In 2025, the U.S. immigration law landscape is undergoing significant change. The Trump administration is in its second term and has made immigration a key area of emphasis. The year’s new immigration laws reflect a shift toward stricter enforcement, updated application procedures, and changing eligibility rules that affect families, workers, and humanitarian applicants alike. At EMP Law, our North...
Continue ReadingUsually, non-citizens working to obtain U.S. immigration benefits quickly become familiar with United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) and its routine and extensive processing delays. USCIS’s Form I-751, Petition to Remove Conditions on Residence, has fallen victim to excessive delays, resulting in the expected Form I-751 processing time taking longer than a conditional permanent resident card. I-751 processing...
Continue ReadingFor many noncitizens, obtaining a green card represents stability and security in the U.S. Can undocumented immigrants get a green card? Yes, but qualifying without first leaving the U.S. is often challenging. At EMP Law, we understand the challenges undocumented immigrants face. Our team of experienced immigration lawyers is dedicated to helping individuals navigate the U.S. immigration system with...
Continue ReadingWork is rewarding, but it can also be exhausting. So what do North Carolina labor laws say about breaks during the workday? Unfortunately, there are very few federal or NC labor laws about breaks at work. In fact, neither federal nor North Carolina labor laws require employers to give employees rest or meal breaks if they are over the...
Continue ReadingIf you get deported, can you come back? The answer depends on the specifics of your case and why you were deported. Some people must wait years before applying to reenter the country, while others cannot return unless they first obtain a very limited waiver. Understanding the rules is essential if you or a loved one is facing or...
Continue ReadingThe U Visa is unique among U.S. visas. It allows crime victims to receive a visa and eventually a green card so long as they cooperate with the criminal investigation. As of 2025, U Visa processing through USCIS takes approximately 32.7 months for Form I-918. This timeframe includes review, background checks, and waiting for visa availability. Processing times vary...
Continue ReadingApplying for permanent residency, also known as getting a green card, is an exciting time in any intending immigrant’s life. It means you are one step closer to being able to stay in the U.S. permanently. If you are applying for a green card when already in the U.S., you may submit Form I-485 with another form or on...
Continue ReadingAn unexpected visit from U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) can be frightening. If you are wondering what to do if ICE comes to your door, the most important thing to do is stay calm and remember that you have rights under the U.S. Constitution, regardless of immigration status. Our immigration attorneys have helped individuals and families across North...
Continue ReadingCancellation of removal is immigration relief that allows certain noncitizens in the U.S. to avoid deportation and, in many cases, obtain lawful permanent resident status (a green card). When an immigration judge grants cancellation of removal, they stop removal proceedings and let you remain in the U.S. lawfully. The process is available only to those who meet strict eligibility...
Continue ReadingWithholding of removal is a form of immigration relief that stops the government from deporting a person to a country where their life or freedom faces threats because of race, religion, nationality, membership in a particular social group, or political opinion. If you qualify, the immigration judge must grant withholding of removal, which allows you to stay in the...
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