USCIS announces new immigration rules and TPS updates

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has announced several regulatory changes and updates regarding immigration and work authorization. A proposed rule seeks to eliminate deference to prior approvals when adjudicating extensions for employment or stays, placing the burden of proving eligibility on the petitioner to strengthen adjudicatory review.

Additionally, a final rule has taken effect ending the automatic extension of Employment Authorization Documents (EADs) for certain work authorization categories. In a separate move, the Department of Homeland Security has reduced the response period for a Notice of Intent to Terminate refugee status from 30 to 10 days. U.S. Customs and Border Protection is also proposing a rule to require rail carriers to transmit advance traveler information for individuals entering or leaving the country by train.

Regarding Temporary Protected Status (TPS), USCIS confirmed that Ukrainian nationals holding TPS retain their protection and work authorization. While the previous designation period ended on October 19, 2026, the agency has not yet specified a new expiration date or a subsequent term for the program.