DHS proposes eliminating the 60-day job search grace period after layoffs
The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has submitted a proposed rule (RIN 1615-AD22) to the White House to completely eliminate the 60-day grace period for H-1B, L-1, and O-1 work visa holders. The draft is currently under review, which will be followed by a public comment period.
For those facing layoffs today, the 60-day rule remains in effect. However, the signal from authorities is clear: a work visa no longer offers a safety net, and a single round of corporate downsizing can wipe out years built in the country. A protective, alternative immigration strategy must be prepared in advance.
U.S. Department of State revokes over 175,000 visas
Since the start of the current administration, the State Department reported the revocation of more than 175,000 visas belonging to foreign nationals.
Official grounds include driving under the influence (DUI), fraud, visa policy violations, and birth tourism.
Crucial nuance: a visa revocation is not equivalent to automatic deportation. A visa merely grants permission to request entry into the U.S., but it does not determine immigration status within the country. Nevertheless, these numbers confirm that background checks and compliance requirements are becoming absolute.
Potential Green Card unfreeze for 75 countries
Federal Judge Amit Mehta ruled the practice of mass denials and holds under the “public charge” rule unlawful, stating that the U.S. Secretary of State exceeded the authority granted by the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA). This exact approach had stalled cases for applicants from 75 countries. The court confirmed that consuls are required to evaluate each case individually rather than issuing blanket denials. While this decision does not mean an automatic amnesty yet, it punches a major hole in the ban policy.
Once restrictions are lifted, backlogs will instantly grow by years, which is why preparing documents now is critical.
Key takeaway
U.S. immigration policy has definitively shifted toward total audit mode and the removal of temporary leniencies. Relying on standard extensions or hoping to fix errors during processing is becoming a critical risk. The only way to safeguard your status in 2026 is flawless initial filing assembly and having a solid “Plan B”.
Don’t leave your future in the U.S. to chance, and don’t operate without a clear strategy. The Shamayev Business Law team offers a free evaluation of your immigration case. You will find out which options fit your profile and how to secure your status in just 2 business days.
