Regulatory Issue Summary: Personnel Access Authorization Requirements for Non-Immigrant Foreign Nationals Working at Nuclear Power Plants
Published Date: 2/9/2026
Notice
Summary
The Nuclear Regulatory Commission reminds nuclear power plants to double-check the immigration status of non-immigrant foreign workers before giving them unescorted access to sensitive areas. This update affects plant operators who must verify these details to keep security tight, starting February 9, 2026. While it doesn’t add new costs, it ensures everyone follows the rules to keep nuclear sites safe and sound.
Analyzed Economic Effects
2 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 0 costs, 0 mixed.
Verify Non‑Immigrant Status Before UA
If you run or operate a nuclear power plant, the NRC reminds you that before granting or reinstating unescorted access (UA) or certifying unescorted access authorization (UAA) for non‑immigrant foreign nationals who will perform work, you must validate that the person's claimed non‑immigrant status is correct. This reminder is effective as of February 9, 2026, and the NRC states it does not add new costs but reinforces following existing rules to keep sites safe.
Allowed Validation Methods and Exceptions
The NRC added guidance that if the Department of Homeland Security's Systematic Alien Verification for Entitlements program shows someone is not employment eligible but they may still be authorized to conduct business, licensees can use other validation approaches. The RIS (final draft) added a footnote and a paragraph saying licensees may "evaluate an accumulation of information" and, in exigent circumstances, may permit access through other means in accordance with NRC regulations.
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