The EB-1A extraordinary ability green card category remains one of the most effective U.S. immigration options for high-achieving professionals. Unlike many employment-based green card pathways, EB-1A does not require a PERM labor certification and may be pursued without a traditional employer sponsorship structure. At the same time, EB-1A adjudications have become more rigorous. USCIS increasingly […]
Overview Foreign nationals working in the United States in temporary status—such as H-1B, L-1, O-1, TN, E-3, H-2B, J-1, or F-1 OPT/STEM OPT—may understandably feel anxious about recent immigration enforcement activity. Even when you are lawfully present and fully compliant with U.S. immigration rules, an unexpected interaction with Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) can be […]
Background on the Fee In September 2025, a Presidential Proclamation on H-1B visas introduced a new one-time supplemental fee of $100,000 associated with certain H-1B petitions. This unprecedented change significantly altered the cost structure for employers seeking to sponsor H-1B visas. Who the Fee Applies To The $100,000 fee applies primarily to new H-1B petitions […]
In recent months, nonimmigrant visa revocation has emerged as a significant concern for employers, foreign workers, students, and travelers interacting with the U.S. immigration system. Recent changes in enforcement and vetting practices are making visa validity less certain, with serious implications for individuals and organizations alike. Factors Driving Current Visa Revocations Traditionally, once a U.S. […]
Date: January 15, 2026 Executive Summary The U.S. State Department has directed U.S. consular posts to pause immigrant visa processing for nationals of 75 countries, effective January 21, 2026. This development will impact: • Employment-based and family-based green card applicants processing through a U.S. consulate abroad, and • Dependents applying for immigrant visas abroad. The […]
Interviews Being Scheduled for Late 2026/Early 2027 Meltzer Hellrung is monitoring ongoing H-1B and H-4 visa appointment delays at U.S. Consulates in India. Recent reports indicate that some applicants have experienced significant interview backlogs, including rescheduling previously confirmed appointments and scheduling of new appointment for late 2026 and early 2027. Key Developments Appointment delays and […]
Effective March 1, 2026 USCIS will raise premium processing fees effective March 1, 2026, under a DHS final rule that adjusts fees every two years based on inflation. The increase reflects a 5.72% Consumer Price Index rise from June 2023 through June 2025, and applies to Form I-907 requests postmarked on or after March 1, […]
Navigating the H-1B cap registration process can be complex, competitive, and time-sensitive, especially as USCIS continues to evolve how H-1B registrations are selected. This guide provides a clear, practical overview of the H-1B “lottery,” including eligibility requirements, the weighted wage-based selection system, key timelines, and each step of the employer and employee process from registration […]
Matthew Meltzer and Michael Turansick break down the most important immigration updates impacting employers and foreign national employees in 2025. The conversation focuses on recent policy shifts and enforcement trends, with practical guidance for navigating an increasingly complex immigration landscape. Highlights include insights into employment-based immigration options, evolving travel and work authorization risks, employer compliance […]