USCIS Policy Clarifies VAWA Confidentiality Provisions

USCIS issued policy guidance clarifying the applicability of VAWA confidentiality provisions (8 U.S.C. 1367(a)(1) and (a)(2)). This update revises how USCIS handles information related to victims of domestic violence, sexual assault, and other crimes seeking immigration relief, and resolves technical errors in safe address procedures.

J-1 Visa for Exchange Visitors - Purpose and Background

This document outlines the purpose and background of the J-1 visa for exchange visitors, detailing its creation by Congress to promote cultural and educational exchanges. It explains the roles of the U.S. Department of State and USCIS in administering the program and the historical context of the two-year foreign residence requirement.

OFAC Delists Altomare SA and Vessel Kallista from SDN List

The U.S. Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) announced on January 21, 2026, the removal of Greek maritime company Altomare SA and its vessel, Kallista, from the Specially Designated Nationals (SDN) List. The entities were originally designated in November 2025.

UK Sanctions List Consolidation

The UK's Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office is consolidating its sanctions designations into a single UK Sanctions List (UKSL) effective January 28, 2026. This change aims to reduce non-compliance risk by simplifying identification of sanctioned individuals and entities, without altering the scope of sanctions or business obligations.

CBP Launches Mandatory Forced Labor Portal for Importers

U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) has launched a new, mandatory online Forced Labor Portal for importers to submit requests challenging shipment detentions or exclusions related to forced labor enforcement. This centralized platform replaces previous submission methods and is effective immediately.

OFAC Launches New Online Voluntary Self-Disclosure Portal

The U.S. Department of Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Controls (OFAC) has launched a new online Voluntary Self-Disclosure (VSD) Portal to streamline reporting of potential sanctions violations. The portal aims to improve process visibility and communication for disclosing parties, and OFAC strongly encourages its use.

Treasury Seeks Input on CFIUS Investor Program and Streamlining Reviews

The U.S. Department of the Treasury's Office of Investment Security has published a request for information seeking public comments on streamlining the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States (CFIUS) review process. Feedback is requested on a proposed Known Investor Program and other streamlining measures, with comments due March 18, 2026.

US Imposes Export Controls on AI Chips to China, Tariffs

The US Department of Commerce's Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) issued a final rule on January 15, 2026, revising its export licensing review policy for advanced computing items to China. This change shifts from a presumption of denial to a case-by-case review for certain AI chips, while also imposing a 25% fee on such sales. Concurrently, a Section 232 Proclamation targets semiconductor imports with tariffs, offering exceptions for domestic use.

OFAC Issues Venezuela Oil Trade General Licenses

The U.S. Department of the Treasury's Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) has issued General License (GL) 46, authorizing certain transactions related to Venezuelan oil and petroleum products for established U.S. entities. This action aims to expand trade and investment opportunities, though broader sanctions remain in place.

Treasury RFI on CFIUS Known Investor Program

The U.S. Department of the Treasury has issued a Request for Information (RFI) regarding the implementation of the CFIUS Known Investor Program (KIP). The RFI seeks public input on formalizing this voluntary program, which aims to streamline foreign investment reviews. The comment period closes on March 18, 2026.