Lawful permanent residents (green card holders) often travel abroad for personal, professional, or family reasons. However, extended time outside the United States can raise serious concerns about whether permanent residence has been abandoned.
Understanding how long you can remain outside the U.S.—and what risks may arise—is critical to maintaining...
Many families are asking the same question in 2026:
“Why has my I-130 family petition been pending for so long?”
Some cases have been waiting for over a year, while others appear stuck with little visible progress. Although these delays are frustrating, they are usually the result of multiple factors...
U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents often ask how they can sponsor a foreign spouse for a green card after marriage. While marriage is a qualifying relationship, approval is not automatic. U.S. immigration authorities carefully review these cases to confirm eligibility and the authenticity of the relationship.
This article...
For many foreign nationals working in the United States, employment-based permanent residence is an important long-term goal. While the green card process itself involves multiple legal steps, much of the success of a case depends on preparation well before filing begins.
Employees who understand what to expect—and take action...
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has issued new guidance that limits the age of photos used for certain immigration documents. Effective immediately, USCIS generally requires photos to have been taken within three (3) years of the date a USCIS form is filed. USCIS also indicates that self-submitted photos will no longer...
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.
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.
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...
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?
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...
