USCIS has changed its RFE/NOID policy. Effective immediately, officers may deny certain immigration filings without first issuing an RFE or NOID when required initial evidence is missing or eligibility isn't established at filing.
Bottom line: File complete cases the first time, don't rely on getting an RFE to fix deficiencies later, strong legal preparation matters more than ever.
#USCIS #Immigration #RFE #NOID #ImmigrationLaw
USCIS has announced that it has received enough petitions to reach both the FY 2027 H-1B regular cap and the additional 20,000 U.S. advanced-degree exemption (master's cap).
If you weren't selected, don't assume your immigration options have ended. Depending on your circumstances, there may be other employment-based strategies worth exploring.
When an immigration case doesn't fit neatly into the standard process, careful legal analysis and strategic planning become even more important.
#H1B #USCIS #ImmigrationLaw #BusinessImmigration
Lawful immigration status ≠ lawful presence.
They're related, but they're not the same. A person can be lawfully present without maintaining a formal immigration status, and losing status does not always mean unlawful presence begins immediately.
That distinction can affect: Green card eligibility; Employment authorization; Driver's licenses; The 3- and 10-year unlawful presence bars
In immigration law, a single word can change the legal outcome. Don't rely on social media or internet myths to understand your rights. If your future in the U.S. is at stake, consult an experienced immigration attorney who can evaluate your specific circumstances.
#ImmigrationLaw #USCIS #GreenCard #ImmigrationAttorney
Interesting article discussing the increased scrutiny of marriage-based immigration cases:
https://t.co/m2dxBDmho8
My takeaway: Marriage to a U.S. citizen remains a valid path to permanent residence and citizenship, but thorough preparation is more important than ever. Review your immigration history, disclose issues honestly, and file a complete application. #ImmigrationLaw #USCIS #GreenCard
Employment-based immigration isn't just about visas, it's about workforce planning and economic growth.
A new map shows which states could be most affected by proposed federal green card changes.
The current backlog continues to create significant challenges for employers and highly skilled workers alike.
https://t.co/1FYHVk0Pvn
#ImmigrationLaw #GreenCard #PERM #EmploymentImmigration
Thinking about becoming a U.S. citizen?
DHS has proposed increasing the N-400 naturalization filing fee by about 75% (from $760 to $1,330) and eliminating many fee waivers. The proposal is not yet final, but it could significantly increase the cost of citizenship.
If you're eligible for naturalization, now may be the time to review your options.
#USCitizenship #Naturalization #N400 #USCIS #ImmigrationLaw
DHS has clarified that most immigrants seeking green cards will NOT be required to leave the U.S. to complete the process.
Adjustment of Status remains available for many applicants, but USCIS continues to exercise significant discretion in these cases.
If you're considering applying for a green card, careful preparation matters more than ever.
#USCIS #GreenCard #AdjustmentOfStatus #ImmigrationLaw
Think there may be a mistake, inconsistency, or omission somewhere in your immigration history?
Don't assume USCIS won't find it because it happened years ago. I'm seeing more cases where old visa applications and prior immigration filings become important during green card and citizenship cases.
If you have concerns about prior statements, misrepresentation issues, or immigration history problems, seek legal advice before filing.
Problems are often easier to address before USCIS raises them.
#USCIS #ImmigrationLaw #GreenCard #Citizenship #I601
The biggest mistake I am seeing right now? People assuming that eligibility alone guarantees approval of an Adjustment of Status application.
Under USCIS's new policy, discretion matters more than ever. The strongest cases will be the ones that tell the whole story, not just submit the forms.
#ImmigrationLaw #AdjustmentOfStatus #GreenCard #USCIS #I485 #ImmigrationAttorney #NewHampshireLawyer #MiamiImmigrationLawyer #USCISMemo
USCIS just issued a major policy memo emphasizing that Adjustment of Status is a discretionary “administrative grace” — not an entitlement.
That means immigration officers may apply greater scrutiny to:
• overstays • unauthorized employment • immigration history • discretionary factors • credibility issues
Strong legal strategy and careful case preparation matter more than ever.
If you are filing for a green card through marriage or employment, now is the time to ensure your case is presented properly.
📍Law Office of Jason M. Sullivan, PLLC 🌐 https://t.co/Fxn8NABcxU
#ImmigrationLaw #USCIS #GreenCard #AdjustmentOfStatus
Recent Legal Challenges to the Trump Administration’s Immigration Pause
Recent changes to U.S. immigration law have left many migrants in limbo as to the status of their cases. In 2025, the Trump Administration paused the applications for people from 39 countries out of concerns about public safety. Since then, millions of people are patiently waiting to see if they will receive an immigration benefit.
Recently, a federal judge has ruled that the Trump Administration’s pause was unlawful and has granted an injunction. Anyone who is seeking to immigrate to the United States must stay abreast of all legal changes, which happen quickly. Contact The Law Office of Jason Sullivan, PLLC, today to speak with an experienced immigration lawyer. We can provide up-to-the-minute information about the current status of U.S. immigration law and help you develop a plan for coming to the U.S. or staying here.
The Trump Administration Acted Unreasonably
In 2025, the Administration decided to pause consideration of applications from 39 countries after an Afghani man killed a National Guard member in Washington, DC. Alleging public safety concerns, the Administration instituted a broad restriction which went into effect on January 1 of this year.
At the same time, the Administration ordered USCIS to pause any decision making on pending applications filed from individuals born in these countries. The pause has impacted a variety of immigration benefits, including:
● H-1B and other employment-based work visa petitions
● Adjustment of status applications (green card)
● Employment Authorization Documents (EADs)
● DACA renewals
● Naturalization applications
● H-1B and other work visa petitions
● Spousal and family-based visa petitions
Millions of people have been caught in limbo with no clear idea of when a decision will be made on their applications. Indeed, one report stated that almost 6 million people are waiting for a decision on a current application.
However, a federal judge in Massachusetts recently found that the Administration did not provide adequate reasoning to support its decisions, which the judge found were discriminatory.
What’s Next?
Unfortunately for many immigrants, a district court judge does not have the final word on immigration matters. The government might appeal to the First Circuit Court of Appeals, and the case could even end up in front of the U.S. Supreme Court. This victory might be temporary.
Also, the administration can continue to slow down the decision-making process for outstanding applications. It will be hard for a district court judge to force USCIS to move faster than they want to. We anticipate many people will be stuck in limbo for many more months to come, regardless of how higher courts handle this issue.
Hire the Right Immigration Lawyer
During these unsettling times, anyone hoping to come to the U.S., adjust their status, or become a citizen must hire the right immigration lawyer for their case. At our firm, we develop strategies based on our clients’ needs, as well as the current status of immigration law.
Contact our office today to schedule a consultation with an experienced Portsmouth, New Hampshire or Miami, Florida immigration lawyer. Our consultations are private, so any information you share is confidential.
Source:
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https://t.co/8Q6W9QNGEl
Why You Need to Hire an Experienced Miami Immigration Lawyer
The Trump Administrations’ immigration crack-down has forced vulnerable migrants to scramble for help. Unfortunately, as a recent Pro Publica investigation reveals, scammers have made false promises and often posed as lawyers. The result is a generation of migrants defrauded of money and left even more vulnerable than before.
Take control. Contact The Law Office of Jason M. Sullivan, PLLC, to speak with an experienced immigration lawyer about your case. Our firm can provide accurate legal advice and represent you in hearings, as well as inside court.
Immigration Scams in the Age of Social Media
The details in the Pro Publica story are shocking. They show the lengths scammers use to pass themselves off as real lawyers (when they aren’t).
One asylum seeker connected with a woman on Facebook claiming to be a lawyer who offered to help with the immigrant’s asylum hearing. The scam was detailed and even involved a fake courtroom and hearing. At the end, the alleged lawyer claimed over WhatsApp that the asylee had won and could stay in the U.S., which simply wasn’t true. The alleged “hearing” was fake. Unfortunately, the asylee ended up paying this woman almost $10,000 for help, money they had saved for a down payment on their home.
One risk many migrants from Latin America fall prey to is the “notario” fraud. In many Latin American countries, a public notary is a prominent position, and notaries can act as lawyers. In the U.S., however, a notary needs no formal legal training and is certainly not an attorney. It is crucial that new migrants to the U.S. understand the distinction.
Scammers often use social media to connect with vulnerable victims: Facebook, WhatsApp, and TikTok. Scammers often use Artificial Intelligence to create professional-looking photographs or videos. In addition to posing as lawyers, some scammers also pretend to be employees of Homeland Security and might demand payment for protection.
Scammers capitalize on fear and lack of familiarity with the U.S. legal system. Sadly, the number of scams is on the rise. Over the past five years, more than 6,000 complaints have been filed with the Federal Trade Commission regarding immigration fraud, with immigrants losing around $100 million.
Furthermore, victims are left more vulnerable because they did not get the help they needed. Many are quickly arrested and put on a plane for deportation. They are unprepared for their hearings and typically lose, even if they have valid legal defenses to raise. Hiring a legitimate lawyer might have made the difference between staying in the U.S. legally or being deported.
Contact Our Office to Speak with an Immigration Lawyer Today
To avoid falling victim yourself, you should only contact legitimate lawyers. In the U.S., a lawyer should have a law degree and a bar license issued by a state like Florida or New Hampshire. Check for these credentials when looking at a lawyer’s website. Also schedule a consultation to speak directly to the lawyer, ideally in person at their office.
The Law Office of Jason M. Sullivan can help with most immigration needs. A Portsmouth, New Hampshire or Miami, Floridaattorney is standing by.
Source:
https://t.co/7DrWPkpPzY
How to Prove Your Marriage is Bona Fide?
Immigration fraud sometimes takes the form of entering a sham marriage: a U.S. citizen marries a non-citizen for the sole purpose of helping them obtain an immigration benefit. For example, a non-citizen in removal proceedings might marry a neighbor, solely to help them avoid deportation. USCIS is focused on rooting out immigration fraud, so anyone seeking a marriage-based visa will need to prove their marriage is real. How do you go about doing that?
Key Pieces of Evidence
Each case is different, so it is hard to generalize about what you must show to convince USCIS that your marriage is based on real affection and love. But with that caveat out of the way, here are some factors that USCIS will consider:
Shared residence. Proving you live together is an important factor. You can rely on a mortgage or copies of a lease, as well as shared utilities (water, electricity, internet). You might also have the same address on each spouse’s driver’s license.
Financial commingling. This is a critical factor. A marriage is an economic union of two people, so showing you commingle your money can establish that the marriage is legitimate. Some evidence includes joint credit cards or loans (like a mortgage). Joint bank accounts where each spouse deposits their income are also important. Other financial commingling includes joint financial tax returns, as well as beneficiary designations on life insurance or retirement accounts.
Third party affidavits. Your friends can provide affidavits in support of your claim that your marriage is legitimate. The affidavit should explain how the person knows you and what they have observed about the marriage. For example, a friend can explain how they observed your courtship and the time spent with you.
Evidence showing time spent together. It is also important to show how the relationship has developed over time. You might have documents that show you traveled together or photographs showing you attending family birthday parties or get-togethers with friends. Often, when people enter a sham marriage, they only have photos from the marriage ceremony itself. Two people in a legitimate relationship should be able to document time spent together outside the wedding.
Social media posts. Social media has increased in importance in immigration cases. You can share photographs of you and your spouse, as well as posts mentioning them. Ideally, the posts will span several years, showing you have truly entered a serious relationship.
Marriage license. This is a basic piece of information, although it might be hard to obtain if you were married in a foreign country.
You will also need to attend an interview. This is a reason to work closely with an attorney. We can prepare you for common questions and can anticipate any concerns. For example, you and your spouse might have a language barrier, and you need to share how you communicate.
Schedule a Meeting with Our Office
Immigration fraud is a crime, and anyone seeking to sponsor a fiancée or spouse must diligently prove a relationship is bona fide. Contact Attorney Jason M. Sullivan for assistance. Our Miami, Florida and Portsmouth, New Hampshire marriage visa lawyer can identify what evidence is helpful.
Are There Alternatives to an H-1B Visa?
The US caps the number of H-1B visas each year. Currently, the cap is 85,000, so many people who would like this specialty visa end up denied. What are your options? The good news is that there might be other visas available which you qualify for. Before giving up on your dream, reach out to an experienced immigration attorney to discuss all possible alternatives.
Some Visa Alternatives
You might qualify for some other visa categories, depending on your situation.
You are on an F-1 visa.
● Students on an F-1 visa can usually receive work authorization called Optional Practical Training (OPT) once they earn their degree. This authorization allows students to work for an additional 12 months in their field. If you are a STEM graduate, you can request STEM-OPT, which lasts for 24 months.
You only want to visit the U.S. or sign contracts here.
● You should consider a B-1 business visa. You cannot work for a wage or to be paid by a U.S.-based source while on this visa. But you can perform certain business tasks, such as signing contracts or meeting with potential clients.
Your employer has an office in the United States.
● You should investigate the L-1 intracompany transferee visa. This visa allows you to come to work in a U.S.-based office. This visa is limited to certain employees; usually, those who work in an administrative, executive, or technical role. There is no annual cap or lottery.
You have a high level of accomplishment in your field.
● You might apply under an O-1 extraordinary ability visa. The U.S. makes this available to people with high levels of accomplishment in science, education, business, or the arts. You must show sufficient, sustained recognition to qualify. This visa requires a substantial amount of documentation.
You intend to invest in a U.S. business.
● The E-2 treaty investor visa could be the perfect option for you. Some qualifications include being a citizen of a country with a qualifying treaty with the U.S. You also must make a substantial capital investment in a U.S. business. This is a nonimmigrant visa, which means you’ll need to show an intent to leave the U.S. when the visa ends. For those who want to stay permanently, then an EB-5 immigrant investor visa is preferable. Call our office to discuss this and other investment visas.
You intend to work for a university or a nonprofit.
● You might be eligible for the Cap-Exempt H-1B visa, which allows some research institutions and universities to sponsor an H-1B visa which is not subject to the annual cap. This visa has year-round filing.
Call to Discuss Other Options
The above list is not exhaustive. There might be other options which we can discuss which will allow you to either come to the U.S. or stay here legally and work. However, immigration law is in a constant state of flux, so working with a lawyer is beneficial. Contact The Law Office of Jason M. Sullivan to speak with a Portsmouth, NH employment visa lawyer. We have made dreams a reality. Our office also helps those in the Miami, Florida area.
Source:
https://t.co/lhcZtMBR3g
What is Online Presence Review?
Visa applications are given close scrutiny, and part of the fraud detention is the “online presence review” performed by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). This review is part of the standard background vetting, but any applicant must pay close attention to their online footprint, including social media accounts. If USCIS finds information that contradicts your application, you can expect further questioning or even denial of the requested immigration benefit. Reach out to an experienced law firm for help.
What Does USCIS Review?
Probably the short answer is “anything online that relates to you.” However, we can break this down further:
● Social media. Do you have online profiles? If so, then USCIS investigators can look at any profile that is public. They usually check personal information, such as your relationships or your location at various times. For example, if you are claiming to be married but have romantic photos posted with someone else, then USCIS will flag this information.
● Dating profiles. These are certainly relevant for anyone seeking a fiancée or marriage visa.
● Business websites. Businesses of all sorts have websites, many of which list their employees. You might be listed as an employee of a company but be seeking a visa to come to the U.S. and work. USCIS might probe deeper about whether you have left your job.
● Blog posts. USCIS might comb through a blog to determine your political ideals, whether you have advocated violence, or for other information. Reading blog posts might be time-consuming, but an investigator can usually glean crucial information by skimming posts.
Investigators are looking for consistency. In other words, they want to make sure your online information matches the information in your application. Any deviation or departure will not automatically result in a rejection, but USCIS will probably delve deeper.
USCIS fraud investigators can access any publicly available information. For this reason, immigration lawyers typically recommend that applicants set their public profiles to private. However, you might not control all information posted online, such as postings from a previous employer or by friends and family.
For some applicants, making information public is actually helpful. For example, your social media profiles can help establish the duration of your relationship and a bona fide marriage. Each case is different.
The Department of State has recently announced that they are expanding online presence reviews for more visa categories. Beginning in March 2026, they will use online presence review for various nonimmigrant visa classifications: A-3, C-3, G-5, H-3, H-4 dependents, K-1, K-2, K-3, Q, R-1, R-2, S, T, and U.
Online presence reviews are popular with USCIS, and we expect it to continue to expand. If you have questions about any publicly available information, then reach out to an attorney for help.
Call Our Office to Discuss Your Case
The Law Office of Jason M. Sullivan has helped immigrants in Portsmouth, New Hampshire and Miami, Florida. If you have a question about online presence review or any other issue, call our office. A Portsmouth immigration lawyer can answer your questions and develop a strategy for requesting and receiving a benefit.
Source:
https://t.co/DGQqa9FBAV
What is Online Presence Review?
Visa applications are given close scrutiny, and part of the fraud detention is the “online presence review” performed by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). This review is part of the standard background vetting, but any applicant must pay close attention to their online footprint, including social media accounts. If USCIS finds information that contradicts your application, you can expect further questioning or even denial of the requested immigration benefit. Reach out to an experienced law firm for help.
What Does USCIS Review? Probably the short answer is “anything online that relates to you.” However, we can break this down further:
● Social media. Do you have online profiles? If so, then USCIS investigators can look at any profile that is public. They usually check personal information, such as your relationships or your location at various times. For example, if you are claiming to be married but have romantic photos posted with someone else, then USCIS will flag this information.
● Dating profiles. These are certainly relevant for anyone seeking a fiancée or marriage visa.
● Business websites. Businesses of all sorts have websites, many of which list their employees. You might be listed as an employee of a company but be seeking a visa to come to the U.S. and work. USCIS might probe deeper about whether you have left your job.
● Blog posts. USCIS might comb through a blog to determine your political ideals, whether you have advocated violence, or for other information. Reading blog posts might be time-consuming, but an investigator can usually glean crucial information by skimming posts.
Investigators are looking for consistency. In other words, they want to make sure your online information matches the information in your application. Any deviation or departure will not automatically result in a rejection, but USCIS will probably delve deeper.
USCIS fraud investigators can access any publicly available information. For this reason, immigration lawyers typically recommend that applicants set their public profiles to private. However, you might not control all information posted online, such as postings from a previous employer or by friends and family.
For some applicants, making information public is actually helpful. For example, your social media profiles can help establish the duration of your relationship and a bona fide marriage. Each case is different.
The Department of State has recently announced that they are expanding online presence reviews for more visa categories. Beginning in March 2026, they will use online presence review for various nonimmigrant visa classifications: A-3, C-3, G-5, H-3, H-4 dependents, K-1, K-2, K-3, Q, R-1, R-2, S, T, and U.
Online presence reviews are popular with USCIS, and we expect it to continue to expand. If you have questions about any publicly available information, then reach out to an attorney for help.
Call Our Office to Discuss Your Case
The Law Office of Jason M. Sullivan has helped immigrants in Portsmouth, New Hampshire and Miami, Florida. If you have a question about online presence review or any other issue, call our office. A Portsmouth immigration lawyer can answer your questions and develop a strategy for requesting and receiving a benefit.
Source:
https://t.co/DGQqa9FBAV
What is Consular Processing?
Consular processing is a critical stage for many people hoping to come to the United States as lawful permanent residents. Someone who is already in the United States can apply to adjust their status while continuing to reside in the States. But if you are outside the country, then all processing will happen at the consulate or embassy nearest you. Consular processing sometimes goes smoothly, while other applicants encounter frustration and delays. Call The Law Office of Jason M. Sullivan for answers to your questions and assistance.
An Overview of Consular Processing
Consular processing is the method by which most individuals currently outside the United States apply for and obtain lawful permanent residency (i.e., a green card). It is an essential step on your journey to legally come to the United States. Many people outside the U.S. undergo consular processing when they seek to immigrate through employment or family sponsorship, as well as through other categories.
A key part of consular processing is the interview. Typically, an employer or family member in the U.S. files an immigration petition for you. Once the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services approves the petition, it is forwarded to the National Visa Center for additional processing. You then receive an interview date.
You must gather required documents for presentation at the consulate or embassy. Typically, an applicant brings marriage certificates, birth certificates, educational credentials, and other documents. You will also undergo a medical examination.
At the consular interview, the officer will review your application and supporting documents to help determine eligibility for a visa. Many applicants are nervous about this step, which is why it is critical to work with an attorney. A lawyer can help you understand what to expect and prepare you for the questions asked.
The interview is required to help the officer decide whether to grant an immigrant visa. Some admissibility issues include a criminal history or dishonesty or discrepancies on your application. Applicants typically receive a decision within 4-9 months, but some people wait longer.
If you are not approved, then there are limited options for appeal. That is a major difference compared to being inside the U.S. and requesting an adjustment of status. Work with a lawyer to determine if you should try to seek a visa to enter the U.S. first and then adjust status, or if consular processing is the right option for you.
Contact Our Office for Assistance
Our firm has helped many residents and employers in the U.S. file immigration petitions. We can guide you through the process of sponsoring a family member or employees. The current political climate has made the process challenging.
We can also provide insight into the different aspects of consular processing for the person being sponsored. Many people have questions about what their relatives in a different country can expect, and we are happy to answer questions or address concerns. Contact our firm to speak with an experienced green card lawyer in Portsmouth, New Hampshire and Miami, Florida.
Common Hurdles to Adjustment of Status
Obtaining a green card is a dream for many immigrants. Once you adjust your status to Lawful Permanent Resident, you can live and work in the U.S. indefinitely. However, the process is anything but straightforward. Many applicants stumble when they hit some well-known hurdles, so it is critical to employ the services of an experienced green card lawyer immediately. We can identify any possible challenges on the horizon and implement a plant to address them. Call The Law Office of Jason M. Sullivan, PLLC, to speak with a Portsmouth, NH immigration lawyer.
5 Hurdles & How to Overcome Them
1. Identifying the Requirements for a Green Card
There is no single path to adjusting status. Instead, the rules that apply will depend on how you qualify, such as through employment or a family relationship. The first challenge is identifying what steps you must take based upon your status.
2. Failing to Provide Complete and Accurate Documentation
The adjustment of status process is heavy on paperwork. You will need to provide complete supporting documentation. Some documents include:
● Birth certificates or marriage certificates
● Translations of certain documents
● Financial sponsorship forms
If you are missing documentation, then USCIS can send a Request for Evidence (RFE), but the entire process can get bogged down. It’s best to submit everything required all at once when you submit your application.
3. Addressing Any Past Immigration Violations
If you want to adjust your status, then you should expect USCIS to take a full review of your past compliance with immigration law. Any violation in your past could operate as a bar to admissibility.
For example, you might have entered without permission or overstayed a visa. Those facts will come out during the green card process and can result in a denial.
4. Addressing Criminal History
Another hurdle is having a criminal record, which could bar you from receiving a green card. For example, any crime of “moral turpitude” is a barrier. These crimes include crimes based on dishonesty, such as fraud or theft, as well as assault or domestic violence. Even one conviction could trigger inadmissibility, frustrating your ability to adjust status.
Other disqualifying crimes include drug offenses, vice crimes, money laundering, and smuggling or human trafficking. Those with two or more convictions may also be disqualified. Contact our office to review your criminal record before applying.
5. Preparing for Your Interview
The interview is a critical part of the application process. No applicant should overlook it. Instead, prepare for the interview by talking about common questions with your attorney. Preparation can help you answer questions truthfully and confidently.
Speak with a Green Card Lawyer in Portsmouth or Miami
Immigration regulations continue to change with dizzying speed. The Trump Administration has already upended established rules and procedures for millions of noncitizens. Call the Law Office of Jason M. Sullivan today to discuss the adjustment of status process. A green card lawyer in Portsmouth, New Hampshire and Miami, Florida can discuss whether you qualify to request a waiver of inadmissibility and help find supporting documents.
Travel Ban Affects Dozens of Countries
The Trump Administration has put in place a travel ban affecting dozens of countries. This ban will make it hard for many noncitizens to obtain permission to come to the U.S. The law changes rapidly, with the government adding new countries to the list in the first few months of 2026.
Call The Law Office of Jason M. Sullivan, PLLC, to discuss any immigration issue you have. The travel restrictions were also coupled with a pause on immigration benefits, which might affect you. Our firm can review your legal options in the ever-shifting landscape.
What Countries Are Impacted by the Travel Ban?
The Trump Administration first announced entry restrictions for nationals from 12 countries in June 2025, along with a partial ban for seven more countries. In December 2025, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) implemented a pause on requests for immigration benefits for those who were impacted by the travel ban.
The pause limited the ability of USCIS to approve Adjustment of Status and Employment Authorization Documents (EAD) for nationals from the countries impacted. In short, the Trump Administration made it much harder for people to obtain green cards if they hailed from a country on the list. In December 2025, the Trump Administration extended the travel ban to 38 countries in all, with USCIS extending the benefit pause.
The full travel ban and restrictions apply to nationals from a variety of countries, including:
● Afghanistan
● Burkina Faso
● Burma
● Chad
● Republic of Congo
● Equatorial Guinea
● Eritrea
● Haiti
● Iran
● Laos
● Libya
● Mali
● Niger
● Palestinian Authority
● Sierra Leone
● Somalia
● South Sudan
● Sudan
● Syria
● Yemen
Visa Issuance Also Paused
The Administration also paused visa issuance for certain countries, beginning in January 2026. The purpose was to allow the Department of State to perform a review of policies applicable to visa applicants from countries the government deemed “high risk” for committing welfare fraud. The State Department will continue to accept applications and will conduct interviews, but no visas will be issued until the Department gives future notice.
Certain exceptions exist for persecuted minorities in Iran, those participating in certain sporting events, and green card holders (lawful permanent residents). It’s best to check to see if you qualify for a visa or to double check the current status of the restrictions. Our firm can discuss the process for obtaining a visa if you fit into a narrow exception.
Call Our Office to Discuss Your Plans
The fast-changing immigration landscape has upended the plans of many people to travel to the United States and become lawful permanent residents. Other people are impacted by the Administration’s pause of immigration benefits, such as Adjustment of Status. Call Attorney Jason M. Sullivan to discuss your situation. Our firm can meet to go over where your case stands. We have deep experience helping people obtain non-immigration visas, adjust status, or become naturalized citizens.
In a private consultation, a Portsmouth, New Hampshire immigration lawyer can answer your questions and develop a game plan. We serve those in New Hampshire and Miami, Florida.
Sources:
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https://t.co/k20hZAzsO1
Why AI Isn’t a Substitute for an Immigration Lawyer
AI programs like ChatGPT are all the rage and increasingly represent a large share of search engine traffic. Many students use Chat and similar programs to write papers and do homework. However, using Chat and other AI programs for legal research is a serious mistake. Anyone applying for a visa or green card should work with a lawyer who can analyze their specific circumstances and help them navigate the system. Below, we look at several reasons why Artificial Intelligence isn’t a substitute for legal assistance.
4 Reasons Not to Use AI for Your Immigration Case
1. AI Offers Inaccurate Legal Advice
Tools like Chat simply scrape information from websites to use when answering user questions. The answers these programs give will be no better than the information that is currently online.
Some of that information is presently outdated, especially with immigration law undergoing seismic changes every month during the second Trump Administration. A computer program cannot keep up with the weekly updates to immigration law. Instead, Chat might pull an answer from a blog post that is 10 years old and offer it to you as an authoritative analysis of the current state of the law.
At our firm, we stay abreast of all changes in immigration law, especially those relating to travel bans, H-1B visas, adjustment of status, and work authorization. That way, we provide our clients with accurate advice.
2. Chat and Other AI Programs Offer General Information
Every immigration decision is made by a human being. An experienced lawyer has presented cases to immigration judges or the Board of Immigration Appeals. We know what evidence these judges find useful, and we can present a case in a compelling manner.
AI programs offer generic information about the law, gleaned by reviewing hundreds of websites. They cannot tell you how to tailor your presentation in an effective way.
3. Your Questions to AI Might Not Be Confidential
Any communication you make to a lawyer is confidential. Your lawyer cannot reveal any communication without your permission. That means the government cannot force your lawyer to testify against you.
However, it’s unclear whether questions people ask in Chat or another AI program are privileged. One federal court has decided the answer is “no.” It’s possible the government could uncover evidence to use against you. That is a huge problem if you ask questions about criminal activity which you have kept hidden from the government.
4. Mistakes are Costly
You might save some money upfront relying on AI to fill out an application or prepare for an interview. But if you make a mistake, then you are back at square one. You’ll need to hire a lawyer to clean up the mess.
Contact Our Law Office Today
AI programs have revolutionized the way people obtain information off the internet. Unfortunately, these programs provide a false sense of confidence and are not a substitute for the help of a lawyer. Call The Law Office of Jason M. Sullivan, PLLC. Animmigration lawyer in Portsmouth, New Hampshire and Miami, Florida can provide clear guidance on any immigration issues you have.
Source:
https://t.co/Ef21BPxsw4