If you're working in the United States on an H-1B visa and considering switching employers, understanding H-1B portability is crucial. Many H-1B holders worry that changing jobs could result in falling out of status or facing long processing delays—but thanks to provisions under AC21 (American Competitiveness in the 21st Century Act), you may...
From E Visa to Green Card: What Treaty Investors and Employees Should Know
The E visa is a powerful tool for entrepreneurs and professionals from treaty countries to live and work in the United States. While the E-1 (Treaty Trader) and E-2 (Treaty Investor) visas are nonimmigrant classifications, many individuals who enter the U.S. under these categories eventually explore long-term options — including permanent residency....
Major Update from USCIS: New Policy Guidance on Form N-648 (Medical Certification for Disability Exceptions)
On June 13, 2025, the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) announced an important policy update to the USCIS Policy Manual that affects Form N-648, which is used for Medical Certification for Disability Exceptions.
This update is intended to enhance the integrity of the naturalization process and prevent misuse...
Navigating the July 2025 Visa Bulletin: Key Updates and Shifts
The July 2025 Visa Bulletin issued by the U.S. Department of State shows marginal forward movement in several employment and family-based categories. While some categories remain unchanged, slight progression in others—particularly EB-3 for India and family-based F2A—offers cautious optimism for applicants.
Employment-Based Preferences: Final Action DatesCan I Visa Holders Pursue a Green Card? What Foreign Media Professionals Should Know
The I visa is designed specifically for representatives of foreign media — including journalists, reporters, film crews, and editors — who are coming to the United States to engage in their profession. While the I visa offers a practical way for foreign media professionals to live and work in the U.S. temporarily,...
What If I Don’t Finish My Studies? Business Immigration Options for F-1 Students
Many international students enter the United States on an F-1 visa with hopes of completing their degree and launching a career. But what happens if things change — you pause your studies or decide that the academic path isn’t right for you?
If you're an F-1 student who...
Important USCIS Update: Form I-693 Validity Now Tied to Specific Application
USCIS has updated its Policy Manual to reflect a significant change regarding the Form I-693, Report of Immigration Medical Examination and Vaccination Record. Effective immediately, any Form I-693 signed by a civil surgeon on or after November 1, 2023, is only valid while the application it was submitted...
Reentry Risks for Green Card Holders: What to Know Before Traveling Abroad
At NPZ Law Group, we are hearing that other of our colleagues are seeing increased enforcement actions at U.S. ports of entry involving lawful permanent residents (LPRs) returning from extended international travel. If you hold a green card and plan to stay outside the U.S. for six months or more, you could...
U.S. Temporarily Halts New F, J, and M Visa Appointments: What International Students and Schools Need to Know
In a major shift affecting international students and exchange visitors, the U.S. Department of State has directed all consular posts around the world to pause new visa appointments for F-1, J-1, and M-1 categories. This development, which took effect on May 27, 2025, is linked to a broader policy initiative to enhance...
Visa Planning for Foreign Founders: What to Know Before Launching a U.S. Startup
As more international entrepreneurs look to build their companies in the United States, understanding the interplay between U.S. visa options and startup ownership structures has become essential. Choosing the wrong entity or pursuing the wrong immigration strategy can delay — or even derail — your plans.
Here’s what foreign...