DHS announced a final rule effective Jan. 13, 2025, permanently increasing the automatic extension period for certain EAD renewals from 180 to 540 days for eligible noncitizens with timely filed applications. This change reduces employment gaps, supports U.S. businesses, and strengthens the economy. The rule aligns with USCIS’s efforts to reduce EAD processing times, streamline adjudication, and enhance workforce stability, benefiting both employers and eligible workers. It applies retroactively to renewal applications filed on or after May 4, 2022.

The House passed a bill aimed at deporting undocumented immigrants charged with nonviolent crimes, garnering bipartisan support (264-159). Named after Laken Riley, a nursing student killed by an undocumented migrant previously charged with shoplifting, the legislation broadens the range of offenses that can result in detention and deportation. Some Democrats, responding to political shifts, have supported the bill, emphasizing the need for measures to tackle immigration issues.

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has unveiled a new guide for implementing artificial intelligence (AI) in U.S. immigration services. The playbook details how AI will enhance processing efficiency across seven critical areas, such as AI development, partnerships, and safeguards. However, with an upcoming political transition, the future of these initiatives remains uncertain, potentially impacting immigrants, employers, and families.

USCIS released a revised Form I-485 on Dec. 10, 2024, with updates effective from Feb. 10, 2025, requiring the new edition. Key changes include mandating Form I-693 submission with Form I-485 when applicable, integrating Form I-864W exemptions into Form I-485, clarifying questions on public charge inadmissibility, and streamlining instructions to reduce applicant burden. Form I-864W is discontinued.

As of December 16, 2024, asylum seekers in immigration court no longer need to mail the first three pages of Form I-589 to USCIS. DHS will reuse previously captured biometrics for most applicants, scheduling appointments only when necessary. USCIS will identify individuals requiring biometrics via EOIR data and notify them through appointment notices sent to the address on file.

On December 9, 2024, the U.S. Department of State updated the Exchange Visitor Skills List, affecting the two-year home country residency rule for J visa holders under INA 212(e). Visitors whose countries are no longer on the list are exempt unless funded by governments or in U.S. graduate medical training. Pending DS-3035 applications will be reviewed, and affected applicants will be notified.

USCIS will release a revised Form G-325A on January 6, 2025, with the edition date 10/24/24. Starting February 5, 2025, only this edition will be accepted. Updates include options to request employment authorization and a Social Security number directly on the form. Noncitizens must pay the Form I-765 fee or request a fee waiver, with no refunds for denied deferred action requests. The form now includes space to explain requests, removing the need for a separate written statement.

USCIS will release a revised Form I-129 on January 17, 2025, incorporating updates from the H-1B and H-2 modernization rules. The new 01/17/25 edition will replace the 04/01/24 version, with no grace period for transitioning. Petitions using the 04/01/24 edition will be rejected starting January 17, 2025. A preview of the updated form and instructions is available, but submissions using the new edition will only be accepted on or after the effective date.

USCIS has announced significant updates to Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status, introducing changes that will affect all green card applicants filing for adjustment of status. The new edition, released on December 10, 2024, includes several important changes designed to reduce confusion among applicants and simplify the process.

DHS has finalized a rule permanently increasing the automatic extension of employment authorization and EADs from 180 to 540 days for eligible noncitizens who file timely renewals. This move supports employers, boosts economic growth, and responds to business community feedback for greater certainty.

DOS issued a final rule that makes updates to reflect a statutory change to the class of individuals who may qualify for Special Immigrant Visas including U.S. government employees. The rule is effective from December 10, 2024.

The Department has published a revised Exchange Visitor Skills List, effective December 9, 2024, for determining the applicability of the two-year home country physical presence requirement under INA section 212(e) for J exchange visitor visas. If a visitor’s country is not on the updated list, they are no longer subject to this requirement based on the Skills List. However, they may still be subject to the two-year rule due to U.S. or home government funding or graduate medical training in the U.S.