Regulatory and Immigration Updates

Immigration rules can change overnight. UNT  Health is dedicated to staying up to date with any changes.

On Sept. 19, 2025, President Trump signed the Proclamation titled Restriction on Entry of Certain Nonimmigrant Workers. The Proclamation restricts entry of (H-1B) nonimmigrant (specialty occupation) workers to the United States unless a payment of $100,000 accompanies their employer-sponsored petitions. The Proclamation took effect Sept. 21, 2025, at 12:01 a.m. EDT and will remain in effect through Sept. 21, 2026, unless extended.

For clarification, the Proclamation does not apply to F-1 visas.

Based on a memorandum issued by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), the Proclamation “only applies prospectively to petitions that have not yet been filed. The Proclamation does not apply to [individuals] who are the beneficiaries of petitions that were filed prior to the effective date of the Proclamation, are the beneficiaries of currently approved petitions, or are in possession of validly issued H-1B nonimmigrant visas.”

An FAQ issued by the U.S. Department of State indicates the Proclamation’s fee and travel restrictions apply only to new petitions filed after 12:01 a.m. EDT on Sept. 21, 2025, and the Proclamation does “not prevent any holder of a current H-1B visa from traveling in and out of the United States.”

At this time, there are outstanding questions regarding the application of the Proclamation. For example, it is unclear whether the Proclamation applies to change of employer/change of status, and cap-exempt H-1B employers/employees. We are currently monitoring to see whether any forthcoming litigation may impact or clarify the Proclamation.

This information is current as of October 6, 2025, and will be updated as more information becomes available.

Other Resources:

• Fact Sheet: President Donald J. Trump Suspends the Entry of Certain Alien Nonimmigrant Workers – The White House
• CBP Memorandum – Proclamation, Restriction on Entry of Certain Nonimmigrant Workers [H-1B]
• USCIS Memorandum (release date 9/20/25)
• USCIS FAQ (release date 09/21/2025)
• Press Secretary Comments

Updated Department of State Guidance for Visa Interview Appointments

On September 6, 2025, the U.S. Department of State has updated its instructions for nonimmigrant visa (NIV) applicants who are scheduling visa interview appointments.

Where to Schedule Your Visa Interview

If you are applying for a U.S. nonimmigrant visa, you should schedule your visa interview at the U.S. Embassy or Consulate in your home country (your country of nationality or residence).

If you are from a country where the U.S. government is not currently offering routine visa services, you must apply at a designated U.S. embassy or consulate. See the list below for your designated location.

Designated Locations for Nonimmigrant Visa Processing

Additional Information

• Residence Requirement:
  Applicants must be able to show they reside in the country where they are applying.
• Fees:
  If you schedule an appointment outside your country of nationality or residence, it may be harder to qualify for the visa. Visa fees cannot be refunded or transferred.
• Appointment Availability:
  Wait times for interviews vary by location. Those applying outside their country should expect longer wait times.
• Existing Appointments:
  Previously scheduled visa appointments will not be canceled under this update.
• Exceptions:
  This policy does not apply to A, G, C-2, C-3, or NATO visa applicants; applicants for diplomatic or official visas; or those traveling under the UN Headquarters Agreement.
  Rare exceptions may also be made for humanitarian, medical, or foreign policy reasons.

More Information

Before scheduling your appointment, visit the U.S. Embassy or Consulate website where you plan to apply for the latest information on visa procedures, eligibility, and appointment availability.