Immigration Act: First Amendment of the Regulations on Fees

What changed

The United States Federal Register has published a rule from the Executive Office for Immigration Review (EOIR). It is called 'Inflation Adjustment for EOIR OBBBA Fees; Fiscal Year 2027'. This rule came out on 21 August 2026. It is about changes to the fees for the Board of Immigration Appeals and Board of Alien Appeals (OBBBA) for the next financial year. This document (91 FR 54211) is now an official publication. This is different from earlier Federal Register content that called the website an unofficial test version.

What changed

South Africa's Department of Home Affairs is making big changes under 'Home Affairs @ home'. It is moving immigration and citizen services online. The Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) is now active for short-stay visitors from China, India, Indonesia, and Mexico. Before, the ETA was only a plan. The Department plans to add other visa types, like study visas, by the end of 2026. This system has handled over 203,000 applications. It has also found fraud. The Trusted Employer Scheme now includes major infrastructure projects, companies setting up headquarters, and financial services. Applications for this scheme are due by 4 September. Visitors already in South Africa can now apply online for a 90-day visa extension using the ETA. This replaces an old paper system. More South Africans can now get Smart ID Cards. Services are available at over 500 bank branches, with a goal of 750 by the end of the year. Passport applications and first-time Smart ID applications will also move to bank branches later.

What changed

Australia has changed the Migration (Nil Visa Application Charge Arrangements and Other Matters) Instrument 2026. This change adds new rules for a nil, or zero, Visa Application Charge (VAC) for people taking part in the Rugby League World Cup 2026. This creates a new group of people who do not need a visa to enter, specifically for the event. This is in addition to existing rules for other big events and special situations.

What changed

South Africa's Department of Home Affairs (DHA) issued Ministerial Immigration Directive No. 10 of 2026. This directive waives the need for people to give a medical report when they apply for a temporary residence visa or permanent residence. This waiver applies to applications made inside or outside South Africa. It also covers applications that were already waiting for a decision.