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...
Category: Family Immigration
Green Card Holders: Important Reminders Before You Travel Abroad
If you’re a U.S. lawful permanent resident planning to travel internationally this summer, it’s more important than ever to prepare carefully. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers are asking more questions at ports of entry—and even long-term green card holders may face delays or complications if they aren’t ready.
New U.S. State Department Tools Help Track Visa Interview Timelines – For Both NIV and IV Applicants
On April 29, 2025, the U.S. Department of State (DOS) introduced two important tools designed to improve transparency and help visa applicants worldwide monitor interview scheduling trends. These tools serve two major categories: Nonimmigrant Visas (NIV) and Immigrant Visas (IV).
Tool 1: Global Visa Wait Times Tool – For...Being a Great Person with a Big Heart is Not a U.S. Immigration Category
Many people reach out to immigration attorneys with heartfelt stories about individuals they know who are wonderful, hardworking, and kind-hearted, hoping to sponsor them for U.S. immigration. While character and goodwill are commendable, U.S. immigration law does not have a visa category based solely on these qualities. Immigration to the United States...
Important Update on Form I-693 for Green Card Applicants
Are you applying for a green card in the U.S.? Learn about the updated Form I-693 requirements, including its indefinite validity for forms signed by a civil surgeon on or after November 1, 2023. Understand the process, required documents, and the importance of submitting a sealed Form I-693 with your application. Download...
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...
Business Immigration Considerations for a Potential Second Trump Administration
With the possibility of former President Donald Trump's return to office, employers and international investors may need to prepare for shifts in U.S. immigration policies. Drawing from his prior term, campaign rhetoric, and recent policy trends, we can anticipate several impactful changes in the business immigration landscape. Below is an overview of...
What Happens to Your Child’s Green Card Application When You Become a U.S. Citizen?
A recent question from one of our listeners raises an important issue for new U.S. citizens: What happens to a Green Card application for a child that was filed when the parent was a green card holder? Does becoming a U.S. citizen expedite the process?
Automatic Conversion Based on...
Religious Marriage and F2B Green Card Interviews: What You Need to Know
A recent question from one of our listeners highlights a critical issue for applicants in the F2B Green Card category: What happens if you perform a religious wedding but don’t officially register the marriage? For individuals applying for a green card under this category, this could lead to significant complications during your U.S....
The Impact of the Recent Federal Interest Rate Cut on Immigration in the U.S.
On September 19, 2024, the Federal Reserve announced a significant cut to interest rates, a move aimed at stimulating economic growth amid various domestic and global challenges. While the immediate effects of such a decision are often analyzed through the lens of economic indicators, the implications for immigration policy and trends are...