Immigration Explainers
Background on H-1B, OPT, the visa bulletin, and processing times. These are explainers, not a live news desk.
How the H-1B lottery works: caps, selection, and what comes next
A walkthrough of the regular cap, the advanced-degree exemption, filing windows after selection, and alternatives if you are not selected. Verify current dates on USCIS.gov.
How to read USCIS processing times for I-765, I-129, and I-140
Published ranges move often and differ by service center. Use them as a planning snapshot, then confirm on the official USCIS processing-times tool before you file.
How to read the Visa Bulletin: final action dates vs dates for filing
Priority dates, chargeability, and why India and China EB-2/EB-3 move differently. For the current month's dates, use the live Visa Bulletin tracker — not a past snapshot.
DHS Proposes New STEM OPT Rules: Extended Timeline and Broader STEM List
DHS released a proposed rulemaking that would expand the STEM OPT eligible field list and clarify training plan requirements under Form I-983. Public comment period open through July 15.
H-1B RFE Rates Hit 15-Year High: Specialty Occupation Scrutiny Intensifies
USCIS issued RFEs on 32% of H-1B petitions in Q1 2026, the highest rate since 2009. Specialty occupation and employer-employee relationship remain the top two issues across all service centers.
Record 1.2 Million Naturalizations in 2025 — Highest in Two Decades
USCIS reported processing a record 1.2 million naturalization applications in fiscal year 2025, aided by online filing expansion and increased N-400 officer capacity.
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