After widespread confusion, USCIS clarified that the $100,000 H-1B fee only applies to new petitions filed on or after September 21, 2025. Current visa holders with approved petitions or valid visas can continue to travel without impact. Employers and workers should still remain cautious as official guidance evolves.

President Trump’s latest proclamation imposes sweeping restrictions on the H-1B visa program, including a $100,000 fee for reentry and new travel limits. Employers and foreign workers should prepare immediately for the changes taking effect September 21, 2025.

The State Department has announced immediate changes to nonimmigrant visa processing. Applicants must now attend interviews in their country of nationality or residence, ending long-standing third-country processing.

Kane Vongsavanh, founder and partner of Vong Law Group, was featured in The Seattle Times discussing a rare deportation case to Laos. He highlighted the increase in deportations and the importance of immigrants with removal orders preparing with experienced legal counsel.

Beginning November 1, 2025, immigrant visa applicants must attend interviews at a U.S. embassy or consulate in their country of residence. The new State Department policy streamlines scheduling, limits post-to-post transfers, and introduces stricter proof-of-residence requirements, with exceptions only in limited cases.

On August 28, 2025, DHS proposed ending “duration of status” for F, J, and most I visa holders, replacing it with fixed admission periods. Students, exchange visitors, and media representatives may soon face four-year limits tied to their program length, with extensions required for longer stays.

USCIS has reinstated neighborhood investigations in the naturalization process, reviving a practice last used over 30 years ago. Applicants may now face in-person inquiries into their residence, employment, and community ties, in addition to providing documentation of good moral character and contributions to U.S. society.

The Department of Homeland Security has advanced a proposed rule to change how H-1B visas are allocated. Instead of relying solely on the lottery, the rule may introduce a weighted system that prioritizes applicants based on factors like wage level or education. Public comments will open once the proposal is published in the Federal Register.

Student and exchange visa processing is resuming—but under strict new rules. The State Department is now requiring public access to your social media accounts and may deny visas based on online activity. Here's what every F-1, M-1, and J-1 applicant needs to know.

USCIS just issued important new guidance that significantly tightens eligibility for TN visas under the USMCA. From stricter employment rules to clarified role qualifications, Canadian and Mexican professionals may now face more hurdles when applying. Here's what you need to know.