U.S. Proposes $70,000 Initial Fee for Optional Practical Training

What changed

The United States and the Hellenic Republic held their sixth Strategic Dialogue on 7 October 2026, where they confirmed their wide-ranging relationship. As part of these discussions, both countries agreed to improve cooperation in law enforcement and counter-terrorism. They specifically mentioned addressing the challenge of irregular migration. This confirms their ongoing efforts to manage and fight against irregular border crossings and the criminal activities linked to them.

What changed

The U.S. Administration for Children and Families (ACF) Office of Refugee Resettlement (ORR) has proposed significant revisions to its health documentation forms for unaccompanied alien children, including consolidating existing forms and enhancing data quality. Crucially, the updated request also formalises the sharing of health information, such as active diagnoses, medications, and accommodations, with the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) when a child in ORR custody is identified for repatriation. These changes aim to improve continuity of care, reduce administrative burden, and align with ORR requirements, with public comments invited until 4 November 2026.

What changed

The Danish Agency for International Recruitment and Integration (SIRI) has updated its practice note on how it applies the 'rule of presumption' in processing applications for residence and work permits under certain business schemes. This revised note, published on 5 October 2026, outlines SIRI's current practice and includes an expanded review of presumption elements, based on recent decisions from both SIRI and the Immigration Appeals Board. It replaces the previous version from 2021, providing clearer guidance on the assessment criteria for these applications.

What changed

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has decided to set aside certain federal, state, and other legal requirements related to the environment and land use in New Mexico. This action, which started on 2 October 2026, aims to allow for the swift construction of physical barriers and roads in a specific part of the U.S. Border Patrol El Paso Sector. This measure directly helps to speed up border security building projects by overriding legal rules that might otherwise cause delays.