Employers across the United States are facing increasing challenges when it comes to verifying employment authorization for foreign nationals under Temporary Protected Status (TPS) or humanitarian parole. Ongoing policy changes, legal disputes, and agency delays have left many HR professionals uncertain about how to handle Form I-9 compliance, reverification, and employee work eligibility.
From B-1 Business Visa to H-1B, L-1, O-1, or E Visa — Is a Green Card Possible?
Foreign nationals often enter the United States on a B-1 Business Visitor Visa for short-term business purposes—attending meetings, negotiating contracts, or exploring new opportunities. While the B-1 visa does not permit employment, it can be the first step toward a longer-term goal, such as working or building a business in the U.S.
Navigating the June 2025 Visa Bulletin: Changes and Insights
The June 2025 Visa Bulletin from the U.S. Department of State reflects marginal shifts across most employment- and family-based categories. While some categories remain stagnant, others—particularly in the EB-3 and EB-5 categories—show notable updates. Below is a breakdown of the key changes from May to June 2025.
Employment-Based Preferences: Final...
Sault Ste. Marie RCIP: A Strategic Gateway to Canadian Permanent Residence
In 2025, Canada introduced the Rural Community Immigration Pilot (RCIP) in Sault Ste. Marie, a program designed to draw skilled foreign workers and international graduates to one of Ontario’s most vibrant rural communities. Replacing the former RNIP, this employer-driven initiative targets specific labor needs in critical sectors like:...
Canada’s 2025 Immigration Plan: What It Means for Students, Workers, and Returnees
On May 2, 2025, Prime Minister Mark Carney delivered a pivotal speech outlining Canada’s updated immigration priorities. The government is introducing a population-based cap to reduce the number of temporary residents—including international students and foreign workers—to below 5% by 2027, citing pressure on housing, healthcare, and infrastructure.
While...
Major 2025 Updates to the U.S. Marriage-Based Green Card Process: What You Need to Know
If you’re planning to file a marriage-based green card application in 2025, you need to be aware of several significant changes that could affect how your case is processed by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) or the U.S. Department of State.
At NPZ Law...
New 48-Hour Rule for DS-160 Submissions Before Visa Interview Scheduling
The U.S. Department of State has announced a key procedural update that will affect how nonimmigrant visa applicants prepare for their interviews. Effective immediately, the DS-160 form—required for most nonimmigrant visa categories—must be submitted at least 48 working hours before an interview can be scheduled at a U.S. embassy or consulate.
DHS Launches New Voluntary Departure Program with Travel Assistance and Financial Incentive
In a significant policy move, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has rolled out a voluntary departure initiative designed to streamline the process for individuals who are unlawfully present in the United States and wish to return to their home countries. Through the newly introduced CBP Home...
Navigating U.S. Visa Challenges: What Employers and Applicants Need to Know in 2025
The U.S. visa landscape is undergoing significant changes. Applicants and employers accustomed to a relatively predictable system are now facing longer wait times, increased security checks, and more unpredictable outcomes. Whether it’s administrative processing, social media screening, or unexpected visa revocations, the stakes have risen—making preparation more important than ever.
New U.S. State Department Tools Help Track Visa Interview Timelines – For Both NIV and IV Applicants
On April 29, 2025, the U.S. Department of State (DOS) introduced two important tools designed to improve transparency and help visa applicants worldwide monitor interview scheduling trends. These tools serve two major categories: Nonimmigrant Visas (NIV) and Immigrant Visas (IV).
Tool 1: Global Visa Wait Times Tool – For...Want More News?
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