How to apply for US citizenship: the complete N-400 guide (2026)
Becoming a US citizen is the last step in a long immigration journey for many people. It gives you the right to vote, a…
Immigration
Plain-English updates on US visas, green cards, citizenship and immigration rules, with links to official sources.
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Immigration rules in the US changed quickly in 2025 and 2026. These guides explain what changed, who it affects and where to check official information. They are general information, not legal advice.
2026 changes
The $100,000 H-1B fee explained: who pays and who is exempt3 min The new H-1B lottery: how wage-weighted selection works3 min The 2026 US travel ban: which countries are banned in the United States and who is exempt3 min DV-2028 green card lottery: dates, new rules and scam warnings3 min Social media checks for US visas: what applicants should know3 minUSCIS basics
How to check your USCIS case status online3 min USCIS processing times: how to check and what to do if delayed3 min How to renew your green card (Form I-90)3 min How to apply for US citizenship (Form N-400)3 min17 guides
Marriage green card process: steps, forms and timeline
How a US citizen or green card holder sponsors a spouse: Form I-130, adjustment of status or consular processing, the interview, and what evidence of a real marriage looks like.
The $100,000 H-1B fee explained: who pays and who is exempt
What the new H-1B payment requirement is, why F-1 students changing status inside the US are usually outside it, and where the court cases stand.
The new H-1B lottery: how wage-weighted selection works
Higher wage levels now get more chances in the H-1B lottery. What that means for OPT students and entry-level roles.
The 2026 US travel ban: which countries are banned in the United States and who is exempt
Full and partial restrictions on 39 countries, what they mean for students and visitors, and who can still travel.
DV-2028 green card lottery: dates, new rules and scam warnings
Has the Diversity Visa lottery opened? What happened to DV-2027, the new passport and fee rules, and how to avoid fake sites.
Social media checks for US visas: what applicants should know
Why consular officers review online presence, which applicants are affected and practical steps before your interview.
How to check your USCIS case status online
Find your receipt number, use the case status tool, set up a USCIS account and understand common status messages.
USCIS processing times: how to check and what to do if delayed
How to read the processing times page, when a case is “outside normal processing time” and your options.
How to renew your green card (Form I-90)
When to renew, how to file online, what it costs and how to travel or work while it’s pending.
How to apply for US citizenship (Form N-400)
Eligibility, the application, the interview and civics test, and the oath ceremony.
EB-2 NIW explained: the green card you can apply for yourself
The National Interest Waiver lets qualified professionals self-petition for a green card without a job offer. Who qualifies, the three-part test, evidence and timelines.