With the possibility of a U.S. Government shutdown at 12:01 AM on Wednesday, October 1, 2025, becoming increasingly likely, we provide the following brief summary of how the shutdown will impact the agencies administering immigration processes: USCIS: USCIS will remain open as it does not rely on Congress appropriations for its funding. The few programs […]
In our September webinar, Managing Partner Matthew Hellrung and Senior Counsel Michael Turansick covered urgent H-1B visa updates that every employer and HR professional should know. Download the Deck →MH H-1B Updates 09-25-25 Watch the Full Webinar Recording↓ Keep your team informed, opt in to your preferred communications→ HERE Key Takeaway: Continue normal H-1B extensions, transfers, […]
USCIS and CBP have issued guidance on President Trump’s September 19 proclamation restricting H-1B travel and filings. The agencies confirmed that the proclamation only applies to H-1B petitions filed on or after September 21, 2025. Key Takeaways for Employers and Employees Current H-1B holders not impacted: Individuals with an approved or pending H-1B petition filed […]
The DS-160 is the required online application for anyone seeking a U.S. nonimmigrant visa and is the first step before scheduling a consular interview. This guide walks you through how to access, complete, save, and submit the form, as well as how to avoid common issues like timeouts, missing information, or inconsistent answers. It explains […]
The Issue On September 6, 2025, the U.S. Department of State (DOS) issued updated policy guidance advising nonimmigrant visa applicants to apply in their country of nationality or residence. While it has generally been DOS policy to recommend that individuals apply in their country of nationality or residence, many posts have routinely accepted applicants who […]
The Issue On August 28th, DHS proposed regulations that would eliminate “duration of status” (D/S) for F and J nonimmigrants, replacing it with fixed admission periods (up to 4 years). The proposed changes would also modify student grace periods, program transfer rules, and employment authorization processes. While it may be several months before the proposed […]
The Announcement On August 21, 2025, Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced a moratorium on all employment visas for commercial truck drivers. The U.S. Department of State (DOS) confirmed that the suspension applies to three visa categories: H-2B: Temporary visa for non-agricultural workers E-2: Temporary visa for investors making a substantial U.S. business investment EB-3: […]