Recent guidance issued by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has generated significant discussion among foreign nationals, employers, and immigration practitioners across North America. For Canadian citizens living and working in the United States, USCIS Policy Memorandum PM-602-0199 raises important questions about Adjustment of Status, consular processing, and long-term immigration planning.
Teachers May Have a Competitive Advantage Under Canada’s Express Entry System
Canada continues to face educator shortages in schools, childcare centers, and educational support programs across the country. As a result, teaching and education-related occupations have become a priority within Canada’s immigration system. Qualified teachers, early childhood educators, teacher assistants, and educational support professionals may benefit from targeted immigration pathways designed to help...
ICE Audits and Form I-9 Compliance: Practical Steps Employers Should Take Before a Government Inspection
For many employers, Form I-9 compliance receives attention only when a government inspection notice arrives. By that point, however, opportunities to correct systemic problems may be limited, and small administrative mistakes can become expensive compliance issues.
As federal worksite enforcement efforts continue, employers should view Form I-9 compliance as...
E-2 Visa Strategy: Understanding the Difference Between Change of Status and Consular Processing
The E-2 Treaty Investor visa remains one of the most attractive immigration options for entrepreneurs seeking to establish or acquire a business in the United States. It allows qualifying investors from treaty countries to develop and direct a U.S. enterprise while living and working in the United States.
However,...
New USCIS Adjustment of Status Guidance: What H-1B and L-1 Visa Holders Need to Know
Recent guidance issued by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has generated significant discussion among employers, foreign national professionals, and immigration practitioners. The memorandum reiterates that Adjustment of Status (AOS) under Section 245 of the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA) is a discretionary benefit rather than an automatic entitlement, even when an...
Speak French? You May Qualify for a Canadian Work Permit Without an LMIA
Many foreign nationals assume obtaining a Canadian work permit requires a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA). However, Canada’s Francophone Mobility Program offers a unique alternative for French-speaking professionals seeking employment opportunities outside Quebec. Eligible applicants may qualify for an LMIA-exempt work permit, allowing Canadian employers to hire qualified talent more efficiently while...
New USCIS Policy May Impact Green Card Applications Filed Inside the United States
USCIS has issued a new policy memorandum that may affect many adjustment of status applicants, including family-based, employment-based, and diversity visa green card cases. The policy gives USCIS officers broader discretion when reviewing Form I-485 applications and may require applicants to show positive factors beyond simply meeting the basic eligibility requirements.
June 2026 U.S. & Canadian Immigration Law Newsletter and Updates
Stay informed with the latest U.S. and Canadian immigration law developments in NPZ Law Group’s June 2026 Immigration Newsletter. This edition discusses the new USCIS Adjustment of Status discretion policy memorandum, employment and family-based immigration updates, June 2026 Visa Bulletin developments, employer compliance issues, E-3 visas for Australian professionals, O-1/L-1/EB-1/NIW immigration strategies,...
Been in the U.S. for More Than 10 Years? Understanding Possible Immigration Options in 2026
Many individuals have lived in the United States for ten years or more while building careers, raising families, paying taxes, and contributing to their communities — yet they remain uncertain about their long-term immigration status. After a decade or more in this country, the question often becomes the same: are there options,...
What the New USCIS Adjustment of Status Memo Means — and What It Does Not Mean
Recent headlines and social media discussions regarding the new USCIS policy memorandum on Adjustment of Status (AOS) have created significant concern for many individuals and employers pursuing permanent residence in the United States. Some reports have suggested that USCIS is “ending” Adjustment of Status or requiring all applicants to complete immigrant visa...
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