Drawing on peer data and real world program practices, this policy trend and organizational update benchmarking report highlights common trends, emerging shifts and areas of focus for in house immigration programs. The insights show how policies and practices are evolving and help organizations assess where they align with their peers.

Survey questions included addressing different aspects of the organization’s documentation process. Most organizations reported having formal documentation in place to address policy changes with many already updating or planning updates for this year. Common changes include green card sponsorship requirements, dependent support, premium processing and broader employment-based policy adjustments.

BAL Senior Counsel Betsy Lawrence and Partners Kelli Duehning and Eileen Lohmann briefed Community members on key immigration policy updates to consider in 2026. They covered various visa and travel restrictions, including the immigrant visa pause affecting 75 countries, enhanced social media vetting for visa applications and ongoing visa appointment delays, particularly those impacting Indian nationals.

The policy experts also discussed the increase in worksite enforcement and shared practical steps organizations can take to prepare for unexpected visits. In addition, they reviewed recent updates to USCIS adjudications and outlined considerations to help reduce the risk of gaps in employment authorization. Duehning, Lawrence and Lohmann also reviewed the H-1B Proclamation and highlighted what employers should keep in mind regarding the new weighted lottery and $100k fee.

Facilitated by BAL Partner Kelli Duehning and Senior Associate Steve Plastrik, this focus group provided in-house immigration professionals with a platform to review and exchange perspectives on the Biden administration’s proposed H-1B modernization rule, with a focus on anticipated program impacts and potential strategic responses.

The discussion highlighted key elements of the rule, including changes to what qualifies as a specialty occupation, the codification of deference to prior approvals and added flexibility for research organizations and modern work arrangements. Participants also explored how these updates could affect employer strategies moving forward and what considerations organizations should keep in mind as the rule continues to develop.