2026 Visa Guide: The Legal Routes Still Open After USCIS Changes

Apr 22
2 min read

Proud migrant people with the American flag

The start of 2026 has brought a wave of uncertainty for the immigrant community due to the recent suspension of residency visas for certain countries. However, at RISE Immigration Services we want to send you a clear message: the system is not closed. While some doors are paused, other legal pathways remain fully operational for those seeking to work, study, or protect their family in the United States.

What options do you have today? Visas that have NOT been stopped

It is vital to distinguish between the pause on consular "Green Cards" and temporary visas, which have not seen changes in their processing. These are the categories with the most activity this month:

1. Employment and Professional Visas

If your goal is to work legally, these options remain the engine of the economy and continue on course:

TN Visa: Ideal for professionals from Mexico and Canada under the USMCA.
H-2A and H-2B Visas: For workers coming for agricultural or service seasons.
L-1 Visa: For key employees who are transferred from companies abroad.
O-1 Visa: The route for people with extraordinary talents that the country still seeks to attract.

2. Education and Tourism

F-1 and M-1 Visas: The U.S. educational system continues to receive students from around the world without restrictions under the new measures.
B1/B2 Visa: Applications for tourism and short business trips remain available at authorized consulates.

3. The VAWA Program: A Standing Refuge

For those facing abuse situations by citizen or resident family members, the VAWA program remains a protection priority. Although USCIS has strengthened evidence scrutiny, at RISE we continue to process these cases successfully to ensure that victims do not lose their path toward stability.

Key Difference: Processes Inside vs. Outside the U.S.

One of the biggest confusions this month is thinking that all processes have stopped. The reality is:

If you are inside the U.S.: Adjustment of Status processes (Form I-485) and internal work permits are not affected by the recent consular suspension.
If you are in Mexico: Your country is not on the suspension list, so your residency and immigrant visa processes move forward normally.