Understanding the J-1 Visa and Green Card Process
The J-1 visa is a temporary, non-immigrant visa designed for individuals participating in work-and-study-based exchange programs in the United States. Because the J-1 is not a “dual intent” visa, applicants cannot enter the country with the intention of obtaining a green card. If a J-1 visa holder participates in activities that suggest permanent […]
Essential Facts About the J-1 Visa and Waiver Process
Holders of a J-1 visa may be required to complete a two-year home-country residency period after their exchange program ends. This condition can be waived under certain circumstances, but the J-1 waiver process can take anywhere from six to eighteen months to complete. If a J-1 waiver is denied, there is no formal appeal […]
Understanding the Key Differences Between F-1 and J-1 Student Visas
Studying in the United States opens doors to world-class education and career opportunities. However, before packing your bags, it’s crucial to understand which student visa best fits your goals — the F-1 Visa or the J-1 Visa. Both visas allow international students to pursue studies in the U.S., but they differ in purpose, funding requirements, and post-study options. […]
Must-Know Facts About EB-2 National Interest Waiver (NIW) Denials
In fiscal year 2024, the EB-2 National Interest Waiver (NIW) denial rate climbed to approximately 29%, underscoring the importance of a strong, well-structured petition. Many applicants mistakenly assume that submitting large amounts of documentation guarantees success—but too much evidence can overwhelm USCIS officers and obscure your strongest qualifications, increasing the risk of denial. Equally critical, […]
Updated Procedures for NIV Appointments in India:23
What Applicants Should Know Since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, the demand for nonimmigrant visa (NIV) appointments has surged, far exceeding the available consular resources. This imbalance has created a shortage of open appointment slots across India. Unfortunately, some third-party agents have exploited this situation by booking visa appointments in bulk and reselling them […]
H-1B Visa Success Story: NICU Nurse’s Approval After RFE
Background Priya’s immigration journey began with her selection in the 2025 H-1B visa lottery. Holding a bachelor’s degree and an internationally recognized nursing license, she dreamed of bringing her specialized healthcare skills to the U.S. medical system. However, obtaining an H-1B visa for nurses presents unique challenges. Under U.S. immigration law, standard registered nurse roles […]
USCIS Policy Manual Updates: Clearer Guidance for EB-1A and EB-1B Applicants
On September 12, 2023, the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) updated its Policy Manual to provide clearer guidance on the types of evidence that may satisfy eligibility criteria for employment-based first preference (EB-1) applicants. The revisions also outline how USCIS officers should evaluate the totality of evidence when determining eligibility. These updates reflect the […]
USCIS Tightens TN Visa Eligibility: What Canadian and Mexican Professionals Need to Know
Key Takeaways A major policy update from U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has narrowed eligibility for TN visas under the United States–Mexico–Canada Agreement (USMCA). This new interpretation affects professionals in fields such as engineering, economics, and computer systems analysis—posing new challenges for both U.S. employers and foreign talent. On June 4, 2025, USCIS issued […]
K-1 Visa to Green Card: Understanding Interview Waivers and Processing Trends
Summary A strong, well-documented K-1–based green card application can sometimes be approved without an interview. In fact, interview-waived cases have been approved in as little as three months, which is significantly faster than standard processing timelines. Although USCIS has been scheduling interviews more quickly than before, many applicants experience delays in final decisions even after […]
H-1B Visa Salary Requirements
Understanding the H-1B Visa Program For more than a decade, the H-1B visa has remained one of the most sought-after nonimmigrant work visas in the United States. Each year, the demand for H-1B visas far exceeds the annual cap of 85,000, with the lottery often reaching its limit within minutes of opening. For instance, in […]