Direct U.S. Immigration

In an effort to reduce visa overstays and improve immigration compliance, the U.S. Department of State introduced a pilot program requiring visa bonds for certain countries where visa overstays are common. As of 2025, foreign nationals from Malawi and Zambia applying for B-1 (business) or B-2 (tourist) visas may be required to post a refundable bond as part of their visa application process.   

Applying for a U.S. visa abroad? This complete Podcast consular processing guide walks you through every step — from DS-260 filing to interview preparation and handling administrative delays. Get insider tips to avoid common mistakes and make your visa interview a success.  

Are you an entrepreneur dreaming of launching your startup in the U.S.? This Podcast episode covers the best visa options for founders, from the O-1 and L-1 to E-2 and EB-2 NIW pathways. Learn how to legally build, operate, and grow your business in the U.S. — and what investors need to know.  

Recent USCIS updates to the Child Status Protection Act (CSPA) could affect thousands of H-1B families. Learn how the new rule determines your child's "immigration age," who could lose eligibility, and what parents can do to safeguard their children's green card status.  

USCIS has introduced a policy addressing applicants with "anti-American ideology." What does this mean for immigrants applying for citizenship or green cards? In this Podcast, we analyze the policy, its legal implications, and how you can make sure your application isn't affected.  

Could immigrants really be deported without a court hearing? Under the latest ICE enforcement guidelines, due process rights are being questioned. In this Podcast, we explain what the new rules mean, who could be at risk, and how to protect yourself or your loved ones.  

Planning to travel abroad with DACA or TPS in 2025? Learn how Advance Parole works, who qualifies, and how to avoid risks at re-entry. This Podcast covers everything you need for safe travel — from USCIS filing tips to airport inspection advice.  

USCIS just updated its "Good Moral Character" standards — and it could affect your green card, naturalization, or other immigration applications. In this Podcast, we break down what's changed, who's most affected, and what steps you can take to protect your case. Stay informed and prepared for your 2025 immigration journey.  

Did you know your visa may be monitored even after approval? USCIS's Continuous Vetting system affects over 55 million U.S. visa holders. In this Podcast, we explain how it works, what data USCIS monitors, and how to stay compliant to avoid immigration problems in 2025.  

If you're an H-1B employer in the U.S., understanding your tax obligations in 2025 is critical. From payroll taxes to FICA/FUTA compliance, this video breaks down everything you need to know to stay lawful and avoid costly mistakes.  

Renewing your F-1 student visa in 2025? The process has changed, and students now face mandatory social media disclosures, longer processing times, and stricter U.S. requirements. This Podcast outlines the updated procedures and requirements to ensure a smooth renewal process for F-1 visa holders.  

Looking to immigrate to the U.S. through investment? The EB-5 Immigrant Investor Visa is a pathway for Nigerians who want U.S. residency through business investment. This Podcast provides a comprehensive overview of the EB-5 visa, its benefits, and the steps to apply, along with alternative visa options for Nigerian investors.  

Applying for asylum in the United States in 2025? Immigration policies have changed, and it's critical to understand the new rules if you want to maximize your chances of approval.  

Are you on an H-1B visa and wondering if you can trade stocks, invest in mutual funds, or try passive income strategies in the U.S.? In this 2025 guide, I explain the rules and limits for H-1B visa holders when it comes to stock trading, passive investing, and side income.  

With the 2026 FIFA World Cup fast approaching, many soccer enthusiasts from around the globe are gearing up to witness the excitement in the United States, which will be one of the host countries. If you're planning to attend and are not a U.S. citizen or permanent resident, securing a tourist visa (formally known as a B-2 Visitor Visa) is an essential step.   

The $1,000 self-deportation and travel assistance program is part of a new initiative by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to encourage voluntary departures among certain non-citizens living in the U.S. without lawful status. Under this policy, individuals who choose to leave voluntarily and follow DHS procedures may qualify for financial support to cover their travel costs.  

When U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officers arrive for enforcement actions, it can create significant tension and uncertainty. Whether you are an employer, an employee, or an individual facing such a situation, understanding your rights and responsibilities is crucial.  

U.S. immigration authorities are cracking down on visa fraud more than ever in 2025. Don't risk your future! This Podcast outlines the most common red flags and costly mistakes applicants make when applying for student, work, or family visas.  

Bringing a family member to the U.S.? Learn the full process of sponsoring your spouse, child, parent, or sibling for a green card. With the complexities of this type of process, be sure to stick around until the end to get a bonus tip that can save you time during the application process.   We'll cover everything you need to know, including eligibility requirements, necessary documentation, and steps to file the petition.    

The H-1B visa program is changing again in 2025—are you ready? This Podcast explains the recent policy changes, lottery updates, and what they mean for applicants and employers. Perfect for tech workers, recent grads, and companies hiring foreign talent.  

Are you a healthcare worker aiming to move to the U.S.? This Podcast explains the visa options available to doctors, nurses, therapists, and more in 2025. From H-1B to EB-2 NIW, we'll break down how to qualify, what to expect, and where the biggest opportunities are.  

Thinking about applying for the National Interest Waiver (NIW) in 2025? This Podcast breaks down the latest updates you NEED to know—from eligibility changes to new trends USCIS is following. Whether you're a STEM professional, researcher, or entrepreneur, this guide will help you navigate the NIW process with confidence.  

Visa denial can be confusing and frustrating. Whether it's a tourist, student, work, or immigrant visa. This Podcast covers what to do after a denial, including common reasons, next steps, and tips to reapply.  

One common problem with filing Form I-130 is that some cases receive a Request for Evidence letter. This Podcast answers the most frequently asked questions about the process, timelines, documents needed, and how to avoid delays in your petition.  

Felony convictions can significantly impact your eligibility for a Green Card. Certain felonies, especially those classified as "aggravated felonies," can lead to ineligibility for most immigration benefits. This Podcast explains possible outcomes, waivers, and legal options you need to know.  

If your U.S. visitor visa was denied in 2025, don't panic. In this video, we walk you through the possible reasons, what steps you can take next, and how to improve your chances in future applications.  

Temporary Protected Status (TPS) is a program established by the U.S. government to provide temporary protection to individuals from countries experiencing conditions that make it unsafe for them to return home, such as armed conflict, environmental disasters, or other extraordinary conditions.   

Are you a Taiwanese investor interested in U.S. permanent residency? This EB-5 visa Podcast is designed for Taiwanese nationals looking to gain a U.S. green card through investment. Atty. Miatrai Brown breaks down everything you need to know in 2025. Understand the visa requirements, investment structure, and common mistakes and get expert tips for improving your chances.  

This is your complete EB-5 visa walkthrough tailored for South Korean investors! Atty. Miatrai Brown explains the updated requirements for 2025, from investment amounts to processing times and what Korean nationals should know to maximize approval chances.

Looking to relocate from South Africa to the U.S.? The EB-5 investor visa might be your path to permanent residency. In this Podcast, Atty. Miatrai Brown explains how South African citizens can qualify, invest, and succeed in the EB-5 process step-by-step.  

India is among the top countries applying for EB-5 visas! If you're an Indian citizen dreaming of a U.S. Green Card, this EB-5 visa Podcast is for you. Learn about investment thresholds, direct vs. regional center programs, and timelines to expect in 2025.  

Humanitarian Parole is a temporary measure that grants individuals entry into the United States based on urgent humanitarian needs or significant public benefits. Examples include seeking life-saving medical treatment unavailable in their home country or escaping severe political or social instability.   

Is birthright citizenship at risk in 2025? In this podcast, we break down the current legal challenges to the 14th Amendment, explore proposals from political leaders, and discuss how these developments could impact families with U.S.-born children especially immigrants. Whether you're expecting a baby in the U.S. or already have a child born here, this is crucial information you can't afford to miss.  

Thinking of moving to the U.S. through investment? This Podcast breaks down the EB-5 Immigrant Investor Program specifically for Ghanaian nationals. Learn how to get a U.S. Green Card by investing in America from investment amounts to processing timelines, eligibility, and common mistakes to avoid. Whether you're an entrepreneur, business owner, or investor in Ghana, this is your step-by-step roadmap for U.S. residency.  

Avoiding common mistakes is critical to a successful H-1B visa petition. In this Podcast, Atty. Miatrai Brown breaks down the top errors applicants and employers make and how to fix them before filing. Whether you're applying for the first time or assisting an employee, one small mistake can cause a denial. Learn what NOT to do and how to boost your chances in 2025's competitive H-1B lottery season.

The H-1B visa program has seen important changes and if you're applying or hiring foreign talent, you need to be prepared. In this video, Atty. Miatrai Brown breaks down the latest 2025 updates on the H-1B process, lottery rules, employer responsibilities, and compliance tips.  

Is the H-1B visa still worth it in 2025? Absolutely. In this episode, we dive into how the H-1B visa continues to be a game changer—opening doors for skilled workers around the globe while fueling U.S. innovation and talent growth. We explore the latest policy updates, employer benefits, and what foreign professionals need to know to thrive in America's job market today. Whether you're an HR executive, tech founder, or international talent, this episode is packed with actionable insights.

An R-1 Visa allows foreign nationals to enter the United States temporarily to work in a religious capacity. This visa is designed for individuals employed by nonprofit religious organizations (or organizations affiliated with nonprofit religious organizations) in the U.S. to carry out religious duties.   

Securing a job with visa sponsorship as an immigrant might be difficult, but with the appropriate strategy and preparation, it is possible. This article aims to provide valuable tips and guidance for immigrants seeking employment opportunities that offer visa sponsorship. 

The process of bringing a foreign spouse to the U.S. can be complex and daunting. It's a path filled with paperwork, waiting, and sometimes, uncertainty. But don't worry, today we're here to simplify the process of sponsoring your foreign spouse for immigration to the U.S. using marriage-based visas, namely the CR1 and IR1 visas.   

The K-1 Fiancé Visa process can be complex and overwhelming, especially if you are unfamiliar with the details required to ensure a successful application. Today we'll talk about some frequently asked questions covering common mistakes applicants make during the K-1 visa process and how to avoid them.   

The O visa is a category of nonimmigrant visas available in the United States, specifically designed for individuals with extraordinary ability or achievement in certain fields. The O visa allows individuals with exceptional skills, talents, or accomplishments in the arts, sciences, education, business, athletics, or the motion picture or television industry to come to the U.S. temporarily to work or perform in their respective fields.   

We'll be discussing FAQs on how to sponsor your parents for a green card. With the complexities of this type of process, be sure to stick around until the end to get a bonus tip on whether you can sponsor both parents simultaneously.

We know the process can be daunting and sometimes disheartening, especially when it comes to demonstrating ties to your home country for visa approval. The stakes are high—failure to do so can lead to visa denials, disrupting your travel plans and causing unnecessary stress.

Navigating the EB-5 Visa application can be complex and lengthy. We'll cover essential EB-5 Visa information to help you avoid common delays, which can lead to prolonged family separations, immigration status anxiety, and investment return delays, ultimately affecting your plans and well-being.   

Temporary Protected Status (TPS) and Humanitarian Parole programs have long served as crucial humanitarian policies, providing protection for individuals fleeing adverse conditions, such as armed conflicts, natural disasters, or other extraordinary circumstances, in their home countries.  

International students on F-1 visas face a multifaceted path when seeking to transition to H-1B visas, a necessary step for many toward employment in the United States post-graduation. Understanding this process can significantly impact their future in the U.S.   

The H-1B visa is one of the most sought-after work visas in the United States, allowing employers to hire foreign professionals in specialty occupations. While the standard processing time for an H-1B visa can take several months, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) offers an optional H-1B Premium Processing service.  

Are you wondering how to check your U.S. visa application status or what delays in processing might mean for your immigration case? As an experienced immigration lawyer, I will guide you through the most frequently asked questions about visa statuses, timelines, and updates to help you navigate your path to the United States with confidence.   

Applying for a U.S. visa can be a complex process, and denials can be frustrating. Understanding the common reasons for visa refusals can help applicants better prepare and increase their chances of approval. By addressing these factors, applicants can improve their likelihood of securing a U.S. visa and avoid common pitfalls that lead to rejection.  

If you've been through the H-1B visa process, you know just how stressful it can be. The limited number of visas issued annually, combined with the lottery system, makes securing your spot incredibly tough. But what if I told you there was a way around this?