immigration policy

Fresh insights from research showcase a notable disparity between the UK populace’s perceptions of net migration and the reality depicted by official data. Contrary to the recent decline in migration numbers, many Britons, including those who question immigration policies, hold the belief that influxes are increasing.

Foreign nationals in the US seeking permanent residency must now return to their home countries to apply for Green Cards, according to a new USCIS policy. This change, effective immediately, aims to restore the original intent of immigration law and streamline the process. Exceptions will be made only in extraordinary circumstances, freeing up agency resources for other critical cases.

Many Indian immigrants on employment and student visas rely on getting their green card while they’re still in the US. The new rule adds further uncertainty to the process.

USCIS now has the power to reject or deny immigration applications, even keeping fees, if an invalid signature is found months or years later. This new rule, effective July 10, 2026, applies broadly to most benefit requests, including visas and Green Cards. Applicants cannot usually fix signature errors after submission.

USCIS has issued a new policy memo requiring most foreigners seeking a green card to apply from their home country, shifting from adjustment of status within the U.S. This stricter standard emphasizes weighing negative factors like immigration violations and inconsistent conduct, demanding stronger evidence of "unusual or outstanding" positive ties to the U.S. for those applying domestically.

New USCIS fingerprint checks are causing significant delays for immigration applications, including permanent residency and citizenship. Officials must resubmit biometrics for pending cases to the FBI's upgraded system, even if previously cleared. Attorneys warn this could lead to increased scrutiny of minor past interactions and disproportionately impact immigrants from certain regions.

In a bold and contentious move, Britain and France have prolonged their migrant exchange initiative until October 1. This unique arrangement facilitates a swap where each small boat arrival results in a corresponding legal entry into the UK from France. While the program has led to hundreds of individuals being either sent back or granted entry, it faces significant backlash.

A surge of legislative proposals in the US targets the H-1B visa program, proposing significant restrictions and even abolition. While some measures aim to protect American jobs, experts warn against blunt policies. The article suggests reforms like Australia's skilled occupation list and Canada's points-based system could offer better solutions for attracting global talent.

The Trump administration has suspended its controversial $15,000 visa bond requirement for eligible FIFA World Cup 2026 ticket holders from select countries, including Algeria, Senegal, and Tunisia. The waiver applies to fans enrolled in the FIFA Pass system for expedited visa processing. The move comes after pressure from FIFA and growing concerns over travel restrictions hurting tourism and international attendance ahead of the tournament hosted by the US, Canada, and Mexico.

Thailand is reducing its visa-free entry period from 60 to 30 days for 93 countries, including India, due to concerns over misuse and illegal activities. This move aims to curb unauthorized business operations and illegal employment, impacting Indian travelers who previously enjoyed longer stays.

The Supreme Court stated that illegal infiltration by Bangladeshi nationals is not a terrorist act, even as the BJP vows to expel them from West Bengal. The court granted bail to an individual arrested for facilitating illegal immigration, noting the porous border with Bangladesh and the large number of immigrants already in India.

Moody's chief economist Mark Zandi warns of a 40% recession risk in the US within a year, citing 'counterproductive policy choices' like tariffs and restrictive immigration. He suggests abandoning these policies, ending the Iran war, and letting the Fed maintain steady interest rates could avert a downturn, despite slowing job growth.