1. Rule ending automatic EAD extensions

A key work-authorization change coming October 30 2025 may affect many employment-based immigrants.

Context:

• The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) published an Interim Final Rule ending “automatic extensions” of Employment Authorization Documents (EADs) for many renewal applicants. USCIS
• Applicants who file renewal on or after Oct 30 may not get the “540-day” extension previously available. Tafapolsky & Smith LLP
• Employers and workers both face possible work stoppages if EAD expires and renewal is not yet approved.
  Source: [USCIS EAD automatic extension info] USCIS
  Quote: “Beginning October 30 2025, this automatic extension will no longer apply.” RN Law Group

2. Expansion of biometric screening at U.S. borders

The U.S. is expanding facial-recognition and other biometric checks at borders, affecting non-citizens.

Context:

• The new rule allows border authorities to photograph non-citizens at all points of entry & exit, including children under 14 and seniors over 79 (previously exempt). Reuters
• The aim is to target visa overstays and passport fraud; an estimated 42% of undocumented immigrants entered via overstays. Reuters
• Civil-rights groups warn of discrimination risk and misidentification, especially of minorities. Reuters
  Source: (via Reuters story of regulation) Reuters
  Quote: “The U.S. will expand the use of facial recognition technology to track non-citizens entering and leaving the country.” Reuters

3. Staff reassignment from CISA to border duties

A congressional letter raises concerns about cybersecurity staff at Cybersecurity & Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) being shifted to border/immigration enforcement roles.

Context:

• House Democrats say the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) may have violated the Antideficiency Act by reassigning staff without proper funding oversight. Nextgov/FCW
• The shift reflects the growing emphasis on border security within DHS.
• Cyber-defense experts warn that such reassignments could weaken U.S. cyber posture.
  Source: Letter to DHS (via NextGov) Nextgov/FCW
  Quote: “A group of House Democrats is asking … why the Department of Homeland Security reassigned many of its cybersecurity staff to roles focused on border security and deportation work.” Nextgov/FCW

4. Border encounters fall dramatically

Neutral angle: Encounters at the U.S.–Mexico border have dropped to levels not seen in decades, according to government numbers.

Context :

• The White House reports that where agents once saw 100,000+ migrants a month, the count is now under 10,000. whitehouse.gov
• Such declines may reflect policy changes, deterrence, or other factors; interpretation remains contested.
• Lower border crossings may affect asylum systems, border operations and migrant flows.
  Primary gov link: White House border-immigration page. whitehouse.gov
  Short quote: “Where Border Patrol agents encountered well over 100,000 migrants and asylum seekers every month just a year ago, they now see fewer than 10,000.” whitehouse.gov

5. Green-card holders warned to carry documentation

The U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) is reminding lawful-permanent residents (green-card holders) of their obligation to carry proof of status.

Context:

• Failure to carry registration documents is a misdemeanor under INA Section 264(e). Newsweek
• Some green-card holders have been caught up in enforcement sweeps despite valid status. Newsweek
• Practical tip: always keep a copy of your Alien Registration Card (Form I-551) and consider retaining legal counsel if questioned.
  Source: No specific gov release but article referencing CBP statement. Newsweek
  Quote: “Always carry your alien registration documentation. Not having these when stopped by federal law enforcement can lead to a misdemeanor and fines.” Newsweek