The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has recently announced several significant updates that impact immigration policies and operations. These changes include reaching the H-1B visa cap for fiscal year 2027, rescinding the 2026 public charge regulation and expanding asylum office locations. These developments reflect ongoing efforts to streamline immigration processes and align policies with Congressional intent.
In addition to policy changes, USCIS has provided valuable assistance in investigations leading to the sentencing of individuals involved in visa fraud. The agency has also opened new asylum offices in Atlanta and San Antonio enhancing access to asylum services for applicants in these regions. These updates underscore USCIS’s commitment to improving immigration services and ensuring compliance with immigration laws.
USCIS Reaches H-1B Visa Cap for Fiscal Year 2027
USCIS has announced that it has received enough petitions to reach the congressionally mandated 65,000 H-1B visa regular cap and the 20,000 H-1B visa U.S. advanced degree exemption known as the master’s cap, for fiscal year 2027. This development marks the conclusion of the initial phase of the H-1B visa application process for the upcoming fiscal year. Applicants who have not yet received a selection notice are advised to explore other visa options or consider applying in the next fiscal year.
Rescission of the 2026 Public Charge Regulation
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has issued a final rule rescinding the 2026 Biden-era regulation regarding public charge determinations. This move aligns immigration law with Congressional intent, emphasizing the importance of self-reliance for aliens in the United States. The rescission of this regulation aims to ensure that immigration policies promote the integration of immigrants into society while maintaining their independence from taxpayer-funded government benefits.
Sentencing in Visa Fraud and Conspiracy Case
USCIS provided valuable assistance to an investigation that led to the sentencing of Jung Hoon Song and Bonnie Jo C. Quichocho. The defendants were found guilty of faking marriage as a scheme to fraudulently gain lawful permanent residence in the United States. This case highlights USCIS’s role in combating immigration fraud and ensuring the integrity of the immigration system. The sentencing serves as a deterrent to others who may consider engaging in similar fraudulent activities.
Expansion of Asylum Office Locations
USCIS has opened new asylum offices in Atlanta and San Antonio to better serve asylum seekers. Beginning July 8, 2026 the Atlanta Asylum Office will conduct interviews for affirmative asylum applicants at three locations. Similarly, the San Antonio Asylum Office which opened on May 28, 2026 will provide interview services for aliens who filed for asylum with USCIS and reside in the jurisdiction of the Houston Asylum Office. These expansions aim to improve access to asylum services and streamline the application process for asylum seekers.
Court Order on Hold Policies
On June 5, 2026 the U.S. District Court for the District of Rhode Island issued an order in Dorcas International Institute of Rhode Island, et al. v. United States Citizenship and Immigration Services, et al. vacating several policies. This order affects PM 602-0192PM 602-0194 and PA 2026-26 which were previously in place. The court’s decision highlights the ongoing legal complexities surrounding immigration policies and the need for continuous review and adaptation.
