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August 2026 Newcomer Policy Update

August 2026 Newcomer Policy Update

Want to keep up with newcomer policy updates in the U.S.? Every month, Global Cleveland publishes our newcomer policy update so that you can stay informed about the latest news.

This month’s Newcomer Policy Update at a glance:

  • Federal Bill Introduced to Improve Visa Services
  • ICE operations begin in Springfield
  • Federal Judge Rules in favor of Texas in ICE Extradition Case

Federal Bill Introduced to Improve Visa Services

  • The new VISITOR act, introduced as House Bill 10106, is aimed at improving consular services by modifying funding policies and reducing wait times.
  • The bill would give the State Department more access to fee revenue to hire staff and expand operations related to visa issuance.
  • It also directs the state department to set the goal to have 80% of nonimmigrant visa applications be interviewed within three weeks.
  • The bill has bipartisan support from Dina Titus, a Nevada Democrat, and Florida Republican Maria Elvira Salazar.

Bill would Prohibit Admission to National Laboratories by Foreign Citizens of Specified Countries

  • The new GATE Act, designated HR 10092, would prohibit citizens of five countries – China, Russia, Iran, North Korea, and Cuba – from being admitted to a National Laboratory.
  • Those with US citizenship or who are lawful permanent residents of the US are exempt from the ban.
  • The bill also specifies the process for a waiver to be issued by the government.
  • Introduced by Rep. Pat Harrigan (R-NC), it has no co-sponsors as of now.

Bill Introduced to Reduce PERM Backlog

  • Reps Glenn Grothman (R-WI) and Lou Correa (D-CA) introduced a new bill, the PERM Backlog Reduction Act, aiming to reduce delays from the Labor department’s Program Electronic Review Management system.
  • The system is used for employers to use certification required for certain employment based immigration petitions.
  • The bill would establish an optional fee for expedited processing of a key form to enable businesses with an urgent need to speed up the process.
  • The new fee would be $1,200, and would lead to a shorter, 30-day processing of the ETA-9089 form.

USCIS has Broader Discretion on RFE

  • New guidelines from the United States Citizenship and Immigration Service (USCIS) allows the agency to have broader discretion to deny incomplete applications.
  • Officials are no longer required to issue a request for evidence (RFE) on an application that is submitted but incomplete before denying the application.
  • The policy went into affect on August 5th.
  • The change repeals a policy introduced in 2021 and returns the agency’s guidelines to those that were in place previously, including under President Trump’s first term in office.

Administration Proposes New Version of $100k Fee

  • The Department of Homeland Security’s USCIS has proposed a new fee, similar to the $100k fee for H-1B petitions that was overturned in court.
  • The new fee, of $103,265, would be more broad, applying to those that involved transfers from other visas.
  • It would however contain an exemption for cap-exempt petitions, which come from nonprofit groups and higher education institutions, among others.
  • The fee has not yet gone into effect, and is currently open for public comment.

Immigrant Visa Applications Paused

  • The administration has implemented a world wide halt in immigration visa appointments.
  • Officials stated that the pause is designed to re-train officials to screen out applicants that are believed to be taking advantage of US public assistance.
  • Called the public charge policy, the State Department is able to decline to approve a visa for someone who is believed to have a high likelihood of relying on public assistance in the US. This policy was the basis of the 75 country pause implemented in January that was recently overturned in federal court.

ICE Operations Begin in Springfield

  • Following the expiration of Temporary Protected Status for Haitian nationals, Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) began operations in Springfield, Ohio.
  • The city has had a substantial Haitian population for many years, and was the focus of immigration related debates in the 2024 election.
  • Many of the Haitian immigrants to the United States were in the US on TPS, which had been available to Haitian nationals from the 2010 earthquake until earlier this year.
  • The Supreme Court cleared the way for the termination of TPS earlier this year in a court case that was one of the highest profile on immigration to be decided in recent years.

USCIS New Public Charge Guidelines to go into Effect in September

  • USCIS repealed a 2022 rule on public charge inadmissibility, with a new rule that will go into effect on September 18th.
  • The new guidelines specifies that officials are to consider five factors required in federal law (age, health, family status, assets/financial status, and education/skills) as well as “any other factor relevant.”
  • An applicant that is ruled inadmissible under the public charge rule may post a “public charge bond” as a financial guarantee.
  • The public charge rule only applies to certain categories of immigrants; asylums and refugees, foreign diplomats, victims of crimes, and other categories are exempt.

Federal Judge Rules in Favor of Texas in ICE Extradition Case

75 Country Pause Overturned

Action: Local Law Enforcement Should Work with Federal Authorities on Immigration

  • Democratic Candidate for Governor Amy Acton said that local law enforcement agencies should cooperate with federal authorities on immigration enforcement.
  • This view is in contrast with some officials in her own party, and has been a high-profile story int he closely contested election.
  • The levels of cooperation between local and federal law enforcement on immigration has been subject to legislation and litigation across the country, especially since the new administration has taken office.

University of Pennsylvania report on impact of TPS recipients

  • A major new report form the University of Pennsylvania provided key insights into the economic impact of recipients of temporary protected status.
  • The study found that the states with the largest populations of TPS holders included Florida, Texas, and New York.
  • TPS holders, both men and women, have a higher workforce participation rate than the US born population, as well as a higher rate than immigrants here on other visas. Both men and women TPS holders had this higher rate.
  • About 0.82% of Ohio’s foreign born labor force was on TPS.
  • https://budgetmodel.wharton.upenn.edu/p/2025-11-19-550-000-workers-lose-status-by-end-of-2025/

by Alyssa Coyle

Jack, Joseph, and Morton Mandel Supporting Foundation Grant Strengthens Global Cleveland’s Capacity to Serve Northeast Ohio

Global Cleveland is pleased to announce a $750,000 capacity-building grant from the Jack, Joseph and Morton Mandel Supporting Foundation to strengthen the organization’s ability to serve international newcomers, employers, and communities across Northeast Ohio.

The investment comes at an important time for both Global Cleveland and the region. Demand for Global Cleveland’s programs and services continues to grow as Northeast Ohio employers seek new sources of talent and international newcomers look for opportunities to build careers, professional networks, and long-term connections within the region.

“We are deeply grateful to the Jack, Joseph and Morton Mandel Supporting Foundation for this extraordinary investment in Global Cleveland,” said Joe Cimperman, President and CEO of Global Cleveland. “This support is an investment not only in our organization, but in the international people who are choosing Northeast Ohio to build their careers, businesses, families, and futures. It gives us the capacity to think bigger, serve more people, and build an even stronger organization for the years ahead.”

As Northeast Ohio’s organization focused on immigration as an economic development strategy, Global Cleveland connects international talent with the opportunities, employers, resources, and networks that help people build successful lives and careers in the region. Through workforce development, employer engagement, leadership development, entrepreneurship, community connections, and advocacy, Global Cleveland works to remove barriers and create pathways for international newcomers to contribute their skills and talents to Northeast Ohio.

Building Capacity for Long-Term Impact

The Mandel Supporting Foundation’s investment will strengthen Global Cleveland’s organizational capacity and position the organization to respond effectively to growing regional needs and opportunities.

The grant will support three new staff positions focused on communications, program delivery, and fundraising, while also strengthening Global Cleveland’s ability to measure impact, develop employer and community partnerships, expand engagement, and build sustainable sources of funding for the future.

This increased capacity will strengthen the people, systems, and infrastructure behind Global Cleveland’s work, allowing the organization to effectively deliver and grow initiatives that connect international talent with employers, mentors, internships, leadership development, professional networks, and other opportunities throughout Northeast Ohio.

The investment will also help build the organizational infrastructure needed for Global Cleveland to continue growing strategically and sustainably while delivering measurable impact for the people, employers, and communities it serves.

Supporting Northeast Ohio’s Workforce and Economic Future

International newcomers are an increasingly important part of Ohio’s population, workforce, and economic future. At the same time, employers throughout Northeast Ohio continue to navigate workforce challenges as experienced workers retire and the available labor pool changes.

Global Cleveland works at the intersection of these challenges and opportunities. By helping internationally trained professionals and newcomers overcome barriers to employment, develop professional connections, and establish long-term roots in Northeast Ohio, Global Cleveland helps individuals reach their potential while connecting regional employers and communities with valuable talent.

The grant represents an important investment in Global Cleveland’s long-term strength and its ability to help Northeast Ohio attract, welcome, connect, and retain international talent.

Global Cleveland is grateful to the Jack, Joseph and Morton Mandel Supporting Foundation for its partnership and commitment to strengthening organizations and communities throughout Northeast Ohio.

by [email protected]

July 2026 Newcomer Policy Update

July 2026 Newcomer Policy Update

Want to keep up with newcomer policy updates in the U.S.? Every month, Global Cleveland publishes our newcomer policy update so that you can stay informed about the latest news.

This month’s Newcomer Policy Update at a glance:

  • Efforts in Congress underway to extend TPS for Haitians
  • Birthright citizenship upheld
  • Ohio named top state for business in the US

Efforts in Congress underway to extend TPS for Haitians

ICE surges at airports

  • The New York Times has reported that Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has ramped up enforcement at airports, including a broader scope of cases.
  • ICE’s airport enforcement now includes those with expired visas, according to the article, a much larger group than was subject to this kind of enforcement before.
  • Some individuals with expired visas are in something of a gray area, and historically were low priorities for deportation if they had not committed crimes.
  • ICE is reportedly working with TSA on the enforcement actions.
  • https://www.nytimes.com/2026/07/28/us/ice-arrests-airports-visa-overstay.html

ICE reportedly planning deportation options after Haiti ruling

  • Following the July Supreme Court case that allowed for the revocation of temporary protected status for Haitian nationals, ICE is reportedly planning major operations to detain Haitians in the US without legal status.
  • Reports indicated that the city of Springfield, Ohio will be a major target after the city’s Haitian community was the subject of widespread media coverage over the past two years.
  • An official in Haiti told media that the Caribbean nation was expecting weekly deportation flights of about 250 people on each.
  • https://time.com/article/2026/07/27/haitian-immigrants-ice-operations-temporary-protected-status/

Administration ramps up civil fines for immigrants

  • The Trump administration has increased its use of civil fines to encourage undocumented immigrants to leave the country.
  • The Department of Homeland Security sent 100,000 people letters saying that they owed money, nearly $1,000 per each day they have stayed in the US after losing a case in court.
  • While the legal right exists to implement these fees, they have not been widely used until the current term.
  • https://www.nytimes.com/2026/07/22/us/immigration-civil-fines-self-deportation.html

Supreme Court allows TPS to end for Haitians

  • In a closely watched decision, the Supreme Court permitted temporary protected statues for Haitian and Syrian nationals to be revoked by the administration.
  • TPS was originally issued for Haiti following the 2010 earthquake, while Syria was named to the TPS list following the outbreak of a civil war there a year later.
  • The Supreme Court’s ruling stated that the termination of the status was not able to be overturned via judicial review.

Birthright citizenship upheld

Labor shortages feared after immigration decision

  • The curtailing of TPS has raised concerns that it could lead to widespread labor shortages.
  • About 70% of TPS recipients are in the labor force, and are often represented in healthcare and construction, two industries that have experienced workforce shortages in recent years.
  • An estimated 350,000 people lost status this month, with another 190,000 facing the loss in September.
  • https://www.nytimes.com/2026/07/26/us/trump-tps-labor-shortage.html

Ohio named top state for business in the US

  • Ohio received the honor of being named the #1 State for business in the United States by CNBC.
  • The State received high marks in the ranking for its infrastructure and cost of doing business (in both of which it ranked #1 in the country) as well as in innovation, its economy, cost of living, and access to capitol.
  • The report noted that the state could still improve its ranking by improving workforce programs and investing more in education, but touted the state’s many years of consistent improvement that resulted in its #1 ranking.
  • https://www.cnbc.com/2026/07/09/americas-top-states-for-business-full-rankings.html

University of Pennsylvania report on impact of TPS recipients

  • A major new report form the University of Pennsylvania provided key insights into the economic impact of recipients of temporary protected status.
  • The study found that the states with the largest populations of TPS holders included Florida, Texas, and New York.
  • TPS holders, both men and women, have a higher workforce participation rate than the US born population, as well as a higher rate than immigrants here on other visas. Both men and women TPS holders had this higher rate.
  • About 0.82% of Ohio’s foreign born labor force was on TPS.
  • https://budgetmodel.wharton.upenn.edu/p/2025-11-19-550-000-workers-lose-status-by-end-of-2025/

by Alyssa Coyle

What Venezuelan TPS Holders Should Know About Recent Federal Updates

What Venezuelan TPS Holders Should Know About Recent Federal Updates

Recent federal court decisions and actions by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) have created continued uncertainty for many Venezuelan nationals with Temporary Protected Status (TPS). Because multiple legal cases are ongoing, the situation continues to evolve.

At Global Cleveland, we know these changes can be confusing for individuals, families, employers, educational institutions, and community organizations. Below is a summary of where things currently stand and what affected individuals should know.

What is Temporary Protected Status?

Temporary Protected Status (TPS) is a humanitarian immigration program that allows eligible individuals from designated countries experiencing extraordinary conditions to live and work legally in the United States for a limited period of time. TPS does not provide permanent immigration status, but it does offer temporary protection from deportation and authorization to work while a designation remains in effect.

What has changed?

Over the past several months, the federal government’s handling of TPS for Venezuela has been the subject of multiple administrative actions and court decisions.

Most recently:

  • The Department of Homeland Security has taken steps to end portions of Venezuela’s TPS designation.
  • Several federal court rulings have temporarily affected how and when those changes can take effect.
  • Additional appeals remain ongoing, meaning the legal landscape continues to change.

Because of these ongoing legal proceedings, an individual’s eligibility, work authorization, or TPS expiration date may depend on which TPS designation they hold and the outcome of pending court cases.

What does this mean for TPS holders?

For many Venezuelan TPS beneficiaries, there is currently no single answer that applies to everyone. Individual circumstances including when a person first received TPS and under which designation they qualified, may affect how recent legal developments apply to them.

Individuals who currently have TPS should:

  • Continue monitoring official updates from U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
  • Carefully review any notices they receive regarding their status or employment authorization.
  • Consult with a qualified immigration attorney or accredited legal service provider before making decisions about their immigration status or employment.

What employers should know

Employers who have team members with TPS should be aware that employment authorization rules may change as legal proceedings continue.

Employers should continue following federal employment verification requirements and rely on official guidance from USCIS regarding Employment Authorization Documents (EADs), automatic extensions, and re-verification requirements rather than making assumptions about an employee’s work authorization.

How Global Cleveland can help

While Global Cleveland does not provide legal advice, we are committed to connecting international community members with trusted resources, information, and organizations throughout Northeast Ohio.

If you have questions about available community resources or need help finding a qualified immigration legal service provider, our team is here to help connect you with the appropriate organizations.

As always, we encourage individuals to rely on official government information and qualified legal professionals when making decisions related to immigration status, employment authorization, or travel.

Because the legal status of Venezuela’s TPS designation continues to evolve, we will share additional information as significant updates become available.

by [email protected]

Global Cleveland Welcomes SCOTUS Decision Upholding Birthright Citizenship

CLEVELAND, Ohio — [June 30, 2026] — Global Cleveland welcomes today’s Supreme Court decision affirming birthright citizenship, recognizing its significance for families, communities, employers, and the future of Northeast Ohio.

“At the heart of this work are people, families, and communities,” said Joe Cimperman, President and CEO of Global Cleveland. “Every day, we see the talent, determination, and perspective that international newcomers bring to Northeast Ohio. Today’s decision provides certainty for many families, and we’ll continue connecting people to opportunity, strengthening our communities, and helping our region grow together.”

Birthright citizenship has long provided stability for families while helping communities across the country grow and thrive. Here in Northeast Ohio, immigrants help meet workforce needs, launch businesses, and strengthen neighborhoods that benefit the entire region. Demographic estimates suggest approximately 700 to 1,000 children born in Northeast Ohio each year could have been affected by changes to birthright citizenship, underscoring the local significance of today’s decision.

Those contributions are reflected throughout the City of Cleveland. Mayor Justin Bibb emphasized the importance of preserving opportunities for future generations.

“Cleveland is a city where families can put down roots, children can dream without limits, and every resident has the opportunity to belong. Today’s ruling reaffirms a principle that has helped generations of Clevelanders build lives, strengthen neighborhoods, and create a brighter future.”

That same commitment extends across Cuyahoga County.

“Cuyahoga County’s greatest strength is found in its people, who enrich our community through their diverse backgrounds, cultures, and experiences,” said Cuyahoga County Executive Chris Ronayne. “Birthright citizenship is a foundational element of our country and today’s ruling reaffirms our nation as a beacon of opportunity and freedom around the world.”

While today’s Supreme Court ruling provides certainty for many families, the work of strengthening Northeast Ohio continues. Global Cleveland will continue partnering with employers, local governments, and community organizations to connect international newcomers with opportunity, support a vibrant regional economy, and build communities where everyone can contribute to our shared future.

About Global Cleveland

Global Cleveland is a nonprofit organization dedicated to growing Northeast Ohio’s economy by welcoming and connecting international people to opportunities and fostering a more inviting community for those seeking a place to call home. You can learn more about Global Cleveland at globalcleveland.org or follow @GlobalCleveland on social media.

by [email protected]

June 2026 Newcomer Policy Update

June 2026 Newcomer Policy Update

Want to keep up with newcomer policy updates in the U.S.? Every month, Global Cleveland publishes our newcomer policy update so that you can stay informed about the latest news.

This month’s Newcomer Policy Update at a glance:

  • Secure America Act signed
  • State Department to pilot new program for faster visa interviews
  • SCOTUS sides with the government in Blanche v. Lau case

Secure America Act signed

North Carolina legislator overrides veto on ICE bill

USCIS to increase naturalization fees

  • The US Citizenship and Naturalization Services announced an increase in fees for naturalization forums.

State Department to pilot new program for faster visa interviews

  • In a bid to speed up urgent visa processing for tourists and business travelers, the State Department unveiled a pilot program to allow for faster visa appointments.

Canada sees major drop in immigration

  • Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney announced a significant reduction in immigration to the country, reflecting a more restrictive immigration policy in the country

SCOTUS sides with the government in Blanche v. Lau case

Supreme Court rules of asylum seeker case

ICE cannot make courthouse arrests

$100k visa fee halted in federal court

SCOTUS okays administration rulings on TPS

by Alyssa Coyle

Global Cleveland Responds to Decision Regarding Temporary Protected Status for Haitian and Syrian Nationals

Global Cleveland Responds To Decision Regarding Temporary Protected Status For Haitian And Syrian Nationals

CLEVELAND, Ohio — [June 25, 2026] — Global Cleveland acknowledges today’s decision regarding Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Haitian and Syrian nationals and recognizes the significance of this development for individuals, families, employers, and communities across the country and specifically here in Ohio.

Temporary Protected Status has provided eligible Haitian and Syrian nationals with the ability to live and work legally in the United States while conditions in Haiti and Syria have remained challenging. As the implications of today’s decision become clearer, Global Cleveland remains committed to serving as a trusted resource for international newcomers, employers, and community partners across Northeast Ohio.

“Global Cleveland’s mission remains unchanged,” said Joe Cimperman, President and CEO of Global Cleveland. “We are dedicated to connecting our international community with opportunity in an effort to strengthen our region. As these federal immigration policies evolve, we will continue working alongside our partners to provide reliable information, encourage community engagement, and help individuals navigate available resources.”

Haitian and Syrian immigrants are part of communities throughout Northeast Ohio and Cleveland that contribute to the region’s workforce, economy, and civic life. Global Cleveland remains committed to fostering opportunities for participation, economic growth, and community connections for international newcomers pursuing the American Dream.

“Today’s ruling is deeply concerning for Haitian and Syrian families who now face renewed uncertainty about their futures,” said Mayor Justin M. Bibb. “We must continue to push forward with policies that provide lasting protections and create pathways for opportunity, stability, and belonging for everyone person that calls Cleveland home.”

Individuals who may be affected by today’s decision are encouraged to seek guidance from qualified immigration legal service providers and trusted community organizations as additional information becomes available.

Global Cleveland will continue collaborating with employers, community organizations, and public partners to help ensure Northeast Ohio remains a place where international talent and longtime residents alike can contribute to the region’s continued success.

Our hearts are with the Haitian and Syrian communities today in Springfield, Ohio and across the United States. We will continue to support our legislative leaders who wish to create transparent, legal, economically sound, and American-strong means of immigrating to the United States.

About Global Cleveland

Global Cleveland is a nonprofit organization dedicated to growing Northeast Ohio’s economy by welcoming and connecting international people to opportunities and fostering a more inviting community for those seeking a place to call home. You can learn more about Global Cleveland at globalcleveland.org or follow @GlobalCleveland on social media.

by [email protected]

May 2026 Newcomer Policy Update

May 2026 Newcomer Policy Update

Want to keep up with newcomer policy updates in the U.S.? Every month, Global Cleveland publishes our newcomer policy update so that you can stay informed about the latest news.

This month’s Newcomer Policy Update at a glance:

  • Proposed immigration policy changes could impact international travel and visa processing
  • H-1B visa applications dropped nearly 40% under new federal rules
  • Ohio lawmakers advanced House Bill 763 to support internationally trained physicians

Massachusetts Advances Immigrant Protection Bill

  • Massachusetts’ Senate advanced a bill that would put some restrictions on immigration enforcement in the state.
  • Significant differences exist between the House and Senate versions, including a provision in the Senate bill creating a right of action in statute to sue on constitutional grounds, while the House bill has unique language limiting some of its provisions to courthouses
  • Republican opposition in the state house have raised constitutionality related concerns, but they bill has passed nonetheless.
  • https://www.wbur.org/news/2026/05/08/massachusetts-protect-act-senate-house-bills-differences-immigration

House Bill 763 Has First Hearing

  • Representative Andrea White, a Dayton area Republican, provided sponsor testimony for Ohio House Bill 763 in a house hearing on May 20th.
  • The bill, which Global Cleveland has worked on for over two years, would provide an alternative pathway for trained physicians who have been educated outside of the US.
  • Representative White’s testimony emphasized the need for physicians in Ohio and the benefits to the state’s physician workforce by allowing an easier path for qualified foreign doctors, as well as the willingness of her to continue to refine the bill.

Bill to Ban Entry from 6 Countries introduced

Connecticut Moves to Limited Federal Immigration Actions

  • Connecticut has become the latest state to move forward legislation to limit federal immigration actions, with SB 397 on its way to Governor Ned Lamont, who has promised to sign it
  • The bill would create “protected areas” that would have limits on federal immigration enforcement. These areas include hospitals, schools, religious institutions, and certain government buildings.
  • It would also restrict law enforcement officers from wearing masks on duty and implement new guidelines aimed at preventing federal officers found to be guilty of misconduct from being hired at the state level.
  • https://ctmirror.org/2026/05/01/bill-limiting-federal-immigration-actions-gets-final-passage-in-ct-house/

DHS Considering Restricting International Flights to Sanctuary Cities

  • Markwayne Mullin, Homeland Security Secretary, has indicated that the department may reduce the processing of international passengers in airports located in cities that have ‘sanctuary’ policies reducing or limiting cooperation with federal law enforcement.
  • This would have a major impact on international air travel; of the seven US airports with the most international arrivals – JFK, Miami, LAX, San Francisco, Newark, O’Hare, and Houston George Bush – five are in locations designated as a sanctuary jurisdiction by the Department of Justice
  • Reportedly, travel executives have pushed back on the proposal, saying it could have a severe impact on an industry already under pressure from high fuel prices; critics contend that many alternative airports lack the facility to process international passengers
  • https://www.theatlantic.com/politics/2026/05/dhs-ice-sanctuary-cities-airports/687245/

USCIS Changes Adjustment of Status Provisions, Requiring Overseas Processing

  • US Citizenship and Immigration Services announced changes to the adjustment of status process, by which most of those adjusting to a green card from a non immigration status, will need to leave the United States and apply overseas.
  • A major change, this could add to the workload already being experienced at US embassies and consulates.
  • A significant legal battle is expected, some of which centers around the lack of exemption for dual intent visas, which allow for a visa holder on a temporary or non immigrant status to live and work in the US while allowing them to pursue a more permanent status.
  • https://www.clarkhill.com/news-events/news/uscis-adjustment-status-discretionary-policy-2026/

H1B Applications Down 38%, Those With Master’s Degrees Favored

  • New statistics have shown a marked change in the H1B lottery, reflecting new changes to the program rolled out by the Department of Homeland Security
  • Total applications fell from 343,000 to just 211,000, a drop of 38.5%; the USCIS said that these changes reflected a shift in emphasis in the program towards “highly skilled foreign workers”, saying this would better protect the “wages, working conditions, and job opportunities” of US Citizens.
  • The agency revamped its salary requirements as part of an effort to combat employers using the program to hire lower wage talent rather than highly skilled applicants; the lottery for fiscal year 2027 was the first for these new regulations.
  • According to USCIS statistics, 71.5% of those approved for visas had a masters degree, compared to just 57% last year.
  • https://www.newsweek.com/h1b-visa-applications-drop-uscis-2027-data-11980489

Texas’ SB4 Subject of New Lawsuit

  • Texas’ controversial Senate Bill 4 is now the subject of a major lawsuit filed in federal court on civil rights grounds
  • The law creates a new state level criminal charge for entering the U”nited States without authorization and allowing for a state led process to remove them from the United States if they are convicted
  • The law was subject of a hold by federal courts, but this was lifeted in a federal appeals court.
  • The Texas Civil Rights Project and the American Civil Liberties Union are leading the effort, which argues that under the Constitution, immigration enforcement is a federal, not state responsibility
  • https://www.texastribune.org/2026/05/04/texas-senate-bill-4-lawsuit/

Danish Ambassador Leads Cleveland Delegation

  • Denmark’s Ambassador Jesper Møller Sørensen led a major delegation of diplomats, academics, and business leaders to Cleveland to build more ties between Ohio and Denmark; the Ambassador stated that there was potential for more bilateral trade, and that the visit deepened ties.
  • Healthcare cooperation was a major part of the visit, with the Cleveland Clinic hospital hosting the delegation; the Clinic has extensive collaborations with Danish institutions, including those related to quantum computing and AI in healthcare
  • The Ambassador also met with the Mayor of Cleveland, Justin Bibb, and Ohio Governor Mike DeWine, and participated in events related to water infrastructure.
  • https://www.linkedin.com/feed/update/urn:li:activity:7460708208790274049/

by [email protected]

April 2026 Newcomer Policy Update

April 2026 Newcomer Policy Update

Want to keep up with newcomer policy updates in the U.S.? Every month, Global Cleveland publishes our newcomer policy update so that you can stay informed about the latest news.

This month’s Newcomer Policy Update at a glance:

  • Census Bureau finds population growth declining due to immigration restrictions
  • Temporary Protected Status (TPS) case reaches Supreme Court
  • Study: Immigrants pay more in taxes than the average person

House Passes Extension of TPS for Haitians

I-9 Restrictions Tightened

  • Immigration and Customs Enforcement announced changes to the I-9 forms that will be less accommodating to errors.
  • The I-9 form regulations stipulate that smaller errors, called “technical violations” can be corrected, but more serious, “substantive” ones can result in penalties.
  • Substantive errors now include missing DOB or USCIS numbers (where required), undated signatures, missing expiration dates, titles, hire dates, and translator details; incomplete document details, and improper use of remote verification, Spanish-language forms, and electronic systems.
  • http://- https://www.boundless.com/blog/ice-i9-inspection-policy

Paraguay Will Receive US-Deportees

  • The South American national of Paraguay became the latest third country to agree to receive those deported from the US, beginning with an initial group of Spanish speaking deportees.
  • Paraguay joins El Salvador, Costa Rica, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Eswatini, and South Sudan in the ranks of countries that have signed these agreements, which are often millions of dollars.
  • These agreements have been challenged in court both in the United States and in some of the foreign countries involved.
  • http://- https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2026/4/21/paraguay-plans-to-accept-25-third-country-migrant-deportees-from-us

Census Bureau Finds Population Growth Declining due to Immigration Restrictions

  • New Data from the Census Bureau shows a substantial decline in population growth nationwide, attributable to the sharply decreased immigration levels since President Trump took office in 2025.
  • Many of the nation’s largest counties saw a decline in population, including Los Angeles and Miami Dade counties, four of the five boroughs of New York City, and Dallas County.
  • The Census Bureau’s George Hayward said “”The nation’s largest counties … are often international migration hubs, gaining large numbers of international migrants and losing people that move to other parts of the country via domestic migration.”
  • https://www.axios.com/2026/03/26/county-population-growth-immigration?utm_source=newsletter&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=newsletter_axiospm&stream=top

40 Country Pause Impacting OPT Usage – Inside Higher Ed

TPS Case Reaches Supreme Court

  • The US Supreme Court took up two key cases that will have major implications for the Temporary Protected Status (TPS) program and the executive branch’s powers over it.
  • TPS allows for eligible individuals from specific countries to remain in, and work in, the US if they are unable to safely return home. At the center of the case are the designations for two countries, Syria and Haiti, that the Department of Homeland Security ended TPS Status for.
  • The lawsuits allege that the termination of TPS status for both countries lacked the procedures required by the statute that created the program, which mandates vetting by the state department.
  • In addition, case is expected to hinge on what parts of a TPS designation are subjet to judicial review by the courts system.
  • https://www.npr.org/2026/04/29/nx-s1-5794042/supeme-court-tps

Maryland Judge orders USCIS to Process Green Cards from Listed Countries

  • In a ruling on a controversial and high profile executive order, a judge in Maryland ordered the US Citizenship and Naturalization Services to move forward with the green card process for 83 immigrants that had been paused.
  • The plantiffs, mostly citizens of Afghanistan, Eritrea, Iran, Syria, and Venezuela, challenged a Trump administration rule that halted applications from citizens of 39 “countries of identified concern.”
  • The order is restricted to the plaintiffs in this case; other litigation involving the rule is ongoing.
  • https://thedailyrecord.com/2026/04/27/uscis-immigration-applications-trump-maryland/

Study: Immigrants Pay More in Taxes than Average Person

  • The Cato Institute, a libertarian leaning think tank released a major study on the effect of immigration on government revenues, using data going all the way back to 1994.
  • It found that over the period from 1994 – 2023 immigrants paid $1.3 trillion in taxes while receiving $761 billion in benefits.
  • Compared to the average US born citizen, immigrants contributed about $100,000 in taxes per capita.
  • The impact was higher on average for more educated immigrants; foreign born non citizens with a college degree (bachelors or higher), on average, contributed $643,557 more in taxes than they received in benefits.
  • https://www.cato.org/blog/immigrants-pay-more-taxes-average-person

by [email protected]

March 2026 Newcomer Policy Update

March 2026 Newcomer Policy Update

Want to keep up with newcomer policy updates in the U.S.? Every month, Global Cleveland publishes our newcomer policy update so that you can stay informed about the latest news.

This month’s Newcomer Policy Update at a glance:

  • Ohio introduces Alternative Pathways Bill
  • ICE agents deployed to airports, including Cleveland
  • Administration wins key case on detention without bond in appeals court

Ohio introduces Alternative Pathways Bill

  • Ohio State Representative Andrea White, a Dayton area Republican, introduced House Bill 763, which will provide an alternative pathway to licensure for foreign-trained physicians.
  • The bill would permit an experienced doctor who had completed residency overseas to earn a provisional licensure without repeating a residency.
  • Ohio is the latest state to propose such a bill, which has already become law in over 20 states.

Lawmakers introduce bill to waive $100k fee for medical professionals

Bill would criminalize driving in Ohio without legal status

Legislation to protect OPT introduced

  • A bipartisan group of representatives including Democrats Raja Krishnamoorthi and Sam Liccairdo, and Republican Jay Obernolte, have introduced the Keep Innovators in America Act.
  • The bill would codify Optional Practical Training and Curricular Practical Training into law; currently, OPT and CPT are not codified in federal law, and the executive branch could legally end or restrict the program without congressional authorization.
  • A study by the Business Roundtable found that curbing the program would cost over 400,000 jobs, including over 200,000 held by US born workers.

ICE agents deployed to airports, including Cleveland

  • The Federal government deployed Immigration and Customs Enforcement personnel at over a dozen major airports in mid-March, including Cleveland Hopkins International.
  • Air travel nationwide has faced widespread delays due to a partial shutdown of the Department of Homeland Security, which includes the Transportation Safety Administration.
  • It is unclear exactly what the agents duties will be, but unlike TSA agents, ICE officials are paid during the partial shutdown.

Social media screening to expand

Passport requirement added to diversity lottery application

  • Under new rules, a valid passport is now a requirement for applications for the diversity lottery, by which prospective immigrants can obtain a green card.
  • The new changes also coincide with some other minor changes to the diversity visa form DS-5501.
  • Applicants need a JPEG scan of key pages of their passport, which much be valid and unexpired.
  • Exemptions to the new rule to exist, including stateless individuals and nationals of specific countries who cannot obtain passport information.

Administration wins key case on detention without bond in appeals court

Supreme Court thought to be sympathetic to asylum restrictions

  • Arguments are ongoing at the Supreme Court on a high profile case on whether the federal government can legally turn away an asylum seeker at the US border.
  • Reporters have speculated that the Supreme Court may side with the administration, which asserts that the federal government does not have a legal application to process an asylum claim for someone not yet on US soil, but at a border post.
  • Federal law states that a migrant that has arrived in the United States has a right to apply for asylum; the administration’s argument views this provision as applying to those already in the United States, not those seeking to enter.
  • The policy, known as ‘metering’, was introduced under President Obama, expanded under the first Trump administration, but halted under Biden’s presidency.

by [email protected]

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