Quick Answer Sponsoring an H-1B worker costs an employer $2,225 to $3,595 in mandatory government fees for a new cap-subject petition in 2026-27, depending on company size, plus $4,000 more for large H-1B-dependent employers. Optional premium processing adds $2,965. The controversial $100,000 fee on new petitions for workers abroad was struck down by a federal […]
H1B Visa Cost in 2026–27: What Employers Must Pay Read More »
Quick Answer Most immigration lawyers in 2026 charge flat fees that typically range from about $1,000 to $2,500 for naturalization, $2,500 to $5,000 for a family-based green card, $4,000 to $10,000 for asylum, and $4,000 to $15,000 or more for deportation defense, based on industry-reported national ranges. Hourly rates, where used, generally run $150 to
How Much Does an Immigration Lawyer Cost? 2026 Flat-Fee Pricing Guide Read More »
Quick Answer PERM labor certification takes roughly 12 to 14 months of Department of Labor review after filing in 2026, with DOL reporting average analyst review times of about 372 to 403 days in recent months. Adding the prevailing wage determination (about 5 to 8 months) and recruitment (2 to 4 months), the full PERM
PERM Processing Time in 2026: Current DOL Timelines, Audit Triggers & Delays Read More »
Summary The I-130, Petition for Alien Relative, is the first step of almost every family green card case As of July 2026, processing ranges from roughly 13 months for spouses of U.S. citizens to well over 10 years for siblings The wait depends on the category, the office handling the case, and visa availability There is no premium processing
I-130 Processing Time in 2026: Current Waits by Category & How to Expedite Read More »
Summary The H4 EAD is a work permit for certain H-4 spouses of H-1B visa holders You qualify if your H-1B spouse has an approved I-140 immigrant petition or has extended H-1B status beyond six years under AC21 The card allows unrestricted work: any employer, self-employment, or starting a business The program is intact in
H4 EAD in 2026: Eligibility, Renewal & Processing Time for H-1B Spouses Read More »
Summary Adjustment of status (Form I-485) lets you get your green card without leaving the United States Consular processing means completing the case at a U.S. embassy or consulate abroad Both paths lead to the same green card On May 21, 2026, USCIS issued policy memo PM-602-0199, which recasts adjustment of status as discretionary “administrative
Adjustment of Status vs Consular Processing: What the 2026 USCIS Memo Changes Read More »
Summary The appeal: For years, EB-2 NIW has been the go-to green card route for ambitious professionals with no job offer, no labor certification, and you file on your own behalf. 2026 reality check: The landscape has shifted and processing times have moved, so the old reputation deserves a fresh look. The core question: Is EB-2 NIW still
EB-2 NIW 2026: Still the Fastest Self-Petition Green Card? Read More »
Summary The shift: Your social media is now part of your immigration file; what used to be a background detail is now a standard piece of vetting. 2026 scope: The rules reach more visa applicants than ever before. Disclosure is mandatory: Social media disclosure is no longer optional, and the accounts you list can be reviewed before
Social Media and Visa Applications: What USCIS Is Watching in 2026 Read More »
Summary Who this is for: Diversity Visa lottery winners who just learned the program have been put on hold. Why the worry makes sense: After beating odds that leave most entrants with nothing, having the process stall near the finish line is the last thing any winner expects. What’s real: The DV lottery suspended status is real, but the situation
DV Lottery Suspended: What Winners Should Do Next Read More »
Summary Even a minor charge or misdemeanor can impact your immigration status, depending on how it is classified under immigration law. Immigration law often treats certain offenses more strictly than criminal law, leading to serious consequences like deportation or visa denial. Arrests alone, not just convictions, can trigger ICE involvement and possible detention. Plea deals may seem quick and easy but can
Crimmigration 2026: When a Minor Charge Triggers Deportation Read More »
Summary U.S. visa policy changes happen regularly most affect procedures, not eligibility Processing times, interview rules, and documentation standards often shift USCIS updates its Policy Manual and procedures throughout the year Filing early can protect your priority date and avoid fee increases Strong documentation and status maintenance reduce risk Monitoring official sources prevents reacting to
Preparing for Future Process Changes: What Applicants Should Know for 2026 and Beyond Read More »
Summary The U.S. visa interview process is set to undergo one of its most significant changes in recent years. Starting September 2, 2025, most nonimmigrant visa applicants will be required to attend an in-person interview. This requirement will also apply to many visa renewals. The change represents a shift away from pandemic-era flexibility, when many
Stricter Interview Requirements for U.S. Visa Applicants – What You Must Know Read More »
Summary The U.S. government plans to introduce a new Visa Integrity Fee as early as fiscal year 2026. The fee is set at $250 per visa applicant. While the amount may seem small on its own, it signals a broader shift in how immigration programs are funded. The fee could have significant implications for employers
What the Latest Visa Integrity Fee Means for Non‑Immigrant Applicants Read More »
Introduction: Which U.S. Green Card Path is Best for You? For many professionals, skilled workers, and investors, the U.S. offers multiple pathways to permanent residency through employment-based visas. Among the most sought-after options are the EB-1 (Priority Workers), EB-2 (Advanced Degree or Exceptional Ability), and EB-5 (Immigrant Investors) visas. Each visa serves a different purpose
EB-1, EB-2, and EB-5 Visa Differences: Which One is Right for You? Read More »
What Is Family-Based Immigration? Bringing family members to the U.S. is a priority for many immigrants. Family-based immigration allows U.S. citizens and Green Card holders to sponsor relatives for lawful permanent residence. However, the process can be complex, with varying wait times, financial requirements, and eligibility rules. If you’re in Georgia or Alabama, this guide
The United States’ immigration laws have changed significantly in recent years, which has affected millions of unauthorized immigrants. These modifications have affected everything from work permits to public image, presenting both possibilities and difficulties. For undocumented immigrants and those who advocate for them, it is important to comprehend these changes. This blog will examine the
The Impact of Recent Policy Changes on Undocumented Immigrants Read More »
Image Source: https://www.vox.com/politics/355766/biden-immigration-reform-plan-asylum-election Intense discussion and close examination have always surrounded immigration policy in the US. Changes that affect millions of individuals, inside and beyond the nation, are made under every government. everal adjustments have been made to the immigration system by President Joe Biden’s administration. The functioning of Biden’s new immigration policy is examined
How Biden’s New Immigration Policy Works Read More »
“PAROLE IN PLACE” (PIP) = PERMISO EN EL LUGAR 1 DE AGOSTO DEL 2024 Antecedentes El 18 de junio de 2024, el presidente Joe Biden anunció un nuevo programa que permitirá a ciertos cónyuges de ciudadanos estadounidenses solicitar “permiso en el lugar” del Departamento de Seguridad Nacional (DHS). Este programa se abrirá el 19 de
ULTIMAS NOTICIAS DEL NUEVO PROGRAMA DE BIDEN “PAROLE IN PLACE” (PIP) Read More »
Background On June 18, 2024, President Joe Biden announced a new program allowing certain spouses of United States citizens to apply for “parole-in-place” from the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). This program will open on August 19, 2024, assuming certain groups don’t sue the administration to stop its implementation. So, what is this program all
WHAT IS NEW AND KNOWN ABOUT BIDEN’S PAROLE IN PLACE (PIP) Read More »
For foreign physicians seeking to practice medicine in the United States, the immigration process can be complex and challenging. However, the Physician National Interest Waiver (NIW) program offers a unique opportunity for qualified doctors to obtain permanent residency while serving in underserved areas. This guide will walk you through the key aspects of the physician
Navigating the Path to a Physician National Interest Waiver: A Comprehensive Guide Read More »
President Joe Biden has announced a significant new immigration policy aimed at protecting undocumented spouses of U.S. citizens from deportation. This policy is expected to benefit approximately 500,000 undocumented spouses and around 50,000 children of these families. Key Aspects of the Policy 1. Eligibility Criteria: 2. Benefits: 3. Implementation: Context and Reactions 1. Political Context:
Navigating the U.S. immigration system can be complex, especially when seeking a green card. The EB-2 National Interest Waiver (NIW) offers a unique pathway for highly skilled professionals to obtain permanent residency without the need for employer sponsorship. This blog will guide you through the EB-2 NIW process, highlighting its benefits, eligibility requirements, and steps
National Interest Waiver EB-2: Your Guide to a Faster Green Card Process Read More »
Navigating the EB-5 visa application process can be complex and daunting. An experienced EB-5 immigration attorney can significantly enhance your chances of success. This blog will explore how an EB-5 immigration attorney can assist you throughout the process, ensuring compliance with USCIS requirements and increasing the likelihood of obtaining your EB-5 investor green card. The
How an EB-5 Immigration Attorney Can Enhance Your Visa Application Success Read More »
Navigating the path to obtaining an employer-sponsored green card involves several detailed steps. Each phase is crucial and requires careful attention to ensure a successful application. This blog outlines the timeline from the initial application to final approval, providing a clear roadmap for prospective applicants and employers alike. What is the PERM Process and How
The Timeline for an Employer Sponsored Green Card: From Application to Approval Read More »
Introduction to Green Card Sponsored by Employer A green card grants foreign nationals the right to live and work permanently in the United States, while nonimmigrant work visas like H-1B or L-1 only allow temporary employment for specific purposes. Employer sponsorship is a significant pathway for obtaining a green card, involving steps like labor certification
Green Card Sponsored by Employer – What You Need to Know Read More »
Navigating the intricacies of domestic work visa renewal in the United States demands a clear understanding, meticulous preparation, and proactive engagement from both employers and employees. This unified guide distils expert advice from two perspectives into a streamlined, SEO-friendly overview, designed to simplify the renewal process and ensure continued compliance and employment within the U.S.
Expert Advice on Domestic Work Visa Renewal in the USA Read More »
Introduction In this blog post, we aim to dissect the E-2 Employee Visa’s intricacies, offering a guiding light through the application process, highlighting the key benefits available to employees, and addressing the challenges that may arise along the way. Whether you are an aspiring E-2 visa applicant, a treaty investor looking to bolster your enterprise
Navigating E2 Employee Visa and Visa Employee Benefits Read More »
Are you a business owner looking to secure H-2B visas for essential workers? The time to act is now. U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has reached the cap for the second half of fiscal year (FY) 2024, meaning no more new cap-subject petitions will be accepted. However, there’s still hope for those in need
Secure Your H-2B Visa Today Read More »
In a significant development, the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is implementing substantial fee increases for various immigration applications effective April 1, 2024. This marks the first major adjustment since 2016, addressing the agency’s operational challenges. To ensure you don’t incur higher immigration fees, submitting your complete application before the impending deadline is crucial.
Act Now to Save on Immigration Costs: USCIS Fees Set to Increase in April 2024 Read More »
Introduction:The United States immigration system places a strong emphasis on family reunification, even within the employment-based (EB) green card categories. In comparison to other OECD countries, such as Japan, Spain, and Ireland, the U.S. stands out with a higher proportion of immigrants entering on visa categories as workers rather than family members. However, a unique
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) announced today (October 21, 2022) the designation of Ethiopia for TPS (Temporary Protected Status ) for 18 months. Only individuals who are already residing in the United States as of October 20, 2022, will be eligible. “The United States recognizes the ongoing armed conflict and the extraordinary and temporary
DHS Designates Ethiopia for TPS Read More »
The United States Department of Homeland Security (DHS) extended Afghans’ temporary immigration protected status on Wednesday, bringing praise from immigration advocates and calling for a permanent solution for those who have fled the crisis-racked country. The temporary immigration protections, which will last for 18 months, will only apply to Afghans who were residing in the
Afghans Temporary Immigration Protected Status Extended by the US. Read More »
In honoring its commitment to help Ukrainians fleeing the war, the U.S. has established “Uniting for Ukraine,” a new program that grants two-year humanitarian parole for Ukrainian nationals with financial support in the U.S. Under this program, Ukrainian nationals must have a supporter who agrees to provide financial support during their stay in the U.S.
UNITING FOR UKRAINE Read More »
2023 H-1B Cap Lottery Season: It’s Time to Prepare! Now is the time for US employers to prepare for registration in the 2023 H-1B Cap Lottery. H-1B Temporary Worker status is for professional workers. Electronic Registration of all proposed H-1B workers for the FY2023 H-1B quota in March is an absolute must. USCIS will charge
2023 H-1B Cap Lottery Season: It’s Time to Prepare! Read More »
Over a few days, more than one million Ukrainians have fled their country, heading westward as refugees from Putin’s war on Ukraine. The Biden administration is facing mounting pressure from lawmakers and advocates to allow thousands of Ukrainians who are temporarily working or studying in the United States to remain, rather than force them to return
U.S. Immigration Options for Ukrainians in Crisis Read More »
The 2023 H-1B cap season is here. Once again, it’s a two-step process – the registration step and then, if the registration is selected, the petition step. This is the third year that the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services has used the electronic registration tool. This year’s registrations will be for periods of employment that
FY 2023 H-1B Cap Season has Begun Read More »
Six Countries added to Travel Ban On Friday, Jan. 31, 2020, President Trump added six countries to his list of nations facing stringent travel restrictions, a move that will virtually block immigration from Africa’s most populous nation, Nigeria, and from Myanmar, where the Muslim minority is fleeing genocide. Beside Nigeria, three other African countries, Eritrea,
Six Countries added to Travel Ban Read More »
International Travel for the Holidays and Omicron: What you need to know. International travel rules changed again. The omicron variant of COVID in southern Africa and its detection around the world has sparked a host of new travel requirements and, in some cases, outright bans — further complicating international trips that were just starting to
International Travel for the Holidays and Omicron: What you need to know. Read More »
New Covid 19 Travel Requirements: What you need to know Beginning TODAY (Monday, November 8, 2021) Travel restrictions that were put in place during the pandemic end after more than a year and a half. Travelers from around the world can resume flights to the U.S. as long as they are vaccinated. On October 25,
New Covid 19 Travel Requirements: What you need to know Read More »
Case Delay Lawsuits | Suing the Government for Case Delays What is a Case Delay Lawsuit? A case delay lawsuit is also called a Mandamus lawsuit or APA (Administrative Procedures Act) lawsuit. Under the APA, any government agency which includes all the immigration agencies such as DHS, USCIS, DOL, etc., must conclude a matter brought
Case Delay Lawsuits | Suing the Government for Case Delays Read More »
Biden Admin. Unveils New DACA Rules For Migrants Today, September 27, 2021, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security unveiled new DACA rules (Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals) program, on Monday, aiming to fortify immigration protections for millions of people brought to the U.S. as children. The Biden administration and Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas said
Biden Admin. Unveils New DACA Rules For Migrantss Read More »
Biden Administration Plans to Rescind COVID-19 Travel Bans Today, the White House announced that it has plans to ease travel restrictions on all international travelers coming into the United States beginning in early November 2021. The White House will rescind the current geographic COVID-19 related travel bans implemented for individuals from China, Iran, the Schengen
Biden Administration Plans to Rescind COVID-19 Travel Bans Read More »
Should I Sponsor a Foreign Employee for a Work Visa? Decision Vision Episode 129: Should I Sponsor a Foreign Employee for a Work Visa? – An Interview with Karen Weinstock, Weinstock Immigration Lawyers When a business has an opportunity and needs to hire a foreign employee and sponsor them for a work visa, what issues
Should I Sponsor a Foreign Employee for a Work Visa? Read More »
FY2022 H-1B Cap Registrations released The U.S. State Department, on May 18th, 2021, eliminated a longstanding policy refusing to acknowledge the U.S. citizenship of the children of many married same-sex couples. Over the last several years, LGBTQ immigrant rights in the United States have changed significantly. A progressive cultural environment and several court cases have helped
Citizenship to Children of Same-Sex Couples. Read More »
LGBTQ+ Immigrants in the United States Written by: Immigration Attorney Carlos Rodriguez LGBTQ+ immigration cases are very personal to me. I have been working as an immigration lawyer for a few years now. I recently joined Weinstock Immigration Lawyers after moving from Texas, where I worked with the Refugee and Immigrant Center for Education and
Victory to immigrants facing deportation. The U.S. Supreme Court, on Thursday, April 29, 2021, offering hope to thousands of long-term immigrants facing deportation in a ruling that faulted the federal government for improperly notifying a man who came to the United States illegally from Guatemala to appear for a U.S. Supreme Court, on Thursday, April
victory-to-immigrants-facing-deportation Read More »
Biden Tells Congress to Revamp Immigration System President Joe Biden tells Congress to immediately revamp the immigration system. President Joe Biden tells Congress to immediately revamp the immigration system by passing measures where there’s bipartisan support even as he pressed them to adopt his sweeping overhaul. The president urged lawmakers to help bring an “end
biden-tells-congress-to-revamp-immigration-system Read More »
Two Immigration Bills Passed. Will Broader Immigration Reform Be Possible? The House of Representatives passed two bills on immigration reform on Thursday that would provide a pathway to citizenship for millions of DREAMers, Temporary Protected Status holders, and farmworkers. But they also served as an early indicator of Republicans’ limited appetite to work with Democrats
two-immigration-bills-passed-will-broader-immigration-reform-be-possible Read More »
Goodbye Public Charge Rule The Biden administration on Thursday, March 11, 2021, formally said goodbye to the Trump-era public charge rule, which tightened restrictions on poorer immigrants seeking U.S. residency, as a dozen GOP state attorneys general scrambled to preserve it. The Department of Homeland Security’s (DHS) 2019 public charge rule –required petitioners and applicants
Goodbye Public Charge Rule Read More »
H-1B Visa Ban Not Sustainable The unemployment rate in computer and mathematical occupations remains well below pre-pandemic levels, making the current immigration ban on the entry of H-1B visa holders unsustainable. On June 22, 2020, Donald Trump used his authority under section 212(f) of the Immigration and Nationality Act to issue a proclamation suspending the
H-1B Visa Ban Not Sustainable Read More »