U.S. Border Enforcement: Administration Reports 15 Consecutive Months Without Migrant Releases

What changed

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has initiated a proposed rulemaking to introduce substantial new fees for Optional Practical Training (OPT) for F-1 nonimmigrant students. This measure, announced on 8 October 2026, aims to enhance the integrity of the immigration system by deterring fraud and protecting the interests of U.S. workers. Under the proposal, an initial OPT application would incur a fee of $70,000, while any subsequent OPT would cost $30,000. Stakeholders have until 9 November 2026 to submit comments on these proposed changes.

What changed

U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) has put forward a proposed rule that would make it a requirement for rail carriers to send electronic advance traveller information for all people, including crew and passengers, who are arriving in or leaving the United States by train. This requirement would also extend to rail carriers having to send advance notices of arrival or departure for the trains themselves. The aim of this proposal is to improve security and to make legitimate international rail travel smoother, addressing a current gap in national security for rail travel. You must send any comments on this proposed rule by 14 December 2026.

What changed

The European Commission has committed an additional €130 million under the Border Management and Visa Instrument (BMVI) to enhance border security through advanced drone and counter-drone technologies. This supplementary funding supports national authorities in 16 EU Member States and Norway, aiming to strengthen aerial surveillance, improve threat response capabilities, and increase institutional awareness at the EU's external land and maritime borders, as well as at ports, airports, and border crossing points. These projects are scheduled for implementation within the current programming period, with funds available until 31 December 2029.

What changed

The South African Border Management Authority (BMA) is setting up a new Vehicle Targeting System (VTS) at border crossings. This is to make border security better and to stop vehicles being smuggled. This digital change means officers will no longer do random manual checks. Instead, they will use information to decide which vehicles to inspect. The system, which is a partnership with the International Vehicle Identification Desk, will start operating on 18 October 2026 at the Lebombo Port of Entry. This will change how vehicles are processed at South Africa's borders.