As 2026 begins, many U.S. employers are entering a more demanding immigration environment—one shaped by tighter review standards, higher costs, and increased enforcement activity. For companies relying on foreign national talent, the best approach this year is early planning and stronger internal coordination between HR, recruiting, and legal teams.
Category: Employment Authorization Documents
USCIS Increases Screening and Vetting by Shortening Some EAD Validity Periods
USCIS announced a Policy Manual update that reduces the maximum validity period for certain Employment Authorization Documents (EADs). USCIS stated the goal is to require more frequent vetting of individuals applying for authorization to work in the United States.
Under this update, USCIS stated that the maximum validity period...
U.S. Visa Vetting Update: H-1B & H-4 Applicants Should Review Social Media Privacy Settings
The U.S. Department of State recently announced expanded screening and vetting that may include an “online presence review” for certain visa applicants. For H-1B applicants (and in some cases H-4 dependents applying with them), this is a reminder to review your public online footprint before your visa interview.
The...
HR Alert: DHS Ends 540-Day Automatic EAD Extensions – What Employers Need to Know
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has officially ended the 540-day automatic extension of Employment Authorization Documents (EADs) for renewal applicants under its October 30, 2025 Interim Final Rule.
This change affects many categories of foreign national workers who previously remained authorized to work while their renewal was pending.
DHS Ends Automatic EAD Extensions for Many Categories: What Employers and Foreign Workers Need to Know
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has announced a major policy shift ending automatic extensions of Employment Authorization Documents (EADs) for several categories of foreign nationals.
The change, effective October 30, 2025, will have major implications for both employers and employees who depend on EADs to continue lawful employment in the United States.
EAD Renewal Alert: DHS Ends Automatic Extensions Starting October 30, 2025
The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has announced an interim final rule that will end the automatic extension of Employment Authorization Documents (EADs) for certain renewal applicants starting October 30, 2025.
Until now, many individuals who filed EAD renewal applications were allowed to keep working while waiting for...
Corporate Immigration in the United States: A Foundational Overview for Employers and Professionals
Corporate immigration is a vital component of workforce mobility and talent acquisition in the United States. Each year, businesses rely on immigration programs to bring highly skilled professionals, executives, researchers, and investors to the U.S. while navigating a legal system shaped by decades of policy evolution.
This overview introduces...
Travel Advisory for Visa Holders: Key Considerations Before Leaving the U.S.
With immigration policies evolving under the current administration, visa holders should exercise caution before making international travel plans. Changes to visa adjudication, consular processes, and potential executive orders could significantly impact travel timelines and reentry into the United States.
Employers and employees should be aware of the risks associated with traveling abroad,...
Game-Changing Updates to H-1B and EAD Rules Set to Reshape Immigration Policies
The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) recently issued two critical final rules that promise to transform key aspects of the H-1B visa program and Employment Authorization Documents (EADs). These updates, effective mid-January 2025, aim to modernize immigration pathways, enhance program integrity, and provide much-needed flexibility for employers and foreign workers alike.
Anticipating Immigration Policy Shifts Under a New Trump Administration
With the possibility of Donald Trump returning to the Oval Office, businesses and employees alike should prepare for significant shifts in U.S. immigration policy. Changes are expected to impact not just those on work visas but also employers who interact with the broader immigrant workforce. Here are five key areas to monitor...