This Week in Immigration: November 13, 2026

U.S. Immigration News

USCIS Expands Good Moral Character Review for Citizenship Applicants

USCIS has issued new guidance explaining how public benefits-related conduct and financial responsibilities may affect citizenship applications. The agency says legally receiving public benefits does not automatically disqualify applicants, but officers may consider benefits fraud, failure to support dependents, and unmet financial sponsorship obligations when assessing good moral character. USCIS plans to update Form N-400 to collect additional information about public benefits and dependent support. Officers must evaluate each applicant's circumstances individually.

International Student Enrollment Falls as Visa Barriers Grow

International undergraduate enrollment at U.S. universities fell 13% compared with the previous year, according to a new global survey covering 437 universities in 63 countries. The findings suggest that visa restrictions and uncertainty about U.S. immigration policies are encouraging more students to consider universities in Asia and Europe. More than a third of U.S. institutions surveyed said they expect international enrollment to decline further.

State Department to Allow First-Time Passport Applications Online

The State Department is launching a pilot program on November 16 allowing certain first-time U.S. passport applicants to apply online. Initially, the program will include eligible adults living in the United States who use a Certificate of Naturalization to prove citizenship, as well as some previous passport holders who cannot renew online. Applicants will verify their identity through Login.gov and complete the process electronically. The department plans to expand eligibility as testing progresses.

Democrats Prepare Immigration Agenda Following Midterm Elections

Following their gains in the November 3 midterm elections, Democrats are preparing to challenge the Trump administration's immigration policies. Their priorities could include greater oversight of immigration enforcement, protections for Dreamers, and renewed efforts to advance bipartisan immigration legislation, including the Dignity Act. However, major legislative changes would still face significant obstacles, including the possibility of a presidential veto. Previously approved immigration enforcement funding also extends through 2029, limiting Congress's ability to change enforcement operations in the near term.

DOL Advances Proposed Changes to Employment-Based Green Card Process

The Department of Labor is moving forward with proposed changes to the PERM labor certification process, a key step for many employer-sponsored green cards. The proposal, which cleared White House review on October 23, could introduce stricter recruitment standards, additional documentation requirements, and greater employer oversight. The full details have not yet been released, and existing PERM rules remain in effect. If finalized, the changes could take effect as early as 2027.

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