U.S. expands controversial visa-bond program to 25 more countries, effective Jan 21
State Department shuts National Passport Center for one day, delaying urgent issuances
State Department Expands Visa Bond Program, Adds Seven More Countries
Latest News
Appeals Court Speeds Review of Controversial US $100,000 H-1B Visa Fee
The D.C. Circuit will hear arguments in February on lawsuits aiming to block the Trump administration’s new US $100,000 fee on each new H-1B petition, giving employers clarity before the March 2026 lottery. A defeat for business groups could quintuple filing costs and force talent-acquisition strategy shifts.
Weighted H-1B Lottery Rule Takes Effect—Higher Wages, Better Odds
USCIS will implement a weighted H-1B lottery on February 27 2026, granting up to four ‘tickets’ to petitions offering Level IV wages and just one to Level I. Employers should revisit salary budgets and registration strategies before the March 2026 filing window.
US Military Strike in Venezuela Shuts Caribbean Airspace, Disrupts Corporate Travel
An FAA airspace closure linked to U.S. military action in Venezuela caused widespread Caribbean flight cancellations, leaving business and leisure travelers stranded and prompting airlines to issue waivers and special rescue flights. Advisory restrictions remain through February 2, underscoring the need for robust travel-risk monitoring.
Data Show 38 % Drop in British Columbians Driving to U.S. in 2025
Vehicle counts show British Columbia residents made dramatically fewer drives into Washington State in 2025, with a 38 % decline in December alone. Analysts link the slide to U.S. trade tensions and new biometric-entry rules, signaling headwinds for cross-border commerce and business travel.