New H-1B Requirements

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These new requirements mandate that specialized knowledge gained from a diploma or degree should link more clearly to the profession. Read more here: https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/h-1b-final-rule-h-2-final-rule-and-revised-form-i-129-effective-jan-17-2025

Updated Policy Guidance on International Entrepreneur Rule

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U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services announced updated policy guidance on applications submitted under the International Entrepreneur Rule. Read more here: https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/uscis-issues-updated-guidance-on-evidence-for-applicants-under-the-international-entrepreneur-rule

USCIS issues new guidance on EB-1 Eligibility

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Extraordinary Ability Green Card category has some new policy guidelines, allowing some people to meet threshold requirements more easily. Read more here: https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/uscis-issues-new-guidance-on-eb-1-eligibility-criteria-for-individuals-with-extraordinary-ability

Qatar Joins U.S. Visa Waiver

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The U.S. now permits citizens of Qatar to use ESTA for short term tourist and short term business visits to the United States, bypassing the visa interview at a U.S. consulate. See list of countries permitted to bypass visas and consular checks here: https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/us-visas/tourism-visit/visa-waiver-program.html

Federal Court Upholds H-4 Employment Authorization

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Spouses of certain H-1B visa holders can continue to work while in the United States. The principal H-1B Beneficiary must have an approved I-140 and be benefitting from AC-21. This is briefly explained by USCIS here: https://www.uscis.gov/working-in-the-united-states/temporary-workers/h-1b-specialty-occupations/employment-authorization-for-certain-h-4-dependent-spouses

Supreme Court Overturns Chevron Doctrine, what this Means for US Immigration

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In its decision issued June 28, 2024, on the case of Loper Bright Enterprises v. Raimondo, the US Supreme Court overturned the Chevron doctrine, a 40-year old precedent that had dictated how courts should interpret federal agency decisions and regulations. Possible key changes include: Reduced Deference from the Courts to...
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State Department to Open Six New Passport Agencies Across the United States

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The U.S. Department of State announced it will open six new passport agencies across the country to keep up with rising demand. Read more here: https://2021-2025.state.gov/expanding-passport-agencies-across-the-united-states/ Instructions for getting or replacing a passport can be found here: https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/passports.html/

New I-539 Fee & Biometrics

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Effective March 11, 2019, USCIS will only accept the NEW I-539 to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status. The new version will be released that day and will be posted here:https://www.uscis.gov/i-539. Careful H-1Bs this Year! The wife/husband of the H-1B must sign the I-539 – but additionally, all children (co-applicants) must...
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New I-9 Form

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USCIS Revises Form I-9, Used for All New Hires in U.S. Please see I-9 release by USCIS on 11/14/16: Click here to read more.