Canada's Immigration System Changes and Targets for 2025-2027

 

On October 24, 2024, the Government of Canada unveiled its 2025-2027 Immigration Levels Plan, signaling a significant shift in how the country manages population growth through immigration. The announcement, delivered by Marc Miller, the Minister of Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship, emphasizes a balanced approach designed to achieve short-term stability while positioning the country for sustainable, long-term growth.

Key Changes in the 2025-2027 Immigration Plan

1. Reduction in Permanent Resident Targets:

   • The plan includes a considerable reduction in permanent resident targets over the next three years:
     • 2025: A reduction from 500,000 to 395,000 permanent residents.
     • 2026: A further reduction to 380,000.
     • 2027: A target of 365,000 permanent residents.
   • This marks a shift from previous ambitious goals, aiming to pause rapid population growth temporarily to allow for better integration and resource allocation.

2. Focus on Temporary Residents:

   • For the first time, the levels plan introduces controlled targets for temporary residents, particularly international students and temporary foreign workers.
   • The plan seeks to reduce the temporary resident population to 5% of Canada’s overall population by the end of 2026, with specific reductions as follows:
     • 2025: A decrease of 445,901 temporary residents.
     • 2026: A decrease of 445,662 temporary residents.
     • 2027: A modest increase of 17,439 temporary residents, marking a return to growth after initial reductions.
   • Measures include a cap on international students and stricter eligibility requirements for temporary foreign workers to ensure the quality and integrity of temporary resident programs.

3. Transitioning Temporary Residents to Permanent Status:

   • A core focus of the plan is to transition more temporary residents—those already studying or working in Canada—to permanent resident status.
   • These individuals, who are already integrated into Canadian society with established housing and employment, are expected to make up more than 40% of overall permanent resident admissions in 2025.
   • By focusing on those already in Canada, the plan aims to bolster the workforce and support economic growth without placing additional strain on housing and social services.

4. Economic Class Admissions and Key Sectors:

   • The plan prioritizes long-term economic growth by increasing the share of permanent resident admissions in the economic class, targeting 61.7% of total admissions by 2027.
   • Key labor market sectors, such as healthcare and trades, will see targeted recruitment to address shortages and support Canada’s economic resilience.

5. Supporting Francophone Communities:

   • Another significant goal is to strengthen Francophone communities outside Quebec, contributing to their economic prosperity.
   • The plan includes targets for Francophone immigration as part of the overall permanent resident admissions:
     • 8.5% in 2025
     • 9.5% in 2026
     • 10% in 2027

Rationale for the Adjustments

The adjustments to Canada’s immigration plan reflect the government’s response to current challenges, such as housing shortages, infrastructure constraints, and pressures on social services. By moderating the pace of population growth through immigration, the plan aims to create a sustainable environment for newcomers and Canadians alike. This balanced approach allows provinces and stakeholders to better align their capacities with the needs of a growing population.

The 2025-2027 Immigration Levels Plan marks a shift toward a more controlled, strategic immigration system, ensuring that Canada can continue to welcome newcomers while addressing immediate economic and social needs.

U.S. Ends Temporary Legal Status for Hundreds of Thousands of Migrants

In a recent policy shift, the Biden Administration announced in early October that it will not renew the legal status for hundreds of thousands of migrants from four countries, significantly impacting those who have been residing in the United States under temporary protections for years. This change is set to affect people from Cuba, Haiti, Nicaragua, and Venezuela, whose legal status had been tied to Temporary Protected Status (TPS) or similar programs aimed at offering refuge from natural disasters and political instability in their home countries.

Details of the Decision

The Biden administration has decided not to extend the 2-year parole program that have allowed these migrants to remain in the country legally for an extended period. This marks a departure from earlier stances where the administration had focused on providing temporary stay extensions, citing humanitarian concerns and the unstable conditions in the countries of origin. Now, as legal protections expire, many face the looming prospect of losing their right to work and live in the U.S.​ If they do not depart, they could also face deportation.

Alternatives

Affected migrants should consider other viable options if they qualify.  For example, Haitians and Venezuelans may qualify for Temporary Protected Status (TPS), while Cuban migrants can apply for permanent resident status under the Cuban Adjustment Act. Political asylum is also an option for those who have a well-founded fear of persecution if they return to their home country.  Migrants may also consider applying for a green card based on sponsorship by a family member or a U.S. employer.

Impact on Migrant Communities

For those affected, this decision creates uncertainty and fear. Some have lived in the U.S. for decades, building families and careers. Many are parents to U.S.-born children, and the termination of their legal status could lead to the separation of families and force others into a difficult decision between staying without documentation or returning to countries still grappling with political and economic challenges.

The policy shift right before the elections also highlights the broader debate within the U.S. regarding the balance between border security, humanitarian needs, and economic considerations.

Legal Challenges and Next Steps

In response, several advocacy groups have pledged to challenge the administration’s decision in court, seeking to extend protections and prevent the deportation of those affected. These groups argue that the decision undermines the U.S.’s role in providing humanitarian relief and that many of those under TPS status have become integral parts of their communities in the U.S.

The Biden administration’s decision has also drawn criticism from both immigration advocates and political opponents, revealing the complex dynamics at play in the nation's immigration policies. As the situation develops, the affected foreign nationals should evaluate their individual situation and plan for the worse case scenario.

(Immigration laws and policies change regularly.  If you have any questions regarding this article, please visit www.1visa1.com to schedule a legal consultation.)  

November 2024 Visa Bulletin: Worldwide F2A Advances

In November, Employment visa categories hold steady.  Family 2A Worldwide advances. 

USCIS will honor Dates for Filing Applications for Employment-based I-485 applications.

AD: Dates for Final Action (Green Card Approval)  

FD: Dates for Filing Applications Only

Family-based		Other Countries	China	India	Mexico	Philippines
F1	AD	10/22/2015	10/22/2015	10/22/2015	11/22/2004	03/01/2012
	FD	09/01/2017	09/01/2017	09/01/2017	10/01/2005	04/22/2015
F2A	AD	01/01/2022	01/01/2022	01/01/2022	04/15/2021	01/01/2022
	FD	07/15/2024	07/15/2024	07/15/2024	07/15/2024	07/15/2024
F2B	AD	05/01/2016	05/01/2016	05/01/2016	07/01/2005	10/22/2011
	FD	01/01/2017	01/01/2017	01/01/2017	07/01/2006	10/01/2013
F3	AD	04/15/2010	04/15/2010	04/15/2010	10/22/2000	09/08/2002
	FD	04/22/2012	04/22/2012	07/01/2011	06/15/2001	05/08/2004
F4	AD	08/01/2007	08/01/2007	03/08/2006	03/01/2001	02/01/2004
	FD	03/01/2008	03/01/2008	08/01/2006	04/30/2001	07/22/2007

1st: Unmarried Sons and Daughters of Citizens (about 23,400 per year).
2A: The 2 “A” preference is for Spouses and Children (under 21 & unmarried) of LPR's.
2B: The 2 “B” Preference is for Unmarried Sons and Daughters (21 or older) of LPR's.
3rd: Married Sons and Daughters of Citizens (about 23,400 per year)
4th: Brothers and Sisters of Adult Citizens. (about 65,000 per year)

Employment-based		Other Countries	China	India	Mexico	Philippines
EB-1	AD	C	11/08/2022	02/01/2022	C	C
	FD	C	01/01/2023	04/15/2022	C	C
EB-2	AD	03/15/2023	03/22/2020	07/15/2012	03/15/2023	03/15/2023
	FD	08/01/2023	10/01/2020	01/01/2013	08/01/2023	08/01/2023
EB-3	AD	11/15/2022	04/01/2020	11/01/2012	11/15/2022	11/15/2022
	FD	03/01/2023	11/15/2020	06/08/2013	03/01/2023	03/01/2023
Other Workers	AD	12/01/2020	01/01/2017	11/01/2012	12/01/2020	12/01/2020
	FD	05/22/2021	01/01/2018	06/01/2013	05/22/2021	05/22/2021
EB-4*	AD	01/01/2021	01/01/2021	01/01/2021	01/01/2021	01/01/2021
	FD	02/01/2021	02/01/2021	02/01/2021	02/01/2021	02/01/2021
EB-5	AD	C	07/15/2016*	01/01/2022*	C	C
	FD	C	10/01/2016	04/01/2022	C	C

1st: Priority Workers (Extraordinary ability aliens, multinational companies' executives/managers, outstanding prof./researchers)
2nd: Members of the Professions Holding Advanced Degrees or Persons of Exceptional Ability.
3rd: Skilled Workers, Professionals, and Other Workers (Unskilled.)
4th: “Special Immigrants” (Religious & others)

*Visa numbers for Certain Religious Workers will be "Unavailable" in October.

5th: Employment Creation (Investors)

*China and India EB-5 visa numbers for rural, high unemployment & infrastructure areas/projects are current.

(Immigration laws and policies change regularly.  If you have any questions regarding this article, please visit www.1visa1.com to schedule a legal consultation.)  

New Edition of Form I-131 Effective October 11, 2024

 

Yesterday, USCIS announced that it will introduce a new edition of Form I-131 on Oct. 11, 2024 (today),  This updated form (edition 06/17/24) replaces the previous version from 04/01/24.  

Form I-131  "Application for Travel Documents, Parole Documents, and Arrival/Departure Records" is a commonly used form for applicants to apply for travel permission from the USCIS.                                                                                                                                                         

Key Details of the Announcement

No Grace Period: 

As of October 11, USCIS will reject any applications submitted using the older 04/01/24 edition of Form I-131.

New Form Required: 

If you are filing on or after October 11, you must use the new 06/17/24 edition of Form I-131.

For Paper Filings by Mail:

Applications postmarked before October 11, 2024, using the 04/01/24 edition, will be accepted.

Applications postmarked on or after October 11, 2024, using the older form will be rejected.

Make sure to use the updated version of the form to avoid delays or rejections.

(Immigration laws and policies change regularly.  If you have any questions regarding this article, please visit www.1visa1.com to schedule legal consultation.) 

New Guidance on EB-1 'Extraordinary Ability' Eligibility Criteria

 

On October 2, 2024, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) introduced updated policy guidance aimed at clarifying eligibility criteria for the EB-1A immigrant visa classification for individuals with extraordinary abilities.  Overall the changes are positive and encouraging for applicants who plan to submit an EB-1A petition. 

Here are the key points from the new guidance:

1. Team Awards Are Now Considered

USCIS has confirmed that team-based achievements can be included as evidence under the criterion for lesser nationally or internationally recognized prizes or awards for excellence. Previously, it was unclear whether team awards could qualify, but this update clarifies that participation in team awards can strengthen an applicant's case for extraordinary ability.

2. Clarification on Past Memberships

Another significant clarification involves the membership criterion. USCIS will now consider an individual’s past memberships in associations or organizations that require outstanding achievements as evidence of extraordinary ability. This is an important change, as it expands the evidence pool to include historical memberships that demonstrate expertise and recognition in the field.

3. Changes to the Published Material Requirement

USCIS has also revised its approach to the published material criterion. Previously, the language suggested that published material about an applicant must highlight the value and impact of their contributions. However, the new guidance removes this requirement, streamlining the way published material can be used as evidence. This makes it easier for applicants to submit media coverage or reports about their work without needing to prove a direct connection to its significance.

4. Non-Artistic Exhibitions Limited

Regarding the criterion for exhibitions, USCIS clarified that the term “exhibition” as used in its regulations is limited to artistic exhibitions. While the general dictionary definition of "exhibition" includes public displays beyond the arts, USCIS will now only consider non-artistic exhibitions as part of a "properly supported" claim of comparable evidence. This change emphasizes the importance of properly supporting claims of extraordinary ability, especially when referencing exhibitions in fields other than art.

Building on Previous Guidance

The policy update is now part of the USCIS Policy Manual and is binding, replacing any previous guidance related to these criteria. This change represents a significant step toward making the EB-1 process clearer and more accessible for individuals seeking permanent residency based on their exceptional talents. As the policy is effective immediately, those planning to submit EB-1 petitions should familiarize themselves with the updated guidance to ensure they are presenting the strongest possible case.

(Immigration laws and policies change regularly.  If you have any questions regarding this article, please visit www.1visa1.com to schedule legal consultation.) 

PDF Filing Option for I-765 EAD Applicants

 

As of October 8, USCIS has rolled out a new, streamlined PDF filing option. This fresh approach allows eligible applicants to upload their completed Form I-765, along with the required supporting documents, directly through their USCIS online accounts. For the first time, you can also electronically file Form I-912, Request for Fee Waiver, making the process more convenient for those seeking a fee waiver.

Who Can Use the New PDF Filing Option?

The new option is available for applicants in the following categories:

• (a)(12): Holders of Temporary Protected Status (TPS).
• (c)(8): Individuals with asylum applications pending since January 4, 1995, or later.
• (c)(9): Family-based and employment-based applicants waiting to adjust their status under Section 245 of the Immigration and Nationality Act.
• (c)(11): Parolees.
• (c)(19): Applicants with initial TPS applications pending, who USCIS has deemed prima facie eligible for TPS, allowing them to receive an EAD as a temporary benefit.

A Heads-Up for (c)(9) Applicants: Fee Exemption Warning

If you're filing under the (c)(9) category and are eligible for a fee exemption, steer clear of the PDF option for now. If you proceed and pay the fee through the new system, there's no turning back – USCIS will not issue refunds. Fee-exempt applicants should stick with paper applications and mail them to the designated address listed on the USCIS website.

Who Gets the Fee Waiver?

The following (c)(9) applicants are exempt from paying the filing fee for Form I-765:

• Special Immigrant Juveniles.
• T nonimmigrants.
• Special Immigrant Iraqi or Afghan nationals.
• Abused spouses or children under the Cuban Adjustment Act or the Haitian Refugee Immigration Fairness Act.
• U nonimmigrants.
• Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) self-petitioners.
• Refugees, parolees, or lawful permanent residents with refugee status.

Manage Your Case with Ease

The new PDF filing option is a positive development for immigrant users.  As with any new features, we expect some hiccups at the beginning.  If you're more comfortable sticking with paper, the traditional mail-in filing option remains available.

(Immigration laws and policies change regularly.  If you have any questions regarding this article, please visit www.1visa1.com to schedule a legal consultation.)  

New Visa Services Launched for Certain European and African Countries

 

On September 30, 2024, the U.S. Department of State (DOS) launched a new visa appointment system called AVITS, aimed at improving services for visa applicants. The system is currently active in several countries, including:

Belgium, Burkina Faso, Cameroon, Côte d'Ivoire, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, France, The Gambia, Ghana, Liberia, Nigeria, The Netherlands, Rwanda, Senegal, and Sierra Leone.

For those with previously scheduled appointments in the old system, the existing appointments remain valid, and instructions for creating a new account will be sent to the registered email. However, there are reports regarding issues with the new system, including payment problems and difficulties booking appointments using certain USCIS receipt numbers.

The new system can be accessed at: https://www.usvisaappt.com/visa/.  Applicants are encouraged to visit the local U.S. Embassy websites for FAQs and updates.

(Immigration laws and policies change regularly.  If you have any questions regarding this article, please visit www.1visa1.com to schedule a legal consultation.)  

The 2026 Diversity Visa Program Opens October 2, 2024

 

The Diversity Visa Program is an American immigrant visa program created by Section 203(c) of the Immigration and Nationality Act to promote diversity.  It is also known as the "Green Card Lottery." It is an annual program which opens to all individuals worldwide, with approximately 55,000 visas available. The DV-2026 program opens on October 2, 2024. 

What are the costs?

The lottery is free of charge to enter. It is an official U.S. government immigration program supervised by the U.S. Department of State. The department has set up an official website where all applications have to be submitted. 

Who is eligible to apply?

For DV-2026, natives of the following countries are not eligible to apply because there were more than 50,000 people immigrated to the United States from these countries in the previous five years:

Bangladesh, Brazil, Canada, The People’s Republic of China (including mainland and Hong Kong born), Colombia, Cuba, Dominican Republic, El Salvador, Haiti, Honduras, India, Jamaica, Mexico, Nigeria, Pakistan, Philippines, Republic of Korea (South Korea), Venezuela, and Vietnam.   

Despite the fact that people born in mainland China and Hong Kong are not eligible for DV-2026, those who were born in Macau SAR and Taiwan are eligible to apply.  United Kingdom and its dependent territories are eligible countries for DV-2026.

If one was not born in an eligible country, there are two other ways that the person may quality to apply:

(1) If the person's spouse was born in an eligible country, then the person can claim the spouse's country of birth as their birth country to apply.   

(2) If an applicant was born in an ineligible country, he may claim one of his parents' eligible country of birth if two requirements are met:  a) Neither of the applicant's parents were born in applicant's country of birth, and b) Both parents were not legal residents of applicant's country of birth at the time when the applicant was born.  For example, if an applicant was born in mainland China, but her parents were born in Malaysia (an eligible country).  As long as both parents were not legal residents of China when applicant was born, the applicant may claim Malaysia as her birth country for DV-2026.

What are the education and work experience requirements?

An applicant must either have a high school education or its equivalent, defined as successful completion of a 12-year course of elementary and secondary education; or two years of work experience within the past five years in an occupation requiring at least two years of training or experience to perform.

When and how to submit an entry?

Entries for the DV-2026 program must be submitted electronically. Applicants may access the electronic DV Entry Form (E-DV) at dvprogram.state.gov during the registration period. Paper entries will not be accepted. DV-2026 registration began at 12:00 pm (EST) on October 2, 2024, and will continue until 12:00 pm (EST) on November 5, 2024.  A unique confirmation number will be issued after an application has been successfully submitted.

What information is required?

Principal entrants are required to provide their biographic information including: their name, date of birth, city and country of birth, mailing address, email address, country of residence, marital status, country of eligibility, spouse and children's information, the highest level of education, information about their passport, etc.  They must also submit a digital photo that meets the program technical requirements.

How to find out the results of the lottery?

The U.S. State Department will use a computerized random selection process to select winners from among qualified entries.  All entrants must go to the Entrant Status Check using the unique confirmation number saved from their DV-2026 online entry registration to find out whether their entry has been selected in the DV program.   Entrant Status Check will be available on the E-DV website at dvprogram.state.gov from May 3, 2025, through at least September 30, 2026.  Selectees will be directed to a confirmation page with further instructions to proceed.

 How to improve the odds for selection?

The DV program has very strict technical requirements for submission. Entries not following the official instructions and requirements will be rejected and disqualified. Furthermore, fraudulent or multiple entries will be rejected. To legally improve the odds for selection, all eligible family members should enter the lottery.  Do not wait until the last week of the registration period to enter. Heavy demand may result in website issues and delays. When in doubt, don't hesitate to seek advice from a qualified immigration attorney.

(Immigration laws and policies change regularly.  If you have any questions regarding this article, please visit www.1visa1.com to schedule a legal consultation.)  

New Reporting Requirements for Small and Family Businesses

 

Small and family businesses must comply with the requirements of a new law called the Corporate Transparency Act (CTA), which went into effect on January 1, 2024.  Aimed at combating money laundering, terrorism financing, tax evasion, and other illegal activities, the CTA requires certain companies, including small and family-owned businesses, to disclose detailed ownership information to the U.S. Department of the Treasury.  Here's what you need to know for compliance:

Who Must File Under the CTA?

The CTA applies to a wide range of businesses, particularly smaller companies that may not be accustomed to such regulations. Any corporation, limited liability company (LLC), or similar entity created in the U.S. or registered to do business in the U.S. is generally required to file.

However, some exemptions exist, which we’ll cover below. The primary businesses affected are smaller and family-owned companies that are often structured as LLCs or S-Corps. If your business employs fewer than 20 full-time employees, has less than $5 million in gross receipts, and does not operate in a highly regulated industry, you are generally required to file.

Basic Filing Requirements and Information Needed

Companies required to file must submit a Beneficial Ownership Information (BOI) report to FinCEN. This report must include, full legal name, date of birth, current residential or business address, and a unique identifying number from an acceptable identification document, such as a passport or driver's license.

The beneficial owner is defined as any individual who either owns or controls at least 25% of the company, or exercises substantial control over the company’s operations.  In smaller or family businesses, this could mean family members, shareholders, or partners who hold significant influence over the company.

Filing Deadlines

Businesses that were already in existence before January 1, 2024, have until January 1, 2025, to file their initial BOI report.  Any business formed on or after January 1, 2024, must file their BOI report within 30 days of the date of formation or registration.

Penalties for Non-Compliance

Failing to comply with the CTA's filing requirements can lead to severe penalties including civil penalties of up to $500 per day for each day the violation continues, and criminal penalties of fines up to $10,000 and imprisonment for up to two years for willfully providing false information or failing to report beneficial ownership details.

Exemptions to the CTA

While the CTA applies to a wide range of entities, certain organizations are exempt from its filing requirements. Exempt entities include: (1) Businesses with more than 20 full-time employees and more than $5 million in gross receipts; (2) Highly regulated entities such as banks, credit unions, insurance companies, and (3) publicly traded companies that already provide ownership information to other regulatory agencies are exempt.  Further, companies that have been inactive for over a year and no longer conduct business are also exempt.

Conclusion

The Corporate Transparency Act is a significant new regulation that small and family-owned businesses must understand to avoid penalties. While the purpose of the CTA is to increase transparency and prevent financial crimes, its scope means that even well-intentioned businesses must now meet new reporting requirements.  Stay informed and compliant is critical.  

(Immigration laws and policies change regularly.  If you have any questions regarding this article, please visit www.1visa1.com to schedule a legal consultation.)  

TN Visa for Canadian and Mexican Nationals

 

The TN visa is a popular option for professionals from Canada and Mexico who want to work in the United States under the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), which replaced NAFTA. This non-immigrant visa category allows eligible applicants to work in the U.S. in certain designated professional occupations, making it an attractive pathway for skilled workers.

Benefits of the TN Visa

No Visa Cap: Unlike other U.S. work visas, such as the H-1B, the TN visa has no annual limit, meaning more applicants have the opportunity to work in the U.S. without waiting for lottery results.   

Quick Processing: TN visas can be processed quickly, with many Canadian citizens able to apply directly at the U.S. border and receive immediate approval. Mexican citizens can apply through U.S. consulates, with generally fast processing times.

Multiple Renewals: A TN visa is initially valid for up to three years and can be renewed indefinitely, as long as the applicant continues to meet the visa's requirements. This offers long-term stability for professionals seeking to work in the U.S.

Expanded Job Opportunities: Positions that do not qualify for H-1B, such as graphic designer and hotel manager, also qualify. 

Dependent Visas: Dependent spouses and children can also live and study in the United States.

Requirements for the TN Visa

To be eligible for the TN visa, applicants must meet the following criteria:

Citizenship: The applicant must be a citizen of either Canada or Mexico. Permanent residents of these countries are not eligible.

Qualifying Profession: The job offer must be in one of the professions listed in the USMCA's designated categories. These include fields like engineering, accounting, law, science, and more. A full list of eligible professions can be found in the TN visa guidelines.

Job Offer: Applicants must have a valid, pre-arranged job offer from a U.S. employer for a full-time or part-time role in one of the qualifying professions. Self-employment is not allowed under TN visa rules.

Credentials: Applicants must have the necessary educational qualifications or credentials to meet the requirements for the specific professional occupation. Typically, this means having a degree or equivalent certification in the relevant field, except the position of a management consultant.

Temporary Intent: The TN visa is a non-immigrant visa, meaning the applicant must demonstrate an intent to return to their home country once the visa expires, though indefinite renewals are possible.

Application Process

For Canadian Citizens, they may apply directly at a U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) point of entry, such as an airport or land border, with all required documents. There is no need for a visa to be issued beforehand.  The border officer will review the documents and decide on the spot. If approved, you can enter the U.S. and start working immediately.

Mexican citizens must apply for a TN visa at a U.S. consulate or embassy. This involves submitting the DS-160 form, scheduling an interview, and providing the required documentation, similar to Canadian applicants. After the TN visa is issued after the interview,  Mexican citizens can enter the U.S. and begin working for the employer listed in the application.

Tips for a Successful Application

It is important that the job offer letter from your U.S. employer clearly outlines your job duties, salary, and employment terms. The letter should also specify how the job fits into one of the qualifying TN professions, and how the applicant qualifies for it.  Although TN visas can be renewed indefinitely, they are still temporary. Be prepared to show ties to your home country, such as property, family, or financial obligations, to demonstrate that you do not intend to permanently immigrate. 

Whether you're applying at a U.S. consulate or at the border, be ready for questions about your job offer, qualifications, and intent to return to your home country. Have all your documentation organized and easily accessible. Keep track of your visa expiration date and begin the renewal process well in advance to avoid any gaps in your work authorization.

(Immigration laws and policies change regularly.  If you have any questions regarding this article, please visit www.1visa1.com to schedule a legal consultation.)