USCIS now requires immigration-document photos to be no more than 3 years old and no longer accepts self-submitted photos. Only USCIS or authorized providers’ photos will be used – a shift aimed at tightening identity verification and reducing fraud across key forms like the I-90,...
DHS is terminating all Family Reunification Parole (FRP) programs for nationals of Colombia, Cuba, Ecuador, El Salvador, Guatemala, Haiti, & Honduras. Parole will return to case-by-case review, with current FRP paroles ending 14.Jan.2026 unless a Form I-485 was filed by 15.Dec.2025. Employment authorization tied to...
The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has released the details governing the new Gold Card program, an immigration initiative established by Executive Order 14351. The program will allow foreign nationals to pay a fee in order to apply for lawful permanent residency (i.e., a...
USCIS has released a draft of Form I-140G, for the proposed “Gold Card” immigrant program. The form and instructions have been posted online, offering a first look at how the program may be structured and what will be required. Stay tuned for official guidance once...
Answer The pilot program that resumed domestic visa renewals ended in early 2024. At the time, the U.S. Department of State indicated that they expected to bring it back, and even expand eligibility to more nonimmigrant visa applicants.In May 2025, several members of Congress sent a...
Answer No. F-1 students who timely file for a STEM OPT extension still receive up to 180 days of automatic employment authorization and valid F-1 status while USCIS processes the application. The 29.Oct.2025 rule only impacts certain EAD renewal categories and does not change the STEM...
Answer Yes, as long as the familial relationship was formed before your I-485 application is approved, your spouse normally can file as your derivative. (10.Dec.2025)Sheela Murthy and other senior attorneys provide guidance that clarifies the law. For information on our FREE online services, click here. Access...
The U.S. Department of State (DOS) announced 03.Dec.2025 that it will expand mandatory social media screening to include all H1B visa “stamp” applicants and their H-4 dependent family members, effective 15.Dec.2025. The expansion extends an online presence review requirement that previously applied only to student...
During the holiday season, as we approach the end of 2025 and embark on the new road to a new year next month, it is time for us at the Murthy Law Firm (the “Firm”) to reflect on our history and purpose and why we...
USCIS has updated its Policy Manual to reduce maximum EAD validity for numerous categories, including refugees, asylees, TPS holders, parolees, and applicants for asylum or adjustment. Most will drop from 5 years to 18 months, and some to 1 year. More frequent vetting, more renewals....
