The BIA issued a major ruling in Matter of Valenzuela Gallardo (2026), deciding that helping someone after a crime can qualify as “obstruction of justice” and make green card holders deportable. Even indirect assistance, like helping someone hide or escape, can count—even if no police investigation or court case has started. The key factor is intent: if the goal is to interfere with the legal process, it meets the aggravated felony standard. This decision significantly broadens immigration consequences, showing courts increasingly focus on intent rather than timing, narrowing protections for non-citizens.

USCIS has completed the FY 2027 H-1B initial registration selection process, including the advanced degree cap, and selected beneficiaries have been notified.
Those selected are now eligible to file H-1B cap-subject petitions beginning April 1, 2026, with a filing window of at least 90 days. Petitioners must submit the selection notice and the latest edition of Form I-129 (02/27/26) along with their petition. Careful attention to deadlines and documentation is critical for employers and candidates navigating this competitive visa process.

USCIS has completed the FY 2027 H-1B initial registration selection process, including the advanced degree cap, and selected beneficiaries have been notified. Those selected are now eligible to file H-1B cap-subject petitions beginning April 1, 2026, with a filing window of at least 90 days. Petitioners must submit the selection notice and the latest edition of Form I-129 (02/27/26) along with their petition. Careful attention to deadlines and documentation is critical for employers and candidates navigating this competitive visa process.

A Small Update, A Big Impact: SIJS & Deferred Action Our office recently received a Deferred Action approval in one of our SIJS cases. Interestingly, the original approval notice issued in March 2025 did not include Deferred Action, making this a welcome and somewhat unexpected development. We’re truly thrilled for our client, this means they can now apply for work authorization, gain financial independence, and begin building their life with stability and dignity. At the same time, we’re curious to know: 👉 Are other offices seeing similar Deferred Action approvals being issued post-approval lately? This feels like a meaningful shift, and certainly a positive one. Grateful for outcomes like these that make a real difference in our clients’ lives. hashtag#ImmigrationLaw hashtag#SIJS hashtag#DeferredAction hashtag#USCIS hashtag#MALIKLAWPLLC hashtag#LegalUpdates hashtag#ClientWins