration delayed pending changes
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I still apply for a US visa at any embassy?
No. As of November 1, 2025 for immigrant visas, you must apply at the embassy designated for your place of residence or request to apply in your country of nationality. This eliminates the practice of "embassy shopping" based on wait times.
Does the $100,000 H-1B fee apply to all applications?
The fee applies to certain categories of H-1B beneficiaries for petitions filed after September 21, 2025. Consult with an immigration attorney to determine if your specific case requires this payment. A legal challenge is currently pending.
What should I do if my EAD is expiring soon?
File your renewal application immediately. With automatic extensions eliminated, processing times of 3-6 months mean you could face work authorization gaps. Consider premium processing if available for your category.
Will the November Visa Bulletin dates change soon?
The bulletin shows no movement for November 2025 across all employment-based categories. December dates will be announced separately. Monitor the State Department website for monthly updates.
What You Need to Know Before Applying
November 2025 marks a turning point in US immigration policy with stricter location requirements, substantial new fees, and reduced processing flexibilities. These changes require applicants to plan further ahead and budget more carefully than ever before.
Before submitting any visa application, verify that your passport photo meets current specifications for your destination country. Using VisaPics ensures your photo complies with official requirements and won't cause delays. Stay informed about ongoing legal challenges, particularly regarding the H-1B fee, as court rulings could affect current policies.