We recently helped a client obtain a VAWA (Violence Against Women Act) approval in just five months, far faster than the average processing time of 41.5 months. Here’s how we achieved this result.     Our client was facing serious health issues, which made their case urgent. We filed an expedite request, submitting medical…

  Dear Friends,   On January 29, 2025, President Donald Trump signed the Laken Riley Act into law, marking a significant shift in U.S. immigration policy. Named after a Georgia nursing student tragically killed by an undocumented Venezuelan immigrant, the law mandates the detention of undocumented individuals who have been arrested, charged, or convicted of certain offenses, including theft-related crimes and assaulting law enforcement officers.…

  USCIS has reinstated the practice of giving deference to prior approvals for petitions filed on Form I-129, the Petition for a Nonimmigrant Worker. This new regulation requires USCIS adjudicators to defer to previous approvals when the same employer, beneficiary, and job duties remain unchanged. This rule applies to all visa categories filed on Form…

  H-1B Modernization Rule Now in Effect   The H-1B Modernization Rule took effect on Friday, January 17th, updating key aspects of the H-1B visa program to improve clarity, compliance, and efficiency. Proposed in October 2023, the rule includes significant updates that impact employers and foreign professionals.   Deference for Form I-129 Petitions The rule…

If ICE (Immigration and Customs Enforcement) conducts a raid at your home, it’s important to know your rights and how to respond. Understanding what to do during an ICE raid can help protect you and your family. Please remember you are still protected by the U.S. Constitution and can enforce your rights even if you…

On January 20, 2025, President Donald Trump signed Executive Order 14156, titled “Protecting the Meaning and Value of American Citizenship,” aiming to redefine birthright citizenship in the United States. The order seeks to deny automatic citizenship to children born on U.S. soil if neither parent is a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident. Specifically, it…

What You Need to Know About VAWA and Why Acting Now Is Critical       As the new administration prepares to take office, many of our clients are understandably concerned about the future of immigration policies, particularly humanitarian protections like the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA). While VAWA has historically had strong bipartisan support,…

  As the new year begins, there are concerns about changes to U.S. immigration policy. The incoming administration is expected to issue over 200 executive orders, many of which could affect travel and the visa application process. This may result in travel restrictions, delays, or changes to the entry process for nonimmigrant visa holders, including…

  Starting in December 2024, USCIS will conduct interviews for some VAWA (Violence Against Women Act) self-petitioners who have both an I-360 petition and an I-485 application pending. Not all VAWA self-petitioners will be interviewed, and individuals with stand-alone I-360s will not be included at this time. USCIS will continue to adjudicate most of its…

    When applying for VAWA relief, you must demonstrate good moral character (GMC). This requirement is vital for applicants seeking a Green Card or other legal benefits. The goal is to show that, despite experiencing abuse, you are a law-abiding person who contributes positively to society.   To prove good moral character, you can…