The U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) O*NET system announced an update to its job zone classification structure, consolidating the previous five-level system into a four-level framework, to be implemented in February 2026. This change is a result of shifts in the labor market and rising...
The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) recently announced new policy guidance in the USCIS Policy Manual on how country-specific facts and circumstances may impact the adjudication of discretionary benefit requests. Presidential Proclamation 10949 The new guidance follows the framework of the 04.Jun.2025 Presidential Proclamation 10949, "Restricting...
Answer The Administration created a draft form I-140G (immigrant petition for the gold card program), which presently is under review. We may get an update on the status of this proposed program in the coming weeks or months. (02.Dec.2025)Sheela Murthy and other senior attorneys provide guidance...
If you are a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident (commonly referred to as a “green card holder”), and wish to sponsor a relative for a family-based green card, you normally file the petition for alien relative (form I-130) with the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration...
The USCIS recently expanded online filing options to allow certain immigration forms to be submitted as completed PDFs, rather than requiring applicants to manually enter information into an online form. This change offers greater flexibility for some applicants, but it also comes with important caveats...
The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) recently sent notices to many individuals about a new fee requirement affecting certain individuals who seek parole into the United States. It appears that most of notices were sent to those with a valid parole document, but some...
A federal district court has ruled that the substantial fee increases for EB5 immigrant investor applications implemented in April 2024 were unlawful. The court found that U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) raised fees without completing a mandatory fee study required by the EB5 Reform...
Answer Normally, a person may remain in the U.S. based on a pending I-485 application. If the H1B worker is laid off, it likely will be necessary to stop working until the EAD is issued (or an H1B change of employer petition is filed). (19.Nov.2025)Sheela Murthy...
Answer The EB1(a) category is reserved for foreign nationals who can demonstrate extraordinary ability in the sciences, arts, education, business, or athletics. A PhD is not required to qualify, nor is a PhD sufficient. While having a PhD is a notable accomplishment, it does not automatically...
The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has proposed eliminating the current regulations used to decide if an immigrant is likely to become a "public charge.” A foreign national who is considered likely to become a public charge is inadmissible, and therefore will not be...
