On August 19, 2025, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) announced an update to its Policy Manual that could have serious consequences for foreign nationals applying for certain immigration benefits. Under the new guidance, USCIS officers may weigh whether an applicant has engaged in activity deemed “anti-American” when making discretionary decisions.
USCIS Moves Closer to Wage-Based H-1B Lottery: What Employers and Applicants Should Know
The H-1B visa program is again at the center of proposed regulatory changes. On July 17, 2025, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) sent a draft rule titled “Weighted Selection Process for Registrants and Petitioners Seeking To File Cap-Subject H-1B Petitions” to the Office of Management and Budget (OMB). OMB completed its review on...
Filing an I-130 Petition at the U.S. Embassy in India: What You Need to Know
When a U.S. citizen wants to sponsor a close family member for a green card, the Form I-130 (Petition for Alien Relative) is usually filed with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) in the United States. However, in very limited and exceptional circumstances, it may be possible to file the I-130 directly at...
H-1B Layoffs and NTAs: Why the 60-Day Grace Period May No Longer Be Reliable
A troubling trend is emerging for H-1B professionals laid off in the United States: some are receiving Notices to Appear (NTAs) in immigration court, even though they are still within the 60-day grace period that has historically provided a buffer after job loss.
This development is creating significant uncertainty for...
USCIS Issues New Guidance on False Claims to U.S. Citizenship
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has updated its Policy Manual (Volume 8, Part K) regarding false claims to U.S. citizenship. These updates restore strict screening and enforcement against individuals attempting to defraud or abuse the U.S. immigration system.
Key Takeaways:Criminal Rehabilitation for Canada Immigration: A Pathway to Overcome Inadmissibility
Canada takes criminal inadmissibility seriously, and individuals with past convictions may find themselves barred from entering the country — even for temporary visits. However, Canada’s Criminal Rehabilitation process offers a solution for those who have demonstrated reform and wish to move forward with their lives.
For foreign nationals who want...
End-of-Year Visa Number Shortages: What Applicants Need to Know Before October 2025
As the U.S. government approaches the end of its fiscal year on September 30, 2025, visa number availability in several categories is becoming increasingly limited. For many applicants, especially those waiting for green cards, the coming weeks could bring delays — even if you already have an interview scheduled.
USCIS Policy Update on NTAs: What Visa Holders Must Know in 2025
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is now actively enforcing a February 2025 memorandum that significantly expands when a Notice to Appear (NTA) may be issued. An NTA places an individual into removal (deportation) proceedings before the immigration court.
This policy change affects a wide range of visa holders...
Small Firm, Big Thinking: How NPZ Law Group Expands Globally and Launches an Immigration Emergency Hotline
NPZ Law Group, a five-attorney immigration firm led by David Nachman, is making bold moves with an emergency immigration hotline and new offices in Canada and India. Their proactive approach reflects a commitment to helping clients navigate urgent immigration challenges and global legal complexities.
E-2 Visa Options for Mexican Investors: Choosing the Right Business for Success
Many Mexican nationals are exploring opportunities to invest and expand their businesses in the United States. One of the most practical pathways available is the E-2 Treaty Investor Visa, which allows qualified investors from Mexico to live and work in the U.S. for an initial period of up to five years, with...