Marina Shepelsky

Supreme Court Blocks Important Protection for Immigrants Facing Deportation: What Is Administrative Closure and Why Does It Matter?

A major change in immigration court could make it harder for thousands of immigrants to fight deportation while waiting for their Green Cards or other immigration benefits.

On October 27, 2026, the U.S. Supreme Court refused to restore a policy that allowed immigration judges to temporarily put deportation cases on hold. This procedure, called Administrative Closure, had been used for decades to help immigrants who were waiting for decisions on other immigration applications.

The Supreme Court did not issue a final ruling on every legal question. Instead, it allowed an earlier court order blocking the policy to remain in effect while the legal fight continues.

What Is Administrative Closure? Explained in Simple Terms

Imagine you are an immigrant who has been living in the United States for many years. You have a family, a job, and children who attend American schools.

You are placed in deportation proceedings, meaning the government is asking an immigration judge to order you to leave the United States.

However, you also have a pending immigration application that could eventually allow you to stay legally.

For example, your U.S. citizen spouse has filed an I-130 petition for you, or you are waiting for your VAWA petition or U Visa application to be approved.

Under the previous policy, your immigration attorney could ask the judge for Administrative Closure.

This meant the judge could temporarily remove your deportation case from the active court calendar while you waited for another government agency, such as USCIS, to decide your application.

Your deportation case was NOT dismissed or canceled. It was simply placed on hold.

This was extremely important because some immigration applications take several years to process.

How Was Administrative Closure Used to Help Immigrants?

Here are four common examples of how this procedure helped people facing deportation.

1. Marriage-Based Green Card Cases

An immigrant is married to a U.S. citizen and is in deportation proceedings. The couple has filed an I-130 marriage petition, but USCIS has not yet approved it.

Previously, the immigration judge could agree to administratively close the deportation case while the couple waited for USCIS to decide the marriage petition.

Once the petition was approved, the immigrant and their attorney could determine the next steps toward obtaining a Green Card, if eligible.

2. VAWA Cases for Victims of Domestic Violence

An immigrant suffered abuse by a U.S. citizen or Green Card holder spouse and filed a VAWA I-360 self-petition.

Because VAWA petitions can take years to process, administrative closure could give the victim time to wait for a decision without having to continue actively fighting deportation in court.

This was especially helpful for survivors who were rebuilding their lives after abusive relationships.

3. U Visa Cases for Crime Victims

An immigrant was the victim of a serious crime and cooperated with police in the investigation.

The immigrant applied for a U Visa, but the application could take many years to process.

Administrative closure allowed the immigration judge to pause the deportation case while the immigrant waited for a decision.

This helped victims cooperate with law enforcement without simultaneously facing active deportation proceedings.

4. Special Immigrant Juvenile Status (SIJS) Cases

A young immigrant was abandoned, abused, or neglected by a parent and qualified to apply for Special Immigrant Juvenile Status.

The child had an SIJS petition pending or was waiting for a Green Card to become available.

An immigration judge could use administrative closure to give the young person time to pursue this protection instead of moving forward immediately with deportation proceedings.

These examples illustrate why administrative closure was an important legal tool. However, administrative closure never automatically granted immigration status, work authorization, or protection from ICE detention.

What Changed Under the Trump Administration?

In 2024, the Biden administration adopted a federal regulation expressly allowing immigration judges to use administrative closure in appropriate cases.

In June 2026, Texas sued the federal government, arguing that immigration judges should not be allowed to put deportation cases on hold indefinitely.

The Trump administration agreed with Texas rather than defending the regulation. On June 22, 2026, a federal judge approved an agreement that eliminated the 2024 rule nationwide.

Several cities and an immigrant advocacy organization challenged this decision.

However, on October 27, 2026, the Supreme Court refused their emergency request to restore the policy.

As a result, the court order blocking the administrative closure regulation remains in place.

What Does This Mean for Immigrants Facing Deportation Today?

The consequences could be serious.

Immigration judges generally can no longer rely on the blocked 2024 regulation to administratively close deportation cases while immigrants wait for their other immigration applications.

This means:

Immigrants with pending marriage petitions, VAWA cases, U Visas, or other applications may have to continue attending immigration court.
Some immigrants may face deportation decisions before USCIS finishes reviewing their applications.
Attorneys may have fewer options to place immigration cases on hold for long periods.
People whose cases were administratively closed in the past could face requests to reopen those proceedings.
IMPORTANT: If your immigration case was already administratively closed, this Supreme Court decision does not automatically mean you have been ordered deported. The June 2026 order does not itself require every previously closed case to be put back on the court calendar. However, some immigration courts have already been reopening such cases.

Can an Immigration Attorney Still Ask the Judge to Delay Deportation?

Yes. Even though the administrative closure regulation has been blocked, other legal options may still exist depending on the facts of your case.

For example, an immigration attorney may request a continuance, which means asking the judge to postpone a hearing to a later date.

In some cases, an attorney may also seek dismissal or termination of deportation proceedings, pursue available immigration relief directly before the judge, or explore other legal protections.

However, these options are not automatic, and each has different requirements.

What Should You Do If You Have a Pending Immigration Court Case?

If you are in deportation proceedings and have an application pending with USCIS, do not assume that your case will remain on hold.

Speak with an experienced immigration attorney about your legal options. Make sure you understand your court dates, the status of your immigration applications, and whether the government may ask to move forward with your deportation case.

Never miss an immigration court hearing, even if you have a pending Green Card, VAWA, U Visa, or another immigration application.

Shepelsky Law Group Can Help You Protect Your Future

At Shepelsky Law Group, we understand how frightening it can be to face deportation while waiting for immigration benefits.

Our immigration attorneys help clients understand their rights, defend themselves in Immigration Court, and explore legal options to remain in the United States.

If your immigration case was administratively closed in the past, or if you are currently in removal proceedings and have a pending immigration application, it is especially important to review your situation with an attorney.

Call Shepelsky Law Group today at 718-769-6352 to schedule an immigration consultation.

Your immigration future is too important to leave to chance.

This article provides general immigration information as of October 28, 2026, and is not individualized legal advice. Immigration rules and court decisions can change.

19 minutes ago | [YT] | 0

Marina Shepelsky

5 Major Ways Trump Has Changed U.S. Immigration in 2026 — What Immigrants Need to Know

President Donald Trump’s second term has brought some of the most sweeping changes to U.S. immigration policy in recent history. From increased ICE arrests and deportations to stricter visa rules and reduced humanitarian protections, the immigration landscape has become increasingly challenging for foreign nationals seeking to live, work, or remain legally in the United States.

A recent BBC News report highlighted five major ways the Trump administration has transformed immigration enforcement and legal immigration pathways. Here is what these changes mean for immigrants and their families.

1. The U.S.-Mexico Border Is Now Almost Completely Closed to Unauthorized Crossings

The Trump administration has sharply restricted entry at the southern border. Migrant encounters have fallen dramatically as the government has tightened asylum access, increased border enforcement, and restricted the release of arriving migrants into the United States.

For individuals fleeing persecution, seeking asylum at the border has become substantially more difficult. However, asylum and other humanitarian protections have not been eliminated entirely. Eligibility depends on individual circumstances, applicable restrictions, and ongoing court decisions.

2. Border Wall Construction Has Accelerated

The administration has significantly expanded construction of the U.S.-Mexico border wall, supported by approximately $46.5 billion in new federal funding.

According to the BBC report, the government says approximately 250 additional miles of barriers and related infrastructure have been completed since Trump’s return to office, with more construction underway.

Although the effectiveness of physical barriers remains debated, the administration continues to invest heavily in preventing unauthorized border crossings.

3. ICE Arrests, Detentions, and Deportations Have Increased Dramatically

Immigration enforcement is no longer concentrated primarily at the border. ICE operations have expanded throughout American cities and communities.

According to data cited by BBC News, ICE removals reached approximately 1,255 people per day by mid-July 2026, compared with roughly 770 per day during the final months of the Biden administration.

Importantly, many individuals arrested by ICE do not have criminal convictions.

This means immigrants with longstanding ties to the United States, jobs, families, and even pending immigration applications may face increased enforcement risks depending on their legal circumstances.

What should immigrants do? Anyone with an outstanding removal order, an unresolved immigration case, or an uncertain legal status should consult an experienced immigration attorney before an ICE encounter occurs.

4. Refugee Admissions and Humanitarian Protections Have Been Severely Restricted

The Trump administration has dramatically reduced refugee admissions and pursued the termination of Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for several countries.

According to the BBC, approximately 16,292 refugees were admitted during fiscal year 2026, compared with roughly 100,000 during fiscal year 2024.

TPS beneficiaries have also faced uncertainty as the administration attempts to end protections for certain nationalities. Some of these decisions have been challenged in federal courts.

Individuals who currently hold TPS, humanitarian parole, or another temporary immigration protection should understand that these programs do not automatically provide permanent residency.

It is extremely important to explore other immigration options before a temporary protection expires or is terminated.

Depending on individual circumstances, alternatives may include family-based immigration, employment-based petitions, asylum, VAWA, T visas, or other forms of relief.

5. Legal Immigration Has Become More Difficult and Expensive

The administration has also introduced significant restrictions affecting individuals attempting to immigrate legally.

These include enhanced visa screening, travel restrictions affecting certain countries, changes to employment-based immigration procedures, and additional obstacles in obtaining immigrant and nonimmigrant visas.

The administration also introduced a controversial $100,000 payment requirement affecting certain new H-1B petitions, although implementation has faced legal challenges.

Meanwhile, the administration has promoted a Trump Gold Card program involving a substantial financial contribution for qualifying applicants.

For ordinary families, students, workers, and employers, these developments demonstrate that immigration planning is becoming more complicated and that even lawful immigration pathways may involve additional scrutiny, delays, and expenses.

What Does This Mean for Immigrants in the United States?

The most important lesson is that immigration rules are changing rapidly, and waiting until a problem arises can seriously limit your legal options.

Having a pending immigration application does not necessarily protect someone from detention or removal. Similarly, possessing a work permit does not always mean an individual has lawful immigration status.

Every immigrant should understand their current status, potential exposure to immigration enforcement, pending deadlines, and possible paths toward permanent residency.

Do not assume you have no options simply because immigration enforcement has become stricter. Many individuals may still qualify for relief under existing immigration laws.

Speak With an Experienced Immigration Attorney at Shepelsky Law Group

At Shepelsky Law Group, we help individuals and families navigate complex immigration matters, including asylum, deportation defense, family-based immigration, employment-based green cards, VAWA, T visas, and other humanitarian protections.

If you are concerned about your immigration status, facing possible deportation, or uncertain how the latest immigration changes may affect your case, now is the time to seek professional legal guidance.

Call Shepelsky Law Group at 718-769-6352 or visit www.ShepelskyLaw.com to schedule a consultation with an experienced immigration attorney.

Protect your rights, understand your options, and take action before it is too late.

Source: BBC News, Five Ways Trump Has Changed Immigration in the US, October 26, 2026.

1 day ago | [YT] | 0

Marina Shepelsky

YOU GOT YOUR GREEN CARD! NOW WHAT? 5 STEPS TO GET YOUR U.S. PASSPORT SMOOTHLY!

Congratulations! You finally received your Green Card! But your immigration journey is not over. If your ultimate goal is to become a U.S. citizen and obtain an American passport, here are 5 important steps you should follow to avoid mistakes that could jeopardize your future citizenship.

1. Set Up Your U.S. Residency — Make the United States Your Permanent Home

Your Green Card allows you to live and work permanently in the United States, but you must maintain your U.S. residence. Avoid spending extended periods overseas. Trips lasting more than 6 months can create problems with citizenship eligibility, and trips of a year or longer can have even more serious consequences. Keep records of all international travel.

2. File Your Taxe Returns Every Year

As a Green Card holder, you generally must report your worldwide income to the IRS, even if you earn money overseas. Filing taxes properly is important when applying for citizenship. Never falsely claim to be a nonresident for tax purposes or fail to report required income.

3. Stay Out of Trouble With the Law

Criminal convictions, certain arrests, immigration fraud, and false claims of U.S. citizenship can seriously affect your ability to naturalize. Even minor offenses may create complications. Always consult an immigration attorney before pleading guilty to any criminal charge.

4. Know When You Can Apply for Citizenship – 3 Years vs. 5 Years

Most Green Card holders can apply for naturalization after 5 years of permanent residence. If you are married to and living with a U.S. citizen, you may qualify after 3 years, provided you meet the additional requirements. Eligible applicants can generally submit Form N-400 up to 90 days early. You must also meet physical presence, continuous residence, and other requirements.

5. Pass Your Citizenship Test and Get Your U.S. Passport!

After filing Form N-400, you will generally attend an interview and complete English and civics testing, unless you qualify for an exemption. Once approved, you must take the Oath of Allegiance to officially become a U.S. citizen. You can then apply for your first U.S. passport using your Certificate of Naturalization.

YOUR GREEN CARD IS JUST THE BEGINNING!

Don’t risk losing your opportunity to become a U.S. citizen because of avoidable mistakes!

At Shepelsky Law Group, we help Green Card holders protect their status, prepare for naturalization, and achieve their American dream.

Call Shepelsky Law Group today: 718-769-6352

Website: www.shepelskylaw.com

Subscribe to our YouTube channel for more immigration tips and updates!

#GreenCard #USCitizenship #USPassport #Naturalization #ImmigrationLawyer #ShepelskyLawGroup

2 days ago | [YT] | 1

Marina Shepelsky

4 MAJOR MISTAKES THAT CAN DESTROY YOUR CHANCES OF WINNING A VAWA I-360 SELF-PETITION IN 2026

The Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) allows certain immigrants who have suffered abuse by a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident spouse, or by certain qualifying family members, to apply for immigration protection without the abuser’s knowledge or cooperation. However, filing Form I-360 does not guarantee approval. In 2026, applicants must be especially careful to present strong, credible evidence and avoid mistakes that could lead to delays, requests for additional evidence, or even denial. At Shepelsky Law Group, we want applicants to understand the three major mistakes that can seriously jeopardize their VAWA cases and how to avoid them.

1. FAILING TO PROVE YOUR MARRIAGE WAS REAL

USCIS needs evidence that you entered your marriage in good faith, not just to obtain immigration benefits. If you have no joint bank accounts, leases, tax returns, or other traditional marriage evidence, your case may be more difficult. However, photos, messages, travel records, witness affidavits, and personal testimony can help prove your relationship was genuine. You must also establish that you lived with your abusive spouse at some point.

2. PROVIDING A WEAK OR INCONSISTENT ABUSE DECLARATION

One of the biggest mistakes is submitting a vague personal statement without specific examples of abuse. USCIS needs to understand what happened, how your spouse controlled, threatened, humiliated, or harmed you, and how the abuse affected your life. Contradictions between your declaration and other evidence can seriously damage your credibility. Remember, VAWA does not require physical violence. Emotional, psychological, sexual, and other forms of extreme cruelty may qualify.

3. HIDING CRIMINAL HISTORY OR PROVIDING FALSE INFORMATION

VAWA applicants must establish good moral character. Failing to disclose arrests, criminal convictions, or other important information can jeopardize your petition. Even dismissed criminal charges may require explanation. Providing false documents or deliberately misleading USCIS can create additional immigration problems. Always be truthful with your attorney so potential issues can be addressed properly.

IMPORTANT: You do not need a police report, physical injuries, or your abusive spouse’s cooperation to qualify for VAWA. USCIS must consider any credible evidence, and every case is evaluated individually.

4. Trusting Notarios, “paralegals”, Unlicensed Consultants, or Social Media Advice

Immigration laws are complicated and constantly changing. Following incorrect advice or allowing unauthorized individuals to prepare your VAWA petition – a super complex immigration process — can cause irreversible damage. Seek advice from a qualified immigration attorney.

SHEPELSKY LAW GROUP Experienced Immigration Attorneys

Tel: 718-769-6352

Web: www.shepelskylaw.com

Don’t let mistakes jeopardize your chance to obtain immigration protection through VAWA. Contact us for a confidential consultation.

3 days ago | [YT] | 0

Marina Shepelsky

How Much Does Immigration Cost? What You Need to Know in 2026 and 2027

USCIS has announced another round of fee increases effective October 16, 2026, under H.R. 1. Understanding the cost of immigration — and paying the right fee — has never been more important.

How Much Does the Immigration Process Cost in 2026?

The cost of immigration keeps going up. Petitions, adjustment applications, work permits, and consular processing all carry significant government fees. The Cato Institute estimated that more than 2 million affected applications generated over $1 billion in collected fees. Many of those cases remained unprocessed.

Filing the wrong fee can cause USCIS to reject an application entirely. A rejected application does not preserve the original filing date. That can create serious problems for time-sensitive cases.

Which USCIS Fees Are Increasing for FY 2027?

Beginning October 16, 2026, the following fees increased under H.R. 1. The new amounts apply to affected filings postmarked on or after October 16, 2026:

Annual Asylum Fee
Previous fee: $102 — New fee: $105

Immigration Parole Fee
Previous fee: $1,020 — New fee: $1,050

Authorization for Asylum Applicants: Initial Employment
Previous fee: $560 — New fee: $570

Authorization Based on Parole: Initial Employment
Previous fee: $560 — New fee: $570

Initial Employment Authorization Based on TPS
Previous fee: $560 — New fee: $570

Form I-821 — Application for Temporary Protected Status
Previous fee: $510 — New fee: $520

Which USCIS Fees Are Not Changing for FY 2027?

Several fees remain at their current amounts:

Initial Form I-589 asylum filing fee: $100
Renewal or extension of certain parole, TPS, or re-parole EADs: $280
Renewal or extension of an asylum-based EAD: $275
Special Immigrant Juvenile Form I-360 fee: $250
Form I-94 fee: $24
Why Does the Cost of Immigration Keep Rising?

H.R. 1 created new immigration fees affecting asylum seekers, parolees, TPS applicants, Special Immigrant Juveniles, and others. The law requires USCIS to recalculate many fees each fiscal year based on inflation. For FY 2027, the adjustment uses Consumer Price Index changes between July 2025 and July 2026. As a result, USCIS increased several of the H.R. 1 fees by amounts ranging from $3 to $30. Expect fees to increase again in future fiscal years.

Why Paying the Wrong Fee Can Destroy Your Case

USCIS will reject an entire filing when the fee is incorrect. This creates serious problems if you face an expiring immigration status, an expiring work permit, a TPS filing deadline, an asylum-related deadline, or a court deadline.

Before submitting any immigration filing, confirm:

The correct version of the immigration form
The current USCIS filing fee
Whether an additional H.R. 1 fee applies
Whether multiple forms require separate fees
Whether a fee waiver or statutory exception may be available
Whether USCIS requires a particular payment method
Is the Government Collecting Immigration Fees Without Processing Cases?

This became a serious concern in 2026. The Cato Institute published findings arguing that sweeping federal policy changes created broad blocks on immigrant visa and adjustment applications for people from dozens of countries. According to the report, restrictions affected citizens of 92 countries. They could prevent hundreds of thousands of immigrants from obtaining lawful permanent residence — even after paying all required fees.

Who Is Most Affected by the Rising Cost of Immigration?

The people most affected include a U.S. citizen who filed to help a spouse legalize status, a parent trying to reunite with a child, and a worker who applied for employment authorization or permanent residence. All of them followed the rules. All of them paid. Many now wait in silence with no clear path forward.

What Immigration Options Still Exist Despite Higher Costs?

Waiting is rarely the right strategy when immigration policy shifts this fast. Options may still include adjustment of status, consular processing, humanitarian relief, waivers, family petitions, or employment-based pathways. Those options need identification and pursuit before more doors close.

How Much Does an Immigration Lawyer Cost — and Is It Worth It?

Attorney fees vary depending on case complexity. A simple work permit renewal costs significantly less than a contested asylum case or removal defense proceeding.

The better question is what it costs not to have one. A missed deadline or incorrect fee can cost far more than the attorney fee itself. Read more about why experienced legal representation matters.

Do Not Cancel Public Benefits Out of Fear of Immigration Consequences

Public charge rules govern immigration admissibility. They do not determine who qualifies for a public benefits program. Do not cancel medically necessary treatment or food assistance for children without first consulting an immigration attorney.

Contact Shepelsky Law Group About Your Immigration Case

You paid your immigration fees and deserve a real decision. If your case has gone nowhere, or if you are trying to find a path to legal status, act now. Our attorneys handle immigration court and deportation cases, family petitions, and relief applications from start to finish.

Call Shepelsky Law Group at (718) 769-6352 or book a consultation at shepelskylaw.cliogrow.com/book.

4 days ago | [YT] | 0

Marina Shepelsky

Ukrainian TPS Attorney New York: Did TPS Expire? Important Facts You Need to Know Now

Ukrainians in New York need clear answers, and a Ukrainian TPS attorney New York families trust can help. First, here is where things stand. Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Ukraine was scheduled to expire on October 19, 2026. That date has now passed. However, the situation is unclear, and more than 100,000 Ukrainians in the United States are asking what it means for their work permits and legal status.

Update (October 22, 2026): As of October 19, no Federal Register notice has extended or terminated Ukraine’s designation, according to this legal-aid summary. USCIS still lists October 19, 2026. DHS has told reporters that covered Ukrainians “retain protection,” but it has not published a notice.

What Happened on October 19?

By law, TPS extends automatically for six months if DHS makes no decision by the deadline. Therefore, some immigration lawyers and advocacy groups believe Ukraine’s TPS now runs through April 19, 2027. However, the administration has not confirmed that reading. Meanwhile, USCIS still uses October 19, 2026 in its guidance.

Work permits raise the biggest concern. On August 14, 2026, USCIS told employers to enter October 19, 2026 as the expiration date on Form I-9 and in E-Verify. No later guidance explains work authorization after that date. As a result, some Ukrainians may face questions from employers. This also follows the end of automatic work permit extensions for many immigrants.

Because the law and the agency guidance conflict, do not assume either outcome. Instead, review your own documents and speak with an attorney. For background, read the January 2025 Federal Register notice.

New Bill Would Extend Protection Until 2029

On October 5, 2026, members of Congress introduced H.R. 10740. The bill would extend TPS for eligible Ukrainians through July 1, 2029. Congressman Jason Crow announced his support on October 7, joining Representatives Bill Keating and Brian Fitzpatrick. In addition, Senators Richard Blumenthal, Lisa Murkowski, Chris Coons, and Bill Cassidy introduced a companion bill in the Senate.

If enacted, the legislation would:

Extend TPS eligibility for qualifying Ukrainians until July 1, 2029.
Allow eligible Ukrainians to keep living and working legally in the United States.
Require immigration authorities to process TPS and related work permit applications within 90 days.
Provide retroactive protection against unlawful presence for qualifying people if the law is enacted after October 20, 2026.
Permit certain emergency travel abroad with advance government authorization.
Important: This bill has not become law. Ukrainians should not assume their TPS runs through 2029.

What Happens If Protection Ends?

If TPS ends without an effective extension or other legal protection, affected Ukrainians could face serious consequences:

Loss of work authorization: TPS-based work permits could end unless extended or otherwise authorized.
Risk of removal: People without another lawful basis to stay may face removal proceedings.
Family separation: Ukrainians with jobs, homes, and families in the United States could face separation and uncertainty.
Loss of protection: TPS holders may need another status or protection from removal.
However, TPS ending does not automatically mean every Ukrainian will be deported. The outcome depends on each person’s immigration history and other available protections.

What Should Ukrainians Do Right Now?

First, check your documents. Review your TPS approval notice, work permit expiration date and category code, and any pending I-821 or I-765 receipts. Next, review your parole record separately, because humanitarian parole and TPS have different expiration dates and requirements.

Then explore other options. Depending on your circumstances, you may qualify for asylum, family-based immigration, employment-based immigration, or humanitarian protection. USCIS also says that keeping TPS until a reasonable time before filing can count as an extraordinary circumstance for the one-year asylum deadline, depending on the facts. For more context, see our legal status news on asylum, the U visa backlog, and TPS.

Finally, do not wait. Ukrainian families need reliable legal guidance, not uncertainty. If you are weighing a move abroad, you can also read about Canada’s visa-free program for Ukrainian refugees.

Ukrainian TPS Attorney New York: How Shepelsky Law Group Can Help

At Shepelsky Law Group, a New York immigration law firm, our attorneys review TPS, humanitarian parole, asylum, and other immigration options for Ukrainian families. We help you understand your documents, protect your ability to work, and choose the best strategy to remain in the United States. Do not wait until your protection ends to seek legal advice.

Ukrainian TPS Attorney New York: Frequently Asked Questions

Did Ukrainian TPS expire on October 19, 2026?

The answer is unclear. USCIS still lists October 19, 2026. However, DHS has said covered Ukrainians “retain protection,” and some lawyers argue TPS extended automatically for six months, to April 19, 2027. No Federal Register notice confirms either position yet. Therefore, watch for an official notice and speak with an attorney about your documents.

Is my Ukrainian TPS work permit still valid?

Check the expiration date and category code on your card first. On August 14, 2026, USCIS told employers to enter October 19, 2026 on Form I-9 and in E-Verify. Since then, no later guidance explains work authorization after that date. As a result, talk to an attorney before you discuss your work permit with your employer.

Do I need to re-register?

No re-registration has been announced as of now. However, that could change once DHS publishes a notice. Meanwhile, keep copies of your approval notices, work permit, and any pending I-821 or I-765 receipts.

Has Congress extended Ukrainian TPS until 2029?

No. Lawmakers introduced H.R. 10740 on October 5, 2026. If enacted, it would extend TPS for eligible Ukrainians through July 1, 2029. However, the bill has not become law, so do not assume your TPS runs through 2029.

Is Uniting for Ukraine parole the same as TPS?

No. Humanitarian parole and TPS are separate protections with different expiration dates and requirements. Therefore, review your parole record separately from your TPS documents. Learn more about humanitarian parole.

What are my options if TPS ends?

Depending on your circumstances, you may qualify for asylum, family-based immigration, employment-based immigration, or humanitarian protection. For example, see our asylum interview preparation tips, our guide to family-based immigration, and our overview of employment-based immigration.

How can a Ukrainian TPS attorney New York families trust help me?

An attorney can review your TPS approval, work permit, parole record, and any pending filings. In addition, an attorney can identify other relief and help you protect your ability to work. Shepelsky Law Group, a New York immigration law firm, handles humanitarian parole, Green Card cases, and immigration court and deportation defense.

Talk to a New York TPS Attorney Today

Call Shepelsky Law Group at 718-769-6352 or contact us online. You can also learn more about our attorneys. We are here to help Ukrainian families understand their rights and explore available legal options during this uncertain time.

5 days ago | [YT] | 0

Marina Shepelsky

BREAKING NEWS: FEDERAL JUDGE ORDERS TRUMP ADMINISTRATION TO REOPEN DV-2027 GREEN CARD LOTTERY!

Good news for immigrants hoping to obtain a Green Card through the Diversity Visa Lottery!

On October 14, 2026, U.S. District Judge Jinsook Ohta in California ordered the Trump administration to move forward with the delayed DV-2027 Green Card Lottery after the State Department failed to open registration in 2025.

Following a lawsuit filed by immigration law firm Red Eagle Law, the federal court ordered the government to restore the lottery registration process.

IMPORTANT DATES FOR DV-2027

Under the revised court-approved schedule:

October 29, 2026: Deadline for the State Department to announce registration details.
November 1, 2026: Deadline to open DV-2027 registration.
30 days: Required registration period.
December 3, 2026: Deadline to notify selected applicants.
September 30, 2027: Final deadline for DV-2027 visa issuance.
WHO CAN APPLY?

The Diversity Visa Lottery provides up to 55,000 immigrant visas annually to qualifying individuals from countries with historically low immigration rates to the United States.

Applicants generally must:

Be born in an eligible country, subject to certain exceptions.
Have at least a qualifying high school education OR two years of qualifying work experience.
Submit a properly completed electronic entry during the official registration period.
IMPORTANT WARNING: GREEN CARD ISSUANCE IS STILL PAUSED!

Although the federal court ordered the lottery registration process to proceed, the State Department’s separate pause on Diversity Visa issuance remains an important obstacle.

According to official State Department guidance dated August 31, 2026, applicants may attend interviews, but diversity immigrant visas are not currently being issued under that policy.

This means that winning the lottery does NOT guarantee receiving a Green Card. Further legal developments may determine whether selected applicants can receive their visas before September 30, 2027.

WHAT SHOULD APPLICANTS DO NOW?

Prepare your documents, verify your eligibility, and monitor the official government website at dvprogram.state.gov/ for registration instructions.

At Shepelsky Law Group, we help immigrants understand their eligibility, avoid application mistakes, and explore available pathways to permanent residency.

Call Shepelsky Law Group at 718-769-6352 or visit www.shepelskylaw.com to schedule a consultation.

Your American Dream may still be possible!

1 week ago | [YT] | 0

Marina Shepelsky

The U.S. Department of Enforcement and Labor suspended eight major tech and IT outsourcing companies from participating in the Permanent Labor Certification (PERM) program on October 8, 2026

Trump Administration Cuts Off Access to a Major Immigration Program for Workers at Microsoft and Adobe. Big IT Employers, including Microsoft and Adobe, will no longer be able to sponsor foreign workers for job-related green cards. JD Vance spoke at a media conference and singled out Microsoft for laying off 6,000 American workers in favor of hiring foreign talent for less money and lower costs, i.e. giving foreigners less company benefits, paying them lower wages, and more employer-favored rules of employment).

“There has been no company in the United States, unfortunately, that has abused this system more than Microsoft,” Vice President JD Vance said on Oct. 8th.

Affected Companies

The suspension halts new PERM applications and freezes all pending applications for the following eight entities:

Microsoft (Tech)
Adobe (Tech)
Cognizant (IT outsourcing)
Infosys (IT outsourcing)
Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) (IT outsourcing)
Wipro (IT outsourcing)
HCL Technologies (IT outsourcing)
Capgemini (IT consulting/outsourcing)
Key Details of the Action

What PERM Is: The PERM labor certification is the primary first step for employers to sponsor an H-1B visa holder for a permanent employment-based green card. [1, 2]
Reason for Suspension: Labor Secretary Keith Sonderling and the Trump administration cited active federal investigations and allegations of program misuse, fraud, and the displacement of U.S. workers. [1, 2, 3]
H-1B Status Impact: The action applies specifically to the PERM green card process; active H-1B visas are not automatically canceled or suspended by this announcement. [1, 2]
Current Status: Existing approved I-140 petitions, pending I-485 adjustments, and the status of corporate subsidiaries remain under review with no comprehensive final guidance issued yet. Employees affected are advised to consult their respective company’s immigration
Some say that the suspension of the PERM program for big IT companies marks a victory for American tech workers who have complained about unfairly losing out on jobs to immigrant workers.

Jobs Now, an advocacy group composed of US citizens working in big tech, celebrated Vance’s announcement on its X account with a video of dancing crabs. The group publicizes otherwise difficult-to-find PERM job postings and says it helped Americans apply to nearly 500,000 jobs across 7,000 employers between last January and this past July.

The organization and its members have also filed complaints against big tech companies about alleged abuse of the PERM system, and have called for major changes to the employment immigration system. “Every job in America should be offered to an American first, no exceptions,” the group told WIRED in an unsigned statement.

This isn’t the first time tech companies have been targeted over PERM. Earlier this year, OpenAI and a company it acquired agreed to settle accusations from the Trump administration about violating rules for the program. Apple reached a similar deal in 2023.

To legalize in the US , call Shepelsky Law Group team at Tel: (718)769-6352 or book your consultation directly at shepelskylaw.cliogrow.com/book

1 week ago | [YT] | 0

Marina Shepelsky

U.S. ENDS 540-DAY AUTOMATIC WORK PERMIT EXTENSIONS: THOUSANDS OF IMMIGRANTS COULD LOSE THEIR RIGHT TO WORK

The Trump administration has officially ended the policy that allowed certain immigrants to continue working in the United States for up to 540 days while waiting for their work permit renewals.

On October 14, 2026, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) finalized a rule eliminating automatic extensions of Employment Authorization Documents (EADs) for many immigrants.

This means that even if you submit your work permit renewal on time, you may no longer be allowed to continue working while USCIS processes your application.

What Changed?

Previously, many immigrants who applied to renew their work permits before expiration were automatically granted up to 540 additional days of employment authorization while their applications were pending.

This protection helped people avoid losing their jobs because of long USCIS processing delays.

Under the new policy:

Work permit renewals filed on or after October 30, 2025, generally do not qualify for the 540-day automatic extension.
Filing a renewal application does not automatically allow someone to continue working after their existing authorization expires.
If USCIS does not approve the renewal before the person’s work authorization expires, they may be required to stop working.
Certain exceptions remain available, including some Temporary Protected Status (TPS) extensions.
The change originally took effect on October 30, 2025, under an interim rule. The October 14, 2026, final rule makes that policy permanent.

Who Will Be Affected?

The change may affect immigrants who rely on Employment Authorization Documents to legally work in the United States, including certain:

Asylum applicants with pending cases.
Applicants for adjustment of status (Green Cards).
Individuals with pending immigration applications who qualify for EADs.
Certain spouses and dependents of visa holders.
Other noncitizens who must periodically renew their employment authorization.
Important: Not every immigrant is affected in the same way. Some individuals, including certain TPS beneficiaries and people authorized to work based on their immigration status, may qualify for separate extensions or continued employment authorization.

Additionally, eligible automatic extensions obtained through renewal applications filed before October 30, 2025, are not canceled by this rule.

What Happens if Your Work Permit Expires?

If you do not qualify for an exception and your work authorization expires before USCIS approves your renewal, you may have to stop working temporarily.

This can create serious consequences for immigrant families who depend on their employment income to pay rent, mortgages, and everyday expenses.

Employers may also be required to suspend employment until workers can provide valid evidence of continued work authorization.

Importantly, an expired work permit does not automatically mean that you have lost your immigration status or must leave the United States. Your immigration status and eligibility to work are separate legal questions.

Thousands of Workers Could Be Affected

DHS estimates that approximately 20,000 to 33,000 work permits could lapse during an 18-month period beginning in May 2027.

The government also estimates that employers could face hundreds of millions of dollars in lost productivity and employee turnover costs.

DHS argues that the new restrictions are necessary to allow immigration officers to complete security screenings and eligibility reviews before extending employment authorization.

However, the practical result is that many immigrants may face interruptions in employment because of USCIS processing delays, even when they have properly filed their renewal applications.

What Should Immigrants Do Now?

At Shepelsky Law Group, we recommend taking the following steps:

Check the expiration date on your current Employment Authorization Document.
File your renewal as early as permitted. USCIS generally recommends filing eligible EAD renewals up to 180 days before expiration.
Do not assume that a USCIS receipt notice allows you to continue working. Your eligibility depends on your immigration category, filing date, and applicable rules.
Check whether you qualify for an exception, including TPS-related extensions or employment authorization based on immigration status.
Consult an immigration attorney if your work permit is expiring or your renewal application has been pending for an extended period.
SHEPELSKY LAW GROUP CAN HELP

Losing employment authorization can have devastating consequences for immigrants and their families. Understanding your options before your work permit expires is more important than ever.

Our immigration attorneys at Shepelsky Law Group can review your immigration status, determine whether you qualify for an automatic extension or another form of work authorization, and help you develop a strategy to avoid employment interruptions.

Call Shepelsky Law Group at 718-769-6352 or schedule a consultation at www.shepelskylaw.com.

DON’T WAIT UNTIL YOUR WORK PERMIT EXPIRES. PROTECT YOUR RIGHT TO WORK IN THE UNITED STATES!

2 weeks ago | [YT] | 1

Marina Shepelsky

New U.S. Passport Design Coming in 2028: What Travelers Need to Know

The U.S. Department of State has unveiled plans for a new American passport design expected to roll out in 2028. The redesign is part of a broader effort to modernize the passport system as the United States celebrates its 250th anniversary.

What Will the New Passport Look Like?

The new passport is expected to feature several noticeable changes:

* A redesigned cover: The words “United States of America” will appear more prominently, alongside a larger, more prominent gold national emblem.

* An eagle that appears to fly: New artwork will create the visual effect of an eagle in flight as travelers flip through the passport pages.

* American history and symbolism: The passport will feature updated illustrations celebrating the nation’s history and identity.

* A new delivery package: The State Department has also announced plans for more secure, official looking passport packaging.

The redesign is intended to combine American symbolism with modern security and updated presentation.

Will You Need to Replace Your Current Passport?

No. You do not need to replace your passport just because a new design is introduced.

Existing U.S. passports will remain valid for international travel as long as they have not expired or been damaged and meet the destination country’s entry requirements.

If your passport is valid, there is no need to rush to renew it simply to obtain the new design.

Will the Passport Application Process Change?

The redesign is not the only change on the horizon. The State Department has also announced plans to make passport applications more accessible through online services. Officials have outlined a goal of allowing most Americans to apply for a passport or passport card online by the end of 2027.

These changes could make obtaining a passport more convenient, particularly for people who would otherwise need to complete paperwork and attend an in person appointment.

What Should You Do Now?

If you are planning international travel, check your passport’s expiration date well in advance. Some countries require a passport to remain valid for several months beyond your intended stay.

Do not postpone a necessary renewal just because you are waiting for the 2028 design. Your travel plans and the validity of your current passport matter much more than its appearance.

The bottom line: A new passport design is coming, but Americans with valid passports do not need to take any action solely because of the redesign. Check official updates from the U.S. Department of State for the latest information about rollout dates and application procedures.

Sources for your editor:

* U.S. Department of State: Passport design and security⁠ — confirms existing passport designs remain valid if unexpired and undamaged.

* Secretary of State Marco Rubio’s September 29, 2026 remarks⁠ — describes the 2028 redesign and planned online application improvements.

SHEPELSKY LAW GROUP

Tel: (718)769-6352

2 weeks ago | [YT] | 0