Navigating the U.S. immigration system can feel overwhelming, especially when your future or your family's future is involved. If you are preparing an immigration application, you may be wondering: Is it better to handle the process yourself or hire an immigration attorney? The answer depends on your immigration history, the type of application you are filing, and whether your case involves legal complications. Understanding your options can help you make a more informed deci

What immigrants should know about recent changes to the public charge policy and how to prepare for their immigration interview. Immigration interviews can be stressful, especially when applicants are unsure what questions they may be asked. Recently, education, professional qualifications, and work skills have become important topics in discussions about U.S. immigration policy. But what does this mean for immigrants applying for a Green Card or another immigration benefit?

A Green Card does not always mean that a person has permanent resident status without conditions. In certain situations, USCIS grants conditional permanent residence, which is generally valid for two years. Understanding what a conditional Green Card means—and taking the correct steps to remove the conditions—is important to protect your resident status. What Is a Conditional Green Card? A conditional Green Card is a type of lawful permanent resident status that comes with co

For many family-based immigration cases, the financial sponsor plays an important role in demonstrating that the intending immigrant will have adequate financial support in the United States. But what happens if your sponsor loses their job, their income decreases, or they can no longer meet the financial requirements? A change in the sponsor's financial situation does not necessarily mean that the immigration case is over. However, the appropriate solution depends on what ch

Have you been waiting for an immigrant visa interview at a U.S. embassy or consulate, or were you surprised to receive notice that your interview was postponed? You are not alone. In 2026, immigrant visa applicants around the world have experienced appointment delays and rescheduling as the U.S. Department of State updates how consular officers evaluate public charge concerns. For families already waiting months, or even years, to reunite in the United States, another delay c

Waiting for an immigration case can be stressful, especially when you don't know what is happening with your application or petition. Fortunately, USCIS allows applicants and petitioners to check the status of many immigration cases online using their receipt number. In this quick guide, we'll explain how to check your case status, what common updates mean, and what to do if your case appears to be delayed. Step 1: Find Your USCIS Receipt Number Your receipt number is a uniqu

A major immigration-law decision issued in August 2026 has changed how certain trips outside the United States under Advance Parole may affect unlawful-presence bars. Here’s what immigrants need to know before traveling. For years, Advance Parole provided an important travel option for certain immigrants with pending applications or temporary immigration protections. In particular, a 2012 Board of Immigration Appeals (BIA) decision, Matter of Arrabally and Yerrabelly, establi

If you are applying for a family-based Green Card or immigrant visa, Form I-864, Affidavit of Support, is one of the most important documents in the process. USCIS requires it in cases to help ensure that the person immigrating to the U.S. will not become a public charge, dependent on the Government, but rather that the Petitioner or joint sponsor will be financially responsible. Although it may look like a simple financial form, the I-864 is actually a legally enforceable c

Applying for a marriage-based Green Card is an exciting milestone, but many couples feel nervous when it comes time for the interview. While it's completely normal to be anxious, proper preparation can make a significant difference in your experience and increase your confidence. The purpose of the interview is for U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) to confirm that your marriage is genuine and not entered into solely for immigration benefits. By understanding w

📱"Did you see immigration advice on TikTok or Facebook? Before you believe it, make sure it's true." Social media is full of immigration opinions on the law, but not everything you see online is accurate. Many immigrants make important decisions based on viral videos, friends' recommendations, or unverified posts, which can put their immigration cases at risk. It is more urgent than ever to consult with experienced immigration attorneys who you can verify are licensed by a S

The conditions and rules inside immigration detention centers are changing. For many immigrant families, the possibility of a loved one being detained by ICE can be one of the most stressful and uncertain experiences they face. Unfortunately, even people without criminal records and other minor immigration violations have been subject to detention in 2026. Once a person is in a detention center, it can take at least 2 weeks to process their release, if they are eligible for b

During times of immigration uncertainty, many people turn to social media, community groups, or friends and relatives for advice. However, not all information shared is accurate. Some immigration myths have been repeated for years, and although they may sound harmless, they can seriously put your case, your stability, and your family’s future at risk. Misinformation can lead to rushed decisions, legal mistakes, and false expectations. That is why it is important to understand

USCIS released a new policy memorandum (PM‑602‑0199), and it’s already raising questions for many applicants pursuing adjustment of status under INA § 245(a). That is for people applying for a green card without leaving the U.S. The key takeaway is: USCIS will now apply a more robust discretionary review to most adjustment of status applications. In other words, meeting the basic eligibility requirements on the I‑485 form is no longer the end of the analysis. Before, people

Over the years, DACA has provided thousands of young immigrants—often called Dreamers—with a fragile sense of security: the ability to work legally, build a future, and avoid deportation, at least temporarily. With the latest court decision, that protection just became more uncertain. New Immigration Decision Weakens DACA Protections On April 24, 2026, the Board of Immigration Appeals (BIA) issued a precedent decision that could significantly impact DACA recipients facing re

A new executive order on U.S. elections could significantly change how states verify voter eligibility—raising important concerns for naturalized U.S. citizens. At our office, we frequently hear from individuals who need to correct errors on their naturalization certificates—issues that have already caused problems with Social Security benefits and other important matters. With these potential changes, ensuring your records are accurate is more important than ever. Although t

A U visa is a powerful form of immigration relief available to victims of certain crimes in the United States. It allows non-citizens to remain in the U.S., obtain a work permit , and eventually apply for a green card —all while assisting law enforcement in important goals of protecting the most vulnerable. For many immigrants, the U visa provides both protection from deportation and a pathway to long-term stability. What Is a U Visa? The U visa (U nonimmigrant status) is

We recently had the honor of participating in a significant peace event organized by L.A.U.R.A. in Los Angeles, California. This initiative brings together diverse community groups with a common goal: to raise awareness about the violence affecting our youth and to promote safer communities. This event brought together community leaders, local organizations, families, and human rights advocates to reflect on the impact of violence in our communities and, above all , to remem

Important immigration policy changes in 2026 are affecting green card holders (lawful permanent residents) across the United States. From business loan restrictions to increased travel scrutiny and stricter public charge enforcement, permanent residents are facing new challenges. If you are a green card holder, it is critical to speak with an experienced immigration attorney to understand how these changes may impact your specific case. Many lawful permanent residents are al

In late 2025, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security unveiled a proposed regulation that could significantly tighten how immigration officials judge an immigrant’s eligibility for permanent legal status based on their use of public assistance. Under this policy benefits such as SNAP (food stamps), Medicare, and even some state-funded health and social services could be counted against applicants for green cards or other immigration statuses. What the “Public Charge” Rule Is

Trump Suspends Immigrant Visa Processing for 75 Countries: Full List and What It Means in 2026 In a major immigration policy shift, the Trump administration has announced the suspension of immigrant visa processing for citizens of 75 countries , a decision that will significantly affect legal pathways to permanent residence in the United States. The measure took effect on January 21, 2026 , and is set to pause the processing of immigrant visas only —those leading to lawful pe