Major Immigration Policy Changes Take Effect in 2025-2026
Immigration policy changes are reshaping how millions of travelers and immigrants interact with the United States. On December 16, 2025, President Trump signed a proclamation expanding the travel ban from 19 to 39 countries, with new restrictions taking effect January 1, 2026.
These changes represent the most significant overhaul of U.S. immigration enforcement since January 2025, when the administration issued multiple executive orders declaring a national emergency at the southern border. The new policies affect visa applicants, green card holders, and asylum seekers alike.
Key Immigration Policy Changes for 2026
The December 2025 proclamation introduces sweeping modifications to who can enter the United States and under what conditions.
- Expanded Travel Ban: 39 countries now face full or partial visa restrictions, more than double the previous 19 countries
- Mandatory Biometrics: Green card holders must undergo photographing and fingerprinting at every U.S. border crossing, effective December 26, 2025
- Family Visa Restrictions: Immediate relative exceptions from the June 2025 ban no longer apply under the new proclamation
- Palestinian Documents: Complete ban on individuals traveling with Palestinian Authority-issued documents
- Enhanced Vetting: All foreign nationals seeking entry face increased screening and security measures
Additionally, USCIS has transformed its enforcement role, with officers issuing approximately 196,600 Notices to Appear since January 20, 2025. The agency has also created special agents with law enforcement authority to investigate, arrest, and prosecute immigration cases.
Who Is Affected by These Immigration Policy Changes
The scope of these changes touches virtually every category of non-citizen traveling to or residing in the United States.
For Travelers from Banned Countries
Nationals from 19 countries face full suspension of immigrant and nonimmigrant visas: Afghanistan, Burkina Faso, Burma, Chad, Republic of the Congo, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Haiti, Iran, Laos, Libya, Mali, Niger, Sierra Leone, Somalia, South Sudan, Sudan, Syria, and Yemen. There is no current expiration date for these restrictions.
For Green Card Holders
Lawful permanent residents now face mandatory biometric checks when entering and leaving the country. Those from the 19 flagged countries receive heightened scrutiny and extended questioning at borders. Ensure your passport photo meets current requirements before traveling.
For H-1B Visa Workers
The new weighted H-1B selection process takes effect February 27, 2026, prioritizing higher-skilled and higher-paid workers. Additionally, USCIS has increased NTA issuance to H-1B workers within the 60-day grace period following employment termination.
For Asylum Seekers
A final rule barring asylum for individuals who pose security threats or public health risks becomes effective December 31, 2025. USCIS placed a hold on all asylum applications pending comprehensive review as of December 2, 2025.
How to Prepare for New Immigration Requirements
Taking proactive steps now can help you navigate these immigration policy changes successfully.
- Check Your Country Status: Verify whether your nationality appears on the full or partial ban list at the State Department website
- Update Travel Documents: Ensure your passport and visa photos meet current specifications before any international travel
- Gather Biometric Documentation: Prepare for mandatory photographing and fingerprinting at all U.S. border crossings
- Review Visa Category: Partial ban countries face restrictions on B-1, B-2, F, M, and J visas specifically
- Consult Immigration Counsel: Complex cases involving employment or family-based immigration require professional legal guidance
- Monitor USCIS Updates: Policy changes continue evolving; check official sources regularly for the latest requirements
Important Dates and Timeline
Mark these critical dates for the latest immigration policy changes taking effect.
- December 16, 2025: President Trump signs expanded travel ban proclamation
- December 26, 2025: Mandatory biometric collection for non-citizens at U.S. borders begins
- December 31, 2025: Asylum bar rule for security threats takes effect
- January 1, 2026: Expanded 39-country travel ban officially enforced
- February 27, 2026: New weighted H-1B selection process becomes effective
Countries Affected by the 2026 Travel Ban
The expanded proclamation creates two distinct categories of restrictions.
Full Suspension Countries (19)
Afghanistan, Burkina Faso, Burma (Myanmar), Chad, Republic of the Congo, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Haiti, Iran, Laos, Libya, Mali, Niger, Sierra Leone, Somalia, South Sudan, Sudan, Syria, Yemen
Partial Suspension Countries (20)
Angola, Antigua and Barbuda, Benin, Burundi, Côte d'Ivoire, Cuba, Dominica, Gabon, The Gambia, Malawi, Mauritania, Nigeria, Senegal, Tanzania, Togo, Tonga, Turkmenistan, Venezuela, Zambia, Zimbabwe
Frequently Asked Questions
Do These Immigration Policy Changes Affect Green Card Holders?
Yes, green card holders now face mandatory biometric checks at every U.S. border crossing. Those from the 19 designated countries receive additional scrutiny. However, lawful permanent residents are generally exempt from the travel ban itself.
Can I Still Apply for a Visa from a Banned Country?
Limited exceptions exist for U.S. permanent residents, dual nationals traveling on non-designated passports, athletes for major sporting events, and individuals whose travel serves U.S. national interests. Standard tourist, student, and exchange visitor visas are suspended for affected countries.
What Happens to DACA Recipients Under These Changes?
Current DACA recipients can still renew their protections, work permits, and travel documents. However, USCIS is not processing first-time DACA applications. Renewals should be filed with compliant passport-style photos.
How Long Will the Travel Ban Remain in Effect?
The December 2025 proclamation does not include an expiration date. Previous travel restrictions have remained in effect indefinitely until modified by subsequent executive action or court order.
What You Need to Know About Immigration Policy Changes
The 2025-2026 immigration policy changes represent a fundamental shift in U.S. border and visa enforcement. With 39 countries now facing restrictions, mandatory biometrics for green card holders, and enhanced USCIS enforcement authority, travelers and immigrants must stay informed and prepared.
Before submitting any visa application or crossing U.S. borders, ensure your documentation meets current requirements. VisaPics helps travelers create compliant passport and visa photos that meet official specifications for over 170 countries, reducing the risk of application delays during this period of heightened scrutiny.