Becky von Trapp Immigration Attorney

06/05/2026

ICE raids are increasing, and they often target industries that rely heavily on foreign labor, including construction, manufacturing, and hospitality. Every employer, regardless of the size of their business, should have a plan in place for potential ICE enforcement actions and ensure full compliance with I-9 regulations. Better yet, employers should take a proactive approach by exploring legal pathways to sponsor and retain foreign workers, helping to build a stable and compliant workforce.

Lake Placid businesses, immigrant community rattled by ICE raids - https://www.wcax.com/news/2026/06/04/lake-placid-businesses-immigrant-community-rattled-by-ice-raids/

05/22/2026

Attention for all marriage based green card applicants! AOS may not be available for you stating TODAY.

USCIS is applying long-standing law and prior court decisions to require certain aliens with temporary visas who decide they want to permanently reside in the U.S. to return to their home countries to apply for permanent visas through the U.S. Department of State.

We're returning to the original intent of the law to ensure aliens navigate our nation’s immigration system properly.

Here’s what you should know: https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/news-releases/us-citizenship-and-immigration-services-will-grant-adjustment-of-status-only-in-extraordinary

04/29/2026

Heartfelt thanks to our H-2B visa sponsoring client for kind words. Your faith in our team is valued; we will persist in providing top-notch services.

04/20/2026

Last week I had the honor of representing Vermont attorneys, on behalf of the American Immigration Lawyers Association, in Washington, D.C. on Capitol Hill, where we met with the offices of Vermont’s two senators and one representative to discuss and advocate for immigration policy.

Our position is that immigration policy has positive impacts across the board—on the economy, education, technology, and culture. A predictable, consistent, and stable immigration policy is what truly serves the national interest.

It was a great privilege to meet Representative Becca Balint in person, and I am deeply honored by the opportunity.

04/06/2026

Looking for seasonal employees? Refer to this ad to schedule a complimentary consultation (conditions apply).

03/30/2026

I had the privilege of presenting a CLE session at the Vermont Bar Association ‘s Spring Conference last Friday, alongside my VBA immigration division co-chair, Jill Martin Diaz

My portion of the presentation focused on worksite compliance—an area of increasing importance and regulatory scrutiny under the current administration.

It is always meaningful to serve the Vermont legal community and to share insights with fellow Vermont attorneys.

03/23/2026

F2A Is Now Current — A Major Opportunity for Families of Green Card Holders

The April 2026 Visa Bulletin reflects a significant development for the F2A category (spouses and unmarried children under 21 of lawful permanent residents), which is now listed as “Current” under the Dates for Filing chart.

USCIS has confirmed that applicants may use the Dates for Filing chart for family-sponsored categories this month. As a result, eligible individuals in the F2A category may file for adjustment of status and apply for employment authorization and advance parole.

The last time we observed a similar movement was during the COVID-19 period, when consular processing was substantially reduced. The current shift may be influenced, at least in part, by broader travel restrictions affecting visa issuance.

This is a meaningful and positive development for families, allowing them to move forward more quickly in the immigration process.

03/12/2026

Employers across the United States are required to verify the identity and work authorization of every employee they hire. While many companies use E-Verify to assist with this process, confusion often arises about how E-Verify relates to Form I-9, electronic signatures, and remote document verification. Misunderstanding these requirements can lead to costly penalties during government audits. Below are some of the most common I-9 and E-Verify compliance mistakes employers should avoid.

Employers across the United States are required to verify the identity and work authorization of every employee they hire. While many companies use E-Verify to assist with this process, confusion often arises about how E-Verify relates to Form I-9, electronic signatures, and remote document verifica...

03/06/2026

I appreciate the many kind and sincere testimonials from clients since von Trapp Law's inception less than a year ago. Your support inspires us to move forward in challenging times.

03/01/2026

“Immigrants are the lifeblood of the United States. They strengthen our economy, enrich our culture, fuel our innovation, and embody the courage and determination that define this nation. If we truly want to make America great again, we must not only continue to welcome immigrants—we must embrace them, empower them, and ensure they feel they fully belong to the country they help build every single day.

This is what pride looks like when talent celebrates diversity.

Alysa Liu’s father remarked: “Immigrants don’t weaken America, they win gold for it.” His words celebrate the contributions of immigrant families to the nation, highlighting how dedication, skill, and opportunity can lead to historic achievements. Alysa’s Olympic success is a reminder that talent knows no borders, and that the strength of a country often comes from the diverse stories and efforts of those who call it home.

Sometimes, gold medals reflect more than athleticism, they reflect resilience, diversity, and the promise of opportunity.