As of May 26, 2024, through November 25, 2025, Burma has been granted an extension and redesignation for Temporary Protected Status (TPS), marking a significant development for both current beneficiaries and potential new applicants. Please continue reading to learn more about Burma’s protected status and what it may mean for you. What Does The Extension for Burma’s Protected Status Mean? The decision to extend and redesignate Burma for TPS is a response to the ongoing extraordinary and temporary conditions within the country, including the aftermath of a military coup that ousted its democrat ..read more

The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has taken a significant leap forward in enhancing the integration process for refugees. With the introduction of a streamlined process for Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization, eligible refugees can now navigate their first steps in the United States with greater ease and efficiency. This change is not just administrative; it’s a transformative approach to facilitating refugees’ rights to work, supporting their independence, and contributing to their new communities. Read on to learn more about the recent updates to refugee ..read more

The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has announced several significant updates affecting H-1B visa petitions for the fiscal year 2025. These changes, which include the closing of the initial registration period, alterations to the Form I-129 filing locations, and the introduction of new fees and form editions, mark important shifts in the H-1B visa application process. Please continue reading and reach out to a New York immigration lawyer from our firm to learn about the most recent announcements concerning H-1B applicants. What Has Changed with the H-1B Visa Registration and ..read more

The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) plays a crucial role in managing the flow of temporary non-agricultural workers into the country through the H-2B visa program. As we move further into fiscal year (FY) 2024, significant updates and deadlines are on the horizon for employers looking to hire foreign workers under this program. Please continue reading to learn more. What Is the H-2B Cap, and How Does It Affect Employers? The H-2B visa program is subject to a cap set by Congress, limiting the number of foreign workers allowed into the U.S. each fiscal year. For the latter half ..read more

If you are in the United States and realize you’ve overstayed your visa, you most likely have several questions about the future of your stay in the United States. Read on and reach out to a New York City immigration lawyer from the Lightman Law Firm to learn what happens if you overstay your visa. What Are the Immediate Consequences of Overstaying a Visa? The moment your visa expires, your legal status in the United States becomes invalid. Initially, this does not trigger automatic detection or immediate action by immigration authorities. However, the implications can be significant and far-r ..read more

Recently, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) unveiled a new chapter for organizations and legal representatives involved in H-1B visa applications. On February 28, 2024, USCIS launched new myUSCIS organizational accounts, marking a shift in how H-1B registrations, petitions, and requests for premium processing services are managed. Read on and reach out to a seasoned New York City immigration lawyer from the Lightman Law Firm to learn more. What Are the New myUSCIS Organizational Accounts? The newly introduced myUSCIS organizational accounts are designed to facilitate a collabor ..read more

United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has announced an important update regarding re-parole for Ukrainian nationals and their close relatives residing in the United States. Please continue reading and reach out to a seasoned New York City immigration lawyer from the Lightman Law Firm to learn more. Here are some of the questions you may have: What Does the New USCIS Announcement Entail? As of February 27, 2024, Ukrainians and their immediate family members in the U.S. are presented with the option to seek re-parole. This initiative aims to provide them with a temporary ext ..read more

If you are a green card holder currently facing deportation from the United States, you may feel overwhelmed and unsure of where to turn. Fortunately, with the right New York City deportation defense lawyer in your corner, you may have a wide variety of potential defenses at your disposal. Please continue reading and contact Lightman Law Firm to learn more. What Are the Best Defenses Against Deportation? For green card holders facing deportation, understanding and effectively leveraging available defenses is crucial. Depending on the circumstances of your individual case, you may be able to us ..read more

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has introduced significant updates to the H-1B visa registration and application process. These changes are aimed at enhancing the integrity of the system and minimizing fraud. A key aspect of this update is a revamped registration process that ensures equal chances for all beneficiaries, regardless of the number of registrations submitted on their behalf. How Will the New Rules Impact the H-1B Registration Process? The revised rules establish a more beneficiary-focused approach to the H-1B registration process. This means that selections will ..read more

In a recent move, the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has announced a final rule to revise fees associated with immigration and naturalization benefit requests. This marks the first adjustment since 2016 and is aimed at enhancing the agency’s ability to cover operational costs and expedite the processing of applications. These changes, effective from April 1, 2024, are the outcome of an extensive fee review mandated by law. Why Are These Adjusted Immigration & Naturalization Fees Necessary? USCIS’s comprehensive review revealed that the existing fee schedule was insuffici ..read more