Immigration news updates for AMER and EMEA regions
Americas
United States: Update on family-based immigration 
USCIS has issued updated guidance to clarify the adjudication process for family-based immigrant visa petitions under the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA). This update, effective immediately, applies to all pending and newly filed Form I-130 petitions and consolidates previous guidance into Volume 6 of the USCIS Policy Manual.
The guidance highlights the importance of verifying that family relationships—especially marriages—are genuine and legally valid. It outlines general eligibility criteria, filing procedures and documentation requirements for petitioners. USCIS also explains how it handles cases involving multiple or related petitions and under what circumstances the U.S. Department of State (DOS) may accept a Form I-130 directly from U.S. citizens abroad, including military personnel and government employees stationed overseas or during large-scale disruptive events.
Additionally, the update clarifies when USCIS re-routes approved petitions to the DOS National Visa Center, particularly if a beneficiary is found ineligible to adjustment of status. It also specifies when interviews are required and affirms that approval of a petition does not confer immigration status or protection from removal. USCIS may issue a Notice to Appear (NTA) if the beneficiary is otherwise removable.
This summary was prepared using the information from the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services
Disclaimer: The above information is provided for general information purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice. If you have any further inquiries regarding the applicability of this information, please contact Roberta Carnaccini (Global Operations Director, Immigration).
Europe, Middle East and Africa
Ireland: Employment permits occupations lists
The government of Ireland has launched a public consultation period to review the occupations eligible for employment permits, aiming to address skill shortages and support economic growth.
The administration of employment permits in Ireland relies on two main lists:
- The Ineligible Occupations List – roles with sufficient labor supply in Ireland and the EEA, not eligible for permits.
- The Critical Skills Occupations List – roles experiencing shortages, eligible for permits.
Following the last review in 2023, 11 roles were added to the Critical Skills list and 32 became eligible for General Employment Permits. The current consultation offers stakeholders a chance to provide insights into existing skill gaps and labor market needs.
Submissions are open from July 23 to September 19 via an online form on the department’s website.
This summary was prepared using the information from the Department of Enterprise, Tourism and Employment
Disclaimer: The above information is provided for general information purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice. If you have any further inquiries regarding the applicability of this information, please contact Joanna Sogeke (Immigration Team Leader) or Roberta Carnaccini (Global Operations Director, Immigration).
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