NEWS

DHS confirmed a final rule giving asylum officers the authority to determine if individuals applying for asylum at the border are barred due to national security or public safety concerns. The same standard apply. The new rule solely moves up the decision making process to streamline potential removal orders later.

The Department of Homeland Security confirmed the H-1B program final rule is published in the Federal Register, effective January 17, 2025. Among the updates are deference to previous approvals, tightening eligibility requirements, updates to site visits, and more.

The Supreme Court affirmed a lower court's finding that challenges to revoked visas cannot be heard in federal courts. This finding limits individuals options when a visa is revoked. Some are concerned with the timing of this ruling with the upcoming inauguration of President-elect Trump

U.S. Department of State announced changes to the residency requirement for J-1 Exchange Visitor visas from 34 countries. Qualifying individuals from these select countries are no longer bound by the two-year residency requirement.

With the upcoming U.S. presidential inauguration, changes to family-based immigration are anticipated. The time to act is now to leverage current U.S. immigration policy for current green card holders and those hoping to file petitions for family members.

Several U.S. universities are suggesting international students return to campus prior to President-elect Trump's inauguration due to uncertainty around potential changes to U.S. immigration, travel bans, and potential policy changes Mr. Trump has promised to implement on his first day in office.

The group challenging H-1B spousal work permits asked the full DC Circuit Court to reconsider their earlier finding that upheld the program, which the DC Circuit Court denied, citing precedence that affirms their three-judge panel finding.

As we head towards a second Trump term, coupled with Republican control of both chambers of Congress, it is more likely than ever before that the government will pass sweeping immigration reform, which could include the elimination of work authorization for certain H4 EAD for spouses

USCIS announced updates to guidance for children of U.S. citizens as it relates to custody determination when pursuing naturalization. The updated guidelines are effective immediately and apply to all applications pending on or after November 19, 2024.

Before the end of his Presidential term, the Biden administration has an opportunity to strengthen U.S. immigration policy. Among the options are finalizing proposed rules prior to leaving office. Among them, is the cap gap, and making permanent the extension of work authorization for renewals.