Nationwide Court Vacatur Ends Controversial $100,000 Supplemental Fee on New H-1B Petitions
Federal Judge Orders Immediate Compliance With Ruling Restoring Work-Permit Processing
USCIS Reclassifies Adjustment of Status as Discretionary, Forcing More Green-Card Applicants Abroad
Latest News
ICE Arrests at Baltimore School Spark Outcry Over Enforcement in ‘Sensitive Locations’
ICE agents arrested two adults during a preschool graduation at a Baltimore public school on June 11, apparently violating Maryland’s new law barring immigration enforcement in schools. State and city officials demanded answers from DHS, while parents expressed fear for students’ safety. The incident highlights growing conflict between federal enforcement tactics and state ‘sensitive-location’ protections and raises compliance and duty-of-care issues for employers with immigrant workforces.
Congress Front-Loads US$69.5 Billion for ICE and CBP, Sidestepping Future Appropriations Battles
A reconciliation bill signed this week guarantees ICE and CBP an extra US$69.5 billion through 2029, insulating the agencies from future budget negotiations. While ports of entry may see more personnel, the law also funds large-scale detention and rapid border-wall expansion, shaping the compliance landscape for business travelers and global supply chains.
State Department Updates Nigeria Travel Advisory to Level 3: Reconsider Travel
On June 12 the State Department refreshed its Nigeria page, reiterating Level 3 guidance but adding detailed warnings on crime, terrorism and inadequate health care. U.S. companies sending staff to Nigeria should update duty-of-care protocols, review insurance coverage and reinforce kidnap-prevention measures.
FAA Adds DHS Authorization Pathway for Drone Flights Inside 2026 World Cup No-Fly Zones
Hours before the first U.S. World Cup match, the FAA updated its drone TFRs to let operators apply to DHS for exemptions, easing the total flight ban over stadiums. Commercial drone users gain a legal path to work, but approvals are not guaranteed and penalties remain steep for unauthorized flights.
State Department to Pilot US$750 Premium Interview Fee for B-1/B-2 Visas Starting July 1
From July 1, eligible B-1/B-2 applicants may pay US$750 to secure an interview within ten business days at selected U.S. consulates. The six-month pilot offers companies a new, fee-based path to reduce crippling appointment delays, but does not speed post-interview processing or guarantee approval.
State Department Unveils $750 ‘Fast-Track’ Interview Fee for B-1/B-2 Visitor Visas
A new Temporary Final Rule introduces a US$750 optional fee that lets B-1/B-2 visa applicants secure an interview within ten business days at select consulates from July 1 through year-end. The pilot offers a premium scheduling option but does not guarantee visa approval. Business-travel planners can use the service to mitigate long wait times, though slots and participating posts will be limited.
Secure America Act Signed, Unlocking US$70 Billion for ICE and Border Patrol Operations
The Secure America Act, signed on June 11, injects US$70 billion into ICE and CBP, dramatically expanding enforcement resources through 2028. Companies can expect more worksite audits, border inspections and compliance costs, making proactive I-9 reviews and traveler briefings essential.
New Executive Order ‘Strengthening Customs Enforcement’ Raises Compliance Bar for Importers
A new Executive Order on customs enforcement will force importers—including companies shipping assignees’ equipment—to post larger bonds, prove U.S. assets, and undergo stricter CBP vetting. Logistics budgets and timelines for global moves into the United States are likely to lengthen unless brokers upgrade compliance systems quickly.
USCIS Signature Rule Puts Immigration Filings Under the Microscope Ahead of July 10 Effective Date
An interim final rule taking effect July 10 empowers USCIS to reject or even retroactively deny any filing lacking a valid signature. Employers are rushing to tighten document-control processes to avoid costly re-filings and status gaps for sponsored workers.
State Department Cracks Down on ‘Birth Tourism’ Networks After Global Investigations
After multi-country investigations, the State Department shut down three ‘birth tourism’ networks and is revoking visas linked to more than 500 suspected cases. Visa officers worldwide are sharpening fraud screening, meaning travelers—especially pregnant applicants—will face tougher questioning and documentation demands.
FBI Boston Issues ‘No-Drone Zone’ Warning Ahead of World Cup Matches
FBI Boston has declared World Cup venues ‘No-Drone Zones,’ warning that violators face six-figure fines and possible jail time. Companies planning aerial operations in Massachusetts during the tournament must secure DHS/FAA approval and monitor daily flight-restriction notices.