Opinion

Administrative Closure – Why the Attorney General’s Decision is Horrible

Last week, the Attorney General released a decision saying that Immigration Judges and the Board of Immigration Appeals do not have the authority to administratively close a case. What is administrative closure and why is the end of it a big deal? Administrative closure was like putting a case in a coma. The respondent was still technically […]

Administrative Closure – Why the Attorney General’s Decision is Horrible Read More »

It’s Not You (Or Your Attorney), It’s Them: USCIS Processing Times Slow Significantly

Six months ago, we were telling clients that their work cards should be adjudicated within 3-4 months. Today, I’m telling clients it could be closer to 5-6 months. Last year, people could file for Naturalization and expect an interview within 5-6 months. Today, it’s closer to 12 months. I-90s to replace green cards take nearly 9 months. I-751s

It’s Not You (Or Your Attorney), It’s Them: USCIS Processing Times Slow Significantly Read More »

Jesus the Refugee

Regardless of your faith, or lack thereof, there is no disputing the global and enduring impact of Jesus’s birth. Christmas Day is a perfect time to think about Jesus as a refugee. According to the Bible (Matthew 2:1-15), King Harrod was intimidated by news of the birth of the “King of the Jews.” Since no

Jesus the Refugee Read More »

Travel Ban 3.0

Oh, that pesky travel ban – The Administration keeps trying to push it through, but they keep failing. Last week, two judges (in Hawaii and Maryland) issued restraining orders against the newest travel ban from going fully into effect. What Did Travel Ban 3.0 Look Like? For the most part, the travel ban limited anyone

Travel Ban 3.0 Read More »

Extreme Vetting in the Real World

We’ve heard a lot about “extreme vetting” for visa applicants – for those coming to the United States. It started in March with diplomatic cables sent from DC to Embassies and Consulates around the world. No one was certain what extreme vetting would look like. Visa applicants, especially immigrant visa applicants, submit copious amounts of information, including

Extreme Vetting in the Real World Read More »

Is It Safe?

“Is it safe?” I’ve been asked that question a lot lately. “Is it safe for me to apply for DACA?” “Is it safe for me to go to an interview on my I-130 petition even though I have a removal order?” “Is it safe for me to move while my Naturalization application is pending?” People

Is It Safe? Read More »