Immigration Alerts

H-1B Cap Lottery Completed

Yesterday, on 3/31/2025, USCIS announced that the H-1B random selection (lottery) process has concluded and that it has informed registrants and attorneys of the selection results through “MyUSCIS” accounts.

Guidance for Travelers in the Current Immigration Climate

Given the uncertainty surrounding US immigration, fueled by reports of increased scrutiny and in some cases detention, international travel should be undertaken with caution.

DHS Announces Registration Requirements for Certain Noncitizens

This week, the Department of Homeland Security announced it will be enforcing an old federal statute to compel registration for noncitizens 14 years of age and older.

Alert: H-1B Cap Registration for FY2026 Begins Soon

The window for H-1B cap registration (AKA H-1B lottery) will begin Friday, March 7th at 9:00 AM (Pacific Standard Time), and close on Monday, March 24th at 9:00 AM (Pacific Standard Time).

DOS Restricts Interview Waiver Program Without Announcement

U.S. consulates have started restricting the previously expanded visa interview waiver program.  Without publicly announcing a policy change, the Department of State suddenly changed the criteria for qualifying for an interview waiver.

Summary: H-1B Modernizing Rules

The US Department of Homeland Security (DHS) published a new regulation to “modernize” the H‑1B program. The new regulation is intended to update and streamline the H‑1B regulatory framework to align with contemporary workforce needs. 

Trump Administration Issues New Executive Orders Overhauling Immigration Policies

As expected, the return of the Trump Administration has resulted in several developments that impact immigration, including employment-based,  family-based, and humanitarian.

540-Day Automatic Extension for Certain EAD Renewal Applicants Made Permanent

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) announced a final rule that will permanently increase the automatic extension period of Employment Authorization Document (EAD) from 180 to 540 days for Eligible applicants who file a timely application for...

Employment-Based Immigration Under Trump 2.0: What to Expect & What to Do

The first Trump administration tried to stem immigration, including employment-based immigration, by increasing scrutiny on USCIS petitions, instituting visa restrictions at U.S. Embassies and Consulates around the world, and instituting travel...

Premium Processing of Bundled I-539 and I-765 Applications May End in January 2025

Premium processing of H4/L2 I-539 and H4/L2 I-765 (Employment Authorization Document) applications have never been made available.