This Week in Immigration: Work Permits, Public Charge, and Key Court Battles

Federal Judge Blocks Parts of New Work Permit Restrictions

A federal judge in Massachusetts temporarily blocked the Trump administration from enforcing portions of new USCIS policies that would have stripped work authorization from tens of thousands of asylum seekers and certain TPS beneficiaries. The court found the government likely violated the Administrative Procedure Act by applying the restrictions without proper rulemaking. The injunction preserves work authorization for many affected individuals while the litigation continues.

DHS Officially Publishes New Public Charge Rule

DHS published its final rule rescinding the 2022 public charge regulation. Beginning September 18, 2026, USCIS officers will once again have broader discretion to evaluate whether adjustment applicants or applicants for admission are likely to become a public charge. The rule also revises regulations governing public charge bonds.

New F-1 and J-1 Admission Rules Published

The final rule replacing “Duration of Status (D/S)” with fixed admission periods for most F-1 students, J-1 exchange visitors, and I visa holders was officially published. The rule is currently scheduled to become effective September 15, 2026, subject to congressional review.

New Details Emerge in Fatal Houston ICE Shooting

Federal prosecutors released additional details about the July 7 ICE shooting that killed Houston homebuilder Lorenzo Salgado Araujo. The updated account differs in significant respects from the government’s initial description, fueling continued scrutiny of ICE enforcement tactics.

Also Read: https://apnews.com/article/fab45a4f012ff844c3e93749245eb454

Judge Prevents Deportation of Key ICE Shooting Witness

A federal judge ordered that one of the principal witnesses to the Houston ICE shooting remain in Texas while his habeas petition proceeds. The witness, who has lived in the United States for decades, may also qualify for a U visa because of his cooperation in the criminal investigation. (

 

Text Call Email
Please enable JavaScript in your browser to complete this form.
Name