Hi [FORMATTED_FIRST_NAME GOES HERE],

Happy Wednesday. ✨

Soundarya here, founder of unshackled.club & co-founder of greencard.inc. :)

This will be the FINAL edition of the year. And through some cosmic beauty, we will be beginning next year with the 100th edition—which is insane to think about. So obviously, you can expect some giveaways ;)

Also, if you have 30 seconds, hit reply and answer this ONE question for me: what can we add to the newsletter that'll be genuinely helpful for you? We'll try to incorporate as much from 2025. Until next year, stay safe and warm.

Now, onto the newsletter.

This week's TL;DR

• ​USCIS updates new form I-485 & longer EAD renewal extensions.
• ​DHS updates H-1B rules: Faster hires, smoother transitions, and more.
• ​Join us in person for the end-of-year meetup on 28th Dec at 6:00 PM in the Bay Area!​​​

📌 UNfold: Breaking news

​USCIS announces key updates for green card and EAD applicants​

USCIS has announced important changes for green card applicants and those renewing their EADs. On December 10, 2024, USCIS released a new edition of Form I-485, which will be required starting February 10, 2025. Additionally, the agency has extended the automatic extension period for EAD renewals, providing more time for applicants. Check it out!

​DHS modernizes H-1B visa program rules​

Good news: Department of Homeland Security has introduced changes to the H-1B visa program, designed to simplify processes, provide greater flexibility for employers, and improve compliance measures. The updates streamline transitions for F-1 visa holders, expedite application reviews, and enhance opportunities for nonprofits and research institutions. These reforms will drive innovation, strengthen the U.S. economy, and maintain the program's integrity.

​US visa policy changes for 2025 under President-elect Trump​

As President-elect Donald Trump prepares to take office in January 2025, significant changes are expected to the H-1B visa program. A regulatory review is underway, with new rules likely to revise eligibility criteria and the annual lottery system. Trump’s administration is also expected to pursue stricter immigration policies, including measures targeting worker protection abuses in the H-2A and H-2B visa programs. These changes could reshape the US visa landscape, especially for tech sector recruitment.

🎁 UNlock: Relevant resources

​[In-person event: Dec 28th, 6:00 PM] Bay Area immigrant community meet up​

Join us for a fun and engaging end-of-year party in the Bay Area on December 28th, where you'll connect with 50+ members of the immigrant community. Meet my co-founder and EB-1A recipient, RK, while enjoying light refreshments and great conversation. This is the perfect opportunity to network, share experiences, and build valuable connections. Spots are limited, so be sure to RSVP today!

​[Guide] How to prepare for the EB-2 NIW petition?​

Preparing for the EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver) petition can be a complex process, but with the right guidance, it’s entirely manageable. This comprehensive guide provides clear steps and insights to help individuals navigate the petition process successfully. Whether you’re just starting or looking to fine-tune your application, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know to increase your chances of success.

​[Podcast] Exploring immigration with Joe Guzzardi​

Jeff Gebeau, owner of Americans Who Don’t Hate Each Other, and Ismael Syed, co-owner of Gnosi, recently launched the pilot episode of their podcast We’ve Got Issues. In this episode, they interviewed Joe Guzzardi, diving into the nation’s most contentious issue—immigration. It was an engaging conversation you won’t want to miss. Listen to the full episode for more information on immigration.

💫 UNcover: Latest trends

• ​Check out Vahati, a new non-profit in town supporting South Asian immigrant women with a safe space to build resilience and connect.
• ​Tesla rises as a leading employer of H-1B visa holders amid Trump visa debate.
• ​The H-1B debate heats up with Trump vs. Musk on visa policies.

🪄 UNveil: This week’s partner

​Want to securely move & store your stuff? Check out Clutter. A startup based in the Bay Area, they help you with all of your packing, moving, and storage needs at a price that's affordable. I used Clutter to pack and store my stuff when I left the Bay Area a few months ago. The process was as simple & easy as it could've been, with excellent customer support. Use the code TXXRFJ to get $100 off when you sign up!​

👉 Wanna put yourself in front of 23,000+ high-skilled immigrants? Just hit reply to start a conversation.

⚖️ Finally, looking to consult with a lawyer?

Finding a trusted, vetted lawyer is hard. We've done the hard work by curating a list of 5 top attorneys we recommend consulting with. Whether you're looking for an EB-1A profile evaluation or to set up your business as a student, this is for you. Book a consultation today!​

Until next year, stay safe and warm!

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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