Major US Immigration Policy Changes Reshape Entry Rules for 2026
Immigration policy changes in 2025 have fundamentally transformed how foreign nationals enter and remain in the United States. On December 16, 2025, the Trump administration announced an expanded travel ban affecting 39 countries, set to take effect January 1, 2026.
These sweeping changes come after a year of significant policy shifts that have impacted over 1.6 million immigrants who have lost their legal status since January 2025. From work permit restrictions to new visa processing rules, here's everything you need to know about navigating these changes.
Key Immigration Policy Changes Taking Effect
The Department of Homeland Security and USCIS have implemented numerous policy updates throughout December 2025. Understanding these changes is crucial for anyone planning to travel, work, or immigrate to the United States.
- Expanded Travel Ban: 39 countries and the Palestinian Authority now face travel restrictions, up from 19 countries in June 2025
- H-1B Visa Overhaul: New selection process prioritizes higher-skilled and higher-paid workers over the previous random lottery system
- EAD Validity Reduced: Work permit maximum validity cut from 5 years to 18 months for refugees, asylees, and adjustment applicants
- Mandatory Social Media Vetting: All H-1B and H-4 visa applicants must set social media profiles to public for review
- Biometric Collection Expanded: CBP now collects biometric data from virtually all non-U.S. citizens at entry and exit points
- Diversity Visa Lottery Paused: The annual program has been suspended by DHS Secretary Kristi Noem
Additionally, the administration has terminated Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Ethiopia and Burma (Myanmar), affecting thousands of current status holders. Processing times for citizenship applications have increased from approximately 5 months to nearly 8 months.
Who Is Affected by These Immigration Changes
These policy updates impact various categories of travelers, workers, and immigrants differently. Understanding your specific situation is essential for proper planning.
For Work Visa Applicants (H-1B, H-4)
The new H-1B selection process, announced December 23, 2025, replaces the random lottery with a merit-based system. Higher salary offers and advanced qualifications now receive priority consideration. All applicants must comply with mandatory social media vetting requirements before visa approval.
For Refugees, Asylees, and Adjustment Applicants
The reduced EAD validity period means more frequent renewal applications and associated fees. Applications filed or pending on or after December 5, 2025 are subject to the new 18-month maximum. Plan for additional processing time and costs when budgeting for your immigration journey.
For Citizens of Banned Countries
The expanded travel ban affects citizens from 39 countries, including full bans and partial restrictions. Citizens from partially banned countries may only seek temporary work visas. Ensure your passport photo meets current requirements before submitting any visa applications, as processing standards have become stricter.
For TPS Holders (Ethiopia, Burma)
With TPS termination announced, affected individuals should immediately consult immigration attorneys about alternative status options. Documentation requirements and timelines vary based on individual circumstances and current status.
How to Navigate New Immigration Requirements - Step by Step
Follow these steps to ensure compliance with the updated immigration policy framework:
- Review Your Current Status: Confirm your visa category and expiration dates through the USCIS online portal or your immigration attorney
- Check Travel Ban Applicability: Verify whether your country of citizenship falls under full or partial travel restrictions effective January 1, 2026
- Update Social Media Settings: If applying for H-1B or H-4 visas, set all social media profiles to public before your interview
- Prepare for Biometric Collection: Expect enhanced screening at all U.S. ports of entry starting December 26, 2025
- Ensure Photo Compliance: Verify your visa application photo specifications meet current requirements before submission
- Plan for Shorter EAD Validity: Budget for more frequent work authorization renewals if you fall into affected categories
Important Dates and Timeline for 2025-2026
Mark these critical dates for immigration policy implementation:
- December 5, 2025: New 18-month EAD validity period applies to applications filed or pending from this date
- December 10, 2025: Gold Card program website (trumpcard.gov) launched, accepting applications with $15,000 fee
- December 16, 2025: Expanded travel ban announced, adding 20 additional countries
- December 23, 2025: DHS announces new H-1B selection process prioritizing higher wages
- December 26, 2025: Mandatory biometric collection at all U.S. entry and exit points begins
- January 1, 2026: Expanded 39-country travel ban takes full effect
Frequently Asked Questions
What Countries Are Included in the 2026 Travel Ban?
The expanded ban affects 39 countries total, including the original 19 from June 2025 (Afghanistan, Myanmar, Chad, Congo, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Haiti, Iran, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, Yemen) plus 20 additional countries added in December 2025. Some countries face full bans while others have partial restrictions allowing only temporary work visas.
How Do the New H-1B Rules Affect My Application?
The random lottery system is being replaced with a merit-based selection process. Applications offering higher salaries and requiring advanced qualifications receive priority. You must also set all social media accounts to public for mandatory vetting before approval.
What Is the Gold Card Program and How Much Does It Cost?
The Gold Card is a new pathway to permanent residence requiring a $15,000 non-refundable DHS processing fee at submission, with a total cost of $5 million. Unlike the EB-5 program it replaces, Gold Card holders are not subject to U.S. federal income tax on income earned outside the country. Applications are accepted at trumpcard.gov.
Will My Current EAD Still Be Valid?
Current EADs remain valid until their printed expiration date. However, renewal applications filed on or after December 5, 2025 are subject to the new 18-month maximum validity period. Plan accordingly for more frequent renewal cycles and associated processing times.
What You Need to Know Going Forward
The 2025 immigration policy changes represent the most significant overhaul of U.S. entry requirements in decades. With 1.6 million immigrants having lost legal status this year and stricter enforcement across all visa categories, proper preparation is more critical than ever.
Stay informed about evolving requirements by checking official USCIS announcements regularly. When preparing your visa or passport application, ensure all photos meet current specifications to avoid delays. VisaPics helps you create compliant photos for any document type, reducing the risk of application rejection during these heightened scrutiny periods.