ICE's March 2026 update to its Form I-9 inspection guidance significantly expands employer liability by reclassifying many previously correctable "technical" errors as "substantive" violations subject to immediate fines. As a result, employers face increased financial risk and should proactively strengthen their I-9 compliance practices, especially regarding remote verification and electronic systems.
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USCIS has introduced a new security vetting process tied to expanded FBI record access, leading delays in many immigration applications. While the full impact and timelines are unclear, applicants and employers should expect longer processing times and plan for potential delays.
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As federal immigration enforcement has been intensifying, employers across industries have been served with an increased number of I-9 audits, with the federal government scrutinizing their hiring and employment eligibility verification practices. Even well intentioned organizations can face steep penalties for paperwork or procedural errors during a Form I 9 inspection, even if all employees are legally authorized to work. Preparing proactively for an I 9 audit is not just a compliance exercise; it is one of the most effective ways to minimize your company’s financial, operational, and reputational risks.
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The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has announced an increase to premium processing fees under the authority of the USCIS Stabilization Act, which permits the Department of Homeland Security to adjust these fees for inflation every two years.
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The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has announced a significant update to the selection process for cap-subject H-1B visas. These changes will take effect on February 27, 2026, and will apply to the annual H-1B lottery scheduled for March 2026.
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