Hi [FORMATTED_FIRST_NAME GOES HERE],
Happy Wednesday ✨
Soundarya here, founder of unshackled.club & co-founder of greencard.inc. :)
BIG NEWS: Unshackled Annual Conference Tickets are live. The biggest event for high-skilled immigrants is happening on August 15-16, 2025, and tickets are now available! Whether you’re an engineer, founder, scientist, student, or creator navigating the U.S. immigration maze, this is where you will find clarity and (hopefully) lifelong connections. This is more than just a conference—it’s a movement. Be part of history and secure your spot today.
(As a special thank you for being part of the newsletter, use code EARLYBIRD20 to get 20% on top off the early bird price!)
Now, onto the newsletter.
You're receiving this email, alongside 27,500+ immigrants, as part of the Unshackled weekly newsletter. Immigration is a complex world. So every Wednesday, I simplify that by sharing breaking news, free webinar invites, & latest trends. If you find value in reading it, share your unique referral code with a lucky friend. If this was forwarded to you, get your own here! Read all the past editions here. 💃 |
This week's TL;DR
📌 UNfold: Breaking news
April 2025 bulletin: EB-5 retrogression for India; minimal changes for EB-2/EB-3
The April 2025 visa bulletin is out! No movement for EB-1, while EB-2 and EB-3 saw slight advances. The biggest change is in EB-5 for India, which retrogressed due to high demand. Family-sponsored categories remain largely unchanged. USCIS has confirmed that employment-based applicants must follow the Final Action Dates chart this month. Stay tuned for further updates on the May visa bulletin.
Trump administration launches 'self-deportation' app
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has announced a new policy requiring undocumented migrants in the U.S. to register with the government and voluntarily leave the country. DHS Secretary Kristi Noem stated that failure to register could result in fines, imprisonment, or both, though details on penalties remain unclear. The registry will collect fingerprint and personal data, applying to adults and children 14 and older, including DACA and Temporary Protected Status recipients. The announcement follows Noem’s recent warnings that undocumented immigrants “will be hunted down and deported.”
Some companies block fresh grads on OPT from H-1B lottery
Some bad news: There's been a trend of US companies that require OPT employees to work for at least a year before sponsoring their H-1B. This change means that many fresh graduates who planned to enter the H-1B lottery this March will have to wait until 2026. With limited options, some are considering switching jobs—but finding an employer willing to sponsor immediately isn’t easy. Others face tough choices, like accepting lower salaries or delaying long-term career plans. This policy shift adds more uncertainty to an already complex visa process. Stay informed & stay prepared.
🎁 UNlock: Relevant resources
[Free webinar][March 20, 8:30 AM PDT] J-1 visa webinar ft. American Immigration Council]
Join us for a free webinar in partnership with the American Immigration Council exploring U.S. immigration beyond F-1 & H-1B. Learn about J-1 visa categories, eligibility, and how it can be a pathway to long-term career and immigration goals. Don’t miss this expert-led session!
[Free Webinar][March 18, 7:00 PM EDT] Roam <> Greencard Inc Talent Visas Webinar
Join us for a free webinar with Roam and Greencard Inc, exploring U.S. talent visa options for international students, recent graduates, and young professionals. Learn about O-1, EB-1, and EB-2 NIW visas, eligibility criteria, and strategies to strengthen your case. Gain expert insights to confidently navigate your post-grad immigration journey. Secure your spot now.
[Free Consult] Simplify your U.S. taxes with expert help
Filing taxes as a visa holder can be complex, but Open Tax Advisors makes it easy. They simplify U.S. tax filing for visa holders, including H-1B, F-1, L-1, O-1, TN, and Green Card applicants. With over 25 years of combined experience, its team of licensed CPAs ensures compliance, maximizes savings, and provides personalized support. Offering 100% online filing and transparent pricing, Open Tax Advisors helps non-residents navigate tax complexities with confidence. Get started with a free consultation today.
💫 UNcover: Latest trends
🪄 UNveil: This week’s partner
Wanna send money from the US to India with zero fees? Visit Crobo.Money now, a startup founded by Indians, for Indians. There are tons of services that let you send money. Why Crobo? For starters, they have the best exchange rate in the whole industry (we've personally checked!). On top, they have no transaction fees; just fast, free transfers every time. As a special offer, you also get a $25 Amazon gift card when you make your first transaction of $500 or more using the code "UNSHACKLED." Get started with the code UNSHACKLED and sign up today!
👉 Want to put yourself in front of 27,500+ high-skilled immigrants? Just hit reply to start a conversation.
⚖️ UNshackle: Work with our marketplace partners
We recently launched the Unshackled marketplace: an Amazon for talent visa aspirants in America!
Right now, we have trusted partners who can help you with (a) expert opinion letters, (b) press coverage, and (c) publishing scholarly articles. We will be adding new vendors every week. Explore the marketplace today!
Are you an EB-1/NIW/O-1 aspirant? Join our flagship course for $299 taught by an attorney.
We've launched three flagship courses consisting of 60+ in-depth modules that walk through every step of filing and getting an EB-1A, NIW, and O-1A. Don't worry though—there's little legal jargon. This is for you if you want to escape the H-1B lottery or the 100-year green card backlog and secure your future in America based on merit. Click here to join for $299 today. 🚀
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Until next week, stay lovely.
Yours truly,
Soundarya 💚
💡 None of the information shared in this newsletter is meant to be legal advice. If you're looking for legal advice, speak to a lawyer or visit the Unshackled lawyer directory with vetted lawyer recommendations.
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