The New Guidelines for Immigrants in the United States — Step by Step

   

The New Guidelines for Immigrants in the United States — Step by Step

In late 2025 and early 2026, the United States introduced significant changes to its immigration rules. These updates affect how immigrants enter, stay, work, and seek protection in the U.S. Whether you are planning to move to the United States, are already living there, or are supporting someone through the process, understanding these new guidelines is essential. Breaks down the major changes step by step, in simple and organized language.

Step 1: New Travel and Visa Restrictions

One of the most impactful changes is the expansion of travel restrictions.

Starting January 1, 2026, the U.S. government expanded its travel ban to cover 39 countries. People from these countries may be barred from receiving immigrant or non-immigrant visas, especially visitor, student, and exchange visas, unless they already have a valid visa before the ban. This applies to those outside the U.S. as of that date. Nationals already in the U.S. with valid visas or green card holders are generally not affected by this suspension. Exceptions and waivers may be available in specific cases, but the rules are stricter than before. 

The purpose of these restrictions is to tighten control over who can enter the United States, based on national security and public safety criteria. 

Step 2: Biometric Entry-Exit System

A major new requirement took effect on December 26, 2025. All non-U.S. citizens entering or leaving the country — including visa holders and green card holders — must undergo biometric scans at ports of entry and exit. Biometrics include facial recognition and, in some cases, fingerprints. This system is designed to strengthen identification and reduce fraud by formally tracking entries and departures.

This is the first time the U.S. has implemented a nationwide biometric exit system, and it applies at airports, seaports, and land borders. The data collected helps immigration authorities confirm identities and enforce legal entry and exit requirements more accurately.

Step 3: Changes in Application Fees and Rules

From January 1, 2026, certain immigration application fees have increased. The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) adjusted fees to reflect inflation and to sustain operational costs. Any application submitted without the updated fee amount may be rejected. This affects visa petitions, green card applications, and other immigration benefits.

In addition, USCIS has introduced changes to the way some applications are processed. These include stricter rules on interview scheduling, travel during processing, and employment authorization extensions. Work permit applicants and green card seekers need to carefully follow the updated instructions to avoid delays. 

Step 4: Policy on Asylum Claims and Public Health

A new regulation gives U.S. authorities the power to deny asylum claims on public health grounds if an individual is found to pose a communicable disease risk in times of declared health emergencies. Though originally conceived during the COVID-19 pandemic, this rule is now codified and broadens the circumstances under which asylum can be blocked. Critics argue this could be used to limit asylum access more broadly. 

      

Step 5: Temporary Protected Status (TPS) Updates

Temporary Protected Status (TPS) is a humanitarian program that allows individuals from countries experiencing conflict, disaster, or unsafe conditions to live and work in the U.S. while conditions improve. In December 2025, the Department of Homeland Security moved to terminate TPS for certain groups, such as Ethiopian nationals. However, a federal judge temporarily halted the planned end of TPS for South Sudanese immigrants, showing that some of these policy changes are being reviewed by the courts. 

Step 6: Registration Requirements

A policy introduced earlier in 2025 requires certain immigrants to register with U.S. immigration authorities. People already in legal status — such as with green cards, work permits, or parole status — are typically already registered. Other individuals without legal status may be identified through this rule, which also serves enforcement purposes.

Step 7: Visa Allocation and Priority Dates

The U.S. Department of State periodically releases a Visa Bulletin that outlines when applicants can file for adjustment of status or receive immigrant visas based on their priority dates. Recently, these processes have been revised to more closely align visa availability with application filing procedures, leading to updated timelines for immigrants waiting for permanent residency.

Step 8: Future Changes and Legislative Actions

Several immigration-related laws and proposals are still in progress. These include changes to detention policies such as the Laken Riley Act, which mandates detention for non-citizens charged with certain crimes, and broader reforms targeting employment-based immigration and family-based green cards. Some proposals, like the American Families United Act, aim to give immigration judges more discretion in family unity cases, though these are still being considered by Congress.

The U.S. immigration rules at the start of 2026 are more stringent and security-focused than in previous years. Key changes include expanded travel bans, mandatory biometric entry-exit procedures, new fee structures, stricter asylum conditions, TPS revisions, and updated visa processes. These steps reflect broader efforts by the U.S. government to enhance border security, ensure orderly immigration, and manage resources effectively.

For anyone planning to immigrate to the U.S., it is crucial to stay informed about ongoing changes, consult official government sources like USCIS, and seek professional legal help when needed.