On September 20, the White House and Department of Homeland Security issued clarifications regarding the H-1B executive order announced on September 19. These clarifications make clear that:
- All existing H-1B visa holders are not impacted.
- Individuals with an H-1B petition pending or approved, but who have not yet changed status, are also not impacted.
- The Presidential Proclamation applies only to new H-1B petitions filed beginning 2026 in the lottery.
This means that no action is required for individuals currently in H-1B status, or for those who have already secured approval and are awaiting status change. Planned travel and re-entry to the United States may continue as scheduled. Employers and employees can move forward with confidence that current petitions and approvals remain valid, while preparing for the rule changes that will apply to future filings.
Key Sources:
• White House Press Secretary Statement
• Rapid Response Update
• USCIS Policy Guidance Memo (PDF)
At Green Card Fund, we welcome this clarification, which has eased significant concerns for many H-1B visa holders and their families. We will continue to monitor the situation closely and share further updates as more details become available.
