USCIS announced a Policy Manual update that reduces the maximum validity period for certain Employment Authorization Documents (EADs). USCIS stated the goal is to require more frequent vetting of individuals applying for authorization to work in the United States.
Under this update, USCIS stated that the maximum validity period...
For many talented professionals, artists, researchers, founders, and athletes, the O-1 visa is one of the most strategic ways to work in the United States. It is often chosen by individuals who are highly accomplished in their field and want a path that does not require a degree, does not rely on...
Green card holders who spend too much time outside the United States often face unexpected complications at the airport or at a U.S. consulate. Life happens — illness, family emergencies, unexpected travel delays — and many lawful permanent residents do not realize that an extended stay abroad can raise questions about whether...
The U.S. Department of State recently announced expanded screening and vetting that may include an “online presence review” for certain visa applicants. For H-1B applicants (and in some cases H-4 dependents applying with them), this is a reminder to review your public online footprint before your visa interview.
The...
Ontario has passed Bill 60 — the “Fighting Delays, Building Faster Act”. While most of the law focuses on housing, planning rules, and municipal infrastructure, the legislation also includes new rules tied to immigration status verification for certain government-issued documents. These changes may affect newcomers applying for Ontario driver’s licences or photo...
Employers that use the H-1B program may be seeing a new enforcement environment take shape. A recent report describes a more proactive posture from the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL), including the use of an initiative described as “Project Firewall” and an increased willingness to open investigations beyond those triggered by individual complaints.
Religious organizations across the United States are experiencing increased difficulty obtaining green cards for ministers and other religious workers. Many churches, temples, mosques, and faith-based nonprofits are facing leadership gaps as older clergy retire faster than new leaders can be trained or sponsored. As demand grows, the employment-based immigration process for religious...
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) announced updated guidance that authorizes officers to consider country-specific factors when adjudicating certain immigration benefit requests involving nationals of 19 countries identified in Presidential Proclamation 10949. This guidance is effective immediately and applies to requests pending or filed on or after Nov. 27, 2025.
The J-1 Exchange Visitor Program continues to be a popular pathway for individuals seeking academic, cultural, and professional exposure in the United States. Although the program is temporary by design, many J-1 participants hope to continue building their careers in the U.S. once their exchange experience ends.
Because the...
Ontario has confirmed that new immigration pathways will be added to the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP). These changes follow new powers granted under Bill 30, which allows the province to introduce, update, or close OINP streams more quickly based on labour-market needs and provincial priorities.
While full details...
