Uncategorized

On December 12, 2025, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) announced important changes to its photo requirements for several immigration forms. Effective immediately, USCIS requires all photos to be taken within the last 3 years of the application date, and self-submitted photos will no longer be accepted. Instead, photos must be taken by USCIS or a designated, authorized entity. These updates are part of a broader effort to improve national security and reduce identity-related fraud, especially in light of COVID-era flexibilities that previously allowed the use of older photographs. Who Is Affected by This Change? If you're planning to file, or currently have a...

In a noteworthy recent Fox News interview, President Donald Trump publicly acknowledged the critical and ongoing need for highly skilled foreign professionals to sustain and strengthen key U.S. economic sectors. This acknowledgment underscores a central reality that VKM Law Group consistently advises its clients on: America's continued reliance on global talent, particularly within the H-1B specialty occupation visa category, to maintain its competitive edge. The Indispensable Role of Skilled Foreign Workers During his remarks, the former President specifically cited the need for expertise that is not readily available in the current domestic labor pool. He highlighted the importance of foreign talent in...

The upcoming Fiscal Year 2026 H-1B lottery is fast approaching, and employers must move beyond headlines to understand the material changes affecting their workforce strategy. The core of the H-1B program securing skilled foreign talent is still viable, but recent USCIS and Department of State updates require immediate, targeted action. We provide clarity on the new $100,000 petition fee and other critical policy changes. Your proactive preparation now is non-negotiable.   Actionable Insights & Policy Breakdown 1. The New $100,000 Fee: Who is Truly Affected? Despite widespread alarm, the new $100,000 H-1B filing fee does not apply to most current U.S. workers. USCIS guidance has...