Immigration Watch: Updates as of December 22, 2025

We will examine several major developments shaping U.S. immigration policy. These updates include the introduction of the new Trump Gold Card program, expanded visa screening and vetting procedures by the Department of State and USCIS, and changes reducing the validity period of Employment Authorization Documents (EADs).

Below is a breakdown of what these changes mean for foreign nationals, employers, and prospective immigrants.

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Introduction of the Trump Gold Card Program

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services has introduced Form I-140G, a new immigrant petition associated with what is being referred to as the Trump Gold Card program.

This initiative establishes a new pathway to lawful permanent residency based on an applicant’s ability to provide a substantial benefit to the United States, rather than requiring qualification under traditional immigrant visa categories.

Eligibility and Process for the Gold Card

The Gold Card program is not limited to individuals who meet the statutory definition of extraordinary ability under the EB-1A category. Applicants may also seek classification through a National Interest Waiver under the EB-2 category.

To apply, individuals must:

• Register for the program
• Pay a $15,000 nonrefundable processing fee
• Undergo an extensive vetting process

If the applicant successfully passes the vetting stage, a financial contribution of $1 million to the U.S. Department of Commerce is required.

Corporate Sponsorship Option

Corporations may also petition on behalf of an employee by filing Form I-140G.

If approved, the corporation must:

• Complete the same registration process
• Make a $2 million gift to the U.S. Department of Commerce

Proposed Platinum Card Option

There are also references to a Platinum Card option, though it is not yet available.

As described, the Platinum Card would:

• Permit residence in the United States for up to 270 days per year
• Exempt holders from U.S. taxation on non-U.S. income
• Require a $5 million contribution to the U.S. Department of Commerce

Further guidance is expected as the program develops.

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Department of State Expands Visa Vetting and Screening Procedures

The U.S. Department of State, in collaboration with USCIS, has announced expanded screening and vetting measures for both immigrant and nonimmigrant visa applicants.

The Department has emphasized that a U.S. visa is a privilege, not a right.

Enhanced Screening for H-1B, F, M, and J Visa Applicants

Effective December 15, the Department of State began implementing enhanced review procedures for:

• H-1B visa applicants
• H-4 dependent visa applicants
• F student visa applicants
• M vocational student visa applicants
• J exchange visitor visa applicants

Under the new procedures, applicants must ensure their social media accounts are set to public. These measures are intended to support national security and public safety objectives.

Creation of a USCIS Vetting Center

On December 5, USCIS announced the creation of a new Vetting Center designed to strengthen fraud detection and national security screening.

The Vetting Center will:

• Utilize advanced technology, including artificial intelligence
• Review pending applications
• Reevaluate previously approved immigration benefits
• Identify potential fraud, criminal activity, or public safety threats

Applicants from 19 countries identified by President Trump as countries of concern will be prioritized for additional review.

The 19 countries are:

Afghanistan, Burma, Chad, Republic of the Congo, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Haiti, Iran, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, Yemen, Burundi, Cuba, Laos, Sierra Leone, Togo, Turkmenistan, and Venezuela.

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Reduction in Employment Authorization Document Validity Period

USCIS has also reduced the maximum validity period for Employment Authorization Documents issued to certain categories of applicants.

For EADs issued or renewed on or after December 5, 2025:

• The maximum validity period has been reduced from five years to 18 months.

This policy primarily affects:

• Refugees
• Asylum seekers
• Certain applicants with pending immigration benefits

Requests filed on or after July 22, 2025, may be subject to the new validity period.

USCIS has stated that the change is intended to allow for more frequent review of EAD holders in order to address national security and public safety considerations.

Applicants may experience more frequent renewal requirements as a result.

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Conclusion: Monitoring Ongoing Immigration Policy Changes

The introduction of the Trump Gold Card program, expanded visa vetting procedures, and the reduction in EAD validity periods represent significant changes in U.S. immigration policy.

These developments may impact:

• High-net-worth individuals seeking permanent residence
• Corporations sponsoring foreign workers
• International students and exchange visitors
• Refugees and asylum applicants
• H-1B professionals and their dependents

As immigration policy continues to evolve, staying informed will be essential.

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If you have questions about how these policy changes may affect you or your organization, contact our office for guidance tailored to your situation. To read more about what I’ve written about today and more, you can subscribe to my bi-weekly LinkedIn newsletter, Immigration Watch.