Immigration Weekly Roundup
At Heckler Law Group, we monitor every development that could affect our clients’ immigration planning. Here are the key updates from the past week, presented in order of their practical impact on families, employees, and employers.
EB-2 Green Card Category Temporarily Closed
The Department of State has announced that all EB-2 immigrant visa numbers for FY2025 have been used. No additional EB-2 visas will be issued at U.S. consulates until the start of the new fiscal year on October 1, 2025.
TPS for Honduras and Nicaragua Ending
Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for nationals of Honduras and Nicaragua will end on September 8, 2025. Employers should re-verify the work authorization of affected employees, and individuals with TPS should consult with an attorney to explore alternative options before their protection expires. Acting quickly will help avoid disruptions in both employment and legal status.
USCIS Clarifies “False Claim to U.S. Citizenship” Rules
USCIS recently expanded on how the “false claim to U.S. citizenship” ground of inadmissibility is applied. This ground is especially serious because it can create a permanent bar to immigration benefits. Even inadvertent or mistaken claims, such as checking the wrong box on an employment form, can carry significant consequences. Families and employers should review past filings carefully and seek legal advice when questions arise.
In-Person Visa Interviews Returning
The State Department has officially ended its interview waiver program for most nonimmigrant visa renewals. As of September 2, 2025, applicants—including H-1B professionals, students, and tourists—should plan to attend in-person interviews at U.S. consulates, even for renewals.
DHS Proposes Fixed Visa Periods for Students and Exchange Visitors
The Department of Homeland Security has proposed ending the “duration of status” admission system for F, J, and I visa holders. Instead, students, exchange visitors, and media representatives would be admitted for fixed terms, with the option to request extensions from USCIS if additional time is needed.
L-1 Blanket Visa Concerns on the Rise
There are reports that consular officers are increasingly denying L-1 blanket visa applications, which are commonly used by multinational companies to transfer executives, managers, and specialized employees. Employers relying on the blanket program should prepare carefully for consular reviews and consider whether individual L-1 petitions may provide stronger results.
What This Means for You
These updates highlight how quickly immigration policy and procedures can change. Employers should stay ahead of compliance requirements, and individuals should be proactive about planning around visa availability and travel needs. Our team is here to guide you through these changes and ensure you are positioned for success.
If you’d like to discuss how these developments may affect your case or organization, please feel free to schedule a consultation with our team.
