Immigation Law
At Sinoberg Raft, we help individuals, families, and businesses navigate the complexities of the U.S. immigration system. Based in Washington, D.C., our immigration practice combines personalized legal representation with an understanding of federal immigration policies and regulatory developments. Whether pursuing employment opportunities, reuniting with family, seeking humanitarian protection, or establishing permanent residency, we provide strategic guidance tailored to each client's circumstances and long-term goals.
Family-Based Immigration & Citizenship: We assist individuals and families with family-sponsored petitions, adjustment of status, permanent residency, naturalization, and other immigration matters. Our approach emphasizes careful preparation, clear communication, and personalized guidance throughout the immigration process.
Business & Employment-Based Immigration: We advise employers, entrepreneurs, professionals, and international businesses on employment-based immigration matters. Our services include H-1B specialty occupation visas, O-1 extraordinary ability petitions, employment-based green cards, and other visa classifications. We help businesses navigate sponsorship requirements, maintain regulatory compliance, and facilitate access to international talent.
Immigration Litigation & Removal Defense: Our practice provides representation in immigration proceedings, including removal defense, administrative appeals, and other immigration-related disputes. We work to protect our clients' legal rights, evaluate available forms of relief, and develop strategies responsive to their individual circumstances.
Immigration Policy & Regulatory Guidance: Located in the nation's capital, our firm closely follows developments in federal immigration law, agency regulations, and executive policy. We advise individuals and organizations on how evolving immigration requirements may affect their legal status, workforce planning, and long-term objectives.
Asylum & Humanitarian Immigration: We assist individuals seeking asylum and other forms of humanitarian protection under U.S. immigration law. Our practice provides guidance on eligibility, application procedures, and available legal protections, approaching sensitive immigration matters with discretion, diligence, and respect.
News/Important Updates
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October 2026 Visa Bulletin Updates Green Card Availability
The U.S. Department of State released its October 2026 Visa Bulletin, establishing new priority-date cutoffs for family-sponsored and employment-based immigrant visas. The start of fiscal year 2027 brought movement in several categories, while certain employment-based categories experienced retrogression.
Why it matters: Green card applicants, sponsoring employers, and families should review updated priority dates and USCIS filing-chart instructions to determine eligibility and avoid missed filing opportunities.
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Federal Court Order Affects Annual Asylum Fee Enforcement
On August 5, 2026, a federal district court issued an injunction affecting the consequences of failing to pay the Annual Asylum Fee. USCIS subsequently reopened its payment portal for applicants with outstanding payments while litigation continues.
Why it matters: Individuals with pending asylum applications should review applicable payment requirements and USCIS notices. The court order affects enforcement of missed-payment consequences but does not eliminate the underlying fee obligation
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State Department Provides Immigrant Visa Interview Scheduling Updates
The Department of State's Immigrant Visa Scheduling Status Tool provides updated information about interview scheduling at U.S. embassies and consulates. Applicants can review scheduling progress by consular post and immigrant visa category.
Why it matters: Families, employers, and foreign nationals pursuing permanent residency through consular processing can use this information to better understand interview backlogs and plan for upcoming immigration procedures.
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USCIS Changes Attorney Participation Requirements for Immigration Interviews
Effective May 18, 2026, USCIS generally discontinued remote participation by attorneys and accredited representatives in field office interviews and affirmative asylum interviews, with limited exceptions.
Why it matters: Immigration applicants and their legal representatives may need to arrange in-person attendance, potentially affecting interview preparation, scheduling, and representation logistics.
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Congress Extends Certain Religious Worker Immigration Provisions
Legislation signed on September 2, 2026, extended the employment-based fourth preference Certain Religious Workers category through December 11, 2026. The extension allows eligible applicants to continue pursuing immigration benefits under the applicable statutory and visa availability requirements.
Why it matters: Religious organizations, sponsoring institutions, and eligible foreign workers should monitor the temporary authorization and associated visa deadlines when planning petitions and permanent residency applications.
