The B-1 (business visitor) and B-2 (tourist) visas allow foreign nationals to visit the U.S. for specific purposes, but many people wonder whether these visas permit job searching. Here’s what you need to know if you’re exploring employment opportunities in the U.S. while on a B-1 or B-2 visa.
What Is...5 Essential Strategies for Immigration Compliance in a Shifting Political Landscape
With immigration policies evolving in response to political and regulatory changes, businesses face heightened scrutiny and potential compliance risks. To safeguard your organization against financial penalties, operational disruptions, and reputational harm, proactive planning is essential. Below are five key strategies your business can implement to stay ahead in this complex environment.
I-9 Compliance in a New Era: How to Protect Your Workforce and Avoid Penalties
With immigration enforcement expected to intensify under the current administration, U.S. businesses face heightened scrutiny of their hiring and employment practices. One area of particular focus is Form I-9 compliance. The consequences of non-compliance can be steep, including hefty fines and potential workforce disruptions. Here’s how businesses can act now to prepare...
Important Update: USCIS Removes COVID-19 Vaccination Requirement for Green Card Applicants
Starting January 22, 2025, USCIS has removed the COVID-19 vaccination requirement for adjustment of status applicants. Applicants are no longer required to provide proof of vaccination on Form I-693. USCIS will not issue Requests for Evidence (RFEs) or Notices of Intent to Deny (NOIDs) due to missing COVID-19 vaccination documentation, ensuring applications...
Canada Study Permit Processing in 2025: New Requirements for Provincial Attestation Letters
Starting January 22, 2025, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) mandates that all study permit applications include a provincial or territorial attestation letter. This letter confirms the applicant's placement within regional allocation limits, ensuring a fair distribution of resources. Without this letter, applications will not be processed, and fees will be refunded....
New Rules for Open Work Permits for Spouses and Families of Temporary Residents in Canada
Effective January 21, 2025, the Canadian government has implemented significant changes to Open Work Permit (OWP) eligibility for spouses and family members of temporary residents. Spouses of international students enrolled in master’s, doctoral, or select professional programs, and foreign workers in TEER 0, 1, and select TEER 2 and 3 occupations, may...
Analyzing the Impact of Recent Executive Orders on Immigration
On January 20, 2025, a significant shift in U.S. immigration policy was signaled through a series of executive orders signed by President Trump, following the rescission of nearly 70 orders enacted by the Biden administration. These changes highlight a return to stricter immigration controls and enforcement measures. Below, we explore the potential...
DHS Extends Temporary Protected Status for El Salvador Through September 9, 2026
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has announced an 18-month extension of Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for El Salvador, effective from March 10, 2025, to September 9, 2026. The extension is in response to environmental conditions, including storms and geological events, that make it...
H-1B and H-2 Final Rules, and New Form I-129 Effective January 17, 2025
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) will implement the H-1B and H-2 final rules along with a revised Form I-129 (edition date 01/17/25) starting January 17, 2025. The updated rules modernize the H-1B visa program by streamlining processes, increasing flexibility for employers, and enhancing oversight.
The H-2...
USCIS Updates Guidance on EB-2 National Interest Waiver Petitions
USCIS has updated its policy guidance for EB-2 National Interest Waiver (NIW) petitions, offering clearer standards for eligibility evaluations. The update explains criteria for advanced degree professionals and individuals with exceptional ability, detailing the relationship of their expertise to proposed endeavors. It also addresses the assessment of national importance for endeavors, and...
Want More News?
Browse Our Podcast Library