Rural Area In The RIA
In the EB-5 Reform and Integrity Act of 2022 (“RIA”), the term “rural area” is used to identify locations that are eligible for the lower investment threshold of US$800,000 rather than the base investment amount of US$1,050,000. It is designed to promote investment in infrastructure, development, and economic growth in less populated areas According to […]
DHS Ends Automatic EAD Extensions, Emphasizing Vetting and Security
What Was the Automatic EAD Extension and Why Was It Ended? Prior to October 30, 2025, foreign nationals in the United States who filed a timely renewal application for their Employment Authorization Document (EAD) were automatically granted continued work authorization while their renewal application was pending with USCIS – even after their existing EAD expired. […]
Is the EB-5 Immigrant Investor Visa for the U.S. a Secure Path to a Green Card?
The United States continues to be a top destination for individuals seeking world-class healthcare, top-tier education, and a stable environment for business and investment. For many individuals and families, investment-based immigration offers a convenient opportunity to secure lawful permanent residency in the United States. Among the various investment-based immigration options, the EB-5 Immigrant Investor Program […]
Distinguishing U.S. Immigrant Visa Categories: Family, Employment, and Investment
When people think of U.S. immigration, the first thing that comes to mind oftentimes is Lawful Permanent Residence (“Green Card.”) However, the journey to permanent residency is not a one-size-fits-all road. The Green Card system can be divided into several visa categories, each with its own purpose, requirements, and process. Knowing how these categories differ […]
Increased Investment Amounts Of The RIA
The Increased Investment Amounts section of the EB-5 Reform and Integrity Act of 2022 (“RIA”) raises the minimum investment thresholds to adjust for inflation and ensure the continued effectiveness of the program in promoting economic growth and job creation in the United States. Under the updated rules, the standard investment amount required for the EB-5 […]
What Is The EB-5 Reform And Integrity Act of 2022?
The EB-5 Reform and Integrity Act of 2022 (“RIA”) made significant changes to the U.S. EB-5 Immigrant Investor Program. This program enables international investors and their immediate family members to apply for U.S. Permanent Residency and obtain “green cards” by making a significant investment in a U.S. company and creating jobs for U.S. workers. The […]
New Visa Waiver Program ESTA Fees Authorized by the Reconciliation Bill
On July 4, 2025, U.S. President Trump signed into law a Reconciliation Bill passed by both houses of Congress. Among many U.S. immigration-related provisions, the Bill includes new fees for various immigration-related applications. In most cases, these fees are in addition to existing fees. The fees listed are minimum fees that could increase by regulation and […]
Supreme Court Hands the Trump Administration a Partial Victory in Ongoing Birthright Citizenship Litigation
The United States Supreme Court has given President Donald Trump’s Executive Order (“EO”) curbing birthright citizenship a partial victory. The ruling does not impact “Birthright Citizenship” but rather restricts district court judges from issuing nation-wide (or “universal”) injunctions against Executive Orders. In a 6-3 decision, the Supreme Court held that lower federal court judges who […]
F, M and J Student Visa Interviews to Resume with Enhanced Social Media Vetting
The United States Department of State (“DOS”) has instructed Embassies and Consulates to begin accepting new F, M, and J student visa application appointments following a temporary suspension. The pause was initiated to allow DOS to implement policy changes regarding social media vetting. After the suspension, e F, M, and J student visa applicants are […]
United States Announces New Visa Policies Targeting Chinese Nationals
The U.S. Department of State (“DOS”) has announced a new set of visa policies aimed at increasing scrutiny of Chinese nationals seeking to enter the United States. In a press statement issued by Secretary of State Marco Rubio, the DOS outlined forthcoming measures that align with President Trump’s directive to prioritize national interests. Press StatementMarco […]