The Chinese American Lawyers Association of Orange County (CALA OC) partnered with the South Coast Chinese Cultural Center (SCCCC) on October 4 to host a seminar, “Understanding U.S. Immigration Law : From Business to Individuals.”
Topics included the recent H-1B fee surge, employer responsibility, Reentry Permit renewals, EB-1A talent visas, and investment immigration trends. The event drew a large audience, with participants engaging the speakers in lively post-session discussions.
Policy Shifts Legal Insights
Moderator Jieyu Zhang noted that U.S. immigration policy is in constant flux. Attorneys Allen Tsai and Fei Pang offered case-based analysis to help the community understand the latest developments.
Tsai explained that since September 21, the USCIS announced a dramatic increase in H-1B application fees—up to $100,000—sparking lawsuits and uncertainty.
He emphasized that under labor law, employers, not employees, are responsible for these costs. For delayed green card cases, he recommended filing a Mandamus Action to compel timely review.
Plan Ahead Stay Compliant
Attorney Fei Pang presented data showing that Indian applicants account for about 70 percent of H-1B visas. The new wage-based lottery favors higher-paid positions and large companies.
He advised businesses to plan early and maintain accurate payroll records, while individuals should keep clean employment and visa histories. “The earlier you prepare, the more control you have,” he said.
Stay Abroad Keep Your Status
On the Reentry Permit issue, Pang explained that permanent residents posted abroad or caring for family may renew their permits to maintain residency.
He shared that one of his clients successfully extended a Reentry Permit for over 10 years. He urged applicants to retain U.S. tax records and housing or family documentation to show continuous ties to the country.
Talent and Capital The New Frontier
Pang noted that EB-1 approvals—especially for extraordinary ability and multinational executives—have surged, reaching 14 times that of EB-5 last year.
The White House has floated a “Gold Card” concept granting green cards to major donors or investors without full tax residency.
Pang added that future U.S. policy will continue balancing talent attraction and capital inflow.
Legal Expertise, Community Empowered
Amy Chen, CALA OC President, said the association promotes professional exchange among Chinese American lawyers and supports public legal education.
She expressed gratitude for the collaboration with the South Coast Chinese Cultural Center.
SCCCC CEO Yulan Chung thanked the CALA OC and attorneys for their insightful guidance, encouraging attendees to learn the law to better protect their rights.
From left: attorney and moderator Jieyu Zhang, attorney Fei Pang, president Amy Chen, secretary general Nicole, and attorney Allen Tsai.