The U.S. Moves Toward a Stricter Immigration Reform in 2026: Fee Increases, Restrictions, and Historic Changes

• A Stricter US Immigration Reform in 2026
• Visas Will Face More Restrictions
• Refugee Cap Will Be Lowered

US immigration policy is preparing for a profound transformation in 2026 under the administration of Donald Trump, marked by fee increases, access restrictions, and changes to key programs.

Throughout 2025, the White House and federal immigration agencies accelerated the issuance of executive orders and new regulations.

Many of these measures still face legal challenges, but they already outline a more limited landscape for workers, families, and asylum seekers.

According to the administration, the goal is to strengthen enforcement and reduce what it considers “vulnerabilities” in the system.

Fee Increases and Changes at USCIS

USCIS and the Department of Homeland Security confirmed that inflation-based fee adjustments will take effect on January 1, 2026.

The increases will apply to asylum applications, work permits, TPS, parole, and programs such as ESTA and EVUS.

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This means that the legal process to enter or remain in the U.S. will become significantly more expensive.

Officials anticipate that higher costs could reduce the number of applications. The administration has also placed increased focus on high-skilled visas.

The H-1B program will be among the most affected, with new guidelines raising skill requirements. Scrutiny will intensify for occupations considered at risk of displacing U.S. workers.

Universities and employers fear the policy will limit access to international talent.

Suspension of the Visa Lottery and Additional Reviews

Following a shooting at Brown University, DHS announced the suspension of the diversity visa lottery program.

At the same time, citizens from 19 countries—including Venezuela, Cuba, and Haiti—will face stricter reviews of their immigration status.

Advocates warn this could lead to delays and unexpected deportation risks.

Uncertainty has increased among those who depend on this annual process.

One of the most controversial measures is a proposed $100,000 fee for H-1B petitions. Labor unions and universities have sued the government, arguing that the fee exceeds presidential authority.

The proposal also adds more documentation requirements and stricter approval criteria. Experts warn it could drastically reduce the arrival of foreign professionals.

Changes to Work Permits and Refugee Limits

Employment Authorization Documents (EADs) will also undergo major changes. Automatic extensions will be eliminated, affecting asylum seekers and temporary residents.

In addition, the validity of some EADs will be reduced from five years to just 18 months.

This could lead to job interruptions and income losses for thousands of immigrants.

The refugee cap for 2026 has been set at 7,500 people—the lowest number in the program’s history.

Travel restrictions will expand to 20 additional countries, including Burkina Faso, Mali, Niger, and Syria.

Holders of documents issued by the Palestinian Authority will face total bans. These changes deepen a more selective and restrictive approach.

New Programs and Expert Warnings

The government is also promoting the so-called “Gold Card,” a $1 million visa for wealthy investors seeking permanent residency.

At the same time, it has increased the hiring of attorneys to act as deportation judges, expanding USCIS’s role toward enforcement functions.

Experts describe this redesign as a “militarization” of the immigration system.

They warn that the new structure prioritizes control over benefit facilitation and increases uncertainty for millions of people, as reported by La Opinión.