Federal Government Proposes Changes to Public Charge Rule
The U.S. government has introduced proposed changes to the “public charge” rule affecting immigration applications. Under the new proposal, more public benefits such as SNAP and Medicare would be considered when evaluating green card and visa applications. This would replace the current rule and will be open for public comment in the Federal Register.
Tech Companies Lead 2025 H-1B Visa Approvals
Top technology firms such as Amazon, Meta, Microsoft, and Google received the highest number of approved H-1B visa petitions for fiscal year 2025. Apple ranked sixth. Meanwhile, Indian-based companies had fewer approvals, with only three in the top 25 employers. The H-1B program allots 65,000 visas yearly, with an additional 20,000 for U.S. graduates with advanced degrees. Around 70% of AI-related graduate students in U.S. computer science programs are international.
Work Visas and Green Cards Face Greater Scrutiny
Federal agencies are increasing their scrutiny of work visa and green card applications. Professionals including doctors, engineers, and academics now face more denials, social media checks, and tighter credential reviews. Immigration lawyers report increased border inspections and workplace visits by federal agents. These changes affect various skilled worker visa categories.
New International Student Enrollment Down 17%
U.S. colleges saw a 17% drop in new international student enrollment in fall 2025 — the largest decline in over a decade, unrelated to the pandemic. Over half of surveyed colleges reported lower enrollment. Overall enrollment fell 1%, with graduate numbers down 12%, while undergraduate enrollment saw a small 2% increase. Visa processing changes are seen as a contributing factor.
Immigration Enforcement Expands in North Carolina
Federal immigration operations, which began in Charlotte, have now extended to Raleigh, including Wake and Durham counties. Over 130 people have been arrested. Raleigh’s mayor confirmed law enforcement activity and advised residents to report any safety concerns. Some immigrant-owned businesses closed temporarily during the crackdown.
