The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has issued updated guidance in the Policy Manual limiting the reuse of previously collected photographs for immigration benefit requests. This change standardizes biometric photograph requirements and strengthens identity verification processes. AI Generated Key Policy Provisions Biometric Services Appointment (BSA) Definition Photographs are collected during Biometric Services Appointments (BSA) at Application Support Cen

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security announced a final rule on December 23, 2025, implementing a weighted selection process for H-1B cap-subject petitions, effective February 27, 2026, in time for FY 2027 registrations. Key Rule Changes This shifts from random lottery to wage-based weighting using OEWS levels, favoring higher-skilled, higher-paid workers while preserving access at all levels. Level IV wages get 4 entries (61% chance), Level III gets 3 (45%), Level II gets

If you have a prior arrest record in the U.S., traveling abroad for visa stamping in 2025 can be fraught with challenges. Many applicants with even minor infractions or arrests often not deportable or inadmissible are stuck in prolonged administrative processing (INA 221(g)) at consular posts worldwide in the past few months. This situation suggests an internal directive or informal pause from the U.S. Department of State (DOS) or other agencies that has effectively delayed v

When you apply for a US visa, your application status on the Department of State website changes dynamically as it progresses. Upon approval, you’ll see your visa status change to " Approved ". However, in some cases, the status may temporarily switch to " Refused ", accompanied by instructions to complete further steps as directed by the consular officer. This should not be immediately feared this “Refused” status often corresponds to section 221(g), meaning your applicat

AI Generated Image Earlier in July 25, 2025, the U.S. Department of State announced elimination the aged based interview waivers for non-immigrants, effective September 2, 2025. Our earlier updated on this can be found here . The U.S. Consular Mission to India has recently updated it's system to indicate that children aged 14 or younger and applicants aged 79 and above are not required to personally visit the Visa Application Center (VAC) for biometric appointments. Given th