Faster Immigration? USCIS Raises Fees to Fight Inflation

2025-19747 — Collection and Use of Biometrics by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services

The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) wants to update how they collect and use biometrics—like fingerprints and DNA—from anyone applying for immigration benefits, no matter their age. They’re also expanding when and how they collect this info, including after arrests, and setting new rules for special cases like VAWA and T visa applicants. If you want to share your thoughts, you’ve got until January 2, 2026, to speak up!

2025-19655 — Collection of Biometric Data From Aliens Upon Entry to and Departure From the United States

Starting December 26, 2025, anyone who isn’t a U.S. citizen will have to get their photo and other biometric info taken when they enter or leave the United States—no matter if they’re at an airport, land border, or seaport. This new rule replaces old pilot programs and expands where biometrics are collected. It affects travelers and could change how quickly you move through customs, so the government is also asking for feedback on the process and costs by November 26, 2025.

2025-19642 — U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services Employment-Based Immigrant Visa, Fifth Preference (EB-5) Fee Rule

The government plans to change the fees for the EB-5 immigrant visa program, which helps people invest in the U.S. to get green cards. These updates will support new rules from the 2022 EB-5 Reform Act and make sure the program stays fair and strong. If you’re involved with EB-5 visas, watch for fee changes and get your comments in by December 22, 2025!

2025-18473 — Weighted Selection Process for Registrants and Petitioners Seeking To File Cap-Subject H-1B Petitions

The government is changing how it picks who gets to file H-1B visa petitions by using a weighted system that favors higher-skilled and better-paid workers. This means employers hiring for top jobs have a better shot, but workers at all pay levels still have a chance. These changes will affect anyone applying for H-1B visas and could impact how quickly and easily employers get their petitions accepted.

2026-06164 — Addition of Preclearance Facility at Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport

U.S. Customs and Border Protection just opened a new preclearance spot at Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport starting March 10, 2026. This means travelers flying directly to the U.S. from there can clear customs and immigration before they even board, making arrivals smoother and faster. If you fly from this airport, expect quicker entry into the U.S. with less hassle and no extra fees.

2026-05942 — Notice of Approval of New Credentialing Organization for Health Care Workers for Certain Immigration Purposes

Starting March 27, 2026, a new group called The Evaluation Company can officially check and certify health care workers’ credentials for U.S. immigration. This means health care workers applying to work in the U.S. can now get their paperwork approved through this new organization, making the process smoother and more options available. If you’re a health care worker or employer, this update could speed up hiring and immigration steps without extra costs.

Previous: 2026-00315 — List of Rules To Be Reviewed Pursuant to the Regulatory Flexibility Act

The Securities and Exchange Commission is checking some of its rules to see if they still work well for small businesses or if they need changes. They want your thoughts by February 11, 2026, to help decide if the rules should stay, change, or go away. This review could save small businesses money and make things easier for them.

Next: 2026-00326 — Safety Zone; Hillsborough Bay, Tampa, FL

Starting January 24, 2026, the Coast Guard is setting up a temporary safety zone in Hillsborough Bay, Tampa, during the Gasparilla Children's Air Show. Boats and people can’t enter this area unless the Coast Guard says it’s okay, keeping everyone safe from flying show hazards. This quick action means no fees but some waterway users will need to plan around the restricted zone for a short time.