USCIS Reaches H-2B Cap for First Half of FY 2018

From USCIS News:

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services has reached the congressionally mandated H-2B cap for the first half of fiscal year 2018.

Dec. 15, 2017, was the final receipt date for new H-2B worker petitions requesting an employment start date before April 1, 2018. USCIS will reject new cap-subject H-2B petitions received after Dec. 15 that request an employment start date before April 1, 2018.

USCIS continues to accept H-2B petitions that are exempt from the congressionally mandated cap. This includes the following types of petitions:

• Current H-2B workers in the United States petitioning to extend their stay and, if applicable, change the terms of their employment or change their employers;
• Fish roe processors, fish roe technicians, and/or supervisors of fish roe processing; and,
• Workers performing lab

USCIS Issues Clarifying Guidance on NAFTA TN Status Eligibility for Economists

From USCIS News:

WASHINGTON —U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) announced today that it is clarifying policy guidance (PDF, 71 KB) on the specific work activities its officers should consider when determining whether an individual qualifies for TN nonimmigrant status as an economist.

The North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) TN nonimmigrant status allows qualified Canadian and Mexican citizens to temporarily enter the U.S. to engage in specific professional activities, including the occupation of economist. The agreement, however, does not define the term economist, resulting in inconsistent decisions on whether certain analysts and fin

Re-Registration Period Now Open for Nicaraguans with Temporary Protected Status

From USCIS News:

TPS Nicaragua Ending in January 2019

WASHINGTON— Current beneficiaries of Temporary Protected Status (TPS) under Nicaragua’s designation who want to maintain that status through the program’s termination date of Jan. 5, 2019, must re-register between Dec. 15, 2017 and Feb. 13, 2018. Re-registration procedures, including how to renew employment authorization documentation, have been published in the Federal Register and on the USCIS website.

All applicants must submit Form I-821</a

Updated USCIS Procedures for Cuba

From USCIS Alerts:

Due to staff reductions at the U.S. Embassy in Havana, Cuba, USCIS will temporarily suspend operations at its field office in Havana, effective immediately. During this time, the USCIS field office in Mexico City, Mexico, will assume Havana’s jurisdiction, which includes only Cuba.

Individuals who live in Cuba must follow these filing instructions:

Service/Form	Filing Instructions
Form I-130, Petition for Alien Relative	Fi

USCIS Updates Policy on Determining Cuban Citizenship for Those Born Outside of Cuba

From USCIS Alerts:

USCIS is no longer considering a consular certificate documenting an individual’s birth outside of Cuba to a Cuban parent as sufficient evidence of Cuban citizenship. This policy memorandum aligns with Cuban law and applies to individuals born outside of Cuba applying for lawful permanent resident status in the United States under the Cuban Adjustment Act (CAA).

The updated policy memorandum rescinds Matter of Vazquez as an adopted decision, which held that a Cuban consular certificate documenting an individual’s birth outside of Cuba to at least one Cuban parent is accepted as proof of Cuban citizenship. Under the updated guidance, USCIS will not consider a consular certificate as sufficient proof of Cuban citizenship. This will be the case even if th

Tools Outage

From USCIS Alerts:

USCIS will conduct system maintenance on Thursday, Dec. 21, 2017, from 9 p.m. to 11:30 p.m. (Eastern).

During this time, our online tools may be unavailable, including:

• Check My Case Status
• e-Request
• Change of Address Online
• Check Processing Times
• Civil Surgeon Locator
• FOIA Status Check
• Office Locator
• Forms by Mail

USCIS Electronic Reading Room opens the door to transparency

From USCIS Alerts:

USCIS is opening the door to its updated Electronic Reading Room to fulfill our commitment to increase transparency with the American public. In the Electronic Reading Room, USCIS is disclosing cleared policy documents and external correspondence addressed to our leadership along with their responses. This is in addition to providing access to information that had been requested at least three times and had been provided under the Freedom of Information Act.  

Using the USCIS Electronic Reading Room is easy. Simply select a category from the drop-down list and search for topics such as Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA), H-1B Special Occupations, and Temporary Protective Status (TPS). The USCIS Electronic Reading Room includes an addit

USCIS Issues Clarifying Guidance on NAFTA TN Status Eligibility for Economists

From USCIS Alerts:

WASHINGTON —U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) announced today that it is clarifying policy guidance (PDF, 71 KB) on the specific work activities its officers should consider when determining whether an individual qualifies for TN nonimmigrant status as an economist.

The North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) TN nonimmigrant status allows qualified Canadian and Mexican citizens to temporarily enter the U.S. to engage in specific professional activities, including the occupation of economist. The agreement, however, does not define the term economist, resulting in inconsistent decisions on whether certain analysts and f

Re-Registration Period Now Open for Hondurans with Temporary Protected Status

From USCIS News:

WASHINGTON— Current beneficiaries of Temporary Protected Status (TPS) under Honduras’ designation who want to maintain that status through the current expiration date of July 5, 2018, must re-register between Dec. 15, 2017 and Feb. 13, 2018. Re-registration procedures, including how to renew employment authorization documentation, have been published in the Federal Register and on the USCIS website.

All applicants must submit Form I-821, Application for Temporary Protected

Re-Registration Period Now Open for Nicaraguans with Temporary Protected Status

From USCIS News:

TPS Nicaragua Ending in January 2019

WASHINGTON— Current beneficiaries of Temporary Protected Status (TPS) under Nicaragua’s designation who want to maintain that status through the program’s termination date of Jan. 5, 2019, must re-register between Dec. 15, 2017 and Feb. 13, 2018. Re-registration procedures, including how to renew employment authorization documentation, have been published in the Federal Register and on the USCIS website.

All applicants must submit <a target='

USCIS to Begin Accepting Applications under the International Entrepreneur Rule

From USCIS News:

WASHINGTON—U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) announced today it is taking steps to implement the International Entrepreneur Rule (IER), in accordance with a recent court decision.

Although the IER was published during the previous administration with an effective date of July 17, 2017, it did not take effect because the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) issued a final rule on July 11, 2017, delaying the IER’s effective date until March 14, 2018.  This delay rule was meant to give USCIS time to review the IER and, if necessary, to issue a rule proposing to remove the IER program regulations.

However, a Dec. 1, 2017, ruling from the U.S. District Court for

Visa Bulletin February 2018 Predictions

For the official January 2018 Visa Bulletin, please click here: http://www.mygcvisa.com/visa-bulletin/2018/visa-bulletin-january-2018.aspx

Please see February 2018 Visa Bulletin Predictions below (for both Family Based and Employment Based):

Family Based:

Final Action Dates

Dates For Filing Applications

"Final Action Date" is the date when when USCIS/DOS may render their final decision on submitted applications. Your priority date should be before this date.

Family- Sponsored	All Chargeability  Areas Except Those Listed	CHINA-mainland  born	INDIA	MEXICO	PHILIPPINES
F1	22APR11	22APR11	22APR11	01JUN96	22FEB05
F2A	01MAR16	01MAR16	01MAR16	22JAN16	01MAR16
F2B	15DEC10	15DEC10	15DEC10	08SEP96	08JUL06
F3	01NOV05	01NOV05	01NOV05	01JUL95	01APR95
F4	01JUL04	08JUL04	01JAN04	15NOV97	08OCT94

"Date for Filing Application" is the date when you can submit I-485/NVC applications to USCIS/DOS. Your priority date should be before this date.

Family- Sponsored	All Chargeability  Areas Except Those Listed	CHINA-mainland  born	INDIA	MEXICO	PHILIPPINES
F1	01FEB12	01FEB12	01FEB12	15DEC96	15NOV07
F2A	01DEC16	01DEC16	01DEC16	01DEC16	01DEC16
F2B	15SEP11	15SEP11	15SEP11	15JAN97	15SEP07
F3	08DEC05	08DEC05	08DEC05	15OCT95	01JUL95
F4	01DEC04	01DEC04	15JUL04	01MAR98	01APR95

Visa Bulletin January 2018

For December 2017 Visa Bulletin, please click here: http://www.mygcvisa.com/visa-bulletin/2018/visa-bulletin-december-2017.aspx

January 2018 Visa Bulletin has been officially released (valid from January 1 to January 31 only). Please see below for more details.

Family Based:

Final Action Dates

Dates For Filing Applications

"Final Action Date" is the date when when USCIS/DOS may render their final decision on submitted applications. Your priority date should be before this date.

Family- Sponsored	All Chargeability  Areas Except Those Listed	CHINA-mainland  born	INDIA	MEXICO	PHILIPPINES
F1	15MAR11	15MAR11	15MAR11	01MAY96	01JAN05
F2A	01FEB16	01FEB16	01FEB16	01JAN16	01FEB16
F2B	01DEC10	01DEC10	01DEC10	15AUG96	01JUL06
F3	08OCT05	08OCT05	08OCT05	15JUN95	15MAR95
F4	22JUN04	22JUN04	15DEC03	01NOV97	01SEP94

"Date for Filing Application" is the date when you can submit I-485/NVC applications to USCIS/DOS. Your priority date should be before this date.

Family- Sponsored	All Chargeability  Areas Except Those Listed	CHINA- mainland  born	INDIA	MEXICO	PHILIPPINES
F1	01JAN12	01JAN12	01JAN12	01NOV96	01OCT07
F2A	01NOV16	01NOV16	01NOV16	01NOV16	01NOV16
F2B	01SEP11	01SEP11	01SEP11	01JAN97	01SEP07
F3	01DEC05	01DEC05	01DEC05	01OCT95	15JUN95
F4	15NOV04	15NOV04	22JUN04	08FEB98	01MAR95

Visa Bulletin January 2018 Special Notes

For the official January 2018 Visa Bulletin, please click here: http://www.mygcvisa.com/visa-bulletin/2018/visa-bulletin-january-2018.aspx

Apart from posting current dates, State Department has also added special notes to Visa Bulletin mentioned above. Please see full details below:

D. SPECIAL IMMIGRANT (SI) TRANSLATOR CATEGORY VISA AVAILABILITY

Given the limited availability of visa numbers and the existing demand, the Department expects to reach the FY-2018 annual limit of 50 Special Immigrant Visas in the SI category early in the Fiscal Year. As a result, it has been necessary to hold the January Final Action Date at April 1, 2010. It is likely that number use will require the SI category to become "unavailable" in the coming months. Once the annual limit of 50 visas is reached, further issuances in the SI category will not be possible until October 2018, under the FY-2019 annual limit. The SQ Special Immigrant Visa category for certain Iraqi and Afghan nationals employed by or on behalf of the U.S. government in Iraq or Afghanistan is not affected and remains current.

E. SCHEDULED EXPIRATION OF TWO EMPLOYMENT VISA CATEGORI

Tools Outage

From USCIS Alerts:

USCIS will conduct system maintenance on Sunday, Dec. 3, 2017, from 5 a.m. to 6 p.m. (Eastern).

During this time, our online tools may be unavailable, including:

• Check My Case Status
• e-Request
• Change of Address Online
• Check Processing Times
• Civil Surgeon Locator
• FOIA Status Check
• Office Locator
• Forms by Mail

Status of the Central American Minors Program

From USCIS Alerts:

On Nov. 9, 2017, the Department of State stopped accepting new applications for the Central American Minors (CAM) refugee program. USCIS will stop interviewing CAM cases on Jan. 31, 2018. After that date, individuals with pending applications who have not been interviewed will receive a notice with further instructions.

The decision to terminate the CAM refugee program was made as part of the U.S. government review of the U.S. Refugee Admissions Program for FY 2018.

The CAM program was established in 2014 to provide certain minors in El Salvador, Guatemala, and Honduras the opportunity to be considered, while still in their home country, for refugee resettlement in the United States. Individuals who were determined to be ineligible for

USCIS Guidance on DACA Renewal Requests Affected by Mail Service Issues

From USCIS Alerts:

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has received reports that the U.S. Postal Service (USPS) has identified USPS mail service delays that affected a number of DACA renewal requests. Because the DACA policy has been rescinded and individuals can no longer request deferred action under DACA, and in light of the mail service delays identified by USPS, Acting Secretary of Homeland Security Elaine Duke has directed USCIS to accept DACA renewal requests from individuals who resubmit their DACA renewal request with individualized proof that the request was originally mailed in a timely manner and that the cause for receipt after the Oct. 5, 2017, deadline was the result of USPS mail service error. Affected DACA requestors who do not have such proof may contact USPS, which will review the cases on an individual basis and provide

Tools Outage

From USCIS Alerts:

USCIS will conduct system maintenance on Wednesday, Nov. 15, 2017, from 9 p.m. to midnight (Eastern). 

During this time, our online tools may be unavailable, including:

• Check My Case Status
• e-Request
• Change of Address Online
• Check Processing Times
• Civil Surgeon Locator
• FOIA Status Check
• Office Locator
• Forms by Mail

As CNMI Transitional Worker Program Draws Down, USCIS Announces Cap for Final Three Fiscal Years

From USCIS News:

WASHINGTON— Today, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) announced the number of visas the agency will grant for the last three fiscal years (FYs) of the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands (CNMI)-Only Transitional Worker (CW-1) program. Congress previously mandated that USCIS end the program by reducing the number of workers in the program to zero by Dec. 31, 2019.

Under the CW-1 program, employers in the CNMI can apply for permission to employ foreign workers who are ineligible to work in the territory under other nonimmigrant worker categories. The intent of phasing out this foreign worker program is to e

USCIS Guidance on DACA Renewal Requests Affected by Mail Service Issues

From USCIS Alerts:

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has received reports that the U.S. Postal Service (USPS) has identified USPS mail service delays that affected a number of DACA renewal requests. Because the DACA policy has been rescinded and individuals can no longer request deferred action under DACA, and in light of the mail service delays identified by USPS, Acting Secretary of Homeland Security Elaine Duke has directed USCIS to accept DACA renewal requests from individuals who resubmit their DACA renewal request with individualized proof that the request was originally mailed in a timely manner and that the cause for receipt after the Oct. 5, 2017, deadline was the result of USPS mail service error. Affected DACA requestors who do not have such proof may contact USPS, which will review the cases on an individual basis and provide

Status of the Central American Minors Program

From USCIS Alerts:

On Nov. 9, 2017, the Department of State stopped accepting new applications for the Central American Minors (CAM) refugee program. USCIS will stop interviewing CAM cases on Jan. 31, 2018. After that date, individuals with pending applications who have not been interviewed will receive a notice with further instructions.

The decision to terminate the CAM refugee program was made as part of the U.S. government review of the U.S. Refugee Admissions Program for FY 2018.

The CAM program was established in 2014 to provide certain minors in El Salvador, Guatemala, and Honduras the opportunity to be considered, while still in their home country, for refugee resettlement in the United States. Individuals who were determined to be ineligible for

Visa Bulletin January 2018 Predictions

For the official December 2017 Visa Bulletin, please click here: http://www.mygcvisa.com/visa-bulletin/2017/visa-bulletin-december-2017.aspx

Please see January 2018 Visa Bulletin Predictions below (for both Family Based and Employment Based):

Family Based:

Final Action Dates

Dates For Filing Applications

"Final Action Date" is the date when when USCIS/DOS may render their final decision on submitted applications. Your priority date should be before this date.

Family- Sponsored	All Chargeability  Areas Except Those Listed	CHINA-mainland  born	INDIA	MEXICO	PHILIPPINES
F1	08MAR11	08MAR11	08MAR11	01MAY96	22FEB05
F2A	15JAN16	15JAN16	15JAN16	08DEC15	15JAN16
F2B	08DEC10	08DEC10	08DEC10	15AUG96	08JUL06
F3	22SEP05	22SEP05	22SEP05	01JUN95	22MAR95
F4	22JUN04	01JUL04	08DEC03	22OCT97	08SEP94

"Date for Filing Application" is the date when you can submit I-485/NVC applications to USCIS/DOS. Your priority date should be before this date.

Family- Sponsored	All Chargeability  Areas Except Those Listed	CHINA-mainland  born	INDIA	MEXICO	PHILIPPINES
F1	01FEB12	01FEB12	01FEB12	15DEC96	15NOV07
F2A	01DEC16	01DEC16	01DEC16	01DEC16	01DEC16
F2B	15SEP11	15SEP11	15SEP11	15JAN97	15SEP07
F3	08DEC05	08DEC05	08DEC05	15OCT95	01JUL95
F4	01DEC04	01DEC04	15JUL04	01MAR98	01APR95

Visa Bulletin December 2017

For November 2017 Visa Bulletin, please click here: http://www.mygcvisa.com/visa-bulletin/2017/visa-bulletin-november-2017.aspx

December 2017 Visa Bulletin has been officially released (valid from December 1 to December 31 only). Please see below for more details.

Family Based:

Final Action Dates

Dates For Filing Applications

"Final Action Date" is the date when when USCIS/DOS may render their final decision on submitted applications. Your priority date should be before this date.

Family- Sponsored	All Chargeability  Areas Except Those Listed	CHINA-mainland  born	INDIA	MEXICO	PHILIPPINES
F1	01FEB11	01FEB11	01FEB11	01APR96	01JAN05
F2A	22DEC15	22DEC15	22DEC15	15NOV15	22DEC15
F2B	22NOV10	22NOV10	22NOV10	22JUL96	01JUL06
F3	08SEP05	08SEP05	08SEP05	22MAY95	08MAR95
F4	08JUN04	08JUN04	22NOV03	08OCT97	01AUG94

"Date for Filing Application" is the date when you can submit I-485/NVC applications to USCIS/DOS. Your priority date should be before this date.

Family- Sponsored	All Chargeability  Areas Except Those Listed	CHINA- mainland  born	INDIA	MEXICO	PHILIPPINES
F1	01JAN12	01JAN12	01JAN12	01NOV96	01OCT07
F2A	01NOV16	01NOV16	01NOV16	01NOV16	01NOV16
F2B	01SEP11	01SEP11	01SEP11	01JAN97	01SEP07
F3	01DEC05	01DEC05	01DEC05	01OCT95	15JUN95
F4	15NOV04	15NOV04	22JUN04	08FEB98	01MAR95

USCIS Updates Policy to Ensure Petitioners Meet Burden of Proof for Nonimmigrant Worker Extension Petitions

From USCIS News:

WASHINGTON — Under updated policy guidance (PDF, 97 KB), U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is instructing its officers to apply the same level of scrutiny to both initial petitions and extension requests for certain nonimmigrant visa categories. The guidance applies to nearly all nonimmigrant classifications filed using Form I-129, Petition for a Nonimmigrant Worker.

“USCIS officers are at the front lines of the administration’s efforts to enhance the integrity of the immigration system,” said USCIS Director L. Francis Cissna. “This updat

Changes to Direct Filing Addresses for Form I-129 Petitions

From USCIS Alerts:

On October 12, 2017, USCIS will change the direct filing addresses for certain petitioners of Form I-129, Petition for a Nonimmigrant Worker. The changes are as follows:

• Petitioners will now file Form I-129 according to the state where the company or organization’s primary office is located. Previously, petitioners filed Form I-129 based on the beneficiary’s temporary employment or training location.
• Petitioners located in Florida, Georgia, North Carolina and Texas will now file Form I-129 at the California Service Center.

Starting November 11, 2017, USCIS may reject Form I-129s that are filed at the wrong service center.

Please see our Direct Filing Addresses for Form I-1

USCIS Makes Additional Data on Employment-Based Visa Programs Available in Support of ‘Hire American’ Executive Order

From USCIS Alerts:

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has posted additional data about the agency’s employment-based visa programs on its website. This new information reflects USCIS’ commitment to transparency in carrying out President Trump’s Buy American and Hire American Executive Order.

Datasets now available on the webpage include:

L-1 Datasets: The L-1 program (L-1A and <a target='_blank' href="https://www.uscis

Immigration Help Available to Those Affected by Natural Disasters

From USCIS Alerts:

We offer immigration services that may help people affected by unforeseen circumstances such as natural disasters.

The following measures may be available on a case-by-case basis upon request:

• Changing a nonimmigrant status or extending a nonimmigrant stay for an individual currently in the United States. Failure to apply for the extension or change before expiration of your authorized period of admission may be excused if the delay was due to extraordinary circumstances beyond your control;
• Re-parole of individuals previously granted parole by USCIS;
• Expedited processing of advance parole requests;
• Expedited adjudication of requests for off-campus employment authorization for F-1 students experiencing severe economic hardship;
• Expedited adjudication of employment authorization appl

Employers Must Use Form I-9 With a Revision Date of 07/17/17 N

From USCIS Alerts:

Beginning Sept. 18, 2017, employers must use Form I-9, Employment Eligibility Verification, with revision date 07/17/17 N, to verify the identity and work eligibility of every new employee hired after Nov. 6, 1986, or for the reverification of expiring employment authorization of current employees (if applicable).

This date is found on the lower left corner of the form. Prior versions of the form will no longer be valid for use.  Employers who fail to use Form I-9, 07/17/17 N on or after Sept. 18, 2017 may be subject to all applicable penalties under section 274A of the Immigration and Nationality Act, 8 U.S.C. 1324a, as enforced by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).

Employers should continue to follow existing <a target='_blank' href="https://

Immigration Help Available to Those Affected by Hurricane Irma

From USCIS Alerts:

USCIS offers immigration services that may help people affected by unforeseen circumstances, including disasters such as Hurricane Irma.

The following measures may be available on a case-by-case basis upon request:

• Changing a nonimmigrant status or extending a nonimmigrant stay for an individual currently in the United States. Failure to apply for the extension or change before expiration of your authorized period of admission may be excused if the delay was due to extraordinary circumstances beyond your control;
• Re-parole of individuals previously granted parole by USCIS;
• Expedited processing of advance parole requests;
• Expedited adjudication of requests for off-campus employment authorization for F-1 students experiencing severe economic hardship;
• Expedited adjudication of employment author

USCIS Alerts Those Affected by Hurricane Harvey to Available Immigration Services

From USCIS Alerts:

USCIS offers immigration services that may help people affected by unforeseen circumstances, including disasters such as Hurricane Harvey.

The following measures may be available on a case-by-case basis upon request:

• Changing a nonimmigrant status or extending a nonimmigrant stay for an individual currently in the United States. Failure to apply for the extension or change before expiration of your authorized period of admission may be excused if the delay was due to extraordinary circumstances beyond your control;
• Re-parole of individuals previously granted parole by USCIS;
• Expedited processing of advance parole requests;
• Expedited adjudication of requests for off-campus employment authorization for F-1 students experiencing severe economic hardship;
• Expedited adjudication of employment auth

USCIS Grants All Available U Visas for Fiscal Year 2017

From USCIS Alerts:

USCIS has approved the congressionally mandated annual limit of 10,000 petitions for U nonimmigrant status for victims of certain crimes committed in the United States who assist law enforcement authorities. Although USCIS cannot grant any more U visas in fiscal year (FY) 2017, we will continue to review pending petitions for eligibility for potential visa issuance when more visas become available in FY 2018 beginning on Oct. 1, 2017. 

Petitioners and qualifying family members must continue to meet eligibility requirements at the time a U visa becomes available.

Congress created the U visa program to strengthen law enforcement&

Customer Service Tools Outage

From USCIS Alerts:

USCIS will conduct system maintenance on Thursday, October 12, 2017, from 9 p.m. to midnight. (Eastern).

During this time, our online tools may be unavailable, including:

• Check My Case Status
• e-Request
• Change of Address Online
• Check Processing Times
• Civil Surgeon Locator
• FOIA Status Check
• Office Locator
• Forms by Mail

TPS Re-registration Deadline for Haiti is July 24

From USCIS Alerts:

The deadline for eligible nationals of Haiti (and people without nationality who last habitually resided in Haiti) to re-register for Temporary Protected Status (TPS) is Monday, July 24, 2017. The limited 6-month extension of the TPS designation for Haiti runs from July 23, 2017, through Jan. 22, 2018.

During this 6-month extension, Haiti TPS beneficiaries with no other immigration status are encouraged to prepare for their return to Haiti in the event Haiti’s designation is not extended again. This preparation includes TPS beneficiaries ensuring they have current, valid Haitian nationality documentation issued by the Government of Haiti (such as a passport) that will allow them to return to Haiti. Beneficiaries are encouraged to contact a Haitian consul

Visa Bulletin December 2017 Predictions

For the official November 2017 Visa Bulletin, please click here: http://www.mygcvisa.com/visa-bulletin/2017/visa-bulletin-november-2017.aspx

Please see December 2017 Visa Bulletin Predictions below (for both Family Based and Employment Based):

Family Based:

Final Action Dates

Dates For Filing Applications

"Final Action Date" is the date when when USCIS/DOS may render their final decision on submitted applications. Your priority date should be before this date.

Family- Sponsored	All Chargeability  Areas Except Those Listed	CHINA-mainland  born	INDIA	MEXICO	PHILIPPINES
F1	01MAR11	01MAR11	01MAR11	01MAY96	08FEB07
F2A	08DEC15	08DEC15	08DEC15	22NOV15	08DEC15
F2B	01DEC10	01DEC10	01DEC10	15AUG96	01FEB07
F3	01SEP05	01SEP05	01SEP05	22MAY95	15MAR95
F4	08JUN04	15JUN04	08NOV03	22OCT97	08JUL94

"Date for Filing Application" is the date when you can submit I-485/NVC applications to USCIS/DOS. Your priority date should be before this date.

Family- Sponsored	All Chargeability  Areas Except Those Listed	CHINA-mainland  born	INDIA	MEXICO	PHILIPPINES
F1	01FEB12	01FEB12	01FEB12	15DEC96	15NOV07
F2A	01DEC16	01DEC16	01DEC16	01DEC16	01DEC16
F2B	15SEP11	15SEP11	15SEP11	15JAN97	15SEP07
F3	08DEC05	08DEC05	08DEC05	15OCT95	01JUL95
F4	01DEC04	01DEC04	15JUL04	01MAR98	01APR95

USCIS Returns Unselected Fiscal Year 2018 H-1B Cap-Subject Petitions

From USCIS Alerts:

USCIS announced on July 19, that it has returned all fiscal year 2018 H-1B cap-subject petitions that were not selected in our computer-generated random selection process.  USCIS previously announced on May 3, that it completed data entry of all selected cap-subject petitions. 

Visa Bulletin November 2017

For October 2017 Visa Bulletin, please click here: http://www.mygcvisa.com/visa-bulletin/2017/visa-bulletin-october-2017.aspx

November 2017 Visa Bulletin has been officially released (valid from November 1 to November 30 only). Please see below for more details.

Family Based:

Final Action Dates

Dates For Filing Applications

"Final Action Date" is the date when when USCIS/DOS may render their final decision on submitted applications. Your priority date should be before this date.

Family- Sponsored	All Chargeability  Areas Except Those Listed	CHINA-mainland  born	INDIA	MEXICO	PHILIPPINES
F1	22JAN11	22JAN11	22JAN11	01APR96	01JAN07
F2A	15NOV15	15NOV15	15NOV15	01NOV15	15NOV15
F2B	15NOV10	15NOV10	15NOV10	22JUL96	01JAN07
F3	15AUG05	15AUG05	15AUG05	08MAY95	01MAR95
F4	22MAY04	22MAY04	22OCT03	08OCT97	08JUN94

"Date for Filing Application" is the date when you can submit I-485/NVC applications to USCIS/DOS. Your priority date should be before this date.

Family- Sponsored	All Chargeability  Areas Except Those Listed	CHINA- mainland  born	INDIA	MEXICO	PHILIPPINES
F1	01JAN12	01JAN12	01JAN12	01NOV96	01OCT07
F2A	01NOV16	01NOV16	01NOV16	01NOV16	01NOV16
F2B	01SEP11	01SEP11	01SEP11	01JAN97	01SEP07
F3	01DEC05	01DEC05	01DEC05	01OCT95	15JUN95
F4	15NOV04	15NOV04	22JUN04	08FEB98	01MAR95

Immigration Help Available to Those Affected by Hurricanes

From USCIS Alerts:

We offer immigration services that may help people affected by unforeseen circumstances, including disasters such as hurricanes.

The following measures may be available on a case-by-case basis upon request:

• Changing a nonimmigrant status or extending a nonimmigrant stay for an individual currently in the United States. Failure to apply for the extension or change before expiration of your authorized period of admission may be excused if the delay was due to extraordinary circumstances beyond your control;
• Re-parole of individuals previously granted parole by USCIS;
• Expedited processing of advance parole requests;
• Expedited adjudication of requests for off-campus employment authorization for F-1 students experiencing severe economic hardship;
• Expedited adjudication of employment auth

Premium Processing Now Available for All Petitioners Seeking H-1B Visas

From USCIS News:

WASHINGTON — U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) resumed premium processing today for all H-1B visa extension of stay petitions. Premium processing is now available for all types of H-1B petitions. 

H-1B visas provide skilled workers for a wide range of specialty occupations, including information technology, engineering, and mathematics. When a petitioner requests the agency’s premium processing service, USCIS guarantees a 15-calendar day processing time. If that time is not met, the agency will refund the petitioner’s premium processing service fee and continue with <a target='_blank' href=

New USCIS Form Streamlines Process to Obtain a Work Authorization Document and Social Security Number Simultaneously

From USCIS News:

Based on a new information-sharing partnership between U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) and the Social Security Administration (SSA), foreign nationals in certain categories or classifications can now apply for work authorization and a social security number using a single form – the updated Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization.

To lawfully work in the United States, foreign workers in some categories and classifications need both an employment authorization document (EAD) from USCIS, and a Social Security number (SSN) from the SSA. Previously, applicants needed to submit a Form I-765 to USCIS for an EAD, and then submit additional paperwork in-person at their local Social Security office to obtain an SSN.

The revise

USCIS announces award recipients of nearly $10 million in funding to support citizenship preparation programs

From USCIS News:

WASHINGTON—U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has awarded nearly $10 million in grants to 45 public and private non-profit organizations across the country to help lawful permanent residents prepare for naturalization. The grants also help these organizations promote prospective citizens’ assimilation into American civic life by funding educational programs designed to increase their knowledge of English, U.S. history and civics. Located in 26 states, these organizations will receive federal funding to support citizenship preparation services for lawful permanent residents through September 2019.

USCIS awarded the grants through two competitive funding opportunities. The first funding opportunity supports organizations that provide citizenship instruction and naturalization application assista

Deadline to Submit DACA Renewal Requests Approaching On Oct. 5

From USCIS News:

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is reminding eligible Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) recipients that they have one week to properly file their DACA renewal requests and associated applications for employment authorization. As previously announced, for recipients whose DACA and work authorization expire between Sept. 5, 2017, and March 5, 2018, inclusive, USCIS will continue to accept renewal requests through Oct. 5, 2017. These requests must be properly filed and physically received by the agency at the proper filing location no later than Oct. 5. The mailing address and instructions can be found here: https://www.uscis.gov/i-821d-addresses. Renewal requests that are granted will be valid for two years, unless otherwise terminated or rev

USCIS No Longer Accepting Petitions for One-Time Increase to the Temporary Nonagricultural Visa Program

From USCIS News:

WASHINGTON — U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is no longer accepting petitions from U. S. employers seeking to hire temporary nonagricultural workers under the one-time increase to the Fiscal Year (FY) 2017 H-2B cap announced in July.

For the first time, in May, Congress delegated its authority to the Secretary of Homeland Security to increase the number of temporary nonagricultural work visas available to U.S. employers through FY 2017.

After consulting with Secretary of Labor Alexander Acosta, then-Secretary of Homeland Security John Kelly determined there were not enough qualified and willing U.S. workers available to perform temporary nonagricultural labor to satisfy the needs of some American businesses in FY 2017. Consequently, additional H-2B visas were made available to American busi

Temporary Protected Status for Sudan to Terminate in November 2018

From USCIS News:

WASHINGTON—Acting Secretary of Homeland Security Elaine Duke has determined that conditions in Sudan no longer support its designation for Temporary Protected Status (TPS) after reviewing country conditions, and after Department of Homeland Security (DHS) officials’ consultations with the appropriate U.S. government agencies. Acting Secretary Duke is extending benefits for beneficiaries of Sudan TPS for 12 months to allow for an orderly transition before the designation terminates on Nov. 2, 2018.

Current beneficiaries of Sudan’s TPS designation seeking to extend their TPS status must re-register. The deadline will be published in the Federal Register and on www.uscis.gov/tps later this week. Those who re-register and request a new employment autho

Employers Must Use Form I-9 With a Revision Date of 07/17/17 N

From USCIS Alerts:

Beginning Sept. 18, 2017, employers must use Form I-9, Employment Eligibility Verification, with revision date 07/17/17 N, to verify the identity and work eligibility of every new employee hired after Nov. 6, 1986, or for the reverification of expiring employment authorization of current employees (if applicable).

This date is found on the lower left corner of the form. Prior versions of the form will no longer be valid for use.  Employers who fail to use Form I-9, 07/17/17 N on or after Sept. 18, 2017 may be subject to all applicable penalties under section 274A of the Immigration and Nationality Act, 8 U.S.C. 1324a, as enforced by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).

Employers should continue to follow existing <a target='_blank' href="https://

Temporary Protected Status for South Sudan Extended for 18 Months

From USCIS News:

WASHINGTON—Acting Secretary of Homeland Security Elaine Duke has extended Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for eligible nationals of South Sudan (and eligible individuals without nationality who last habitually resided in South Sudan) through May 2, 2019. After consulting with the appropriate U.S. government agencies, and reviewing country conditions, acting Secretary Duke determined that an 18-month extension of South Sudan for TPS is necessary because the ongoing armed conflict and extraordinary and temporary conditions that prompted the 2016 TPS redesignation have persisted.

Current beneficiaries of South Sudan’s TPS designation seeking to extend their TPS status must re-register. The deadline will be published in the Federal Register and on www.usci

USCIS Resumes Premium Processing for Some Categories of Applicants Seeking H-1B Visas

From USCIS News:

WASHINGTON — U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) resumed premium processing today for all H-1B visa petitions subject to the Fiscal Year year (FY) 2018 cap. The FY 2018 cap has been set at 65,000 visas. Premium processing has also resumed for the annual 20,000 additional petitions that are set aside to hire workers with a U.S. master’s degree or higher educational degree.

H-1B visas provide skilled workers for a wide range of specialty occupations, including information technology, academic research, and accounting. When a petitioner requests the agency’s premium processing service, USCIS g

USCIS Celebrates Constitution Day and Citizenship Day, Welcoming More Than 30,000 New U.S. Citizens

From USCIS News:

WASHINGTON— U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) will celebrate Constitution Day and Citizenship Day, observed on Sept. 17, with over 200 naturalization ceremonies across the country as part of this year’s Constitution Week from Sept. 15 to 22. More than 30,000 lawful permanent residents will become America’s newest U.S. citizens during this week. The annual commemoration honors both the signing of the U.S. Constitution on Sept. 17, 1787, and an observance that began in 1940 as “I Am an American Day.” 

USCIS’ Constitution Week activities this year will feature a naturalization ceremony at the National Archives on Sept. 15. The National Archives in Washington, D.C. displays the Constitution, the Bill of Rights, and the Declaration of Independence. Acting Secretary of Homeland Security

Celebrating Constitution Day and Citizenship Day (Constitution Week) 2017 with Naturalization Ceremonies

From USCIS News:

On Sept. 17, the nation observes Constitution Day and Citizenship Day as part of Constitution Week. The commemoration honors both the signing of the Constitution on Sept. 17, 1787, and an observance that began in 1940 as “I Am an American Day.”

USCIS celebrates Constitution Week with naturalization ceremonies across the country. This year, we will welcome more than 30,000 new citizens during over 200 naturalization ceremonies between Sept. 15 and 22. A list of highlighted ceremonies is below.

We encourage you to share your experiences and photos from naturalization ceremonies through social media, using the hashtag #newUScitizen. You can also follow us on Twitter (@uscis), YouTube (/uscis), Facebook

Visa Bulletin November 2017 Predictions

For the official October 2017 Visa Bulletin, please click here: http://www.mygcvisa.com/visa-bulletin/2017/visa-bulletin-october-2017.aspx

Please see November 2017 Visa Bulletin Predictions below (for both Family Based and Employment Based):

Family Based:

Final Action Dates

Dates For Filing Applications

"Final Action Date" is the date when when USCIS/DOS may render their final decision on submitted applications. Your priority date should be before this date.

Family- Sponsored	All Chargeability  Areas Except Those Listed	CHINA-mainland  born	INDIA	MEXICO	PHILIPPINES
F1	01FEB11	01FEB11	01FEB11	01APR96	15FEB07
F2A	15NOV15	15NOV15	15NOV15	08NOV15	15NOV15
F2B	01DEC10	01DEC10	01DEC10	08AUG96	01FEB07
F3	08AUG05	08AUG05	08AUG05	01MAY95	15MAR95
F4	22MAY04	08JUN04	01NOV03	15OCT97	08JUL94

"Date for Filing Application" is the date when you can submit I-485/NVC applications to USCIS/DOS. Your priority date should be before this date.

Family- Sponsored	All Chargeability  Areas Except Those Listed	CHINA-mainland  born	INDIA	MEXICO	PHILIPPINES
F1	01FEB12	01FEB12	01FEB12	15DEC96	15NOV07
F2A	01DEC16	01DEC16	01DEC16	01DEC16	01DEC16
F2B	15SEP11	15SEP11	15SEP11	15JAN97	15SEP07
F3	08DEC05	08DEC05	08DEC05	15OCT95	01JUL95
F4	01DEC04	01DEC04	15JUL04	01MAR98	01APR95

Immigration Help Available to Those Affected by Hurricane Irma

From USCIS Alerts:

USCIS offers immigration services that may help people affected by unforeseen circumstances, including disasters such as Hurricane Irma.

The following measures may be available on a case-by-case basis upon request:

• Changing a nonimmigrant status or extending a nonimmigrant stay for an individual currently in the United States. Failure to apply for the extension or change before expiration of your authorized period of admission may be excused if the delay was due to extraordinary circumstances beyond your control;
• Re-parole of individuals previously granted parole by USCIS;
• Expedited processing of advance parole requests;
• Expedited adjudication of requests for off-campus employment authorization for F-1 students experiencing severe economic hardship;
• Expedited adjudication of employment author

Visa Bulletin October 2017

For September 2017 Visa Bulletin, please click here: http://www.mygcvisa.com/visa-bulletin/2017/visa-bulletin-september-2017.aspx

October 2017 Visa Bulletin has been officially released (valid from October 1 to October 31 only). Please see below for more details.

Family Based:

Final Action Dates

Dates For Filing Applications

"Final Action Date" is the date when when USCIS/DOS may render their final decision on submitted applications. Your priority date should be before this date.

Family- Sponsored	All Chargeability  Areas Except Those Listed	CHINA-mainland  born	INDIA	MEXICO	PHILIPPINES
F1	22DEC10	22DEC10	22DEC10	01MAR96	01JAN07
F2A	22OCT15	22OCT15	22OCT15	15OCT15	22OCT15
F2B	08NOV10	08NOV10	08NOV10	15JUL96	01JAN07
F3	22JUL05	22JUL05	22JUL05	22APR95	22FEB95
F4	08MAY04	08MAY04	01OCT03	01OCT97	01JUN94

"Date for Filing Application" is the date when you can submit I-485/NVC applications to USCIS/DOS. Your priority date should be before this date.

Family- Sponsored	All Chargeability  Areas Except Those Listed	CHINA- mainland  born	INDIA	MEXICO	PHILIPPINES
F1	01JAN12	01JAN12	01JAN12	01NOV96	01OCT07
F2A	01NOV16	01NOV16	01NOV16	01NOV16	01NOV16
F2B	01SEP11	01SEP11	01SEP11	01JAN97	01SEP07
F3	01DEC05	01DEC05	01DEC05	01OCT95	15JUN95
F4	15NOV04	15NOV04	22JUN04	08FEB98	01MAR95

USCIS Alerts Those Affected by Hurricane Harvey to Available Immigration Services

From USCIS Alerts:

USCIS offers immigration services that may help people affected by unforeseen circumstances, including disasters such as Hurricane Harvey.

The following measures may be available on a case-by-case basis upon request:

• Changing a nonimmigrant status or extending a nonimmigrant stay for an individual currently in the United States. Failure to apply for the extension or change before expiration of your authorized period of admission may be excused if the delay was due to extraordinary circumstances beyond your control;
• Re-parole of individuals previously granted parole by USCIS;
• Expedited processing of advance parole requests;
• Expedited adjudication of requests for off-campus employment authorization for F-1 students experiencing severe economic hardship;
• Expedited adjudication of employment auth

GSA announces new lease agreement for U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services in Camp Springs, MD

From USCIS News:

GSA Contact: Renee.Kelly@gsa.gov

USCIS Contact: uscis.media@uscis.dhs.gov

The General Services Administration (GSA) today announced a new lease agreement for occupancy by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).

Under the new lease agreement, USCIS will consolidate its headquarters from five leased locations and one federal asset to one facility. The new headquarters will occupy 574,767 rentable square feet (RSF) at One Town Center located at One Capital Gateway Drive, Camp Springs, Md., 20746 for a term of 15 years.

The new leased headquarters will save t

USCIS Grants All Available U Visas for Fiscal Year 2017

From USCIS Alerts:

USCIS has approved the congressionally mandated annual limit of 10,000 petitions for U nonimmigrant status for victims of certain crimes committed in the United States who assist law enforcement authorities. Although USCIS cannot grant any more U visas in fiscal year (FY) 2017, we will continue to review pending petitions for eligibility for potential visa issuance when more visas become available in FY 2018 beginning on Oct. 1, 2017. 

Petitioners and qualifying family members must continue to meet eligibility requirements at the time a U visa becomes available.

Congress created the U visa program to strengthen law enforcement&

USCIS Alerts Those Affected by Hurricane Harvey to Available Immigration Services

From USCIS Alerts:

USCIS offers immigration services that may help people affected by unforeseen circumstances, including disasters such as Hurricane Harvey.

The following measures may be available on a case-by-case basis upon request:

• Changing a nonimmigrant status or extending a nonimmigrant stay for an individual currently in the United States. Failure to apply for the extension or change before expiration of your authorized period of admission may be excused if the delay was due to extraordinary circumstances beyond your control;
• Re-parole of individuals previously granted parole by USCIS;
• Expedited processing of advance parole requests;
• Expedited adjudication of requests for off-campus employment authorization for F-1 students experiencing severe economic hardship;
• Expedited adjudication of employment auth

USCIS to Expand In-Person Interview Requirements for Certain Permanent Residency Applicants

From USCIS News:

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) will begin expanding in-person interviews for certain immigration benefit applicants whose benefit, if granted, would allow them to permanently reside in the United States. This change complies with Executive Order 13780, “Protecting the Nation From Foreign Terrorist Entry Into the United States,” and is part of the agency’s comprehensive strategy to further improve the detection and prevention of fraud and further enhance the integrity of the immigration system.
 
Effective Oct. 1, USCIS will begin to phase-in interviews for the following:
 
• Adjustment of status applications based on employment (Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status).
 
• Refugee/asylee relative petitions (Form I-730, Refugee/Asy

New Legislation Increases Availability of Visas for CNMI Workers for Fiscal Year 2017

From USCIS News:

WASHINGTON – On Aug. 22, 2017, President Trump signed the Northern Mariana Islands Economic Expansion Act, H.R. 339, revising the visa classification for Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands (CNMI) Transitional Workers. This visa classification, referred to as the CW-1 visa, allows employers within the CNMI to apply for permission to employ foreign (nonimmigrant) workers who are otherwise ineligible to work under other nonimmigrant worker categories.

The legislation added 350 CW-1 visas to the fiscal year (FY) 2017 CW-1 cap, raising the total number of visas that may be issued from 12,998 to 13,348. The additional 350 visas are immediately and exclusively availabl

USCIS Investigation Results in Guilty Plea from Former Airline Staffing Executive

From USCIS News:

LOS ANGELES—Thanks to the investigative efforts of U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, Eleno Quinteros Jr., the former vice president of operations for two airline mechanicstaffing companies, plead guilty yesterday to charges of making false statements in support of lawful permanent resident petitions for dozens of the companies’ mechanics.

“U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services has zero tolerance for those who try to fraudulently misuse our country’s lawful immigration system,” said Susan Curda, director of the USCIS Los Angeles District. “We are proud of our role in uncovering this scheme and bringing the perpetrator to justice.”

Quinteros admitted he falsely certified that he had received no payments, when in fact he had demanded and collected hundreds of thousands of dollars

Visa Bulletin October 2017 Predictions

For the official September 2017 Visa Bulletin, please click here: http://www.mygcvisa.com/visa-bulletin/2017/visa-bulletin-september-2017.aspx

Please see October 2017 Visa Bulletin Predictions below (for both Family Based and Employment Based):

Family Based:

Final Action Dates

Dates For Filing Applications

"Final Action Date" is the date when when USCIS/DOS may render their final decision on submitted applications. Your priority date should be before this date.

Family- Sponsored	All Chargeability  Areas Except Those Listed	CHINA-mainland  born	INDIA	MEXICO	PHILIPPINES
F1	22MAY10	22MAY10	22MAY10	01MAR96	15FEB07
F2A	01NOV15	01NOV15	01NOV15	22OCT15	01NOV15
F2B	22NOV10	22NOV10	22NOV10	22JUL96	01FEB07
F3	01AUG05	01AUG05	01AUG05	22APR95	08MAR95
F4	22JAN02	22JAN02	01FEB02	01OCT97	08JUL94

"Date for Filing Application" is the date when you can submit I-485/NVC applications to USCIS/DOS. Your priority date should be before this date.

Family- Sponsored	All Chargeability  Areas Except Those Listed	CHINA-mainland  born	INDIA	MEXICO	PHILIPPINES
F1	08SEP11	08SEP11	08SEP11	01MAY96	01NOV07
F2A	22APR16	22APR16	22APR16	22APR16	22APR16
F2B	15SEP11	15SEP11	15SEP11	22AUG96	01SEP07
F3	08DEC05	08DEC05	08DEC05	08MAY95	22MAR95
F4	01DEC04	01DEC04	15JUL04	01FEB98	01APR95

Visa Bulletin September 2017

For August 2017 Visa Bulletin, please click here: http://www.mygcvisa.com/visa-bulletin/2017/visa-bulletin-august-2017.aspx

September 2017 Visa Bulletin has been officially released (valid from September 1 to September 30 only). Please see below for more details.

Family Based:

Final Action Dates

Dates For Filing Applications

"Final Action Date" is the date when when USCIS/DOS may render their final decision on submitted applications. Your priority date should be before this date.

Family- Sponsored	All Chargeability  Areas Except Those Listed	CHINA-mainland  born	INDIA	MEXICO	PHILIPPINES
F1	01MAY10	01MAY10	01MAY10	01FEB96	01JAN07
F2A	01OCT15	01OCT15	01OCT15	22SEP15	01OCT15
F2B	01NOV10	01NOV10	01NOV10	01JUL96	01JAN07
F3	08JUL05	08JUL05	08JUL05	08APR95	15FEB95
F4	01JAN02	01JAN02	01JAN02	15SEP97	01JUN94

"Date for Filing Application" is the date when you can submit I-485/NVC applications to USCIS/DOS. Your priority date should be before this date.

Family- Sponsored	All Chargeability  Areas Except Those Listed	CHINA- mainland  born	INDIA	MEXICO	PHILIPPINES
F1	22JUL11	22JUL11	22JUL11	01APR96	08SEP07
F2A	08APR16	08APR16	08APR16	08APR16	08APR16
F2B	01SEP11	01SEP11	01SEP11	08AUG96	22JUL07
F3	01DEC05	01DEC05	01DEC05	01MAY95	01MAR95
F4	15NOV04	15NOV04	22JUN04	08JAN98	08FEB95

Customer Service Tools Outage

From USCIS Alerts:

USCIS will conduct system maintenance on Sunday, August 6, 2017, from 5 am to 6 pm (Eastern).

During this time, our online tools may be unavailable, including:

• Check My Case Status
• e-Request
• Change of Address Online
• Check Processing Times
• Civil Surgeon Locator
• FOIA Status Check
• Office Locator
• Forms by Mail

Stamford Resident Admits to Operating Extensive Immigration Fraud Scheme

From USCIS News:

USCIS Assists in Investigation

HARTFORD, Conn.— Deirdre M. Daly, U.S. attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that David Nikolashvili, 52, a citizen of the Republic of Georgia residing in Stamford, pleaded guilty today in Hartford federal court to engaging in an immigration fraud scheme.

According to court documents and statements made in court, Nikolashvili operated an immigration fraud scheme through which he obtained false immigration status from U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services for approximately 50 to 60 citizens of European countries. The foreign nationals paid Nikolashvili between $12,000 and $16,000 to arrange sham marriages with U.S. citizens in order to obtain immigration benefits. The U.S. citizens were paid to enter into the sham marriages.

Nikolashvili pleaded

USCIS Announces Citizenship and Assimilation Grant Opportunities

From USCIS News:

Grants will support citizenship preparation services for lawful permanent residents

WASHINGTON—U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is now accepting applications for two funding opportunities under the Citizenship and Assimilation Grant Program. These are competitive grant opportunities for organizations that prepare lawful permanent residents for naturalization and promote civic assimilation and assimilation through increased knowledge of English, U.S. history and civics. The two programs will provide up to $10 million in grants for citizenship preparation programs in communities across the country. Applications are due by Aug. 6.

USCIS wants to expand availability of high-quality citizenship preparation services throughout the country with these two opportunities:

• C

USCIS to Resume H-1B Premium Processing for Certain Cap-Exempt Petitions

From USCIS News:

WASHINGTON — U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) will resume premium processing for certain cap-exempt H-1B petitions effective immediately. The H-1B visa has an annual cap of 65,000 visas each fiscal year. Additionally, there is an annual “master’s cap” of 20,000 petitions filed for beneficiaries with a U.S. master’s degree or higher.

Premium processing will resume for petitions that may be exempt from the cap if the H-1B petitioner is:

* An institution of higher education;

* A nonprofit related to or affiliated with an institution of higher education; or

* A nonprofit research or governmental research organization.

Premium processing will also resume for petitions that may also be exempt if the beneficiary will be employed at a qualifying cap-exempt institution, organ

TPS Re-registration Deadline for Haiti is July 24

From USCIS Alerts:

The deadline for eligible nationals of Haiti (and people without nationality who last habitually resided in Haiti) to re-register for Temporary Protected Status (TPS) is Monday, July 24, 2017. The limited 6-month extension of the TPS designation for Haiti runs from July 23, 2017, through Jan. 22, 2018.

During this 6-month extension, Haiti TPS beneficiaries with no other immigration status are encouraged to prepare for their return to Haiti in the event Haiti’s designation is not extended again. This preparation includes TPS beneficiaries ensuring they have current, valid Haitian nationality documentation issued by the Government of Haiti (such as a passport) that will allow them to return to Haiti. Beneficiaries are encouraged to contact a Haitian consul

Customer Service Tools Outage

From USCIS Alerts:

USCIS will conduct system maintenance on Thursday, July 20, 2017, from 9 p.m. to midnight (Eastern).

During this time, our online tools may be unavailable, including:

• Check My Case Status
• e-Request
• Change of Address Online
• Check Processing Times
• Civil Surgeon Locator
• FOIA Status Check
• Office Locator
• Forms by Mail

USCIS Returns Unselected Fiscal Year 2018 H-1B Cap-Subject Petitions

From USCIS Alerts:

USCIS announced on July 19, that it has returned all fiscal year 2018 H-1B cap-subject petitions that were not selected in our computer-generated random selection process.  USCIS previously announced on May 3, that it completed data entry of all selected cap-subject petitions. 

DHS Provides Relief to American Businesses in Danger of Suffering Irreparable Harm

From USCIS News:

WASHINGTON — U.S. businesses in danger of suffering irreparable harm due to a lack of available temporary nonagricultural workers will be able to hire up to 15,000 additional temporary nonagricultural workers under the H-2B program under a final rule that the Departments of Homeland Security and Labor submitted to the Federal Register today. To qualify for the additional visas, petitioners must attest, under penalty of perjury, that their business is likely to suffer irreparable harm if it cannot employ H-2B nonimmigrant workers during fiscal year (FY) 2017.

After consulting with Secretary of Labor Alexander Acosta, Secretary of Homeland Security John Kelly determined there are not enough qualified and willing U.S. workers available to perform temporary nonagricultural labor to satisfy the needs of some American b

Revised Form I-9 Now Available

From USCIS Alerts:

USCIS released a revised version of Form I-9, Employment Eligibility Verification, on July 17. Instructions for how to download Form I-9 are available on the Form I-9 page. Employers can use this revised version or continue using Form I-9 with a revision date of 11/14/16 N through Sept. 17. On Sept. 18, employers must use the revised form with a revision date of 07/17/17 N. Employers must continue following existing storage and retention rules for any previously completed Form I-9.

Revisions to the Form I-9 instructions:

• We changed the name of the Office of Special Counsel for Immigration-Related Unfair Employment Practices to its new name, Immigrant and Employee Rights Section.

USCIS Will Issue Redesigned Green Cards and Employment Authorization Documents

From USCIS News:

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services today announced a redesign to the Permanent Resident Card (also known as a Green Card) and the Employment Authorization Document (EAD) as part of the Next Generation Secure Identification Document Project. USCIS will begin issuing the new cards on May 1, 2017.

These redesigns use enhanced graphics and fraud-resistant security features to create cards that are highly secure and more tamper-resistant than the ones currently in use.

The new card designs demonstrate USCIS’ commitment to continue taking a proactive approach against the threat of document tampering and fraud. They are also part of an ongoing effort between USCIS, U.S. Customs and Border Protection, and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement to enhance document security and deter counterfeiting and fraud.

Th

Visa Bulletin September 2017 Predictions

For the official August 2017 Visa Bulletin, please click here: http://www.mygcvisa.com/visa-bulletin/2017/visa-bulletin-august-2017.aspx

Please see September 2017 Visa Bulletin Predictions below (for both Family Based and Employment Based):

Family Based:

Final Action Dates

Dates For Filing Applications

"Final Action Date" is the date when when USCIS/DOS may render their final decision on submitted applications. Your priority date should be before this date.

Family- Sponsored	All Chargeability  Areas Except Those Listed	CHINA-mainland  born	INDIA	MEXICO	PHILIPPINES
F1	08FEB11	08FEB11	08FEB11	01MAR96	01DEC06
F2A	15OCT15	15OCT15	15OCT15	01OCT15	15OCT15
F2B	22NOV10	22NOV10	22NOV10	22JUL96	15JAN07
F3	01AUG05	01AUG05	01AUG05	22APR95	15FEB95
F4	01JUN04	15JUN04	15DEC03	01OCT97	15MAY94

"Date for Filing Application" is the date when you can submit I-485/NVC applications to USCIS/DOS. Your priority date should be before this date.

Family- Sponsored	All Chargeability  Areas Except Those Listed	CHINA-mainland  born	INDIA	MEXICO	PHILIPPINES
F1	08SEP11	08SEP11	08SEP11	01MAY96	01NOV07
F2A	22APR16	22APR16	22APR16	22APR16	22APR16
F2B	15SEP11	15SEP11	15SEP11	22AUG96	01SEP07
F3	08DEC05	08DEC05	08DEC05	08MAY95	22FEB95
F4	01DEC04	01DEC04	15JUL04	01FEB98	01APR95

USCIS Reaches FY 2018 H-1B Cap

From USCIS News:

WASHINGTON - U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services has reached the congressionally mandated 65,000 visa H-1B cap for fiscal year 2018. USCIS has also received a sufficient number of H-1B petitions to meet the 20,000 visa U.S. advanced degree exemption, also known as the master’s cap. 

The agency will reject and return filing fees for all unselected cap-subject petitions that are not duplicate filings.

USCIS will continue to accept and process petitions that are otherwise exempt from the cap.  However, please keep in mind USCIS suspended premium processing April 3 for up to six months for all H-1B petitions, including cap-exempt petitions. Petitions filed on behalf of current

USCIS Announces Citizenship and Integration Grant Opportunities

From USCIS News:

Grants will support citizenship preparation services for lawful permanent residents

WASHINGTON—U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is now accepting applications for two funding opportunities under the Citizenship and Integration Grant Program. These are competitive grant opportunities for organizations that prepare lawful permanent residents for naturalization and promote civic integration and assimilation through increased knowledge of English, U.S. history and civics. The two programs will provide up to $10 million in grants for citizenship preparation programs in communities across the country. Applications are due by July 30.

USCIS wants to expand availability of high-quality citizenship preparation services throughout the country with these two opportunities:

• Ci

Visa Bulletin August 2017 Special Notes

For the official August 2017 Visa Bulletin, please click here: http://www.mygcvisa.com/visa-bulletin/2017/visa-bulletin-august-2017.aspx

Apart from posting current dates, State Department has also added special notes to Visa Bulletin mentioned above. Please see full details below:

D.  OVERSUBSCRIPTION OF EMPLOYMENT-BASED SECOND
     PREFERENCE CATEGORY

WORLDWIDE, EL SALVADOR, GUATEMALA, HONDURAS, MEXICO, AND PHILIPPINES Employment-based Second (E2) Preference category:  Readers were advised in item D of the May Visa Bulletin number 6, that it was likely that a date would be imposed at some point. High demand for numbers for USCIS adjustment of status applicants has required the establishment of a date for August. This action will allow number use to be held within the Worldwide E2 annual limit. 

Visa Bulletin August 2017

For July 2017 Visa Bulletin, please click here: http://www.mygcvisa.com/visa-bulletin/2017/visa-bulletin-july-2017.aspx

August 2017 Visa Bulletin has been officially released (valid from August 1 to August 31 only). Please see below for more details.

Family Based:

Final Action Dates

Dates For Filing Applications

"Final Action Date" is the date when when USCIS/DOS may render their final decision on submitted applications. Your priority date should be before this date.

Family- Sponsored	All Chargeability  Areas Except Those Listed	CHINA-mainland  born	INDIA	MEXICO	PHILIPPINES
F1	22DEC10	22DEC10	22DEC10	01FEB96	15OCT06
F2A	22SEP15	22SEP15	22SEP15	01SEP15	22SEP15
F2B	01NOV10	01NOV10	01NOV10	01JUL96	08DEC06
F3	08JUL05	08JUL05	08JUL05	08APR95	22JAN95
F4	08MAY04	08MAY04	22SEP03	15SEP97	08APR94

"Date for Filing Application" is the date when you can submit I-485/NVC applications to USCIS/DOS. Your priority date should be before this date.

Family- Sponsored	All Chargeability  Areas Except Those Listed	CHINA- mainland  born	INDIA	MEXICO	PHILIPPINES
F1	22JUL11	22JUL11	22JUL11	01APR96	08SEP07
F2A	08APR16	08APR16	08APR16	08APR16	08APR16
F2B	01SEP11	01SEP11	01SEP11	08AUG96	22JUL07
F3	01DEC05	01DEC05	01DEC05	01MAY95	01FEB95
F4	15NOV04	15NOV04	22JUN04	08JAN98	08FEB95

USCIS to Naturalize 15,000 New Citizens During Independence Day Holiday

From USCIS News:

 

WASHINGTON— U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) will celebrate the 241st  anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, and our nation’s birthday, by welcoming nearly 15,000 new U.S. citizens during more than 65 Independence Day-themed naturalization ceremonies across the country this year.

“July Fourth marks the birth of our country, and for 15,000 people, it marks the birth of a new chapter as American citizens,” USCIS Acting Director James McCament said. “These new members of our community will add to the diverse fabric of our nation and will now be able to enjoy the rights, privileges, and responsibilities of U.S. citizenship.”

USCIS’ Independence Day activities this year will feature a naturalization ceremony at the

Celebrating Independence Day with Naturalization Ceremonies

From USCIS News:

On July 4, we celebrate our nation’s 241^st birthday and the day the Continental Congress adopted the Declaration of Independence in 1776.

USCIS marks Independence Day with naturalization ceremonies across the country. This year, we will welcome nearly 15,000 new citizens during more than 65 Independence Day-themed naturalization ceremonies across the country. A list of highlighted ceremonies is below.

We invite you to share your experiences and photos from naturalization ceremonies on social media, using the hashtags #newUScitizen and #July4th. You can follow us on Twitter (@uscis), YouTube (/uscis), Facebook (/<a target='_

USCIS Introduces Redesigned Form for Green Card Applicants

From USCIS News:

WASHINGTON - U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services today published a revised Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status (Form I-485). The new Form I-485 and instructions have been substantially updated to reduce complexity after collecting comments from the public and stakeholders.

The revised version gives applicants better information to accurately complete Form I-485, including clear navigation to the parts of the form and instructions that are relevant to the applicants’ specific situations. These updates should increase the efficiency of the adjudication process by reducing errors and requests for evidence.

Applicants living in the United States file Form I-485 to adjust their immigration status and become lawful permanent residents, which allows one to live and work permanent

USCIS to Resume H-1B Premium Processing for Physicians under the Conrad 30 Waiver Program

From USCIS News:

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services announced today that starting Monday, June 26, the agency will resume premium processing for all H-1B petitions filed for medical doctors under the Conrad 30 Waiver program, as well as interested government agency waivers. The Conrad 30 program allows certain medical doctors to stay in the United States on a temporary visa after completing their medical training to work in rural and urban areas that have shortage of physicians.

“This program improves health care access for Americans living in underserved areas, and we are pleased to resume premium processing for these petition

Estati Pwoteksyon Tanporè pou Ayiti a Pwolonje pou sis mwa

From USCIS News:

WASHINGTON— Sekretè Sekirite Enteryè John F. Kelly pwolonje Estati Pwoteksyon Tanporè (TPS) pou resòtisan ayisyen ki kalifye (ak moun ki pa gen nasyonalite ki kalifye epi dènye kote yo te abitye viv se Ayiti) jiska 22 janvye 2018. Apre li te konsilte avèk ajans konpetan gouvènman Etazini an epi analize kondisyon nan peyi a, Sekretè Kelly te detèmine ke sitiyasyon an te merite yon pwolongasyon limite, pou sis mwa. Malgre Ayiti te fè gwo pwogrè pou l rekipere apre tranbleman tè janvye 2010 la ki te motive deziyasyon sa a, kondisyon an Ayiti ki te sipòte deziyasyon an toujou egziste kounye a.

Moun ki benefisye deziyasyon TPS Ayiti kounye a yo ki ta vle pwolonje TPS yo dwe reenskri anvan 24 jiyè 2017. Moun ki benefisye TP

Visa Bulletin August 2017 Predictions

For the official July 2017 Visa Bulletin, please click here: http://www.mygcvisa.com/visa-bulletin/2017/visa-bulletin-july-2017.aspx

Please see August 2017 Visa Bulletin Predictions below (for both Family Based and Employment Based):

Family Based:

Final Action Dates

Dates For Filing Applications

"Final Action Date" is the date when when USCIS/DOS may render their final decision on submitted applications. Your priority date should be before this date.

Family- Sponsored	All Chargeability  Areas Except Those Listed	CHINA-mainland  born	INDIA	MEXICO	PHILIPPINES
F1	15FEB11	15FEB11	15FEB11	08FEB96	01NOV06
F2A	01OCT15	01OCT15	01OCT15	22SEP15	01OCT15
F2B	01DEC10	01DEC10	01DEC10	22JUN96	08DEC06
F3	01AUG05	01AUG05	01AUG05	01APR95	08JAN95
F4	01JUN04	15JUN04	15DEC03	08AUG97	22MAR94

"Date for Filing Application" is the date when you can submit I-485/NVC applications to USCIS/DOS. Your priority date should be before this date.

Family- Sponsored	All Chargeability  Areas Except Those Listed	CHINA-mainland  born	INDIA	MEXICO	PHILIPPINES
F1	15SEP11	15SEP11	15SEP11	01MAY96	08NOV07
F2A	22APR16	22APR16	22APR16	22APR16	22APR16
F2B	22SEP11	22SEP11	22SEP11	15AUG96	08SEP07
F3	08DEC05	08DEC05	08DEC05	08MAY95	22FEB95
F4	01DEC04	01DEC04	15JUL04	01FEB98	08APR95

Visa Bulletin July 2017

For June 2017 Visa Bulletin, please click here: http://www.mygcvisa.com/visa-bulletin/2017/visa-bulletin-june-2017.aspx

July 2017 Visa Bulletin has been officially released (valid from July 1 to July 31 only). Please see below for more details.

Family Based:

Final Action Dates

Dates For Filing Applications

"Final Action Date" is the date when when USCIS/DOS may render their final decision on submitted applications. Your priority date should be before this date.

Family- Sponsored	All Chargeability  Areas Except Those Listed	CHINA-mainland  born	INDIA	MEXICO	PHILIPPINES
F1	22DEC10	22DEC10	22DEC10	15JAN96	15SEP06
F2A	08SEP15	08SEP15	08SEP15	22AUG15	08SEP15
F2B	01NOV10	01NOV10	01NOV10	01JUN96	01NOV06
F3	08JUL05	08JUL05	08JUL05	22MAR95	15DEC94
F4	08MAY04	08MAY04	22SEP03	01AUG97	15FEB94

"Date for Filing Application" is the date when you can submit I-485/NVC applications to USCIS/DOS. Your priority date should be before this date.

Family- Sponsored	All Chargeability  Areas Except Those Listed	CHINA- mainland  born	INDIA	MEXICO	PHILIPPINES
F1	22JUL11	22JUL11	22JUL11	01APR96	08SEP07
F2A	08APR16	08APR16	08APR16	08APR16	08APR16
F2B	01SEP11	01SEP11	01SEP11	08AUG96	22JUL07
F3	01DEC05	01DEC05	01DEC05	01MAY95	01FEB95
F4	15NOV04	15NOV04	22JUN04	08JAN98	08FEB95

Visa Bulletin July 2017 Special Notes

For the official July 2017 Visa Bulletin, please click here: http://www.mygcvisa.com/visa-bulletin/2017/visa-bulletin-july-2017.aspx

Apart from posting current dates, State Department has also added special notes to Visa Bulletin mentioned above. Please see full details below:

D.  OVERSUBSCRIPTION OF EMPLOYMENT-BASED PREFERENCE
     CATEGORIES

CHINA Employment-based Third (E3) preference category:  Readers were advised in item F of the June Visa Bulletin number 6, that it would be necessary to impose a date no later than August. The continued high level of demand for E3 numbers for USCIS adjustment of status applicants has required the establishment of a date for July. This has been done in an attempt to hold number use within the China E3 annual limit. The China E3 date will return to October 1, 2014 for October, the first month of fiscal year 2018.

INDIA Employment-based Fourth (E4) AND Certain Religious Workers (SR) preference categories:  As readers were advised in the June Visa Bulletin number 6, there has been extremely high demand in the E4 and SR categories.  Pursuant to