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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...

The December 2025 Visa Bulletin brings crucial, albeit modest, forward movement in several key Employment-Based (EB) categories, signaling an open window for strategic filings. We also welcome the highly anticipated extension of the Religious Worker (SR) program through January 30, 2026. At VKM Law Group, we believe in providing our clients with a proactive strategy. The time for qualified applicants to prepare and file is now to capitalize on these advances before visa demand shifts the dates again in the new year.   Employment-Based Preferences: Final Action Dates The most promising movement is seen in the high-demand, high-skilled categories. This is a clear indicator...

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has delivered a significant blow to employment continuity for many foreign national workers. Effective immediately, the 540-day automatic extension for most Employment Authorization Document (EAD) renewal applicants has officially ended under the Interim Final Rule published on October 30, 2025. This is not a minor adjustment; it is a fundamental shift in I-9 compliance and workforce management that demands immediate action from every HR professional and employer utilizing foreign talent. The Immediate Threat to Workforce Stability Previously, the extended 540-day window allowed employees to maintain work authorization while USCIS processed often lengthy EAD renewals. That safety net...