For many American and Vietnamese couples looking to immigrate to the United States, a major question is whether they should apply for a K-1 fiancé(é) visa or a CR-1 spousal visa. While both lead to lawful permanent residence status (“Green Card”), they work very differently. A K-1 fiancé(e) visa allows a Vietnamese fiance(é) to enter the United States so the couple can marry within ninety (90) days upon the Vietnamese fiance(é)’s arrival. A CR-1 spousal visa allows a Vietnamese spouse to enter the United States with an immigrant visa and be granted CR-1 status if the couple is married for less than two (2) years. The right choice depends on many factors such as your relationship status, wedding plans, timeline, budget, and long-term priorities. We compare the K-1 fiancé(e) and CR-1 options for American and Vietnamese couples including eligibility, timelines, filing fees, work authorization, international travel, and common situations where
On May 7, 2026, the United States Department of State (“DOS”) announced that it will begin revoking U.S. passports for certain individuals with outstanding child support arrears. Under existing federal regulations (22 CFR §51.62) and DOS policy guidance (7 FAM 1754), DOS may deny or revoke a U.S. passport when the Department of Health and Human Services (“DHHS”) certifies that an individual owes more than US$2,500 in child support. Although this authority has existed for years, the announcement signals increased enforcement efforts. According to recent reports, the initial phase may focus on individuals with arrears exceeding US$100,000, with broader enforcement potentially expanding to all individuals owing more than US$2,500. Once revoked, a passport may no longer be used for international travel. In most cases, the individual will not become eligible for a new passport until DHHS certifies that the child support arrears have been resolved. If an individual is overseas
The EB-5 Reform and Integrity Act of 2022 (“RIA”) introduced several important changes to the EB-5 Regional Center Program. One of the most important protections for investors is commonly referred to as the “grandfathering” provision found in Section 108 of the RIA, titled “Protection from Expired Legislation.” Since its creation in 1993, the EB-5 Regional Center Program has always been a pilot, or “test”, program. Historically, it has required periodic reauthorization by the United States Congress. In the past, temporary lapses in authorization created uncertainty for investors with pending I-526E, Immigrant Petition by Regional Center Investor petitions. Many investors were at risk that USCIS would stop processing their cases if the Regional Center Program expired before petition approval or visa issuance. To address these concerns, Congress included additional protections in the RIA intended to help investors continue moving forward with their immigration process even if the Regional Center Program expires
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