Trump Eyes Sweeping Travel Ban on 43 Countries   The Trump administration is considering a new travel ban  that would exceed past restrictions, impacting visas for students, professionals, and workers across 43 nations. The plan divides affected countries into three categories, ranging from full visa suspensions to probationary status. If enacted, this policy could severely disrupt workforce mobility, particularly in industries reliant on foreign talent. The PERM Takeaway:  Employers hiring foreign workers should stay updated on travel bans that may restrict visa approvals. A proactive immigration strategy is key to mitigating workforce disruptions. ICE Crackdown: Immigration Arrests & Family Detention Resumes   Since returning to office, the Trump administration has ramped up immigration enforcement, arresting over 32,000 undocumented migrants, including those with pending charges. In addition, family detention centers in South Texas have reopened , signaling a return to controversial policies of past administrations. These moves could result in longer visa processing times and increased scrutiny for foreign employees. The PERM Takeaway:  With enforcement intensifying, employers should prepare for potential delays in PERM and visa processing, ensuring compliance and strong legal documentation for foreign hires. Palestinian Activist Calls ICE Detention Political   Mahmoud Khalil, a green card holder and outspoken activist, claims his detention is politically motivated. His case highlights growing concerns over the potential targeting of individuals based on political beliefs, raising alarms for visa holders and permanent residents. The PERM Takeaway:  Increased scrutiny on foreign nationals means PERM applicants should ensure all documentation is in order and anticipate possible delays in processing times. State Department Overhauls Nonimmigrant Visa Waiver Rules   A new State Department policy removes the requirement for consular officers to honor past visa waiver decisions, adding uncertainty for applicants. Previously granted waivers no longer guarantee future approvals, making each application subject to fresh review. This shift underscores the importance of well-documented applications. The PERM Takeaway:  Visa unpredictability can impact workforce planning. Employers should advise foreign workers to prepare for heightened scrutiny and seek legal guidance to strengthen their cases.

State Department Releases April Visa Bulletin   The U.S. Department of State has released the April 2025 Visa Bulletin , highlighting important shifts for family- and employment-based visa categories. Mexico’s F-1 and F-2B categories advanced six months, while F-2A moved forward globally by three months. Employment-based categories saw mixed results: EB-5 retrogressed sharply for China and India due to high demand, while other categories saw modest advances. EB-4 hit its annual limit, halting further issuances until the new fiscal year. See all the changes here .   The PERM Takeaway:  As the visa bulletin shifts, employers relying on foreign workers should be aware of delays, especially in EB-5 and EB-2/EB-3 categories. Strategic workforce planning may need adjustments to accommodate changes in wait times. Trump Asks Supreme Court to Reinstate Birthright Citizenship Ban   Former President Trump’s legal team is pushing for the Supreme Court to lift the nationwide block on his executive order aimed at ending birthright citizenship for children of undocumented immigrants. The case could lead to significant implications for immigration policy, with legal experts warning of a surge in lawsuits if the ban is reinstated. The PERM Takeaway:  A potential change in birthright citizenship policy could impact the way employers navigate immigrant labor, particularly for those born to non-citizen parents. Employers should stay updated on the legal challenges and how they could affect workforce dynamics. U.S. to Enforce 30-Day Registration Rule for Canadians   Starting April 11, 2025, the U.S. will begin enforcing an immigration law requiring Canadians to register with USCIS and undergo fingerprinting if staying more than 30 days. While exemptions exist for certain visa holders, non-compliance could lead to penalties, though enforcement details remain vague.   The PERM Takeaway:  Employers with Canadian workers should prepare for this new registration requirement. Those hiring Canadians for extended stays may need to factor in additional compliance steps to avoid potential penalties. New Green Card Sponsor Income Requirements for 2025  USCIS has updated the income requirements for green card sponsors. Starting in 2025, sponsors must earn at least 125% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines, with lower thresholds for active-duty military sponsors. For example, a household of four must earn at least $40,187, or $32,150 for military sponsors. Check out the full income guidelines  and make sure you meet the requirements before filing your sponsorship application. The PERM Takeaway:  Employers sponsoring green cards for workers should ensure that their financial standing meets the new requirements to avoid delays or rejections in the sponsorship process. Judge Blocks Deportation of Palestinian Activist Pending Hearing   A federal judge in New York has  temporarily blocked the deportation of Mahmoud Khalil, a Palestinian activist. Khalil’s detention has raised concerns over the treatment of student activists, especially as the Trump administration vowed to deport foreign students involved in pro-Palestinian protests. The PERM Takeaway:  The situation highlights the need for employers to be aware of the potential implications for foreign nationals involved in politically sensitive matters. It’s crucial to ensure proper legal representation and understanding of how such cases may affect employment status. U.S. State Department Reaches Annual Limit for Special Immigrant Visas (EB-4)   The U.S. State Department has announced that the annual limit for  EB-4 visas , including Special Immigrant Visas, has been reached early in the fiscal year. As a result, no further EB-4 visas will be issued until the next fiscal year begins in October 2025. The PERM Takeaway:  Employers looking to sponsor workers in the EB-4 category will face delays, as no more visas can be issued until the new fiscal year. Employers should explore alternative visa options for affected employees or plan for a waiting period.

The H-1B registration window for the FY 2026 lottery officially opened on March 7 and will remain open until 12 PM EST on March 24, 2025. For this cycle, the registration fee has increased significantly from $10 to $215. Additionally, USCIS will continue utilizing the beneficiary-centric selection system introduced in 2025. If USCIS receives enough unique beneficiary registrations by the March 24 deadline, selections will be made through a random lottery process, with notifications sent by March 31, 2025. Proposed Rule to Require Social Media Disclosure USCIS has introduced a proposed rule that would require certain applicants to disclose their social media handles on immigration forms. The agency states that this measure is necessary for "verification, vetting, national security screening, and inspection" and is in line with a past executive order titled Protecting the United States from Foreign Terrorists and Other National Security and Public Safety Threats . The public has until May 5, 2025, to submit comments on the proposal. USCIS Updates NTA Policy Guidance In late February, USCIS issued a new internal policy memorandum  directing the agency to initiate removal proceedings under certain conditions. Specifically, USCIS must now issue a Notice to Appear (NTA) when denying a foreign national’s benefit request if the individual is unlawfully present in the U.S. This includes those whose status has expired at the time of denial or those lacking authorization to remain. USCIS Revises Multiple Forms Last week, USCIS updated several key forms, including: I-485  – Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status G-325A  – Biographic Information (for Deferred Action) I-134  – Declaration of Financial Support I-192  – Application for Advance Permission to Enter as a Nonimmigrant Each of these forms now carries an edition date of 1/20/25 , and beginning March 3, 2025 , USCIS will reject any submissions using older versions. Alien Registration Rule Nears Implementation In February, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) announced plans to establish a national registry for undocumented immigrants.  Under this program, individuals who entered the U.S. without a visa  and are over the age of 14 would be required to register and provide fingerprints. Last week, the rule finalizing this registration process cleared its review by the Office of Information and Regulatory Affairs (OIRA) —the final step before formal publication. The final rule is now expected to be released imminently.

White House Proposes Social Media Requirement for Immigrants Seeking U.S. Benefits   The White House is introducing a new policy requiring immigrants to provide their social media handles when applying for green cards, citizenship, and other U.S. benefits. This move aims to enhance security and verify applicants’ identities, affecting over 3.5 million applicants annually. The PERM Takeaway:  Employers should prepare for increased scrutiny in the immigration process, which may affect potential hires. The social media requirement could slow down processing times, so be ready for potential delays when securing work visas for foreign talent. USCIS Removes ‘Another Gender Identity’ Option   USCIS has removed the "Another Gender Identity" option from key immigration forms, and reinstated the use of "alien" instead of "noncitizen" or "foreign national." These changes may create challenges for nonbinary and transgender applicants, leading to complications in their immigration process. The PERM Takeaway:  Employers in industries where gender diversity is a priority should be prepared for possible delays or challenges in work visa processes for nonbinary or transgender employees. Staying aware of changes in immigration forms and providing support will be essential to navigate these obstacles. Zoe Saldaña Makes Oscar History as First Dominican-American to Win Best Supporting Actress   Zoe Saldaña made history at the 2025 Oscars as the first Dominican-American  to win Best Supporting Actress. During her emotional speech, she honored her immigrant roots, inspiring future generations of immigrants to pursue their dreams in Hollywood. The PERM Takeaway:  Saldaña’s achievement highlights the importance of diversity and inclusion in the workforce. Employers should consider how talent from immigrant backgrounds, particularly those from underrepresented groups, can bring valuable perspectives and innovation to their organizations. Trump Signs Executive Order Declaring English as Official U.S. Language, Affecting Immigrants   President Trump’s executive order declaring English as the official language of the U.S. may limit access to services for non-English speakers. While agencies are not prohibited from offering services in other languages, this move could create barriers for immigrants in accessing critical services, such as healthcare and voting. The PERM Takeaway:  Employers may need to invest more in language services and training to ensure clear communication with immigrant employees. As the language barrier grows, providing multilingual support will be essential to maintaining an inclusive and effective workforce. U.S. State Department Reaches Annual Limit for Special Immigrant Visas (EB-4)   The U.S. State Department has reached the annual limit for Special Immigrant Visas ( EB-4 ) just five months into the fiscal year, pausing visa issuance until October 1, 2025. This cap reset will allow embassies to resume issuing visas for qualified applicants in the new fiscal year. The PERM Takeaway:  Employers relying on Special Immigrant Visas (EB-4) for their workforce should plan for delays and be prepared to make alternative arrangements for affected employees. As the cap resets in the new fiscal year, staying on top of these shifts will be crucial for workforce planning.

New Report: K-1 Visa Wait Times Improve, But Issuances Remain Low   A new report shows that K-1 fiancé visa processing times have improved dramatically, dropping from 13.9 months in 2023 to 6.1 months in FY2025, thanks to USCIS digital filing improvements. However, issuances remain low, with a 7% decrease in the number of K-1 visas issued last year. Mexico has seen a notable increase, while the Philippines saw a significant drop. Geopolitical factors will continue to affect these trends. Check out the full report ! The PERM Takeaway:  While wait times for K-1 visas may have improved, the overall reduction in issuances could impact employers looking to hire foreign workers through family-based immigration. If the trends continue, employers might face challenges finding qualified candidates for positions requiring foreign spouse sponsorship. Trump Administration Warns Undocumented Immigrants of Criminal Penalties for Not Registering   The Trump administration is targeting undocumented immigrants over 13 who have been in the U.S. for more than 30 days without registering with authorities, threatening fines and jail time. This move seeks to enforce compliance with a World War II-era law, and while it aims for voluntary departure, it could create further complications for immigrant families. The PERM Takeaway:  With increased penalties for non-registration, employers may see disruption within their workforce, especially among undocumented workers. It’s crucial for businesses to monitor this policy closely as it could affect employee availability, potentially leading to legal and workforce stability concerns. Trump Proposes ‘Gold Card’ as EB-5 Investor Visa Replacement   The Trump administration has proposed a "gold card" program to replace the EB-5 investor visa, requiring a $5 million investment for green card privileges and a path to citizenship. While this could boost economic contributions, it faces questions about its legality and potential impact on future immigration investments. The PERM Takeaway:  Employers seeking to attract top-tier talent from wealthy international investors should keep an eye on this new program. If the "gold card" system is implemented, it could create new pathways for highly skilled individuals, benefiting industries reliant on foreign investment and expertise. The Trump Administration Restores “Alien” in Immigration Policy   The Trump administration has reversed the Biden-era shift away from using the term “alien,” reinstating its use in the USCIS Policy Manual. Although legally longstanding, the term has faced criticism for being dehumanizing and outdated. This move highlights continued divisions over the language used in U.S. immigration policy. The PERM Takeaway:  Language changes in immigration policy, while symbolic, can have real-world effects. Employers should stay informed about shifts in terminology, as these changes can influence the broader immigration discourse and impact employee morale and perceptions within diverse workforces. Trump’s Policies on Gender Identity and Immigration Leave Trans Immigrants Anxious About Their Future   Transgender immigrants face heightened anxiety  due to a combination of immigration and gender identity policies under the Trump administration. Executive orders banning transgender service members and halting gender-affirming care have created a climate of fear for trans immigrants, particularly those who fear deportation to countries with less protective environments. The PERM Takeaway:  Employers should be mindful of how current immigration policies may impact the safety and well-being of their transgender employees. As trans immigrants face uncertainty in their future, organizations should create supportive environments and be prepared for potential shifts in workforce dynamics.

Last week, the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) revealed plans to take action against national-origin discrimination, specifically targeting businesses that favor hiring immigrants and visa holders over U.S. citizens. Executive Orders: President Trump issued an executive order  (EO) mandating all federal agencies to reassess existing regulations, ensuring they align with his administration’s priorities and the Department of Government Efficiency’s (DOGE) efforts to reduce federal spending and workforce size. While the EO lacks detailed guidance, it does call for the elimination or downsizing of certain federal entities, citing the political leanings of agency personnel as a justification for these reductions. Another executive order signed by President Trump instructs federal agencies to identify government programs that offer financial support to undocumented immigrants. Although most public benefits are already inaccessible to undocumented individuals, the EO directs state and local agencies to tighten screening requirements for eligibility. Additionally, the order takes aim at “sanctuary jurisdictions,” which are communities that have policies limiting cooperation with federal immigration enforcement efforts. What’s Next ▶ Border Immigration Restrictions Under Public Health Grounds The Trump administration is anticipated to introduce a public health order that would classify migrants at the U.S.-Mexico border as potential carriers of infectious diseases. This move builds on previous actions that have effectively restricted asylum seekers through various border enforcement measures. The renewed invocation of Title 42 is likely to prompt legal challenges.

Justice Department Fires 20 Immigration Judges, Adding to Case Backlog The Justice Department's decision to fire 20 immigration judges has further strained the already backlogged immigration system. These terminations include midlevel assistant chief judges and judicial candidates, worsening delays in case processing and creating added pressure on the system. The PERM Takeaway:  The ongoing disruptions in immigration courts could lead to delays in processing applications, including PERM labor certifications. Employers should prepare for longer wait times and stay updated on judicial shifts that could affect their workforce’s legal status and employment eligibility. Trump’s Refugee Freeze Sparks Layoffs, Lawsuits   Hundreds of workers have been laid off  as the Trump administration’s freeze on federal refugee funding disrupts resettlement efforts. With millions in federal grants suspended, organizations are struggling to provide essential services, and refugees face uncertainty in housing, food, and employment support. The PERM Takeaway:  Employers hiring refugees or working with resettlement organizations should be aware of potential labor shortages as these funding freezes impact workforce integration. Stay informed about ongoing legal challenges that could affect employee eligibility and resettlement plans. ICE Detention Surges, Straining Capacity   ICE detention centers are nearing full capacity, with an uptick in detainees with no criminal charges. Despite a focus on criminal cases, the growing number s indicate a shift in detention policies, which may impact the broader immigration landscape, including workforce availability. The PERM Takeaway:  Increased detention and deportation efforts could impact industries relying on immigrant labor. Employers should prepare for potential disruptions to their workforce, especially in regions with high rates of detention or deportation among their employees. Trump Administration Ends Protection for 500,000 Haitians, Risking Deportation   The revocation of Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for 500,000 Haitians puts them at risk of deportation. This move is part of a broader trend to restrict TPS programs, creating uncertainty for both employees and employers who rely on this work authorization. The PERM Takeaway:  Employers should take action to ensure that employees at risk of losing TPS can transition to other work visas or statuses. It’s important to review employee documentation and remain agile in response to changes in TPS policy that could affect workforce stability.

ACLU Sues Trump Over Gitmo Migrant Detainees’ Access to Attorneys   The ACLU has filed a lawsuit challenging the Trump administration’s denial of legal representation to migrant detainees at Guantanamo Bay, raising constitutional concerns. With the administration's expansion plans for detaining undocumented immigrants with criminal records, the legal battle over detainee rights continues to heat up. The PERM Takeaway:  Legal precedents in immigration cases could have broader implications for employers dealing with immigrant workers. Employers should monitor ongoing lawsuits, especially those challenging government policies, as shifts in the legal landscape could affect work authorization and employee rights. Trump Won’t Block Immigration Arrests in Houses of Worship. Now These 27 Religious Groups Are Suing   Religious groups are pushing back against the Trump administration’s decision to expand immigration enforcement in houses of worship, citing violations of religious freedom. The ongoing legal challenges indicate that tensions between immigration enforcement and religious sanctuary policies will continue to affect communities. The PERM Takeaway:  Employers should consider the wider social implications of immigration enforcement policies. As lawsuits unfold, they may impact worker availability, especially in communities with high religious sanctuary support, affecting industries with immigrant-heavy labor forces. ‘They’re Hurting Our Children, Our Babies’: US Schools on High Alert Amid Trump Immigration Raids   Trump’s mass deportation efforts are creating widespread fear among immigrant families, leading to school absences and emotional distress. While educators provide support, families remain on edge, knowing that deportation risks could impact their ability to maintain a stable workforce. The PERM Takeaway:  Workforce productivity may be indirectly impacted by these heightened immigration enforcement efforts. Employers should be aware of the emotional and practical toll on immigrant employees, who may be less able to focus on work as family members face uncertain futures. Immigration Drove Record Jump in US Labor Force Ahead of Trump   A record 2.2 million  people joined the U.S. labor force in January, largely driven by immigration. However, experts warn that Trump’s mass deportation plans and tighter restrictions could limit future workforce expansion, which may affect wage growth and the overall labor market. The PERM Takeaway:  The PERM process and other immigration-related workforce strategies may become increasingly important as the U.S. faces potential labor shortages. Employers will need to stay agile and continue leveraging foreign labor to ensure a stable and competitive workforce.

USCIS has announced that the initial registration window for the FY 2026 H-1B cap will open at 12 PM EST on March 7 and remain open until 12 PM EST on March 24. The registration fee has been raised significantly, increasing from $10 to $215 for this selection cycle. For FY 2026, USCIS will continue using the beneficiary-centric selection system introduced in 2025, meaning registrants will be selected based on unique beneficiaries rather than multiple registrations. If USCIS receives enough unique beneficiary registrations by March 24, a random selection process will be conducted, with selection notices sent out by March 31, 2025. DHS Moves to Revoke Parole Status for 530,000 Immigrants The Trump administration is set to terminate the legal status of immigrants from Cuba, Haiti, Nicaragua, and Venezuela who entered the U.S. under the CHNV parole program. Initially introduced by the Biden administration, the CHNV program was designed to discourage irregular migration at the U.S.-Mexico border, allowing eligible individuals with an American sponsor to fly directly to the U.S. With this policy shift, CHNV parole status will be revoked, and affected individuals will be placed in deportation proceedings unless they have obtained or applied for another immigration benefit, such as a green card, asylum, or Temporary Protected Status (TPS). DHS Ends Venezuela's 2023 TPS Designation Last week, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) officially announced the termination of Venezuela’s 2023 Temporary Protected Status (TPS) designation through a Federal Register Notice. This designation, which applies to nearly 350,000 Venezuelans, is set to expire on April 2. According to DHS, Venezuela no longer meets the conditions necessary to maintain TPS. Even if the situation in Venezuela remained extraordinary, DHS determined that continuing the designation is not in the U.S.'s national interest. However, Venezuelan TPS holders from the 2021 designation will be permitted to stay in the U.S. until September. The termination of TPS will result in the loss of work authorization and protection from deportation for affected recipients.

Another Judge Blocks Trump’s Birthright Citizenship Ban   A federal judge delivered a blow to Trump’s efforts to end birthright citizenship for children born on U.S. soil to undocumented immigrants and temporary visa holders. The ruling followed a previous restraining order in Seattle and deemed the executive order unconstitutional, violating the 14th Amendment. With appeals likely headed to the Supreme Court, employers and immigration professionals should brace for possible future shifts in policies impacting citizenship. The PERM Takeaway:  Employers should stay vigilant as legal challenges in the immigration sphere unfold. A ruling that directly impacts birthright citizenship could have cascading effects on worker eligibility, especially in industries where foreign labor is crucial. Keep an eye on developments for potential changes in eligibility and employee rights. USCIS Announces H-1B Registration Dates for FY 2026   Mark your calendars! USCIS has announced the registration window for the H-1B visa lottery for Fiscal Year 2026, opening from March 7 to March 24, 2025. With a new $215 fee per beneficiary and enhanced registration features for legal teams, employers should gear up by verifying their USCIS accounts and ensuring smooth preparation for bulk registrations. The PERM Takeaway:  As employers prepare for H-1B season, the focus should shift to compliance and timely registration. With the fee structure now adjusted, businesses must strategize to align with the fiscal year timeline and ensure they are not caught off guard by any changes in the application process. Trump Administration Puts USAID Staff on Leave, Orders Return to U.S. In a move to scale back international operations, the Trump administration has ordered all USAID employees to return to the U.S. or be placed on leave, effectively shutting down operations overseas. Contractors face mass layoffs, and many within the agency have expressed concern over the future of foreign aid initiatives. The PERM Takeaway:  While USAID’s drastic cuts may seem distant from the world of immigration, they highlight an ongoing shift in U.S. policy that could affect global workforce dynamics. Employers reliant on foreign expertise and international collaboration should stay prepared for any disruption caused by these policy changes. Trump Ends TPS for 300,000 Venezuelans   Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for over 300,000 Venezuelans has been revoked , leaving many at risk of deportation. This move follows the broader trend of tightening immigration policies, with Vice President JD Vance signaling an end to large-scale TPS grants . Advocates have fiercely criticized the decision, underscoring the uncertainty it brings to thousands of workers. The PERM Takeaway:  Employers employing individuals with TPS status should review their workforce and prepare for potential legal shifts that could affect their employees' work authorization. As TPS grants become more restricted, businesses must stay informed on how policy changes could impact the availability of skilled workers.