Key Documents to Prove H-1B Extension Delays from the 2025 Shutdown
The 2025 shutdown may excuse late H‑1B extension filings when applicants prove government inaction prevented timely LCA certification…
When Will DOL Resume LCA Processing for H-1B Visas After Shutdown
On October 31, 2025 the DOL restored FLAG and resumed LCAs for H-1B, H-1B1 and E-3 after a…
Proving Extraordinary Circumstances for Late H-1B Extension: Shutdown
USCIS can excuse late H‑1B extensions if a shutdown directly caused LCA filing delays and the filer provides…
DOL Confirms 33-Day PERM Extension Amid LCA Pause
DOL offered a 33-day extension for PERM deadlines affected by the October 2025 shutdown and started manual entry…
Are Delays in Employment-Based Green Cards Likely to Continue?
Employers and foreign workers are bracing for longer waits on employment-based green cards after a federal shutdown halted…
Is My H-1B/H-1B1/E-3 Pending After Shutdown? Updated Timelines
FLAG resumed in late October 2025, allowing new LCAs and case tracking. LCAs pending during the shutdown remain…
Shutdown Effects on Visa and Passport Processing Times and Recovery
Fee-funded passport and visa services are still operating during the shutdown; routine passport processing is 4–6 weeks. DOL…
U.S. Tax Residency: Resident vs Nonresident Aliens Explained
IRS residency rules use the Green Card Test and Substantial Presence Test to classify taxpayers. Exemptions exist for…
Filing U.S. Taxes for NRIs and International Students: A Guide
International students (F-1, J-1, M-1) must file Form 8843 annually; those with U.S. income file Form 1040-NR. State…
From F-1 to H-1B: A Practical Guide for U.S. Employment
New rules add a $100,000 fee for new H-1B petitions starting September 21, 2025, and shift selection toward…
H-1B Payroll and Tax Deductions: Real-World Case Studies Explained
H-1B hires often see lower take-home pay because mandatory federal, state, FICA taxes, and benefit elections reduce gross…
F-1 FICA Tax Refund: Exemption Rules and How to Claim
F-1 students are generally exempt from FICA during their first five calendar years as nonresident aliens. If payroll…
SSN vs ITIN for Non-Residents: Eligibility and Processing Times
Choose SSN if authorized to work; choose ITIN if you must file U.S. taxes but aren’t SSN-eligible. SSN…
Understanding the SSA, SSN, and Employee Benefits in the U.S.
The SSA issues SSNs that link wages to retirement, disability, and survivor benefits and support immigration checks. F-1…