Trouble at the Border? What CBP, Visa Delays, and Consulate Changes Mean for You!

Topic: Trouble at the Border? What CBP, Visa Delays, and Consulate Changes Mean for You!
Guest: Justin Rivera, Esq. | Immigration Attorney
Law Firm: Wasden Immigration Litigation
Host: Nipasa Pradhan

In this episode, host Nipasa Pradhan sits down with immigration attorney Justin Rivera from Wasden Immigration Litigation to dive deep into the growing concerns around U.S. immigration at the border. From Customs and Border Protection (CBP) issues to frustrating visa delays and sudden consulate changes, we unpack what’s really happening — and what it means for travelers, workers, and families. Whether you’re on a visa, applying for one, or just trying to stay informed, this conversation will help you navigate these complex challenges. Don’t miss key legal insights, tips, and action steps you can take now.

📌 Top 5 Key Discussion Points:
What’s going wrong at the border: Recent trends with CBP scrutiny

Visa delays: What’s causing them and how to plan ahead

Changes at U.S. consulates abroad and their impact

Legal rights and strategies for visa holders during disruptions

Proactive steps to protect your immigration status

00:00 – Intro
11:15 – We’ve really heard a lot about these secondary inspections lately. Can you explain what they are and why travelers are increasingly being flagged for them?
18:01 – What specific categories of travelers-whether students, workers, or visitors-should be most concerned about being questioned by CBP upon entry?
21:34 – Why do some immigration experts suggest that returning to the US should be treated like attending another visa interview?
27:02 – If my visa is delayed because of changes in consulate policy or new procedures, do I have recourse? Can I appeal or request expedited processing to mitigate the impact on my situation?
29:22 – What if CBP holds my documents at the border for more than the standard amount of time? Should I be concerned, and how can I get legal assistance to resolve this quickly?
36:05 – For H1B holders already in the US who are petitioning for a second term (three more years), is there anything they should be concerned about?
38:29 – What do you have to say about the latest requirement for biometrics for H1B applicants and address changes that need to be updated with USCIS?
40:51 -What are the key documents that travelers should carry to be prepared for unexpected questioning or document requests at the airport?
42:11 – What are some common mistakes that travelers make during CBP inspections that can actually lead to delays or even worse, denial of entry?
46:02 – If I was selected in the H1B lottery, can I expect calls from software companies in the US? How will the IT industry market for new H1B visa holders look in October 2025?
59:08 – If my B1/B2 visa was rejected in 2017, can it affect my H1B visa interview? Should I mention this in the DS160?

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