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Many foreign nationals who come to the U.S. under a J-1 Exchange Visitor visa find themselves caught in a unique legal bind: the two-year home residency requirement, also known as Section 212(e) of the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA). This rule can limit access to certain immigration benefits and delay future U.S. immigration plans. At VKM Law Group, our team regularly works with individuals navigating the complexities of J-1 visa restrictions. In this article, we’ll explain what the home residency requirement restricts — and how options like the O-1 visa can offer a powerful legal workaround. Understanding Section 212(e): The Two-Year Home...

A recent U.S. Supreme Court decision has introduced a new wave of uncertainty for many Venezuelan nationals in the United States. The Court allowed federal authorities to proceed with a change that could limit protections for individuals who received Temporary Protected Status (TPS) under a more recent designation. While not everyone is affected, the implications are serious enough that both individuals and employers need to pay attention. The federal government has been authorized to move forward with plans that may end legal protections and work permissions for certain TPS holders. This specifically targets a group of Venezuelan nationals who received TPS...

The landscape for international students in the United States continues to evolve — and not always in their favor. Most recently, students participating in Optional Practical Training (OPT) programs have come under increased scrutiny from U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). Even minor lapses in employment reporting can now lead to serious consequences, including SEVIS termination and possible removal proceedings. As experienced immigration attorneys in New Jersey, VKM Law Group is here to help you understand what this means, how to stay in compliance, and what actions to take if you're at risk. What’s Happening? OPT allows F-1 international students to work in...