Why are strong EB-1A cases being denied? Drawing on questions from a recent webinar, former USCIS attorneys explain today's adjudication trends, Final Merits Determination issues, and the practical options available after an RFE, NOID, or denial.

Since January 2026, USCIS has directed officers to place an “adjudicatory hold” on many pending immigration cases involving nationals of designated countries — preventing final approval or denial even where review is otherwise complete…

The long-anticipated U.S. “Gold Card” program took a major step forward this month. On November 20, 2025, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) submitted Form I-140G, the petition for the Gold Card program, to the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) for federal review…

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) have announced a significant policy change that will affect thousands of foreign nationals and their employers.

The Department of Homeland Security has announced plans to propose a new rule that could significantly change how USCIS adjudicates EB-1A (Extraordinary Ability) and EB-2 National Interest Waiver (NIW) petitions…

After a few weeks to mull over the strategy and legality of the Gold Card - and after years serving at USCIS OCC on this very portfolio - I have many more questions than answers…

The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has rolled out important policy updates…

If you're an employer or foreign national navigating the U.S. immigration system, you're likely aware of the constant changes to forms, fees, and policies. The latest major update…

Many of you have likely heard about the rising rates of Requests for Evidence (RFEs), increased scrutiny, and a generally stricter interpretation of immigration law…

USCIS has announced it is now taking a tougher stance on individuals who falsify information or make false claims to U.S. citizenship….