U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has introduced new editions of Form I-864, Affidavit of Support Under Section 213A of the INA; Form I-864A, Contract Between Sponsor and Household Member; and Form I-864EZ, Affidavit of Support Under Section 213A of the INA. The new forms carry an edition date of 08/24/26 and were published by […]
USCIS Implements New I-864 Forms Without a Grace Period U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has introduced new editions of Form I-864, Affidavit of Support Under Section 213A of the INA; Form I-864A, Contract Between Sponsor and Household Member; and Form I-864EZ, Affidavit of Support Under Section 213A of the INA. The new forms carry
For many visa applicants, the process traditionally follows a familiar path: apply at the U.S. embassy or consulate serving the country where you live. But when routine visa services are suspended and applicants are redirected to a consular post in another country, the location of visa processing can become a critical part of the immigration
Think Immigration: When Visa Processing Moves Abroad: Lessons from Russia Read More »
For individuals seeking a U.S. immigrant visa while living outside the United States, consular processing is one of the primary paths to lawful permanent residence. The process involves several government agencies, documentation requirements, fees, background checks, and an interview at a U.S. embassy or consulate. Understanding how U.S. immigrant visa consular processing works can help
How Consular Processing Works for U.S. Immigrant Visas Read More »
The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has finalized a major change to how F-1 international students are admitted and maintain their status in the United States. Beginning September 15, 2026, the government will end the long-standing Duration of Status (D/S) admission framework for F-1 students and replace it with a fixed period of admission.
What the End of Duration of Status Means for F-1 Cap-Gap and Work Authorization Read More »
Moving to the United States for work, study, or other approved purposes can be an exciting opportunity, but many visa holders also want to bring their immediate family members with them. U.S. immigration law provides several dependent visa options that may allow eligible spouses and children to accompany or join the principal visa holder. Dependent
Dependent Visa in the USA: Eligibility, Process and Requirements Read More »
The U.S. Department of State is testing a Nonimmigrant Visa (NIV) Expedited Appointment Pilot Program at select U.S. embassies and consulates through December 31, 2026. The program is optional and voluntary. Applicants at participating locations can choose whether to use the expedited appointment option. The pilot gives the Department of State an additional tool to
Nonimmigrant Visa Expedited Appointment Pilot Program Read More »
For many international students in the United States, earning a degree is only the beginning of their professional journey. After completing their studies, eligible students may want to continue working in the U.S. through employment-based immigration. One of the most common pathways is transitioning from F-1 student status to H-1B specialty occupation status. Understanding how
F-1 to H-1B: Understanding the Student-to-Work Visa Path Read More »
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has issued updated guidance in the USCIS Policy Manual explaining how the agency will determine whether an individual applying for adjustment of status to lawful permanent resident is likely at any time to become a public charge. Overview of the 2026 Public Charge Update On July 16, 2026, the
USCIS Issues Guidance on Making Public Charge Inadmissibility Determination Read More »
For many immigrants applying for a green card from inside the United States, the adjustment of status process can take months or longer. During this waiting period, applicants may need authorization to work and permission to travel internationally without jeopardizing their immigration case. Two important immigration benefits can help eligible adjustment of status applicants: an
Work Authorization and Travel Documents for Adjustment of Status Applicants Read More »
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