As of 2025, significant changes are being introduced to the U.S. immigration system. From the Diversity Visa lottery to citizenship applications, and from student and exchange visas to stay durations, new regulations are coming into effect. These steps not only make the application process more complex but also require immigrant applicants to prepare more carefully for their journey.
1. DV Lottery Can Only Be Processed in Your Own Country
The U.S. is preparing to implement a new rule for winners of the Diversity Visa (DV) Lottery, also known as the Green Card lottery. Starting November 1, 2025, winners will only be able to obtain their immigrant visa from U.S. consulates in their own country of citizenship. The option to process the visa through consulates in other countries will no longer be available. This change directly affects DV Lottery winners who previously completed their process in a third country.
2. Extra Citizenship Procedures: “Neighborhood and Workplace Checks” Return
The Trump administration has reinstated the “neighborhood checks” practice defined under the 1965 Immigration and Nationality Act by USCIS. Similar to asylum applications, this practice will now also apply to citizenship applications, including:
- Interviews within the applicant’s neighborhood, workplace, or close environment
- Supporting documents such as reference letters from neighbors, employers, or colleagues
USCIS Director Joseph Edlow stated that this step has been reintroduced “to verify that applicants possess good moral character.”
3. Fixed-Term Periods for F-1, J-1, and I Visas
The DHS and ICE have proposed a new rule aiming to eliminate the “duration of status” (D/S) model for visas and replace it with fixed maximum stay periods of up to 4 years. Under this change:
- Each student or exchange visitor will be limited to their program length, with a maximum of 4 years.
- Extensions of Stay (EOS) requests must be filed if the applicant needs extra time.
4. Why Are These Changes Important?
Such regulations may increase the length of the immigration process. This also means that applicants will need to be more thorough and prepared than before.
Winners of the DV Lottery may face intensified delays in the visa process. Applicants for citizenship may be more thoroughly evaluated. For students and participants in exchange programs, the construction of an extended plan remains much more difficult and perilous than before.
Oguz Law’s Recommendations
- DV Lottery Winners: From 2025 onwards, remember that you must complete consular processing only in your country of citizenship.
- Citizenship Applicants: If you are asked for reference letters, prepare in advance by gathering them from neighbors, employers, or acquaintances when applying.
- F-1 / J-1 / I Visa Holders: If your program exceeds 4 years, make sure to plan extensions early and manage your status carefully to avoid lapses.
At Oguz Law, we are always here to support you throughout your immigration process. Have questions?
