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...
ABCs OF H-1Bs (THIS IS PART III OF AN VIII PART SERIES): WHAT H-1B EMPLOYERS NEED TO KNOW ABOUT THE LCA TO AVOID POTENTIAL DOL COMPLIANCE PITFALLS.
The H-1B visa program permits a United States employer (“employer”) to temporarily employ nonimmigrants to fill specialized jobs in the United States. The Immigration and Nationality Act (the “INA” or the “Act”) requires that an employer pay an H-1B worker the higher of the actual wage or the local prevailing wage, in...
Navigating the February 2025 Visa Bulletin: Insights and Predictions
The release of the February 2025 Visa Bulletin by the U.S. Department of State (DOS) reveals significant shifts across various visa categories, offering critical insights for applicants navigating the U.S. immigration process. Below, we break down the key updates and trends for this month's bulletin.
Canadian Immigration in 2025: Key Changes and Emerging Trends
As we enter 2025, Canada’s immigration policies are poised for transformation to address evolving domestic and global needs. From adjustments in immigration targets to new pilot programs and technological advancements, the landscape is rapidly shifting. Here's an overview of the key priorities and changes to watch for this year.
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