USCIS

H-2B Visa Cap Hit for FY 2025: What Employers Need to Know Now
United States

H-2B Visa Cap Hit for FY 2025: What Employers Need to Know Now

24 April 2025, 9:01 AM EDT Purnima Mann Comments Off on H-2B Visa Cap Hit for FY 2025: What Employers Need to Know Now

The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) announced that the 19,000 additional H-2B visas for returning workers in early FY 2025 (April 1–May 14, 2025) have been fully allocated. The cap, part of a temporary final rule to address labor shortages, was reached by April 18, 2025. These visas support seasonal industries like hospitality and landscaping, but the rapid closure highlights intense demand. Employers who missed the deadline face challenges filling critical roles, while future allocations for late FY 2025 remain uncertain. Visit the USCIS website for more on the H-2B program and plan early for FY 2026 to secure temporary workers. […]

Form I-9 & E-Verify 2025 Updates: What Employers Need to Know Now
E-Verify

Form I-9 & E-Verify 2025 Updates: What Employers Need to Know Now

9 April 2025, 9:11 AM EDT Purnima Mann Comments Off on Form I-9 & E-Verify 2025 Updates: What Employers Need to Know Now

USCIS updated Form I-9 and E-Verify, changing “noncitizen” to “alien” for work authorization status and revising List B document wording. The new Form I-9 (01/20/25) also includes an updated DHS Privacy Notice. Employers can use this version or valid older ones (08/01/23) but must select “An alien authorized to work” in E-Verify, even with older forms. These minor changes align with legal standards, ensuring compliance amid rising I-9 inspections. Stay compliant—update your systems and train your team now!
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U.S. Travel Warnings for Green Card, H-1B, and F-1 Holders: Is It Safe to Leave?
United States

U.S. Travel Warnings for Green Card, H-1B, and F-1 Holders: Is It Safe to Leave?

22 March 2025, 9:00 AM EDT Purnima Mann Comments Off on U.S. Travel Warnings for Green Card, H-1B, and F-1 Holders: Is It Safe to Leave?

U.S. immigration attorneys are urging Indian Green Card holders, H-1B workers, and F-1 students to avoid international travel as of March 20, 2025, citing a surge in forced residency surrenders and visa delays under Trump’s administration. Elderly Indians are being coerced into abandoning Green Cards at airports, while tightened “dropbox” rules—now a 12-month renewal window—snarl H-1B and F-1 visa processes. Experts warn of “extreme vetting,” with consular officers rejecting applications unpredictably, stranding travelers abroad for months. “Think twice before leaving,” says attorney Kripa Upadhyay, as stories of detentions and lost livelihoods mount. With India off the travel ban list, the advisory still reflects a broader crackdown, pushing long-term residents to secure citizenship fast. Is America closing its doors? This escalating crisis demands attention—share it now. […]