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JLJ Law Group, PLLC

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JLJ Law Group, PLLC

U.S. Immigration Law Firm helping individuals, families, and employers with family- and employment-based immigration. Our attorneys, Jennifer C. Ha and Linh N.

Contact us to discuss your immigration options. At JLJ Law Group, you can receive personal attention and representation with integrity from lawyers who recognize the importance of our work for your future. We emphasize real solutions to individual problems rather than a "one-size-fits-all" approach. Tran-Layton are highly approachable professionals dedicated to helping clients overcome legal challenges in the areas of bankruptcy, immigration, and family law. We also have experience in other practice areas including business disputes and contracts. Schedule a consultation today to discuss your legal needs and options. Please note that this page is made available for informational purposes only, and is provided with the understanding that it does not constitute the rendering of legal or other professional advice. Nothing herein (including Recommendations) should be used to form an expectation that the same results could be obtained for other clients in similar matters without reference to the specific factual and legal circumstances of each client’s case. Similarly, no representation is made that the quality of legal services to be performed is greater than legal services performed by other lawyers.

10/09/2026

🚨 U.S. PROPOSES OPT FEES OF UP TO $70,000. WHAT SHOULD INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS KNOW?

On October 7, 2026, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) announced a proposal to introduce new fees for Optional Practical Training (OPT). This program allows eligible F-1 international students to work in the United States in jobs related to their field of study.

Under the proposal, the fees would be:

- $70,000 for the first time a school recommends a student for OPT.

- $30,000 for each additional OPT recommendation, including STEM OPT extensions.

Schools would be required to pay these fees before recommending students for OPT. However, they could pass some or all of the costs on to students or employers.

⚠️ IMPORTANT: These fees are only proposed. They have not been finalized and are not currently in effect.

Students can still apply for OPT under the current rules, eligibility requirements, and fees.

HOW COULD THIS AFFECT INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS?

- For many international students, OPT is an important opportunity to gain work experience in the United States after graduation.

- If the new fees are approved, some schools may reconsider their ability to support OPT applications. Students could also face much higher costs if their schools pass these fees on to them.

- This could make it harder for some international students to pursue employment opportunities in the United States after graduation.

WHAT SHOULD STUDENTS DO NOW?

- There is no need to change your study plans or OPT application plans simply because of this proposal.

- If you are graduating soon, check your OPT eligibility and application deadlines. Speak with your school's Designated School Official (DSO) or international student office to make sure you understand the requirements and timelines.

- If you are still studying, keep an eye on official updates from DHS and USCIS. If you hope to work or live in the United States long term, it is also worth learning about your immigration options before graduation.

If you are an international student or a parent with questions about OPT, F-1 status, or immigration options after graduation, contact JLJ Law Group to speak with the immigration attorney about your situation.

📌 Source: U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS), October 7, 2026.

https://www.dhs.gov/news/2026/10/07/dhs-proposes-fees-foreign-student-work-program-protect-american-jobs

10/07/2026

Applying for U.S. citizenship? USCIS may look beyond what is written on your N-400

In some naturalization cases, USCIS may contact neighbors, employers, or coworkers to verify information about the applicant.

Does that mean every applicant will be investigated? What information may USCIS review and how should you prepare?

Watch the video for a quick explanation of what this policy may mean for your naturalization application.

Before filing, make sure the information in your application, supporting documents, and interview answers is complete, accurate, and consistent.

If you are preparing to apply for U.S. citizenship and have questions about your case, contact JLJ Law Group for guidance.

General information only. This post is not legal advice. Each case is different.

Source: USCIS Policy Alert, Investigations and Examinations for Naturalization Eligibility.

09/30/2026

CPT has not been canceled, but some cases may face closer review

Recent ICE guidance has brought renewed attention to whether CPT training is truly an integral part of a student’s established curriculum.

Schools may respond differently to the new guidance. UC Berkeley, for example, has paused Course Credit CPT until further notice in situations where an internship may count for academic credit but is not required to complete the degree program.

The key takeaway is simple: do not assume CPT policies are the same at every school.

Before starting an internship or any CPT-based employment, check your school’s current CPT policy, speak with your DSO or international student office, and make sure your CPT authorization has been approved and is properly reflected on your Form I-20 before you begin working.

CPT decisions can affect internship plans and work authorization, and beginning employment without proper authorization can create issues for F-1 status.

JLJ Law Group will continue sharing practical updates on CPT, OPT, F-1 status, and other U.S. immigration matters so our community can better understand what changes mean in practice.

Follow our page for clear, practical immigration updates.

09/29/2026

📌 OCTOBER 2026 VISA BULLETIN UPDATE

The U.S. Department of State has released the October 2026 Visa Bulletin, the first bulletin of Fiscal Year 2027.

This month brings retrogression in both EB-3 Skilled Workers/Professionals and Other Workers, while the F2A category moved forward.

A retrogression does not mean a case has been denied or that there is a problem with the filing. Visa Bulletin dates can move forward, remain unchanged, or move backward based on visa availability, annual limits, and overall demand.

JLJ Law Group will continue to monitor the Visa Bulletin and share relevant immigration updates.

Source: U.S. Department of State – September & October 2026 Visa Bulletins

09/18/2026

IMMIGRATION UPDATE: New Public Charge Rule Takes Effect September 18, 2026

A new Public Charge rule took effect on September 18, 2026, bringing an important change for certain Green Card applicants.

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has rescinded the 2022 Public Charge Rule. Under the new rule, immigration officers have broader discretion to consider an applicant’s circumstances when determining whether the person is likely to become a “public charge.”

For those filing for Adjustment of Status in the United States, the change applies to applications postmarked or electronically submitted on or after September 18, 2026.

Public charge is not determined by one factor alone. Officers may consider the applicant’s overall circumstances, including factors such as age, health, family status, financial resources, education and skills, and other relevant information.

It is also important to know that receiving a public benefit does not automatically mean your Green Card will be denied, and the public charge ground of inadmissibility does not apply to every immigration category.

📌 If you are getting ready to file Form I-485:

• Make sure you are using the current edition of Form I-485 required for your filing.

• Review your financial information and any means-tested public benefits you have received so you understand what may need to be addressed in your application.

• Don’t assume that receiving a benefit automatically makes you ineligible for a Green Card. Each case is different.

• If you are not sure whether the new rule applies to you, or whether something in your history could raise a public charge issue, get legal advice based on your specific situation before filing.

Have questions about how the new Public Charge rule may affect your case?

Contact JLJ Law Group to schedule a consultation with an immigration attorney.

09/17/2026

LEGAL ASSISTANT

JLJ LAW GROUP IS SEEKING A FULL-TIME LEGAL ASSISTANT

This is an in office position in Salt Lake City, Utah.

Email Resumes to: [email protected]

NO PHONE CALLS

Pay: Dependent upon experience
Benefits: Health Insurance, HSA, 401K, PTO

Hours:

9:00 AM to 6:00

Key Responsibilities:

1. Assist attorneys in preparing and filing immigration petitions, applications, and
supporting documents.
2. Communicate with clients to gather necessary information and documentation.
3. Manage case files, ensuring all documents are organized and up to date.
4. Maintain accurate records of deadlines and ensure timely submission of required filings.
5. Schedule appointments, hearings, and interviews with relevant authorities.
6. Provide administrative support, including answering phones, managing emails, and handling office tasks as needed.

Requirements:

1. Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
2. High level of attention to detail and strong organizational skills.
3. Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite
4. Customer service experience
5. Detail oriented
6. Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced environment

09/16/2026

LEGAL ASSISTANT (VIETNAMESE SPEAKING)

JLJ LAW GROUP IS SEEKING A FULL-TIME LEGAL ASSISTANT.

This is an in office position in Salt Lake City, Utah.

GREENCARD SPONSORSHIP AVAILABLE

Email Resumes to: [email protected]

NO PHONE CALLS

Pay: Dependent upon experience
Benefits: Health Insurance, HSA, 401K, PTO

Hours:

9:00 AM to 6:00

Key Responsibilities:

1. Assist attorneys in preparing and filing immigration petitions, applications, and
supporting documents.
2. Communicate with clients to gather necessary information and documentation.
3. Manage case files, ensuring all documents are organized and up to date.
4. Maintain accurate records of deadlines and ensure timely submission of required filings.
5. Schedule appointments, hearings, and interviews with relevant authorities.
6. Provide administrative support, including answering phones, managing emails, and handling office tasks as needed.

Requirements:
1. Must speak read, write, and speak English and Vietnamese fluently
2. Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
3. High level of attention to detail and strong organizational skills.
4. Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite
5. Customer service experience
6. Detail oriented
7. Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced environment
8. Must have a U.S. Driver’s License

09/15/2026

🚨 IMPORTANT F-1 UPDATE: FEDERAL COURT BLOCKS NEW FIXED-STAY RULE

The new DHS rule scheduled to take effect on September 15, 2026, has been temporarily blocked by a federal court.

On September 14, a federal judge in Massachusetts issued a preliminary injunction preventing DHS from implementing the new rule for F, J, and I nonimmigrants.

So, what does this mean for F-1 students right now?
✅ Duration of Status (D/S) remains in place.
F-1 students can continue to stay in the United States for the duration of their authorized studies and permitted practical training, as long as they properly maintain their F-1 status.

The changes under the blocked rule, such as fixed admission periods, new extension-of-stay requirements, and restrictions affecting certain school transfers and program changes, are not being implemented at this time.

What should F-1 students do now?
• Continue maintaining your F-1 status and meeting your program requirements.
• Check the program end date on your Form I-20. If you need additional time to complete your studies, contact your school before that date.
• Work or participate in practical training only when properly authorized.
• If you are planning to transfer schools, change programs, apply for OPT, or travel outside the U.S. and return, check with your DSO about the requirements for your situation.

⚠️ The case is not over.
This is a preliminary injunction, not a final decision permanently striking down the rule. The lawsuit is still ongoing, and further court action or a government appeal could change the situation.

For now, F-1 students should continue following the current rules and keep an eye on further developments.

Need guidance on your F-1 status or how this court decision may affect your immigration plans?

Contact JLJ Law Group to schedule a consultation with an immigration attorney.

Sources: Reuters (September 14, 2026); DHS Final Rule, Federal Register (July 17, 2026)

09/11/2026

IN JUST 24 HOURS: FROM “CASE IS BEING ACTIVELY REVIEWED” TO “NEW CARD IS BEING PRODUCED”—APPROVED WITHOUT AN INTERVIEW! 🇺🇸

🎉 Congratulations to Ms. Thuy on receiving her green card approval after an EB-3 journey of nearly five years!

In September 2021, while studying in the United States on an F-1 visa, Ms. Thuy began her EB-3 process with sponsorship from a nail salon. Her case faced several challenges:
• Her PERM labor certification was audited, requiring additional documents.
• Her case had to wait for the priority date to become current under the monthly Visa Bulletin.
• USCIS issued a Request for Evidence (RFE) and required an updated immigration medical examination (Form I-693).

While her Form I-485 was pending, Ms. Thuy received an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) and worked legally for her sponsoring employer. However, a work permit is not a green card. Her application could not be approved until an immigrant visa number became available.

Attorney Jennifer C. Ha and the JLJ Law Group team worked closely with Ms. Thuy, preparing supporting documents, responding to the RFE, and monitoring her case.

After months of waiting, the good news finally arrived. Within just 24 hours, her USCIS case status changed from “Case Is Being Actively Reviewed By USCIS” to “New Card Is Being Produced.” Her green card application was approved without an interview.

Thank you Ms. Thuy for trusting Attorney Jennifer C. Ha and the JLJ Law Group team throughout this journey! 💐

An Important Reminder for F-1 Students
A new rule affecting F-1 students is scheduled to take effect on September 15, 2026. F-1 students entering or reentering the United States will generally be admitted for a specific period instead of Duration of Status (D/S)

This change may affect how students maintain lawful status, request an extension or change of status, and plan for a long-term immigration path. Understanding your options and planning early will be important.

📩 Send JLJ Law Group a message to schedule a consultation with an attorney.

Disclaimer: Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome. Every case is different. Interview waivers are determined by USCIS on a case-by-case basis.

09/07/2026

🇺🇸 Happy Labor Day 2026!

Today, we honor the workers whose dedication and contributions help strengthen our country and communities.

JLJ Law Group recognizes the value of hard work and the people behind it. We wish you and your loved ones a safe, peaceful, and well-deserved Labor Day.

Address

332 E 3300 S, STE 201
South Salt Lake, UT
84115

Opening Hours

Monday	8:30am - 5pm
Tuesday	8:30am - 5pm
Wednesday	8:30am - 5pm
Thursday	8:30am - 5pm
Friday	8:30am - 5pm

Website

http://www.attorneyjenha.com/

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