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U.S. Tightens Immigration Rules: New Visa Questions, Green Card Reviews, and Asylum Fee Penalties Take Effect
Washington, D.C. — May 4, 2026
The U.S. Government has rolled out a sweeping series of immigration policy changes in recent weeks, including stricter visa interview questions, a freeze on millions of pending green card applications, and penalties for asylum seekers who fail to pay required fees. The moves, announced by the Trump administration, aim to curb asylum claims and tighten screening for nonimmigrant visas, but they could delay or derail immigration benefits for thousands of applicants.
New Visa Interview Questions Target Asylum Seekers
Starting April 29, 2026, the U.S. State Department introduced two new questions for nonimmigrant visa applicants. According to official guidance, applicants must now confirm they do not fear harm or mistreatment in their home country. Failing to answer "no" to both questions—or refusing to answer at all—could result in visa rejection.
The directive is part of broader efforts to reduce asylum claims at U.S. Borders. "Applicants must answer ‘no’ to both for visa issuance to proceed," said a State Department spokesperson. "Saying ‘yes’ or refusing to answer could lead to denial."
Millions of Green Card Applications Frozen Amid Fraud Reviews
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has ordered an administrative pause on millions of pending immigration applications, including green card petitions, while conducting enhanced FBI background checks. Effective April 27, USCIS officers are now required to rerun fingerprints through an expanded FBI database before approving any application.
The move follows a policy memo issued in January, which directed USCIS to review applications from individuals listed in Presidential Proclamation 10998, targeting high-risk countries. "This represents a national security measure to ensure only legitimate applicants receive immigration benefits," said USCIS Director Joseph Edlow.
Asylum Fee Penalties: Work Permits at Risk for Nonpayment
Starting May 29, 2026, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) will penalize asylum seekers who fail to pay the annual asylum fee. Applicants now have just 30 days from the notice date to pay before their cases are rejected—and they risk losing their work authorization (EAD cards) if they fail to comply.
The new rule, published in the Federal Register, applies to all pending Form I-589 asylum applications. "Failure to pay can trigger immediate loss of work authorization and case dismissal," DHS officials warned.
What This Means for Applicants
- Visa applicants now face tougher scrutiny, with new questions designed to deter potential asylum seekers.
- Green card applicants may see delays as USCIS conducts additional background checks.
- Asylum seekers must pay fees on time to avoid losing their work permits and having their cases rejected.
The changes underscore a significant shift in U.S. Immigration policy, with implications for both legal and aspiring immigrants. As the administration continues to enforce stricter vetting measures, applicants are advised to consult legal counsel to navigate the new requirements.
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