October 13, 2025
As of September 21, 2025, most new H-1B petitions must include a one-time $100,000 payment when filed with USCIS. This requirement applies to new petitions, including those submitted for the annual cap season, but does not apply to renewals or petitions filed before that date.
The H-1B process now counts unique beneficiaries instead of multiple registrations by the same person. This means duplicate entries no longer boost odds, and the system is being refined to give priority to higher-paid, higher-skilled positions as part of the ongoing visa overhaul.
April 28, 2025
Visa denials often happen when forms are incomplete or filled out incorrectly, when supporting documents are missing, when applicants fail to prove they will return home after temporary travel, or when they perform poorly at the visa interview. These issues give consular officers reasons to refuse the application.
In many cases, yes. You may be able to address the specific reason for denial, correct errors, add missing documents, or file a waiver depending on the situation. An immigration attorney can help identify the problem, explore options, and prepare a stronger reapplication or appeal.
March 26, 2025
No. Effective January 22, 2025, USCIS has waived the requirement that adjustment of status applicants provide proof of COVID-19 vaccination with their Form I-693 medical exam. USCIS will not issue Requests for Evidence (RFEs), Notices of Intent to Deny, or deny applications solely for lacking COVID-19 vaccination documentation.
Under the updated policy, applicants no longer need to show they received the COVID-19 vaccine as part of the immigration medical exam for adjustment of status. Other required vaccinations on Form I-693 remain in place, but documentation of COVID-19 vaccination is no longer required for approval.
February 3, 2025
An H-1B visa is a work visa that lets U.S. employers hire foreign professionals in specialty occupations that require at least a bachelor’s degree. You cannot apply on your own — a U.S. employer must file the petition and supporting forms on your behalf.
Because the number of H-1B petitions usually exceeds the annual cap, USCIS runs a computerized lottery to select entries for processing. The filing season opens on April 1 each year and stays open until all visa slots are filled.
March 4, 2024
The new USCIS fee schedule became effective on April 1, 2024. It increases filing costs for many immigration benefits, including H-1B petitions, green card (I-485) applications, and family petitions like I-130, meaning applicants must pay higher fees when submitting these forms after that date.
USCIS offered a grace period from April 1 to June 3, 2024, for some forms, allowing older form editions to be accepted with the correct fee. However, certain forms that changed with the new fee rule do not have a grace period, so you must use the correct edition and fee when filing.
December 12, 2023
A B1 visa is for temporary business-related visits, such as meetings, consultations, or attending conferences, while a B2 visa is for tourism, visiting family or friends, medical treatment, and similar short-term leisure activities. Choosing the correct type depends on the primary purpose of your trip.
Yes, you may be able to change your non-immigrant status after entering the U.S., but you must apply before your current stay expires. You should file the appropriate form with USCIS and meet eligibility requirements, and it is wise to consult an immigration attorney to guide you through this process.