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...
Canada Updates Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) Rules: What International Students Need to Know
Canada has issued an important update to its Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) program that directly affects international students graduating in 2025 and beyond. The update clarifies eligibility rules around language requirements, field of study, and study permit timing, resolving confusion that followed earlier policy changes.
If you are an international...
What You Need to Know About Recent U.S. and Canadian Immigration Changes
Stay informed with the latest U.S. and Canadian immigration developments impacting travelers, employers, and families. This month’s updates cover H-1B and H-4 visa appointment delays, increased screening and vetting measures, new USCIS programs, Visa Bulletin movements, and important Canadian immigration policy changes.
Understanding Criminal Rehabilitation and Temporary Resident Permits (TRPs) for Entering Canada
Canada has strict rules about who may enter the country. Even a single past conviction—even one that seems minor or happened many years ago—can make a person inadmissible to Canada. This includes offenses such as driving under the influence (DUI/DWI), theft, assault, fraud, drug-related offenses, and more.
For individuals who need...
How Buying a Franchise in Canada Can Lead to Work Permits and Permanent Residency
Many international entrepreneurs are looking at Canada as the next destination to expand their business. One of the most practical ways to enter the Canadian market is through purchasing a franchise. Whether it’s a restaurant, retail operation, tutoring center, or service brand, Canada has a strong and growing franchise industry — and...
Understanding the New USCIS “Gold Card” Program: What We Know So Far
USCIS has released instructions for a new filing option, Form I-140G, Immigrant Petition for the Gold Card Program, created under Executive Order 14351 (“The Gold Card”). This program introduces a unique pathway that allows certain high-net-worth individuals to request permanent residence under an employment-based category.
Because the program is...
Major Visa Appointment Changes for H-1B and H-4 Applicants: What Travelers and Employers Need to Know
Many H-1B and H-4 visa applicants are experiencing unexpected changes to their stamping appointments at U.S. consulates abroad. Starting December 8, 2025, consular posts began rescheduling interviews originally set for mid-December and beyond. Many new dates now fall in March 2026, and some are being pushed as far out as June 2026.
Chile to Canada Work Permit: Hiring Options for Canadian Employers (LMIA and LMIA-Exempt Pathways)
Canadian employers in fast-moving industries often need a hiring plan that is realistic, compliant, and quick to implement. If you are considering a candidate who is a citizen of Chile, there are multiple routes to bring that person to Canada—some that require an LMIA, and others that may be LMIA-exempt depending on the...
India Visa Stamping Update: Some H-1B/H-4 Interviews Being Rescheduled to 2026
If you have a U.S. visa stamping appointment in India (especially H-1B or H-4), you may want to double-check your appointment details before you finalize travel.
We are seeing reports that, starting around December 8, 2025, some applicants received notices that their consular interviews scheduled on or after December...
New Visa Scrutiny for Applicants Working in Content Moderation, Trust & Safety, and Fact-Checking Roles: What Foreign Nationals Need to Know
A recent directive from the U.S. Department of State has drawn significant attention across the technology and global workforce communities. According to reports, consular officers overseas have been instructed to take a closer look at visa applicants whose professional background involves trust and safety, content moderation, fact-checking, compliance, or related areas.
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