Last Week’s Highlights in Immigration: Visa Delays, Marriage Rules & Worksite Raids

Visa Trouble for World Cup Fans

The 2026 FIFA World Cup is coming to North America, but for fans from non–Visa Waiver countries, the long wait for B1/B2 tourist visas could mean missing the kickoff. Countries with severe backlogs may not see appointments in time, putting a damper on tourism and temporary business visits.

The PERM Takeaway: Visa appointment delays aren’t just a problem for tourists — they’re a warning sign for employers, too. Planning to bring candidates over on any nonimmigrant visa? Start the clock early. These delays are a reminder that PERM's timeline, while long, may still be more predictable than many other visa pathways.

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Medical Exam Rules Get Stricter

USCIS now says the Form I-693 medical exam is valid for one application only. If your application is denied or withdrawn, you’ll need a new medical exam to reapply — no more reusing previous results. Exams signed before Nov. 1, 2023, are still good for two years.

The PERM Takeaway: While PERM doesn’t require a medical exam, this is a good reminder to double-check the fine print across the entire immigration process. Little things like form timing can derail green card processing — and lead to unnecessary do-overs. Coordination matters.

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New Rules on Refugee & Asylee Marriage Sponsorships

USCIS will now only accept legally recognized marriages — no more informal or traditional unions — for refugees and asylees sponsoring spouses. The rule solidifies existing court precedent and will apply retroactively to cases pending since March 3, 2025.

The PERM Takeaway: Documentation is everything. Whether sponsoring a spouse or an employee, immigration hinges on legal clarity. Make sure your candidates have verifiable, official records. “Close enough” no longer cuts it — especially under a stricter USCIS.

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Supreme Court Greenlights Third-Country Deportations

The Supreme Court has ruled that the Trump administration can resume deporting migrants to third countries instead of their homelands, even for people with prior criminal convictions. Dissenters warn the move could endanger lives, while advocates vow to keep fighting.

The PERM Takeaway: Immigration enforcement priorities are shifting fast. If your workforce includes foreign nationals with complex immigration histories, expect policy whiplash. The safest move? Stick to clean, well-documented recruitment strategies like PERM that keep you in compliance.

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Worksite Raids Are Back on the Table

Trump’s border czar confirms immigration raids at farms, hotels, and other worksites will resume, with an emphasis on targeting criminals — but all unauthorized workers may be swept up. ICE operations are ramping up in sanctuary cities and key industries.

The PERM Takeaway: The best defense is compliance. If your business relies on foreign talent, skip the shortcuts and get labor certifications in place. PERM ensures your hiring process is transparent and legally defensible — so you’re not caught off guard if enforcement knocks.