USCIS Announces Rule Change to Asylum System to Reduce Backlog

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

The Director-General of the Department of Home Affairs (DHA) has withdrawn a directive about taking asylum seeker applications. This directive was initially issued on 28 September 2026. The withdrawal, announced on 9 October 2026, was made because of unexpected problems that came up after the directive was put in place, such as Refugee Reception Offices (RROs) being overwhelmed and risks to public safety. The original directive was an attempt to put into practice a Constitutional Court judgment from 7 July 2026 concerning the Scalabrini of Cape Town case. Its withdrawal means the DHA will now create a new operational approach to follow the court's order.

What changed

UK Visas and Immigration, along with the Home Office, have released detailed factsheets for the Immigration and Asylum Bill 2026. These documents explain its plans and what impact they are expected to have. This update, published on 8 October 2026, gives clear explanations of the reforms, such as the creation of a new Independent Immigration Appeals Authority and changes to how people contribute to asylum support. The factsheets clarify how the reforms, first announced in November 2025, are meant to work, providing a deeper understanding of this important proposed law.

What changed

The United States government has initiated the suspension of prominent technology firms, including Microsoft and Adobe, from a visa programme that facilitates permanent residency for skilled foreign workers. This measure, announced by US Vice President JD Vance and Secretary of Labor Keith Sonderling, stems from claims of visa fraud and aims to prioritise American employment. Concurrently, an investigation has commenced into alleged J-1 visa fraud involving several universities accused of undercutting US wages by employing international students. The policy came into effect immediately following the announcement on 8 October 2026, impacting the ability of these entities to utilise specific visa categories for foreign labour.