Immigration Blog
Our blog is a source of latest immigration news, policy updates and trends for thousands of readers every month.
USCIS's Policies on the New Virtual Signature for H-1B Visas and Other Petitions
The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Service (USCIS) is the government agency responsible for processing visa applications for foreign nationals. It can be a challenging and time-consuming process. The process became even more difficult during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Tech Layoffs Affecting Your H-1B Status? You're Not Alone, But There's Help
The H-1B visa is for foreign workers in specialty occupations, and the technology field clearly meets this definition. It’s not surprising that an overwhelming majority of these visas are given to those employed in the tech industry. Yet, this leaves the industry — and thousands of workers — prone to serious problems when the market causes substantial layoffs. That’s what is happening now, and if you’re one of the visa holders facing job loss, you’re not alone. The good news is that USCIS recognizes this is a mass issue, and they’re offering you hope.
Some Visa Interview Waivers Are Extended. Are Yours?
The time it takes to file and process a visa from start to finish is quite lengthy. Some petitioners end up waiting over a year for their paperwork to process and then longer for their interview. The COVID-inflicted backlog took an already time-consuming project and added even more delays. However, those visa petitioners who were placed on hold because of the pandemic are mostly caught up, allowing USCIS officials to catch up on new filers.
Updates on Embassy Reopening Predictions
Immigrants and nonimmigrants around the world have been hard hit by the global shutdown caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. Although most businesses have returned back to their “new normal,” one sector that continues to feel the restrictions is that of US visa services through consulates and embassies. Many countries have minor restrictions that allow consulate and embassy representatives to conduct interviews, while others remain shut down for the foreseeable future. Where does your country stand? Read on to find out how some of the most common countries for H-1B visa approvals are currently faring.
How Changing Federal Immigration Policies in 2023 Affect Your Visa
The past few years have seen an increase in immigration changes through the COVID-19 pandemic and switching Trump and Biden Administrations. The latest round of federal immigration policies in 2023 focuses on things like immigration activity along the border of US and Mexico, noncitizens in mixed immigration status families, and children with immigrant parents. We cover the evolving immigration policies here and how they’ll affect your visa in 2023.
2024's H-1B Cap Season is Around the Corner (What You Need to Know)
If you’re planning to (or already have) applied for an H-1B visa, you know the fiscal year cap seasons are more important than any other date on the horizon for you. If you miss the cutoff, you’re stuck waiting until the following year to submit your petition. 2023’s is in the past, but you still have time to get your registrations in for FY 2024 beginning March 1st. Here is everything you need to know to ensure you’re ready for the first opening days.
How Tech Layoffs Impact Your H-1B Lottery Chances
By now, you’ve heard about the tech layoffs in the US, and how they’ve impacted thousands of H-1B holders. This massive technological industry shift has created a domino effect felt by everyone else trying to obtain or renew their work visas. One of the ways it could impact you is through the H-1B lottery. How does the tech layoff problem change your lottery chances? Read on to find out.
What a Notice of Intent to Deny Means
When you file for an H-1B visa, the process is always high-stress. Will your application get chosen in the lottery? If so, will the petition get approved by USCIS? Your future job position hinges on those yes answers, but lately, many applicants are receiving an “Intent to Deny” instead of a yes or no. What does this mean, and how can you avoid getting this dreaded response? Read on to find out.
4 Easy Steps from an H-1B to a Green Card
There are multiple visas available for foreign nonimmigrants who want to work in the US, but the H-1B is arguably the most popular. One of the main reasons this visa is so coveted is its dual-intent factor: Holders of the H-1B can apply for permanent lawful residence during their “temporary” stay. If you’re in the US on an H-1B and ready to apply for a Green Card, follow these four steps to successfully accomplish your goal.
The Differences Between an H-1B and a B-1 Visa
H-1B visa season is upon us. The complicated visa process is further complicated by the similarly named B-1 visa. If you're considering working in the United States as a foreign national, it's essential to understand the different types of visas available to you. The H-1B and B-1 visas have significant differences that can affect your stay in the US. This article will explain the key differences between the two visas to help you determine which is best for your situation.
Our Services
H-1B Visa
The H-1B visa provides the opportunity for foreign professionals to work in the United States. It allows employers to hire qualified foreign workers in the U.S.
O-1 Visa
An O-1 visa is designed to allow foreigners at the very top of the arts, sciences, sports, education, business, motion picture or television industries entry into the United States.
Contact Us
Email
Phone
Address
600 Stewart Street Suite 400, Seattle, Washington 98101, USA (Plaza 600 Building)