Immigration news update for all regions
Americas
United States: Temporary changes to immigrant visa appointment availability
Media reports indicated that the U.S. Department of State (DOS) temporarily adjusted immigrant visa appointment scheduling at U.S. embassies and consulates worldwide in connection with a global training program for consular officers.
According to reports, some immigrant visa interviews have been postponed as consular staff participate in the training program. Applicants with existing interview appointments may receive notifications that their appointments have been rescheduled, with revised interview dates to be communicated by the relevant U.S. consular post.
The DOS reportedly confirmed that appointment schedules are being adjusted to accommodate the worldwide training initiative. At the time of publication, the Department had not announced the expected duration of the scheduling changes or when standard appointment availability would resume.
The reported changes may result in longer processing timelines for immigrant visa applicants, including individuals pursuing employment-based or family-sponsored permanent residence through consular processing. Processing times may vary depending on the location and capacity of the relevant U.S. embassy or consulate.
This remains a developing situation, and further guidance from the U.S. Department of State may be issued as the training program progresses.
This summary was prepared using information provided by our service partner.
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 (European Client Services Manager – Immigration).
Asia-Pacific
New Zealand: Changes to Visitor Visa application management
Immigration New Zealand (INZ) announced that, from August 24, 2026, applications for the Group Visitor Visa, Approved Destination Status (ADS) Visitor Visa, Tour Escort Visitor Visa, and General Visitor Visa for ADS Free and Independent Travellers (FIT) have been transitioned to INZ’s enhanced Immigration Online system. New applications for these visa categories are now automatically directed to the enhanced platform.
Applications already submitted through the previous system will continue to be processed. Draft applications started in the previous system may be completed and submitted until October 7, 2026. Any remaining draft applications will be removed on October 8, 2026, after which new applications must be submitted through the enhanced Immigration Online system.
INZ also announced that additional visitor visa categories will be transitioned to the enhanced Immigration Online system. These include the Business Visitor Visa, Academic Visitor Visa, Guardian Visitor Visa, and Parent and Grandparent Visitor Visa.
The Partner of a New Zealander Visitor Visa and Child of a New Zealander Visitor Visa remain available through the existing application system pending their future transition to the enhanced platform.
This summary was prepared using information provided from the New Zealand Immigration
New Parent Resident Visa selection system announced
New Zealand is changing how Parent Resident Visa Expressions of Interest (EOIs) are selected. From October 5, 2026, a new hybrid selection model will apply, with the aim of providing a fairer and more predictable process for families.
Under the new model:
- Approximately 90% of EOIs will be selected in date order.
- Approximately 10% of EOIs will be selected through a ballot.
- The annual cap of 2,500 visas will remain unchanged.
- Existing EOIs will automatically transition to the new system.
- EOIs will no longer expire, provided applicants confirm their interest every two years.
- The first selection under the new model is scheduled for November 10, 2026.
The changes affect EOI selection only. Eligibility requirements for the Parent Resident Visa remain unchanged, and current EOI holders will not be required to submit a new EOI.
Further information on transition arrangements and queue positions is expected to be released as implementation progresses.
This summary was prepared using information provided from the New Zealand Immigration
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 Debra Beynon (Director of Immigration Services, APAC).
Europe, Middle East and Africa
Iceland: Update on collective protection for new Ukrainian applicants
Effective August 23, 2026, Iceland introduced new guidelines governing collective protection applications for individuals displaced from Ukraine. The changes apply only to new applicants and do not affect individuals who already hold collective protection in Iceland.
Under the new rules:
- Individuals who already hold temporary protection or an equivalent residence permit in another EU/EEA country, Switzerland, or Liechtenstein will generally no longer be eligible for collective protection in Iceland.
- Applicants who left Ukraine after August 23, 2026, must demonstrate that they were authorized to leave the country under Ukrainian law.
- Individuals who do not meet these requirements may still apply for international protection (asylum), which will be assessed separately under Icelandic immigration legislation.
- Exceptions may be considered on a case-by-case basis, particularly where applicants have certain family ties in Iceland.
This summary was prepared using information provided from the Directorate of Immigration
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 (European Client Services Manager – Immigration).
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