As 2026 begins, many U.S. employers are entering a more demanding immigration environment—one shaped by tighter review standards, higher costs, and increased enforcement activity. For companies relying on foreign national talent, the best approach this year is early planning and stronger internal coordination between HR, recruiting, and legal teams.
Category: Employment-Based
Green Card Preparation for Employees: What to Do Before the Process Begins
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...
Canadians Wintering in Florida: U.S. Immigration Basics You Should Know
Every year, thousands of Canadians travel south to enjoy Florida’s sunshine and mild winters. For many, a few weeks turn into several months, and some even decide to invest, start a business, or bring family members to live part-time in the United States. While this lifestyle is appealing, it’s important to understand...
Understanding When Your Green Card Priority Date Is “Current” — And What It Means for You
Each month, the U.S. Department of State (DOS) releases the Visa Bulletin, which determines when individuals can move forward in the Green Card process. For those applying through employment-based immigration, tracking your “Priority Date” is critical. But what exactly does it mean for that date to be “current,” and how does it...
Corporate Immigration Update: Key Developments Employers Should Know
As the landscape of employment-based immigration continues to evolve, U.S. employers must stay alert to new policies, adjudication trends, and procedural shifts. While comprehensive immigration reform remains elusive, several regulatory and procedural changes are already reshaping how companies sponsor and retain foreign national talent.
Increased Scrutiny Under...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?
How to Qualify for a U.S. Visa Based on Extraordinary Ability
For foreign nationals at the top of their field, the U.S. immigration system offers unique pathways to live and work in the United States. But success isn’t just about being gifted — it’s about proving it with the right documentation and legal strategy.
At NPZ Law Group, we help...
Corporate Immigration in the United States: A Foundational Overview for Employers and Professionals
Corporate immigration is a vital component of workforce mobility and talent acquisition in the United States. Each year, businesses rely on immigration programs to bring highly skilled professionals, executives, researchers, and investors to the U.S. while navigating a legal system shaped by decades of policy evolution.
This overview introduces...
What Canadian Travelers Should Know About U.S. Entry in 2025
In the current U.S. immigration climate, Canadian travelers face increased scrutiny at the border. While most Canadians continue to cross without issue, it's important to understand the evolving landscape and prepare accordingly. Here’s what Canadian nationals should keep in mind when entering the United States.
Entry Is...Travel Advisory for Visa Holders: Key Considerations Before Leaving the U.S.
With immigration policies evolving under the current administration, visa holders should exercise caution before making international travel plans. Changes to visa adjudication, consular processes, and potential executive orders could significantly impact travel timelines and reentry into the United States.
Employers and employees should be aware of the risks associated with traveling abroad,...