Weekly immigration insights and plain-language updates to make the system clearer, simpler, and easier to navigate.

This week, immigration attorney Ana Gabriela Urizar offers her insights on some of the latest headlines.

As of December 2025, most O-1 applications take approximately 7.5 months to process. Check out our USCIS Processing Times guide to see the latest data from USCIS.

As of Q3 of fiscal year 2025 Q3, the approval rate for the O-1 visa is 93.8%. The O-1 visa remains one of the highest approved work visas, with an approval rate that rivals even the H-1B. Check out our guide to see the latest data from USCIS and how it’s changed over time.

If you’re looking to strengthen your O-1 case, remember that your recommendation letters should be specific and include concrete examples. Vague statements like “They’re the best I’ve worked with,” may sound good, but they’re less persuasive to a busy USCIS officer who wants to know exactly why you’re the best.

Another tip: Remember that immigration officers aren’t always familiar with your industry. Your recommendation letter should avoid jargon, and stick to clear, straightforward language that’s accessible to non-expert readers.

Here’s a quick example of a strong vs. weak statement for an O-1 visa letter of recommendation:

Check out our O-1 Visa Recommendation Letter Guide for more insights on what makes a strong letter of support. Note that this is for educational purposes only, and you should always consult with an immigration attorney for advice tailored to your unique situation.

​Applications for the Trump Gold Card are officially open. In exchange for a contribution of at least $1 million and a $15,000 processing fee, qualified applicants may pursue permanent residence through the EB-1 or EB-2 categories, with a promise of “expedited processing.”

New immigration programs don’t come along often, and the Gold Card has generated understandable interest. As with any new immigration policy, however, the details matter. While the framework is now live, certain aspects of how the program will operate in practice are still coming into focus.

👮🏻 H-1B, H-4 applicants report delayed consular appointments: As consular officers implement stricter social media reviews, many Indians face months-long consular delays.

Attorney Insight: “Your employer likely will not punish you for consular delays," Urizar says. "Rather, they should work with you on amending your start date. If you're eligible, they could also consider allowing you to work as a foreign contractor. To prevent any risks to your status/H-1B petition, however, make sure you and/or your employer speak with an immigration attorney prior to arranging for remote work.”

📋 CBP Proposes Several Changes to ESTA Application, I-94 Departures: The suggested changes include app-based exit verification, social media checks, and expanded data requirements.

Attorney Insight: “If you qualify for the visa waiver program, you’ll basically need to submit more information about your digital profiles,” Urizar says. “If you have questions about something in your account, contact an immigration lawyer.”

👶 Supreme Court agrees to review Constitutionality of birthright citizenship: On December 5, the Supreme Court agreed to determine whether a previous executive action could restrict birthright citizenship.

Attorney Insight: “We likely won’t see an update on this until Spring/Summer 2026,” Urizar says. “In the meantime, we’ll have to keep a close eye on legal updates.”

🚩 TPS designation terminated for Ethiopians: According to an announcement from DHS, Ethiopian TPS holders have until February 13 to voluntarily leave the country or secure another legal status.

Attorney Insights: “If you’re affected by this, you should begin to explore alternative options,” Urizar says. “Depending on your background, you may qualify for a work-based visa like the O-1.”