The Trump Administration is reportedly considering a proposal that would impose a $100,000 fee on international students seeking to participate in the Optional Practical Training (OPT) program after graduating from a U.S. university. If implemented, the proposal could significantly increase the cost of obtaining post-graduation work authorization. The proposal remains under review at the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and no final decision has been announced. This come

When evaluating an EB-5 investment, many investors naturally focus on immigration outcomes, such as project approvals, job creation, and the likelihood of obtaining permanent residency. While these are undoubtedly critical factors, the underlying project deserves just as much attention. At its core, an EB-5 investment is still an investment. The project’s location and the market demand surrounding it can significantly influence construction progress, project success, loan re

On July 17, 2026, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) finalized a rule ending the long-standing Duration of Status (D/S) policy for F-1 international students and J-1 exchange visitors. Beginning September 15, 2026, individuals entering the U.S. under F or J status will no longer receive an open-ended period of stay tied solely to maintaining their status. Instead, they will be admitted for the length of their academic or exchange program, subject to a maximum admi

ARCFE × iCross Capital were honored to participate in the groundbreaking ceremony of the AG21/AG22 project, now officially named The Vera, a landmark residential development in the heart of Long Island City (LIC), Queens. This event marks the beginning of another exciting chapter for one of NYC’s most dynamic neighborhoods and represents another major milestone for United Construction & Development Group, one of the most active and accomplished developers in the NYC residenti

A 2025 report by PincusCo ranked iCross Capital, ARCFE’s parent company, 35th out of 105 lending institutions in NYC, highlighting the firm’s growing presence and expertise in one of the most competitive and sophisticated real estate markets in the world. The report noted that NYC construction lending activity surged in 2025, with lenders providing over $23.3B across 344 deals, reflecting strong demand for experienced capital partners capable of navigating complex developme

In recent weeks, a proposed bill in Iowa has drawn significant attention from Chinese international students and families planning long-term careers and residency pathways in the U.S. The legislation, known as HF 2513, would prohibit public universities in Iowa from entering into new employment agreements with certain H-1B visa holders from a list of designated countries. The bill has already passed the Iowa House of Representatives and has advanced through the Senate Labor C

Many families shared a common thought process when evaluating EB-5 projects: there are many options, many different claims, and the more you read, the less certain you feel. This is completely understandable. Assessing EB-5 project safety goes beyond reliance on marketing materials or recommendations from friends. At its core, it is a long-term investment commitment that spans across multiple economic cycles. The factors that truly determine risk are often hidden in the struc