The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has announced a $1,000 parole processing fee for certain travelers entering the United States under parole authority. Importantly, this new fee does not apply to those re-entering the U.S. on Advance Parole while their Form I-485 (Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status) is still pending.
Category: Adjustment of Status
USCIS Policy Update: “Anti-American” Activity May Impact Immigration Benefit Requests
On August 19, 2025, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) announced an update to its Policy Manual that could have serious consequences for foreign nationals applying for certain immigration benefits. Under the new guidance, USCIS officers may weigh whether an applicant has engaged in activity deemed “anti-American” when making discretionary decisions.
USCIS Updates Interview Criteria for Refugees and Asylees Applying for Green Cards
The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has released an important policy update regarding interview requirements for refugees, asylees, and their derivative family members who are filing Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status.
Effective immediately, USCIS has reestablished a uniform baseline of screening and vetting...
From J-1 Visa to Green Card: What You Need to Know About the Path to U.S. Permanent Residency
The J-1 Exchange Visitor Program offers opportunities for international scholars, researchers, trainees, interns, and physicians to come to the United States for temporary, purpose-driven stays. But for many J-1 holders, life and opportunities in the U.S. evolve — and the question becomes: Can I apply for a green card from J-1 status?
Understanding the Difference Between Change of Status and Adjustment of Status in U.S. Immigration Law
When navigating U.S. immigration law, terms like "Change of Status" and "Adjustment of Status" often cause confusion. Many individuals wonder how these processes differ and which one applies to their situation. At NPZ Law Group, we frequently receive questions on this topic. In this blog, we will clarify the key distinctions between...
USCIS Updates: COVID-19 Vaccine No Longer Required for Adjustment of Status
As of Jan. 22, 2025, USCIS has waived any and all requirements that applicants for adjustment of status to that of a lawful permanent resident present documentation on their Form I-693, Report of Immigration Medical Examination and Vaccination Record, that they received the COVID-19 vaccination. USCIS will not issue any Request for...
Advance Parole Travel Under the New Executive Order: What You Need to Know
The January 20, 2025, Executive Order on Securing Our Borders has introduced changes that impact various immigration policies, leaving many travelers uncertain about their ability to re-enter the United States using Advance Parole. While new guidance from U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) provides clarity, individuals planning to travel should take necessary precautions.
USCIS Announces New Form I-485: Key Updates and Deadlines
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has released a new edition of Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status (edition date 10/24/24). Starting February 10, 2025, only this new edition of Form I-485 will be accepted. Older editions will be rejected.
Here’s what...
Pathway to Residency: Adjustment of Status for Human Trafficking Survivors
Victims of severe forms of trafficking in persons, including human trafficking for labor or sexual exploitation, face unimaginable challenges. However, U.S. immigration law provides pathways for these victims to rebuild their lives through protections such as T visas and opportunities for permanent residency. Adjustment of status is one critical step in this...
New DHS Process Offers Pathway to Permanent Residency for Certain Noncitizen Spouses of U.S. Citizens
On June 18, 2024, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) announced a new initiative aimed at providing a pathway to lawful permanent residency for certain noncitizen spouses of U.S. citizens. This process is designed to consider, on a case-by-case basis, requests from...