United States Immigration Policy Update – October 15, 2026

Welcome to this week’s immigration update! Several recent developments may affect Diversity Visa applicants, immigration filing deadlines, and individuals with pending immigration applications while in federal custody. Some changes are scheduled to take effect soon, while others remain subject to ongoing litigation. Here is what you need to know.

Federal Court Orders State Department to Move Forward With 2027 Diversity Visa Lottery

On October 14, a federal judge ordered the U.S. Department of State to move forward with registration for the 2027 Diversity Visa (DV) Lottery, also known as the Green Card Lottery.

The court’s revised deadline is reportedly November 1, 2026, but official registration dates have not yet been announced by the State Department. Further court proceedings could affect implementation.

The ruling does not mean registration is already open or that applicants are guaranteed selection or a green card. Prospective applicants should monitor the official State Department website for confirmed registration instructions and avoid unofficial websites claiming to accept entries.

USCIS Clarifies Filing Deadlines Beginning October 23

USCIS has announced updated guidance explaining how filing deadlines are calculated, effective October 23, 2026.

Under the guidance, certain filing deadlines that fall on a weekend or federal holiday may extend to the next business day. However, this flexibility does not apply to substantive eligibility deadlines, such as requirements tied to an applicant’s age.

For example, an applicant who must file before turning 21 should not assume that a birthday falling on a weekend automatically extends the eligibility deadline.

Applicants should carefully review filing deadlines and submit time-sensitive applications as early as possible. Individuals approaching an age-related or other eligibility cutoff should consult immigration counsel before relying on a deadline extension.

Federal Court Restores Biometrics Process for Certain Detained Immigration Applicants

On October 7, a federal judge temporarily blocked a Department of Homeland Security policy that generally stopped collecting biometrics, such as fingerprints and photographs, from individuals detained by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) who had pending USCIS applications.

The court’s order restores the previous biometrics collection process while litigation continues.

Biometrics are often required before USCIS can process immigration benefits. The ruling addresses circumstances in which detention prevented applicants from completing this requirement.

Importantly, the decision does not grant immigration benefits, guarantee approval of pending applications, or require anyone’s release from detention.

Individuals with pending immigration applications who are affected by detention-related biometrics issues should consult their immigration attorney about how the ruling may apply to their case.

We’re Here to Help

Immigration policies and court decisions can change quickly, and their effects depend on individual circumstances. If you have questions about Diversity Visa registration, filing deadlines, or pending immigration applications, please contact Lai & Turner for individualized guidance. We are here to help.

Disclaimer: This newsletter is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Immigration law changes frequently, and the information above may not apply to your specific situation. Please consult with a qualified immigration attorney before making decisions based on this update. Reading this newsletter does not create an attorney-client relationship.