Month: February 2025

The First Month of Trump – What we know and how employers and employees can continue to prepare

Catch up on our latest webinar, where Matthew Hellrung and Matthew Meltzer discussed the current state of U.S. immigration and the policy shifts shaping the landscape. They covered key agency trends, employer challenges—like the reduced availability of dropbox visa appointments—and the broader impact on businesses. Plus, they explored the government’s attempts to end birthright citizenship […]

Written by on February 26, 2025

Staff Reductions, Delays Expected at State Department

The Trump White House has issued an Executive Order (EO) mandating that the Department of State (DOS) reform its workforce and revise or replace key policies. The EO will not immediately take effect without DOS actions. These exact actions are unknown and will be challenged by litigation. However, DOS will almost certainly lose staff, which […]

Written by on February 24, 2025

Initial Registration Period for H-1B Cap Fiscal Year 2026 to Open March 7th

The United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) announced that the initial registration period for the fiscal year 2026 H-1B cap will open March 7, 2025 and run through March 24, 2025. Employers should prepare for the registration period by collecting documents and information from potential H-1B employees.  As in years prior, the system requires […]

Written by on February 21, 2025

USCIS to Clarify Guidance on EB-2 National Interest Waiver Petitions

USCIS will clarify how it evaluates EB-2 National Interest Waiver (NIW) green card petitions for certain talented individuals. This new guidance will confirm options for entrepreneurs and STEM professionals, as well as others who may qualify for this green card pathway. Typically, an employer seeking to sponsor a noncitizen for permanent residency must obtain a […]

Written by on February 19, 2025

Adjustment of Status Overview

Ready to take the next step toward securing your green card? Understanding the Adjustment of Status (AOS) process is crucial, and we’ve made it easier for you. This overview will guide you through the steps, from opening a case to submitting your forms, and help you gather the necessary documentation for a successful AOS application.

Written by on February 17, 2025

State Department Cuts Back Interview Waiver Program

The U.S. Department of State (DOS) has abruptly implemented new rules for visa processing. These rules, while not formally announced agency-wide, have been posted on some consular websites. Though impacts are not yet clear, the new rules may potentially slow processing of many nonimmigrant visas, including H-1B, L-1, O-1, TN, and more. Employers and employees […]

Written by on February 17, 2025

Extension of TPS for El Salvador, Ukraine, Sudan, and Venezuela

On January 10, 2025, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) announced the extension of Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for El Salvador, Ukraine, Sudan, and Venezuela for 18 months. Re-registration is limited to individuals who previously registered for and were granted TPS under each country’s prior designation. Below is a breakdown of the requirements to qualify […]

Written by on February 12, 2025

TPS Venezuela is Partially Rescinded

The Issue   The Department of Homeland Security has rescinded Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for some Venezuelans. TPS was previously granted for Venezuelans in 2021 and expanded in 2023. DHS previously extended Venezuelan TPS for 18 months through October 2, 2026 for all eligible individuals.    What to Expect   Individuals who obtained TPS in […]

Written by on February 7, 2025

Trump “Securing Our Borders” Executive Order Terminates Certain Parole Programs

On January 20, 2025, President Trump issued an Executive Order titled “Securing Our Borders.” A key provision of the order “terminates all categorical parole programs that are contrary to the policies of the United States.”  The impacted programs include:     Uniting for Ukraine (U4U)  Operations Allies Welcome (OAW)  Family Reunification Parole (FRP)  Cubans, Haitians, Nicaraguans, […]

Written by on February 5, 2025

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