As the United States enters a new phase under President-elect Donald Trump, immigration policies are expected to shift significantly. With potential changes in visa processing, green card backlogs, and increased scrutiny, it’s crucial for immigrants and visa holders to understand and prepare for these developments. Below is an in-depth analysis of the...
Category: H-1B Visa
Past H-1B Visa Policies Hint at Trump’s Second-Term Immigration Agenda
Donald Trump’s first-term immigration policies are a strong indicator of what his second term might hold for high-skilled immigration, particularly H-1B visas. His administration previously increased restrictions, raising denial rates and imposing costly requirements on employers. Proposed measures include narrowing H-1B eligibility and raising mandatory wages, potentially pricing foreign-born workers out of...
Navigating the H-1B Visa Digital Migration: A Guide for Canadian Companies
For years, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has been working towards modernizing its immigration processes, striving to shift filings from paper to digital. Although some personal immigration benefits, such as the I-90 (Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card) and N-400 (Application for Naturalization), have moved online, employer-based filings have remained mostly...
USCIS Introduces PDF Filing for EAD Applicants
On October 8, 2024, USCIS announced the availability of a PDF filing option for certain Employment Authorization Document (EAD) applicants. This new feature allows eligible individuals to upload completed Form I-765 and required evidence via their USCIS online account. Additionally, applicants can electronically file Form I-912 for fee waivers, marking the first...
H-1B Approval: What to Expect at the U.S. Consulate for Visa Stamping
Securing H-1B approval from USCIS is an important milestone, but it doesn’t guarantee that you’ll receive a visa stamp at the U.S. consulate. If you’re planning to visit the U.S. Consulate in Mumbai or any other consulate abroad for visa stamping, it’s crucial to know what to expect and how to prepare for your...
5 Key Actions for H-1B Employers Starting October 1, 2024
As the new fiscal year begins on October 1, 2024, employers with H-1B cap employees must ensure they are meeting compliance obligations. Here are the top five steps employers should take to stay compliant with U.S. immigration and employment regulations.
Update I-9 for Employees Transitioning from Student...New Opportunities for Overcoming U.S. Visa Ineligibility: Key DOS Updates on Waiver Requests
The U.S. Department of State (DOS) has recently issued updates to clarify the eligibility criteria for visa applicants seeking waivers of inadmissibility, offering new hope for individuals facing visa challenges. These changes, particularly focusing on the “significant public interest” category within the Foreign Affairs Manual (FAM), provide more flexibility for applicants in visa categories...
Major Win for H-1B Visa Spouses: U.S. Court Confirms Work Authorization
In a landmark decision on August 2, 2024, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia upheld the right of H-1B visa holders’ spouses (H-4 visa holders) to work in the United States. This ruling solidifies the work authorization for thousands of H-4 spouses, reinforcing stability for families and U.S....
Can Employers Recoup Visa Sponsorship Costs? A Closer Look at Repayment Agreements
Hiring highly skilled foreign workers is sometimes the only way for companies to fill critical roles, especially in fields like technology, engineering, and science. However, the cost of sponsoring these employees for work visas and permanent residency can add up quickly. So, what happens if the employee resigns shortly after the company...
Understanding the Differences Between H-1B, EB-5, and U.S. Citizenship: Navigating Your Path to the American Dream
The U.S. immigration system offers several pathways for foreign nationals to live, work, or invest in the country. Among the most popular options are the H-1B visa, the EB-5 Immigrant Investor Program, and U.S. citizenship. Each status has its own benefits, requirements, and limitations. This guide will break down the key differences...