Today, the Trump Administration announced that they plan to eliminate the EB5 immigrant investor program, and replace it with a “gold card” program, which grants lawful permanent residency based on an investment of $5 million. No further details have yet been provided.It is worth noting...
Last month, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) implemented a final rule that updates the criteria for nonprofit and governmental research organizations sponsoring H1B visa beneficiaries under the cap-exempt category. This change is expected to expand the number of organizations that qualify as cap...
Answer If you wish to start working based on your EAD rather than continuing in H1B status, you typically should notify your employer so that your I-9 records can be updated, but there is no need to notify the USCIS. (18.Feb.2025)Sheela Murthy and other senior attorneys...
Answer Normally, the H-4 EAD application is approved at the same time, or shortly after, the H-4 change-of-status application. However, there is no way to guarantee this. (18.Feb.2025)Sheela Murthy and other senior attorneys provide guidance that clarifies the law. For information on our FREE online services,...
Last month, the U.S. Department of State quietly changed the eligibility requirements for nonimmigrant visa applicants in India seeking an interview waiver (commonly referred to as “dropbox” appointments). These changes, which appear to have been made without a formal announcement, are outlined on the U.S....
Answer AC21 portability is no longer an option after your green card has been approved. You typically are required to report to your sponsoring employer for work in this situation. (12.Feb.2025)Sheela Murthy and other senior attorneys provide guidance that clarifies the law. For information on our...
Answer There is no set amount required to qualify for an E-2. Rather, what is required is that the investment be (1) substantial in a proportional sense; (2) sufficient to ensure the investor’s financial commitment to the successful operation of the E-2 business; and (3) of...
This evening, the U.S. Department of State (DOS) released the March 2025 Visa Bulletin. Similar to the February 2025 Visa Bulletin, there is some progress in some of the oversubscribed categories, while others (e.g., EB1) remain stubbornly stuck in place. All cutoff dates listed refer...
The H1B registration period for fiscal year 2026 (FY26) is nearly upon us. The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) will kick off the two-week H1B registration period on 07.Mar.2025. And, while there are some registration system enhancements this year, the core process of submitting...
The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has released details of the H1B registration for fiscal year 2026 (FY26). Per the announcement, the registration period will start at noon Eastern Time (ET) on 07.Mar.2025, and end at noon ET on 24.Mar.2025. Background on Registration Process To submit...
