Unified Agenda
Department of Homeland Security: 2026 Regulatory Agenda
Every rulemaking the DHS has on its regulatory agenda in the 2026 Unified Agenda. Proposed rules, final rules, and long-term actions, each with the agency's own summary and its latest status.
Source: the 2026 Regulatory Plan and Unified Agenda, published by OIRA on July 3, 2026 (reginfo.gov). The DHS lists 89 active actions plus 21 completed this cycle. Refreshed as the agenda changes.
Regulatory Plan marks the agency’s most significant planned actions, singled out by OIRA in the Regulatory Plan that accompanies this edition.
What changed since the Spring 2025 agenda
Between editions, the DHS added 41 new rules, changed the stage on 25, and dropped 49 from the agenda. The official agenda only shows you today’s snapshot. We keep the history, so you can see what actually moved.
- New this edition. Advanced Passenger Information for Bus (entered the Proposed Rule stage)
- Moved. 9-11 Response & Biometric Entry-Exit Fee for H-1B and L-1 Visas (Long-Term to Final Rule)
- Moved. Alien Registration Form and Evidence of Registration (Final Rule to Completed)
and 112 more changes this edition, including 49 rules that dropped off the agenda entirely.
Track the DHS agenda freeSignificant, priority, and finalized rules are shown in full below. Routine actions are condensed to a line, with full summaries for every rule on the dashboard.
Slated for a final rule. Several have already published in the Federal Register, which we mark on each; the rest are still pending.
Air Cargo Advance Screening (ACAS)
To address ongoing aviation security threats, Customs and Border Protection (CBP) amended its regulations pertaining to the submission of advance air cargo data to implement a mandatory Air Cargo Advance Screening (ACAS) Program for any inbound aircraft required to make entry under the CBP regulations that will have commercial cargo aboard. The ACAS Program requires the inbound carrier or other eligible party to electronically transmit specified advance cargo data (ACAS data) to CBP for air cargo transported onboard U.S.-bound aircraft as early as practicable, but no later than prior to loading of the cargo onto the aircraft. The ACAS Program enhances the security of the aircraft and passengers on U.S.-bound flights by enabling CBP to perform targeted risk assessments on the air cargo prior to the aircraft's departure for the United States. These risk assessments identify and prevent the loading of high-risk air cargo that could pose a risk to the aircraft during flight.
Status: Final rule published in the Federal Register on June 12, 2018
Collection and Use of Biometrics by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services
On November 3, 2025, DHS proposed to amend its regulations concerning the use and submission of biometrics in the administration and enforcement of immigration and naturalization laws and the adjudication of any immigration application, petition, or benefit or any other related request or collection of information. DHS is proposing these changes to ensure accurate identity verification and management throughout the entirety of the immigration lifecycle. Following review of public comments, DHS plans to issue a final rule.
Status: Proposed rule published on November 3, 2025
Cyber Incident Reporting for Critical Infrastructure Act (CIRCIA) Reporting Requirements
The Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) will finalize regulations to implement certain aspects of the Cyber Incident Reporting for Critical Infrastructure Act of 2022 (CIRCIA). Specifically, CIRCIA directs CISA to develop and implement regulations requiring covered entities to submit reports to CISA regarding covered cyber incidents and ransom payments. CISA published the NPRM on April 4, 2024. CISA received significant public comments on the proposed rule, many of which emphasized the need to reduce the scope and burden of the proposed reporting requirements, improve harmonization of CIRCIA with other federal cyber incident reporting requirements, and clarify terms. CISA is considering the public comments and examining options for the rulemaking. Additional information about this rulemaking is available at www.cisa.gov/circia.
Status: Proposed rule published on June 3, 2024
Electronic Chart and Navigation Equipment Carriage Requirements
This rulemaking would modify the chart, publications, and navigational equipment requirements in titles 33 and 46 of the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) for all commercial U.S.-flagged vessels and foreign-flagged vessels operating in the waters of the United States.
Status: Proposed rule published on March 28, 2022
Establishing a Fixed Time Period of Admission and an Extension of Stay Procedure for Nonimmigrant Academic Students, Exchange Visitors, and Representatives of Foreign Information Media
This rule proposes to eliminate the Duration of Status admission for F, J, and I nonimmigrant categories and replace it with a date-limited authorized period of stay when entering the United States. The fixed date would eliminate confusion over how long foreign students, exchange visitors, and representatives of foreign information media may stay in the United States. It would also improve the Department's efforts to reduce overstay rates and address fraud and national security concerns.
Status: Final rule published in the Federal Register on July 17, 2026
Normalizing Unmanned Aircraft Systems Beyond Visual Line of Sight Operations
This final rule is intended to provide a predictable and clear pathway for safe, routine, and scalable UAS operations that include package delivery, agriculture, aerial surveying, civic interest, operations training, demonstration, recreation, and flight testing. This final rule will be issued in conjunction with the FAA's final rule. FAA's final rule provides performance-based regulations enabling the design and operation of unmanned aircraft systems at low altitudes beyond visual line of sight and for third-party services, to include UAS Traffic Management, that support these operations. The FAA Reauthorization Act of 2024 directs the development of this rulemaking. TSA's rule is necessary to support the secure integration of BVLOS UAS operations into the national air space system. TSA's final rule makes complementary changes to its regulations to require necessary security measures on these operations consistent with its current regulatory structure for civil aviation.
Status: Proposed rule published on September 29, 2025
Procedures for Credible Fear Screening and Consideration of Asylum, Withholding of Removal, and CAT Protection Claims by Asylum Officers
On August 20, 2021, DHS and DOJ (collectively the Departments) published a notice of proposed rulemaking that proposed amending regulations governing the procedures for determining certain protection claims and available parole procedures for certain aliens subject to expedited removal and found to have a credible fear of persecution or torture. On March 29, 2022, after a careful review of the comments received, the Departments issued an interim final rule (IFR) that responded to comments received in response to the NPRM and adopted the proposed rule with changes. Significantly, the IFR established timelines for the consideration of applications for asylum and related protection by DHS's USCIS and, as needed, DOJ's Executive Office for Immigration Review (EOIR). The IFR also provided that DHS will refer aliens whose applications are not approved by USCIS to EOIR for streamlined removal proceedings. The Departments intend to consider to rescind this rulemaking.
Status: Final rule published in the Federal Register on March 29, 2022
Public Charge Ground of Inadmissibility
This proposed rule would rescind relevant portions of the 2022 rule on the public charge ground of inadmissibility. Under the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA), an alien is inadmissible, ineligible for a visa, and ineligible for adjustment of status if the alien is likely at any time to become a public charge.
Status: Proposed rule published on November 19, 2025
Removal of the Automatic Extension of Employment Authorization Documents
On October 30 2025, DHS published an Interim Final Rule to amend DHS regulations to end the practice of automatically extending the validity of employment authorization documents (Forms I-766 or EADs) for aliens who have timely filed an application to renew their EAD in certain employment authorization categories. The purpose of this change is to prioritize the proper vetting and screening of aliens before granting a new period of employment authorization and/or a new EAD. This interim final rule does not impact the validity of EADs that were automatically extended by up-to 540 days prior to the publication of this interim final rule, or which are otherwise automatically extended by law or Federal Register notice. Following review of public comments, DHS will consider issuing a final rule.
Status: Final rule published in the Federal Register on October 30, 2025
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services Employment-Based Immigrant Visa, Fifth Preference (EB-5) Fee Rule
On October 23, 2025, DHS proposed to adjust the fees USCIS charges for Employment-Based Fifth Preference (EB-5) immigration benefit requests. This rule also proposes to codify in regulation certain elements of the EB-5 Reform and Integrity Act of 2022 and make one technical amendment. DHS intends that the rule will provide USCIS the resources necessary to accomplish the goals of the EB-5 Reform and Integrity Act of 2022 and enhance and maintain the integrity of the EB-5 program. Following review of public comments, DHS plans to issue a final rule.On Jan. 31, 2024, DHS adjusted these fees as part of a larger fee rule with other changes; however, it did not implement EB-5 Reform and Integrity Act of 2022 requirements.
Status: Proposed rule published on October 23, 2025
Advance Passenger Information System: Electronic Validation of Travel Documents
U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) regulations require commercial air carriers to electronically transmit passenger information to CBP's Advance Passenger Information System (APIS) prior to an aircraft's arrival in or departure from the United States. CBP proposed to incorporate additional carrier requirements that would enable CBP to validate each passenger's travel documents prior to the passenger boarding the aircraft. The proposed changes, if implemented, would also require air carriers to transmit additional data elements through APIS for all commercial aircraft passengers arriving in the United States in order to support border operations and national security. This rule is deregulatory and will result in time savings to passengers and cost savings to CBP.
Status: Proposed rule published on February 2, 2023
Automated Commercial Environment (ACE) Electronic Export Manifest for Rail Cargo
This rulemaking proposes to create a new regulation requiring the submission of export manifest data electronically to U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) in the Automated Commercial Environment (ACE) for cargo transported by rail pursuant to section 343(a), of the Trade Act of 2002, as amended (19 U.S.C. 1415), for any train departing the United States. The proposed regulation would mandate the electronic transmission of rail export manifest information, identify the parties eligible to transmit information, describe the time frames prior to departure of the train in which the information is due, and identify an initial filing that must occur 24 hours prior to departure from the port of export while requiring that remaining data be transmitted at least two hours prior to such departure. This rule is deregulatory and will result in both time savings and cost savings for carriers, transmitters, and CBP.
Status: Proposed rule published on January 13, 2025
Electronic Bond Transmission
This rulemaking amends the CBP regulations to require that most bonds be transmitted to CBP electronically via a specialized system by the surety securing the bond, or by the principal on a bond secured by cash in lieu of surety. The amendments eliminate the more onerous and inefficient paper-based bond application and approval processes. Moving forward, the amendments would implement the successful National Customs Automation Program test for electronic bonds ("eBonds").
Status: Proposed rule published on February 13, 2026
Establishing the Gordie Howe International Bridge as a Port of Entry in Detroit, Michigan
This final rule establishes the Gordie Howe International Bridge border crossing as a Class A port of entry for immigration purposes and as part of the port of Detroit for customs purposes. Establishing the Gordie Howe International Bridge border crossing is part of U.S. Customs and Border Protection's (CBP) continuing program to use its personnel, facilities, and resources more efficiently and to provide better service to carriers, importers, and the general public .
Status: Final rule published in the Federal Register on January 30, 2026
Implementation of the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) at U.S. Land Borders
This rule would implement the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) requirements of the Implementing Recommendations of the 9/11 Commission Act of 2007, for aliens who intend to enter the United States under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP) at land ports of entry. Currently, aliens from VWP countries must provide certain biographic information to CBP officers at land ports of entry on a paper I-94W Nonimmigrant Visa Waiver Arrival/Departure Record (Form I-94W). Under this rule, these VWP travelers would instead provide this information to CBP electronically through ESTA prior to application for admission to the United States. DHS has already implemented the ESTA requirements for aliens who intend to enter the United States under the VWP at air or sea ports of entry.
Status: Final rule published in the Federal Register on April 1, 2022
Imposition and Collection of Civil Penalties for Certain Immigration-Related Violations
This rule provides exclusive DHS procedures for the issuance of civil monetary penalties under the Immigration and Nationality Act for aliens who fail to depart voluntarily during the voluntary departure period, willfully fail or refuse to depart after a final removal order and certain other proscribed activities or are apprehended while improperly entering or attempting to enter the United States. The rule also transfers the appeals process for these penalties from DOJ's Board of Immigration Appeals to DHS.
Status: Final rule published in the Federal Register on June 27, 2025
Improving Continuity for Religious Organizations and their Employees
This interim final rule amends DHS regulations to remove the requirement that a nonimmigrant religious worker (R-1) who has exhausted the maximum period of admission as an R-1 must reside abroad and be physically present outside the United States for one year before being eligible for readmission as an R-1 nonimmigrant. The purpose of this change is to promote stability and minimize disruptions to the vital religious services that nonimmigrant religious workers provide to U.S. churches, mosques, synagogues, and other religious organizations.
Status: Final rule published in the Federal Register on January 16, 2026
Marine Casualty Reporting on the Outer Continental Shelf
The primary purpose of this rulemaking is to extend 46 CFR part 4 provisions regarding marine casualty reporting and associated drug testing requirements to foreign vessels, mobile offshore drilling units (MODUs), and floating facilities engaged in Outer Continental Shelf (OCS) activities on the United States OCS. This will ensure the same level of safety is provided to all mariners, floating installations, MODUs, offshore supply vessels, and other vessels operating. Additionally, to the extent that U.S. flag vessels and MODUs were disadvantaged by being subject to more stringent requirements than foreign flag vessels and MODUs, the rule will level the playing field. The harmonization of criteria currently found in multiple CFR subparts will simplify requirements, as will raising the property damage dollar threshold reporting requirements for foreign MODUs to align with domestic MODUs. This will improve the Coast Guard's ability to investigate casualties that occur on the United States OCS. Casualty data is essential to conducting the analysis necessary to develop sound future regulatory requirements. A regulatory safety regime founded on improved casualty information will help prevent future mishaps and make the OCS safer and cleaner for future generations.
Status: Final rule published in the Federal Register on June 30, 2026
Minimum Standards for Driver's Licenses and Identification Cards Acceptable by Federal Agencies for Official Purposes; Procedures for Remote Application and Issuance
TSA is amending regulations implementing the REAL ID Act by issuing a procedural final rule that enables individuals to apply for, and for States to issue, REAL ID-compliant driver's licenses and identification cards remotely. The final rule requires States that elect to implement remote systems to update their existing REAL ID certification documentation to demonstrate how their remote systems meet, or are comparable to, existing standards of this part. Remote processes would eliminate the need for individuals to travel to Departments of Motor Vehicle offices and enable States to reduce support personnel at those offices. By reducing application and issuance burdens on individuals and States, this rule accelerates and expands adoption of REAL ID-compliant cards.
Agenda status: Final Action (planned)
Removal of Updates to Floodplain Management and Protection of Wetlands Regulations
This rule would rescind certain provisions in the July 11, 2024, final rule titled Updates to Floodplain Management and Protection of Wetlands Regulations to Implement the Federal Flood Risk Management Standard. FEMA had issued this rule due to Executive Order 14030, which reinstated the Federal Flood Risk Management Standard (FFRMS). On January 20, 2025, President Trump issued Executive Order 14148, Initial Rescissions of Harmful Executive Orders and Actions. This Executive Order rescinded Executive Order 14030, thereby eliminating the standard. FEMA stopped implementation of the FFRMS on March 25, 2025, consistent with Executive Order 14148. FEMA is now undertaking rulemaking to remove the specific requirements of Executive Order 14030 from its regulations. Removing the standard from Part 9 will streamline FEMA's regulations, streamline program implementation, and reduce burdens on the public.
Agenda status: Interim Final Rule (planned)
USCIS Immigration Fees and Related Procedures Required by HR-1 Reconciliation Bill
On July 4, 2025, the President signed into law H.R.1, One Big Beautiful Bill Act, Public Law 119-21(HR- 1). HR-1 establishes specific fees for various immigration-related forms, benefits, statuses, petitions, applications, and requests administered by multiple government agencies. In a Federal Register Notice, 90 FR 34511, USCIS announced certain new fees promulgated by HR-1, when collection of the fees will begin, and how the fees are to be paid. This rulemaking will codify the fees previously announced and implement additional fees required or authorized by HR-1. The rulemaking will also clarify limitations or exceptions that apply to the fees, along with consequences for non-payment of the HR-1 fees.
Status: Final rule published in the Federal Register on April 29, 2026
Vetting of Certain Surface Transportation Employees
TSA will finalize regulations to establish the requirements and procedures to conduct the vetting of certain railroad, public transportation, and over-the-road bus employees, and to recover the costs of the vetting services. On May 23, 2023, TSA issued a notice of proposed rulemaking proposing these standards. TSA is evaluating all comments received and will publish the final rule. This regulation is related to 1652-AA55, Security Training for Surface Transportation Employees.
Status: Proposed rule published on August 22, 2023
Other actions in this stage
Rules open for, or headed toward, public comment.
Clarification of Discretionary Employment Authorization for Certain Alien Populations
DHS is proposing significant amendments governing discretionary employment authorization for certain aliens who: have final orders of removal but are temporarily released from custody on an order of supervision; are paroled into the United States temporarily for urgent humanitarian reasons or significant public benefit; or have been granted deferred action. This proposed rule would help ensure the continued safety and security of the American people, maintain the integrity of the U.S. immigration system, and strengthen protections for U.S. workers.
Status: Proposed rule published on June 5, 2026
Employment Authorization Reform for Asylum Applicants
DHS is proposing to amend its regulations to increase operational efficiencies, and to deter the fraudulent, frivolous, or otherwise non-meritorious filing of asylum applications for the purpose of obtaining Employment Authorization Documents (EADs) in the (c)(8) EAD category.
Status: Proposed rule published on February 23, 2026
Clarification of Certain Mariner Training Requirements
The Coast Guard proposes to remove four merchant mariner credentialing training requirements related to Standards of Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping (STCW) officer and rating endorsements from its regulations in 46 CFR parts 11 and 12. The Coast Guard has determined that these training requirements exceed the minimum training and certification standards required by the STCW. These training requirements are not necessary for the safety of life and property at sea. The rule would propose to remove: leadership and managerial skills training to qualify as master of vessels of less than 500 gross tons (GT) limited to near-coastal waters; demonstration of meeting the standard of competence in leadership and teamworking skills to renew an endorsement of an STCW as an officer in charge of a navigational watch (OICNW) of vessels of less than 500 GT limited to near-coastal waters to be valid on or after January 1, 2017; bridge resource management training to qualify as OICNW on vessels of less than 500 GT limited to near-coastal waters; and computer systems and maintenance training to qualify as electro-technical rating (ETR) on vessels powered by main propulsion machinery of 750 kilowatts (kW)/1,000 horsepower (HP) or more.
Agenda status: NPRM (planned)
Improving the Process of Certification of Form N-648, Medical Certification for Disability Exceptions
DHS proposes to amend its regulations governing the process of certifying Form N-648, Medical Certification for Disability Exceptions by certain medical professionals. Through this certification process, aliens qualify for exemptions from the English proficiency and civics requirements for naturalization. The proposed amendments seek to strengthen the integrity of the naturalization process by implementing streamlined certification procedures for medical professionals and ensuring that only qualified aliens are granted exemptions. These changes are intended to enhance safeguards designed to prevent fraudulent submissions and ensure proper administration of disability exception process for naturalization.
Agenda status: NPRM (planned)
Low-Value Shipments
This rule amends CBP regulations to implement the indefinite suspension of the de minimis exemption for goods valued at $800 or less, modify the electronic filing requirements for certain informal entries of goods valued at $2,500 or less, and establish a new electronic informal entry type for merchandise entering through the mail environment. Additionally, this rule provides for new bonding requirements for informal entries including in the mail environment.
Agenda status: NPRM (planned)
Naturalization Application Fee Adjustments
DHS is proposing to adjust the fees that USCIS charges for Form N-400 and Form N-336 to ensure recovery of the cost of adjudication. This includes eliminating fee waivers (except for armed forces service members when filing for naturalization under statutes for members of the armed forces) and reduced fees for these forms.
Status: Proposed rule published on July 8, 2026
Protecting the Integrity of Naturalization through Enhanced Educational Standards
DHS proposes to amend its regulations governing the educational requirements for naturalization. DHS proposes to establish a framework and a standard for applicants to meet the educational requirements for naturalization. With this proposed rule, USCIS is seeking to further enhance the integrity of the naturalization test. DHS also proposes additional flexibilities to allow USCIS to modify the way it administers the naturalization tests, including by allowing for third party administration of the test.
Agenda status: NPRM (planned)
Shipping Safety Fairways Along the Atlantic Coast
The Coast Guard is proposing the establishment of shipping safety fairways along the Atlantic Coast of the United States. Fairways are marked routes for vessel traffic in which any fixed obstructions are prohibited. The proposed fairways are based on studies about vessel traffic along the Atlantic Coast and do not conflict with other ocean users. Coast Guard establishes shipping safety fairways to maintain safe and secure access to major ports of the U.S. Marine Transportation System.
Status: Proposed rule published on May 5, 2026
Sponsor Reimbursement and Deeming 8 CFR § 213a
DHS proposes to amend its regulations relating to the mechanisms by which the Federal government, as well as the States and state agencies, hold the sponsors of aliens to their commitments to financially support those aliens. The project will include amendments relating to requests for reimbursement and actions to compel reimbursement. DHS will also amend its regulations to clarify the responsibilities of States and state agencies to attribute a sponsor's income and resources to an alien when determining the eligibility and the amount of benefits of an alien for means-tested public benefits programs.
Agenda status: NPRM (planned)
Other actions in this stage
On the agenda, but not expected to move within the next 12 months.
Ammonium Nitrate Security Program
This rule would implement a December 2007 amendment to the Homeland Security Act. The amendment is titled "Secure Handling of Ammonium Nitrate." It requires the Department of Homeland Security to "regulate the sale and transfer of ammonium nitrate by an ammonium nitrate facility…to prevent the misappropriation or use of ammonium nitrate in an act of terrorism." The Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) issued an Advance Notice of Proposed Rulemaking in 2008 and a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking in 2011. CISA is planning to issue a Supplemental Notice of Proposed Rulemaking.
Status: Proposed rule published on June 3, 2019
Enhanced Air Cargo Advance Screening (ACAS)
To address ongoing aviation security threats, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) is amending its regulations pertaining to the Air Cargo Advance Screening (ACAS) program to require the transmission of additional data elements. The ACAS Program requires the inbound carrier or other eligible party to electronically transmit certain air cargo data (ACAS data) to CBP for air cargo transported on board U.S.-bound aircraft as early as practicable, but no later than prior to loading of the cargo onto the aircraft. The ACAS program enhances the security of the aircraft and passengers on U.S.-bound flights by enabling CBP to perform targeted risk assessments on the air cargo prior to the aircraft's departure for the United States. These risk assessments identify and prevent the loading of high-risk air cargo that could pose a risk to the aircraft during flight.
Status: Final rule published in the Federal Register on January 22, 2026
Enhancing Surface Cyber Risk Management
In 2021, in response to an ongoing threat to pipeline systems, TSA issued emergency security directives to owners and operators of TSA-designated critical pipelines that transport hazardous liquids and natural gas. The directives required covered entities to implement a number of urgently needed protections against cyber intrusions. TSA also issued security directives to owners and operators in the freight, passenger, and transit-rail sectors. This rulemaking will codify critical cybersecurity requirements for pipeline and rail modes. Through this rulemaking, TSA will also address certain requirements in the Implementing Recommendations of the 9/11 Commission Act of 2007 related to information and operational technology systems. TSA published an advance notice of proposed rulemaking in November 2022, and a notice of proposed rulemaking in November 2024.
Status: Proposed rule published on November 7, 2024
National Flood Insurance Program: Standard Flood Insurance Policy
The National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) allows property owners in participating communities to purchase flood insurance. FEMA has adopted in regulation the Standard Flood Insurance Policy (SFIP), of which there are three forms: Dwelling Form, General Property Form, and Residential Condominium Building Association Policy (RCBAP). On February 6, 2024, FEMA published a NPRM to revise the SFIP by adding a Homeowner Flood Form to replace the Dwelling Form as a source of coverage for homeowners. FEMA is now issuing a second NPRM that would propose to remove the text of each SFIP from regulation and instead retain only the terms and conditions of coverage required by the National Flood Insurance Act of 1968. This second NRPM, which incorporates feedback received through public comment on the first NPRM, aligns with the Administration's priorities of limiting the Federal government's regulatory reach to only those areas required by statute, encouraging private sector participation in the flood insurance market by lowering barriers to entry for private insurers, and increasing State and local preparedness and response consistent with Executive Order 14239, "Achieving Efficiency Through State and Local Preparedness." In sum, this rule would streamline FEMA's regulations, streamline program implementation, and reduce burdens on the public.
Status: Proposed rule published on April 8, 2024
Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI)–Noncompliant Traveler Fee
This rule proposes to establish a user fee to cover the inspection costs of processing U.S. citizens seeking entry at U.S. land border ports-of-entry without documents that comply with the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative. Additionally, this rule proposes to update the regulation regarding the establishment of projects for the charging of a land border fee for inspection services.
Agenda status: Next Action Undetermined (planned)
Drawbridge Regulations
These routine and frequent regulations establish operating schedules and notice requirements for drawbridges across navigable waterways. Drawbridge regulations establish the permanent draw operation schedules for bridges and specify what notice mariners must give to request an opening. Short-term deviations from the permanent schedule may be issued to test the effectiveness of a proposed new opening schedule. District Commanders promulgate these regulations, usually at the request of the bridge owner or operator, or of local officials or local Coast Guard bridge administration officials. These routine and frequent regulations support the Coast Guard's broad roles in maritime stewardship and safety in relation to the mobility of commercial and recreational vessel traffic. The total actions expected are 40 annually. The Coast Guard also removes or modifies these regulations as needed.
Status: Final rule published in the Federal Register on June 12, 2026
Electronic Refunds
This document amends the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) regulations to reflect that , consistent with Executive Order 14247, Modernizing Payments To and From America's Bank Account , 90 FR 14001 (March 25, 2025), and subject to limited exceptions, CBP will issue all refunds electronically . This document explains the process required to receive electronic refunds and the process to receive paper checks in those rare instances where the recipient meets the criteria for a waiver .
Status: Final rule published in the Federal Register on January 2, 2026
Guam-Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands (CNMI) Visa Waiver Program Automation and Electronic Travel Authorization; Creation of CNMI Economic Vitality & Security Travel Authorization Program
Section 702 of the Consolidated Natural Resources Act of 2008 (CNRA) extended the immigration laws of the United States to the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands (CNMI) and provides for a visa waiver program for travel to Guam and the CNMI. This rule requires persons intending to travel to Guam or the CNMI under the Guam-CNMI Visa Waiver Program (G-CNMI VWP) to electronically submit Form I-736 in advance and receive an electronic travel authorization prior to embarking on a carrier for travel to Guam or the CNMI. This rule also establishes the CNMI Economic Vitality & Security Travel Authorization Program (EVS-TAP) as a Restricted Sub-Program of the G-CNMI VWP. This program is being established based on recommendations pursuant to consultations between the United States and the CNMI under section 902 of the Covenant to Establish the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands in Political Union with the United States of America. The CNMI EVS-TAP allows prescreened nationals of the People's Republic of China to travel without a visa only to the CNMI under specified conditions. CBP is assessing next steps.
Status: Final rule published in the Federal Register on January 18, 2024
Implementing Bilateral and Multilateral Cooperative Agreements for Asylum Under the Immigration and Nationality Act
On November 19, 2019, DHS and DOJ (collectively, the Departments) published an interim final rule to modify existing regulations to provide for the implementation of agreements that the United States enters into pursuant to section 208(a)(2)(A) of the Immigration and Nationality Act. The Departments are considering next steps.
Status: Final rule published in the Federal Register on September 2, 2025
International Entrepreneur Program: Automatic Increase of Investment and Revenue Amount Requirements
On January 17, 2017, DHS published a final rule with new regulatory provisions guiding the use of parole on a case-by-case basis with respect to entrepreneurs of start-up entities who can demonstrate through evidence of substantial and demonstrated potential for rapid business growth and job creation that they would provide a significant public benefit to the United States. The 2017 regulation provided that the investment and revenue amount requirements would automatically adjust every three years by the Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers (CPI-U). USCIS issued a rule to inform the public of the increased amounts taking effect at the start of Fiscal Year 2022 and to revise the regulations to accurately reflect the updated investment, award, grant, and revenue amounts. On July 25, 2024, USCIS issued a similar rule to inform the public of the increased amounts taking effect at the start of Fiscal Year 2025 and to revise the regulations to accurately reflect the updated amounts.
Status: Final rule published in the Federal Register on July 25, 2024
Regatta and Marine Parade Regulations
These routine and frequent regulations provide for the safety of participants and spectators during regattas and marine parades. The regulations provide for various controls, including separate participant and spectator areas, separation schemes for watercraft in the area of the event, and temporary restrictions on waterways to accommodate the event. These rules are short-term in nature (usually a single event of one to three days, for only part of each day), and usually encompass only a portion of a navigable waterway. These rules are promulgated by District Commanders and Captains of the Port in response to requests from event sponsors. These rules support the Coast Guard's maritime safety and maritime stewardship missions with regard to the mobility of commercial and recreational vessel traffic. Approximately 130 rulemakings are expected annually. The Coast Guard also removes or modifies these regulations as needed.
Status: Final rule published in the Federal Register on July 17, 2026
Regulated Navigation Areas
These routine and frequent regulations establish operating requirements for vessels within specified geographic areas to ensure safety on the navigable waters where some special or unusual circumstance exists. Regulated navigation areas are limited, specific geographic areas in which the Coast Guard specifies operational or vessel restrictions, such as vessel entry, movement, or departure, and vessel size, speed, horsepower, or draft limitations. District Commanders promulgate regulated navigation areas, usually at the request of Coast Guard marine safety officials or local maritime safety officials. These routine and frequent regulations support the Coast Guard's broad role and responsibility for maritime safety and maritime stewardship. A total of 10 actions are expected annually. The Coast Guard also removes or modifies these regulations as needed.
Status: Final rule published in the Federal Register on July 6, 2026
Safety Zone Regulations
The Coast Guard uses these routine and frequent regulations to establish safety zones to control access to maritime areas to ensure the safety of events, vessels, or individuals. Many of these zones are of short duration, ranging from a few hours to a few days, and all are geographically limited in area. Safety zones, defined in 33 CFR 165.20, are established for events such as fireworks displays, high-speed races, bridge repairs, dredging, salvage operations, or the transit of dangerous cargoes such as explosives or liquefied petroleum gas. Safety zones are promulgated by Captains of the Port or District Commanders. These routine and frequent rulemakings support the Coast Guard's broad roles and responsibilities of maritime safety and maritime stewardship. Safety zones under the Outer Continental Shelf Lands Act are also included in these routine and frequent regulations. A total of 550 events are expected annually. The Coast Guard also removes or modifies safety zones as needed.
Status: Final rule published in the Federal Register on July 17, 2026
Security Zone Regulations
The Coast Guard uses these routine and frequent regulations to establish control of access to maritime areas to ensure the security of vessels, waterfront facilities, or individuals. Many of these zones are of short duration, a few hours to a few days, and all are geographically limited in area. Security zones are established for Presidential or Vice-Presidential visits, high-profile events such as the Olympics, controversial events such as transport of spent nuclear fuel, and in response to the threat of terrorist attacks. Some security zones are implemented only at heightened security levels and only for the duration of the heightened alert. Captains of the Port or District Commanders establish security zones. These routine and frequent rulemakings support the Coast Guard's broad role and responsibility for maritime security, safety, and stewardship. The total number of actions expected is 100 annually. The Coast Guard also removes or modifies these regulations as needed.
Status: Final rule published in the Federal Register on July 2, 2026
Special Anchorage Areas and Anchorage Grounds Regulations
These routine and frequent regulations are established where maritime and commercial interests require them for safety of navigation. Special anchorage areas are areas in which vessels of not more than 65 feet may anchor without displaying the required lights or sound signals because they have been found to be unnecessary to maintain marine safety in this environment. These special anchorage areas are limited geographically and depending on the purpose of the designation, establish both long- and short-term anchorages. Anchorage grounds are limited geographically, delineate the types and size of vessel that may use the anchorage, and may place time and other restrictions on use of the anchorage. Regulations designating special anchorage areas and establishing anchorage grounds are promulgated by District Commanders in response to requests from appropriate officials. These routine and frequent rulemakings support the Coast Guard's broad role and responsibility of maritime safety. Approximately 10 actions are expected annually. The Coast Guard also removes or modifies special anchorage area regulations and anchorage ground regulations as needed.
Status: Final rule published in the Federal Register on June 17, 2026
Tonnage Tax Modernization
This interim final rule amends U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) regulations so that a tonnage year, for purposes of calculating tonnage taxes for a vessel, is aligned with the fiscal year of the federal government. Currently, CBP calculates a unique tonnage year for each vessel, starting when the vessel first enters the United States. This rule also permits CBP to issue a single electronic receipt for the payment of tonnage taxes and light money. This rule simplifies the tonnage tax process, decreases the number of errors in assessing tonnage taxes, and simplifies the tracking of tonnage tax payments.
Status: Final rule published in the Federal Register on September 16, 2025
Other actions in this stage
Actions the agency reports as completed this cycle. The official agenda rule list files these separately from the active pipeline.
Collection of Biometric Data From Aliens Upon Entry To and Exit From the United States
DHS is required by statute to develop and implement an integrated, automated entry and exit data system to match records, including biographic data and biometrics of aliens entering and departing the United States. Although the current regulations provide that DHS may require certain aliens to provide biometrics when entering and departing the United States, they only authorize DHS to collect biometrics from certain aliens upon departure under pilot programs at land ports and at up to 15 airports and seaports. To provide the legal framework for CBP to begin a comprehensive biometric entry-exit system, DHS is amending the regulations to remove the references to pilot programs and the port limitation. In addition, to enable CBP to make the process for verifying the identity of aliens more efficient, accurate, and secure by using facial recognition technology, DHS is amending the regulations to provide that all aliens may be required to be photographed upon entry and/or departure.
Status: Final rule published in the Federal Register on October 27, 2025
Securing the Border
On June 3, 2024, the President signed Proclamation 10773 under sections 212(f) and 215(a) of the Immigration and Nationality Act, finding that the entry into the United States of certain aliens during emergency border circumstances would be detrimental to the interests of the United States, and suspending and limiting the entry of those aliens across the southern border. The Proclamation directed DHS and DOJ (the Departments) to promptly consider issuing regulations addressing the circumstances at the southern border, including any warranted limitations and conditions on asylum eligibility. The Departments issued an interim final rule, 89 FR 48710, in response to the Proclamation. Under the IFR, certain aliens who enter across the southern border while encounters are above thresholds described in the Proclamation are ineligible for asylum unless they demonstrate by a preponderance of the evidence that exceptionally compelling circumstances exist, and are subject to certain revised processing standards and procedures applicable to the expedited removal process. On October 7, 2024, the Departments published a final rule, 89 FR 81156, responding to the public comments received on the IFR. The final rule also requested comment on potential changes to the Circumvention of Lawful Pathways rule, as well as changes made to the IFR's encounter thresholds that parallel modifications made by a subsequent Proclamation amending Proclamation 10773.
Status: Final rule published in the Federal Register on October 7, 2024
Weighted Selection Process for Registrants and Petitioners Seeking To File Cap-Subject H-1B Petitions
DHS is amending its regulations governing the process by which USCIS selects H-1B registrations for the filing of H-1B petitions subject to the numerical limitations under INA section 214(g), or the way in which USCIS selects H-1B petitions for any year in which the registration requirement is suspended. Under the rule, all registrations (or petitions, if applicable) would be weighted to generally favor beneficiaries whose proffered wages correspond to higher Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics wage levels. The rule would retain beneficiary-centric selection of registrations. The rule would not affect the order of selection between the regular cap and the advanced degree exemption, and would not alter the prevailing wage level associated with a given position for U.S. Department of Labor purposes.
Status: Final rule published in the Federal Register on December 29, 2025
Alien Registration Form and Evidence of Registration
On March 12, 2025, DHS published an interim final rule (IFR) amending regulations to designate a new registration form for aliens to comply with statutory alien registration and fingerprinting provisions. Aliens who are subject to alien registration requirements of the Immigration and Nationality Act, as amended, who have not yet registered may use this registration form to satisfy their statutory obligations. The IFR also amended DHS regulations to designate additional documentation that may serve as evidence of alien registration. DHS is considering public comments received.
Status: Final rule published in the Federal Register on June 29, 2026
Automation of CBP Form I-418 for Vessels
This final rule will finalize the Interim Final Rule published in December 2021. This rule amended regulations regarding the submission of CBP Form I-418, Passenger List – Crew List (Form I-418). Previously, the master or agent of every commercial vessel arriving in the United States, with limited exceptions, had to submit a paper Form I-418, along with certain information regarding longshore work, to CBP at the port where immigration inspection was performed. Most commercial vessel operators were also required to submit a paper Form I-418 to CBP at the final U.S. port prior to departing for a foreign port. Under this rule, most vessel operators are required to electronically submit the data elements on Form I-418 to CBP through the National Vessel Movement Center in lieu of submitting a paper form. This rule eliminated the need to file the paper Form I-418 in most cases. This resulted in an opportunity cost savings for vessel operators as well as a reduction in their printing and storage costs. CBP no longer needs this information as it is receiving it from the Coast Guard.
Status: Final rule published in the Federal Register on November 17, 2025
Codification of Certain U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Law Enforcement Authorities
On September 5, 2025, DHS published a final rule (90 FR 45047) to codify certain law enforcement authorities delegated by the Secretary of Homeland Security (Secretary) to the Director of USCIS and subsequently redelegated to particular officers or employees of USCIS. These authorities allow particular USCIS personnel to investigate and enforce civil and criminal violations of the immigration laws within the jurisdiction of USCIS, including but not limited to the issuance and execution of warrants, the arrest of individuals, and carrying of firearms.
Status: Final rule published in the Federal Register on September 5, 2025
Emergency Import Restrictions on Categories of Archaeological and Ethnological Material of Lebanon
This document amends the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) regulations to reflect the imposition of emergency import restrictions on categories of archaeological and ethnological material of Lebanon, pursuant to a determination made by the United States Department of State under the terms of the Convention on Cultural Property Implementation Act. The emergency import restrictions will be in effect until January 23, 2029, unless extended. This document contains the Designated List of Archaeological and Ethnological Material of Lebanon that describes the types of objects or categories of archaeological and ethnological material to which the import restrictions apply.
Status: Final rule published in the Federal Register on May 14, 2025
Exercise of Time-Limited Authority to Increase the Fiscal Year 2026 Numerical Limitation for the H-2B Temporary Nonagricultural Worker Program
The Secretary of Homeland Security, in consultation with the Secretary of Labor, is exercising time-limited Fiscal Year (FY) 2026 authority to issue up to, but not more than, an additional 35,000 visas for the fiscal year. All of these supplemental visas will be available only to those American businesses that are suffering or will suffer impending irreparable harm, i.e., those facing permanent and severe financial loss, as attested by the employer. These supplemental visas will be distributed in three allocations based on the petitioner's start date of need through the end of the fiscal year.
Status: Final rule published in the Federal Register on February 3, 2026
Extension of Import Restrictions on Archaeological Material of Chile
This document amends the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) regulations to extend import restrictions on certain archaeological material from the Republic of Chile. The Acting Assistant Secretary for Educational and Cultural Affairs, United States Department of State, has made the requisite determinations for extending the import restrictions, which were originally imposed by CBP Decision 2016. These import restrictions are being extended pursuant to an exchange of diplomatic notes. The CBP regulations are being amended to reflect this further extension through September 30, 2030.
Status: Final rule published in the Federal Register on October 2, 2025
Facilitating Earlier Filing of Certain Electronically Submitted H-2A Petitions
On October 2, 2025, DHS published a final rule to amend DHS regulations to modify the timing of when USCIS must receive a valid temporary labor certification when an H-2A petitioner electronically files a Petition for a Nonimmigrant Worker requesting unnamed beneficiaries.
Status: Final rule published in the Federal Register on October 2, 2025
Great Lakes Pilotage Rates–2026 Annual Review and Revisions to Methodology
In accordance with the statutory provisions enacted by the Great Lakes Pilotage Act of 1960, the Coast Guard is proposing new base pilotage rates for the 2026 shipping season. The Coast Guard is proposing one change to the methodology related to Step 5 for the Working Capital Fund. The Coast Guard estimates that the elimination of the Working Capital Fund contribution to Step 5 would result in a 7 percent decrease in operating costs compared to the 2025 season.
Status: Final rule published in the Federal Register on February 17, 2026
Implementation of the 2020 Security Bars Final Rule; Partial Withdrawal
In December 2020, DHS and DOJ (collectively, the Departments) issued a final rule that clarified when an alien who poses a public health risk is ineligible for asylum and withholding of removal and revised their credible fear screening regulations. After multiple delays, the rule will take effect on December 31, 2025. However, since December 2020, the Departments have amended their credible fear regulations, complicating the codification of the 2020 rule once effective. In this final rule, the Departments are withdrawing the 2020 rule's credible fear amendments while leaving unaltered its substantive public health-related provisions, which will become effective as scheduled.
Status: Final rule published in the Federal Register on January 20, 2026
Implementation of the Administrative False Claims Act
This final rule updates the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) administrative procedures, for assessing penalties and recovering funds procured by fraud under departmental programs, to implement the Administrative False Claims Act of 1986, as amended by the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year 2025. This final rule implements the NDAA to reflect the updated penalty levels, new definitions, and the option for the Board of Contract Appeals to act as presiding officer. This final rule also makes minor clarifications and DHS procedural changes.
Status: Final rule published in the Federal Register on November 3, 2025
Imposition of Import Restrictions on Archaeological and Ethnological Material of Uzbekistan
This document amends the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) regulations to reflect the imposition of import restrictions on certain archaeological and ethnological materials from the Republic of Uzbekistan (Uzbekistan). These restrictions are imposed pursuant to an agreement between the United States and Uzbekistan, entered into under the authority of the Convention on Cultural Property Implementation Act. This document amends the CBP regulations by adding Uzbekistan to the list of countries which have bilateral agreements with the United States imposing cultural property import restrictions and contains the Designated List, describing the archaeological and ethnological material to which the restrictions apply.
Status: Final rule published in the Federal Register on May 5, 2025
Privacy Act of 1974
DHS amended its regulations governing requests under the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) and Privacy Act/Judicial Redress Act to require requesters to generally submit their requests electronically.
Status: Final rule published in the Federal Register on December 23, 2025
Protection of Federal Property
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS), in consultation with the General Services Administration (GSA), codifies a new regulation for the protection of Federal property. Within DHS, Federal Protective Service (FPS) maintains responsibility for the protection of buildings, grounds, and property owned, occupied, or secured by the Federal government. This final rule would adopt and revise the language of related GSA regulations, consistent with DHS's statutory authority. Specifically, the final rule would provide charging options for violations occurring on and adjacent to Federal property, update prohibited conduct to incorporate advancing technology, clarify the publicly posted notice, and apply the regulations uniformly to all Federal property.
Status: Final rule published in the Federal Register on February 9, 2026
Rescinding Portions of DHS Title VI Regulations to Conform More Closely with the Statutory Text and to Implement Executive Order 14281
DHS plans to amend its regulations implementing Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 (Title VI) consistent with Title VI's original public meaning and in order to avoid constitutional concerns, reduce compliance costs, and serve the public interest. This rule would also be consistent with Executive Order 14281, Restoring Equality of Opportunity and Meritocracy, and related actions.
Status: Final rule published in the Federal Register on June 22, 2026
Technical Amendment to List of User Fee Airports: Addition of Five Airports, Removal of One Airport
This document amends U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) regulations by revising the list of user fee airports. This technical amendment reflects the designation of user fee status for five additional airports: City of Colorado Springs Municipal Airport in Colorado Springs, Colorado; Santa Maria Public Airport District in Santa Maria, California; Tallahassee International Airport in Tallahassee, Florida; Vero Beach Regional Airport in Vero Beach, Florida; and Hillsboro Airport in Hillsboro, Oregon. This document also amends CBP regulations by removing Ontario International Airport in Ontario, California from the list of user fee airports.
Status: Final rule published in the Federal Register on November 17, 2025
Other actions in this stage
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Create a free accountCompiled from the 2026 Regulatory Plan and Unified Agenda (reginfo.gov), cross-referenced against Federal Register publications. Regulation Roundup tracks all 110 DHS actions and refreshes as the agenda changes.