Homeland Security Proposes New Fees for Select H-1B Visa Petitions

2026-21600, Indefinite Suspension of the De Minimis Exemption for Mail Shipments and New Postal Informal Entry Process; Delayed Compliance Extension

Starting January 20, 2027, anyone sending or receiving international mail shipments valued at $2,500 or less will need to follow a new, official entry process because the old 'de minimis' duty-free exemption is paused indefinitely. This change affects importers and postal customers who must now comply with updated customs rules, giving them more time to get ready. It could mean more paperwork but helps keep trade fair and secure.

2026-20955, Removal of Automatic Extensions for Certain Employment Authorization Documents

Starting October 14, 2026, certain workers with Employment Authorization Documents (EADs) will no longer get automatic extensions when they apply to renew. This change affects people who rely on these work permits and means they must wait for approval before continuing to work. The goal is to improve security and make sure everyone is properly checked before getting a new work permit, with no extra fees but a tighter timeline.

2026-20884, Advance Traveler Information for Rail

U.S. Customs and Border Protection wants train companies to send traveler info ahead of time for anyone coming into or leaving the U.S. by rail. This helps keep travel safe and smooth for passengers and crew. The rule is open for comments until December 14, 2026, and could mean new tech or process updates for rail carriers.

2026-20650, Low-Value Shipments

The U.S. Customs and Border Protection is proposing new rules to make importing low-value goods (under $2,500) easier and more electronic, especially for mail shipments. They want to add new data requirements for carriers and require bonds for some shipments to keep things safe and smooth. If you’re involved in shipping or receiving small packages, get ready to adapt by December 7, 2026, when comments on these changes close.

2026-20660, Optional Practical Training Fees

Starting soon, international students using Optional Practical Training (OPT) will face new fees: $70,000 for their first OPT and $30,000 for any extra OPT periods. This change aims to stop fraud and protect U.S. workers. If you want to share your thoughts, make sure to comment by November 9, 2026!

2026-20087, Clarification of Certain Mariner Training Requirements

The Coast Guard wants to simplify training rules for certain mariners, like Masters and Officers in charge of smaller vessels and engineers with big engines. They’re removing six outdated or duplicate requirements to make things clearer and easier while matching international standards. If you’re affected, get ready to share your thoughts by December 30, 2026—no extra costs, just smoother sailing ahead!

Previous: 2026-18522, Airworthiness Directives; Bell Textron Canada Limited Helicopters

If you fly a Bell Textron Canada Model 206L helicopter with a special FAA certificate, listen up! The FAA wants you to update your flight manual to add a new speed limit to stop dangerous vibrations that can damage your tail. You’ve got until October 26, 2026, to share your thoughts, and these changes help keep your helicopter safe without breaking the bank.

Next: 2026-18531, Modernization of Regulations Under 9 CFR Parts 101-118 and 123-124

The USDA is asking for your thoughts on updating rules that keep animal medicines safe and effective. These rules affect farmers, vets, and businesses making or selling vaccines and treatments for animals (not people). They want to modernize these rules by October 13, 2026, to keep up with new science and technology without raising costs.