Friday, December 31, 2021

DHS Withdraws H-1B Selection Final Rule

The Department of Homeland Security has published a final rule that withdraws the Modification of Registration Requirement for Petitioners Seeking to File Cap-Subject H-1B Petitions final rule, also known as the H-1B Selection Final Rule, issued Jan. 8, 2021. That rule was vacated by the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of California.

On Sept. 15, 2021, the court in Chamber of Commerce of the United States of America et al. v. United States Department of Homeland Security, et al., No. 4:20–cv–07331 (N.D. Cal. March 19, 2021) vacated the H-1B Selection Final Rule. The rule would have changed the way USCIS selects H-1B registrations (or petitions, if registration is suspended) submitted by prospective petitioners seeking to file an H-1B cap-subject petition by ranking and selecting registrations based generally on corresponding wage levels.

For more



Comments posted above will only appear in this blog post. Comments posted below will appear across all blog posts:

comments powered by Disqus

Tuesday, December 28, 2021

For First Time, DHS to Supplement H-2B Cap with Additional Visas in First Half of Fiscal Year

WASHINGTON—The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and the Department of Labor (DOL) today announced the forthcoming publication of a joint temporary final rule to make available an additional 20,000 H-2B temporary nonagricultural worker visas for fiscal year (FY) 2022. These visas will be set aside for U.S. employers seeking to employ additional workers on or before March 31, 2022.

This supplemental cap marks the first time that DHS is making additional H-2B visas available in the first half of the fiscal year. Earlier this year, USCIS received enough petitions for returning workers to reach the additional 22,000 H-2B visas made available under the FY 2021 H-2B supplemental visa temporary final rule.

The supplemental H-2B visa allocation consists of 13,500 visas available to returning workers who received an H-2B visa, or were otherwise granted H-2B



Comments posted above will only appear in this blog post. Comments posted below will appear across all blog posts:

comments powered by Disqus

Sunday, December 26, 2021

Visa Bulletin February 2022 Predictions

For official January 2022 Visa Bulletin & Analysis, please click here: https://www.mygcvisa.com/visa-bulletin/2022/visa-bulletin-january-2022.aspx

Please see February 2022 Visa Bulletin Predictions below (for both Family Based and Employment Based categories for all countries):

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
INDIAMEXICOPHILIPPINES
F108DEC1408DEC1408DEC1401NOV9922APR12
F2ACCCCC
F2B01NOV1501NOV1501NOV1515OCT0001DEC11
F301DEC0801DEC0801DEC0822OCT9715JUN02
F408APR0708APR0701OCT0515MAY9908SEP02
"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
INDIAMEXICOPHILIPPINES
F108JUN1608JUN1608JUN1601MAR0115JUL15
F2A22OCT2122OCT2122OCT2122OCT2122OCT21
F2B01OCT1601OCT1601OCT1608APR0115NOV13
F308SEP0908SEP0908SEP0915OCT0022OCT03
F422OCT0722OCT0722JAN0601SEP9915MAR04



Comments posted above will only appear in this blog post. Comments posted below will appear across all blog posts:

comments powered by Disqus

Friday, December 24, 2021

USCIS Announces FY 2021 Accomplishments

WASHINGTON— Today, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services is releasing preliminary fiscal year (FY) 2021 agency statistics and accomplishments. These preliminary statistics highlight important immigration trends and illustrate the work accomplished by USCIS in FY 2021. The agency will publish final, verified FY 2021 statistics in January 2022. 

"I'm immensely proud of the USCIS workforce and for their achievements in a year of many challenges and rebuilding. From responding to the COVID-19 pandemic and addressing processing delays to enacting numerous operational and policy changes in response to executive orders from the Biden-Harris Administration, FY 2021 marks a year of growth and renewed vision for our agency



Comments posted above will only appear in this blog post. Comments posted below will appear across all blog posts:

comments powered by Disqus

Tuesday, December 21, 2021

Immigration Help Available to Those Affected by Natural Disasters and Other Unforeseen Circumstances

USCIS is reminding the public that we offer immigration services that may help people affected by unforeseen circumstances such as natural disasters. Examples of unforeseen circumstances include, but are not limited to, the severe weather in Kentucky and surrounding states.

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


Comments posted above will only appear in this blog post. Comments posted below will appear across all blog posts:

comments powered by Disqus

Friday, December 17, 2021

USCIS Reverts to Previous Criteria for Interviewing Petitioners Requesting Derivative Refugee and Asylee Status for Family Members

USCIS is rescinding a November 2020 policy memorandum requiring interviews of all petitioners filing Form I-730, Refugee/Asylee Relative Petition. Effective immediately, USCIS will return to its prior long-standing practice of making case-by-case determinations on whether to interview Form I-730 petitioners. 

The policy memorandum, which directed the phased expansion of in-person interviews for Form I-730 petitioners, imposed significant burdens on refugee and asylee populations. This is inconsistent with Executive Orders 14012, <a target='_bl



Comments posted above will only appear in this blog post. Comments posted below will appear across all blog posts:

comments powered by Disqus

Thursday, December 16, 2021

January 2022 Visa Bulletin Analysis

For January 2022 Visa Bulletin, please click here: https://www.mygcvisa.com/visa-bulletin/2022/visa-bulletin-january-2022.aspx

Please see below analysis of January 2022 Visa Bulletin:

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
INDIAMEXICOPHILIPPINES
F1No ChangeNo ChangeNo Change+4 MonthsNo Change
F2ANo ChangeNo ChangeNo ChangeNo ChangeNo Change
F2BNo ChangeNo ChangeNo Change+2 MonthsNo Change
F3No ChangeNo ChangeNo Change+2 MonthsNo Change
F4No ChangeNo ChangeNo Change+1 Month 7 DaysNo Change
"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
INDIAMEXICOPHILIPPINES
F1No ChangeNo ChangeNo Change+2 MonthsNo Change
F2A+1 Month+1 Month+1 Month+1 Month+1 Month
F2BNo ChangeNo ChangeNo Change+2 MonthsNo Change
F3No ChangeNo ChangeNo Change+1 MonthNo Change
F4No ChangeNo ChangeNo Change+21 DaysNo Change



Comments posted above will only appear in this blog post. Comments posted below will appear across all blog posts:

comments powered by Disqus

January 2022 Visa Bulletin

For December 2021 Visa Bulletin, please click here: https://www.mygcvisa.com/visa-bulletin/2021/visa-bulletin-december-2021.aspx

For analysis of January 2022 Visa Bulletin, please click here: https://www.mygcvisa.com/visa-bulletin/2022/visa-bulletin-analysis-january-2022.aspx

January 2022 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 01DEC14
01DEC14 01DEC14 08SEP99 01MAR12
F2A C C C C C
F2B 22SEP15 22SEP15 22SEP15 01SEP00 22OCT11
F3 22NOV08 22NOV08 22NOV08 15SEP97 08JUN02
F4 22MAR07 22MAR07 15SEP05 22APR99 22AUG02
"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 15MAY16 15MAY16 15MAY16 01FEB01 22APR15
F2A 01OCT21 01OCT21 01OCT21 01OCT21 01OCT21
F2B 22SEP16 22SEP16 22SEP16 01MAR01 01OCT13
F3 22AUG09 22AUG09 22AUG09 08OCT00 01OCT03
F4 01OCT07 01OCT07 01JAN06 22AUG99 01FEB04



Comments posted above will only appear in this blog post. Comments posted below will appear across all blog posts:

comments powered by Disqus

Tuesday, December 14, 2021

USCIS Temporarily Waiving 60-Day Rule for Civil Surgeon Signatures

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services is temporarily waiving the requirement that the civil surgeon sign Form I-693, Report of Medical Examination and Vaccination Record, no more than 60 days before an applicant files an application for the underlying immigration benefit (including Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status), until Sept. 30, 2022.  

This temporary waiver will help applicants who have been affected by the COVID-19 pandemic and related processing delays, which have sometimes caused delays in completing the immigration medical examination. Temporarily allowing applicants to submit their underlying application for an immigration benefit with a completed Form I-693, even if the civil surg



Comments posted above will only appear in this blog post. Comments posted below will appear across all blog posts:

comments powered by Disqus

Friday, December 10, 2021

USCIS Extends Transitional Parole for CNMI Long-Term Resident Status Applicants

USCIS announced today that it will automatically extend parole and employment authorization, if applicable, for parolees who timely applied for Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands (CNMI) long-term resident status. 

This specific extension of parole applies only to current parolees who timely filed Form I-955, Application for CNMI Long-Term Resident Status, and <a data-entity-substitution="canonical" data-entity-type="node" data-entity-uuid="983b2b27-2406-41b0-a21b-c5c916fc669c" href="https://www.uscis.gov/i-765" rel="noreferrer



Comments posted above will only appear in this blog post. Comments posted below will appear across all blog posts:

comments powered by Disqus

Tuesday, December 7, 2021

All Temporary Protected Status (TPS) Applicants May Now File Forms I-821 and I-765 Online

As of Nov. 29, all applicants eligible to file for TPS under one of the current designations may file Form I-821, Application for Temporary Protected Status, and Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization, online. The following countries are currently designated for TPS:

  • Burma (Myanmar)
  • El Salvador
  • Haiti
  • Honduras
  • Nepal
  • Nicaragua
  • Somalia
  • South Sudan
  • Sudan
  • Syria
  • Venezuela
  • Yemen

First-time TPS applicants and TPS beneficiaries who are re-registering may apply for TPS online. Applicants can request an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) by submitting a completed Form I-765 with their Form I-821, or may submit their Form I-765 separately later. However, filing both forms together may help applicants receive their EAD more promptly.

To



Comments posted above will only appear in this blog post. Comments posted below will appear across all blog posts:

comments powered by Disqus

Friday, December 3, 2021

USCIS Incorporates General Adjudications Guidance into the Policy Manual

We are incorporating existing guidance from the Adjudicator's Field Manual (AFM) into the USCIS Policy Manual. In general, this update does not make major substantive changes, but consolidates and incorporates existing AFM guidance on general adjudications topics into the Policy Manual, streamlines USCIS immigration policy, and removes obsolete information.

The update:

  • Incorporates existing guidance regarding types of evidence, including primary and secondary evidence, documentary and testimonial evidence, and original documents and document translations.
  • Incorporates existing guidance regarding adjudicative decisions including approvals, and denials.
  • Incorporates existing guidanc


Comments posted above will only appear in this blog post. Comments posted below will appear across all blog posts:

comments powered by Disqus

Tuesday, November 30, 2021

Certain Petitioners for U Nonimmigrant Status May Receive a Refund for Applications for Employment Authorization Submitted Before Sept. 30, 2021

USCIS mistakenly rejected certain applications for employment authorization (Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization) from petitioners for U nonimmigrant status that were filed without a fee (or request for fee waiver) from June 14 through Sept. 29, 2021. USCIS also mistakenly accepted fees where certain petitioners for U nonimmigrant status unnecessarily submitted a fee with their Form I-765. USCIS is tracking this issue and is committed to correcting errors and expects to issue refunds by March 22, 2022.

On June 14, 2021, USCIS implemented a process allowing individuals living in the United States with a pending bona fide <a data-entity-substitution="canonical" data-entity-type="node" data-entity-uuid="f1d



Comments posted above will only appear in this blog post. Comments posted below will appear across all blog posts:

comments powered by Disqus

Friday, November 26, 2021

Visa Bulletin January 2022 Predictions

For official December 2021 Visa Bulletin & Analysis, please click here: https://www.mygcvisa.com/visa-bulletin/2021/visa-bulletin-december-2021.aspx

Please see January 2022 Visa Bulletin Predictions below (for both Family Based and Employment Based categories for all countries):

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
INDIAMEXICOPHILIPPINES
F108DEC1408DEC1408DEC1422JUN9922APR12
F2ACCCCC
F2B01NOV1501NOV1501NOV1508AUG0001DEC11
F301DEC0801DEC0801DEC0815AUG9715JUN02
F408APR0708APR0701OCT0508APR9908SEP02
"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
INDIAMEXICOPHILIPPINES
F108JUN1608JUN1608JUN1601JAN0115JUL15
F2A08OCT2108OCT2108OCT2108OCT2108OCT21
F2B08OCT1608OCT1608OCT1608FEB0122NOV13
F301SEP0901SEP0901SEP0915SEP0001NOV03
F422OCT0722OCT0722JAN0608AUG9922MAR04



Comments posted above will only appear in this blog post. Comments posted below will appear across all blog posts:

comments powered by Disqus

USCIS Conducts Third Random Selection from Previously Submitted FY 2022 H-1B Cap Registrations

We recently determined that we needed to select additional registrations to reach the fiscal year (FY) 2022 H-1B numerical allocations, including the advanced degree exemption. On Nov. 19, we selected from among previously submitted electronic registrations using a random selection process. The petition filing period based on registrations selected on Nov. 19 will begin on Nov. 22, 2021, and close on Feb. 23, 2022. Individuals with selected registrations will have their myUSCIS accounts updated to include a selection notice, which includes details about when and where to file. 

In July 2021, we <a data-entity-substitution="canonical" data-entity-type="node" data-entity-uuid="dddfce7b-0c26-4414-9475-ef5732ac9b09" href="https://www.u



Comments posted above will only appear in this blog post. Comments posted below will appear across all blog posts:

comments powered by Disqus

Tuesday, November 23, 2021

USCIS Opening a New Lockbox Facility

We are planning to open a new facility in Elgin, Illinois, next year to expand our lockbox capability.

To prepare for this shift, on Oct. 15 we adjusted the filing locations for some applications. Now, certain adjustment of status applicants submit their applications to the Phoenix Lockbox instead of the Chicago or Dallas Lockbox. Additionally, we have streamlined filing locations for certain employment-based forms to a single lockbox location. You can find the latest filing instructions on our Form I-130, <a data-entit



Comments posted above will only appear in this blog post. Comments posted below will appear across all blog posts:

comments powered by Disqus

Friday, November 19, 2021

DHS Announces Countries Eligible for H-2A and H-2B Visa Programs

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS), in consultation with the Department of State (DOS), has announced the lists of countries whose nationals are eligible to participate in the H-2A and H-2B visa programs in the next year. The notice listing the eligible countries will be published in the Federal Register on Nov. 10, 2021.

For the next year, the secretary of homeland security, with the concurrence of the secretary of state, has decided to:

  • Add Bosnia and Herzegovina, the Republic of Cyprus, the Dominican Republic (currently only eligible for the H-2A program), Haiti, Mauritius, and Saint Lucia to the list of countries eligible to participate in the H-2A and H-2B program


Comments posted above will only appear in this blog post. Comments posted below will appear across all blog posts:

comments powered by Disqus

Wednesday, November 17, 2021

DHS Announces Fee Exemptions, Streamlined Processing for Afghan Nationals as They Resettle in the U.S.

WASHINGTON — Today, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) announced that it will exempt filing fees and streamline application processing for Afghan nationals who were paroled into the United States for humanitarian reasons on or after July 30, 2021. These actions will help facilitate their resettlement in the U.S. by streamlining the processing of requests for work authorization, Green Cards, and associated services. DHS is the lead federal agency coordinating Operation Allies Welcome, the ongoing all-of-government effort to resettle vulnerable Afghans, including those who worked on behalf of the United States.

"By providing these evacuees with access to streamlined processing and fee exemptions, we will open doors of opportunity for our Afghan allies and help them begin to rebuild their lives in communities across our country more quickly," said Secretar



Comments posted above will only appear in this blog post. Comments posted below will appear across all blog posts:

comments powered by Disqus

Monday, November 15, 2021

December 2021 Visa Bulletin Analysis

For December 2021 Visa Bulletin, please click here: https://www.mygcvisa.com/visa-bulletin/2021/visa-bulletin-december-2021.aspx

Please see below analysis of December 2021 Visa Bulletin:

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
INDIAMEXICOPHILIPPINES
F1No ChangeNo ChangeNo Change+3 Months 24 DaysNo Change
F2ANo ChangeNo ChangeNo ChangeNo ChangeNo Change
F2BNo ChangeNo ChangeNo Change+3 Months 17 DaysNo Change
F3No ChangeNo ChangeNo Change+2 MonthsNo Change
F4No ChangeNo ChangeNo Change+1 Month 7 DaysNo Change
"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
INDIAMEXICOPHILIPPINES
F1No ChangeNo ChangeNo Change+4 MonthsNo Change
F2A+3 Months+3 Months+3 Months+3 Months+3 Months
F2BNo ChangeNo ChangeNo Change+3 MonthsNo Change
F3No ChangeNo ChangeNo ChangeNo ChangeNo Change
F4No ChangeNo ChangeNo Change+2 MonthsNo Change



Comments posted above will only appear in this blog post. Comments posted below will appear across all blog posts:

comments powered by Disqus

December 2021 Visa Bulletin

For November 2021 Visa Bulletin, please click here: https://www.mygcvisa.com/visa-bulletin/2021/visa-bulletin-november-2021.aspx

For analysis of December 2021 Visa Bulletin, please click here: https://www.mygcvisa.com/visa-bulletin/2021/visa-bulletin-analysis-december-2021.aspx

December 2021 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 01DEC14
01DEC14 01DEC14 08MAY99 01MAR12
F2A C C C C C
F2B 22SEP15 22SEP15 22SEP15 01JUL00 22OCT11
F3 22NOV08 22NOV08 22NOV08 15JUL97 08JUN02
F4 22MAR07 22MAR07 15SEP05 15MAR99 22AUG02
"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 15MAY16 15MAY16 15MAY16 01DEC00 22APR15
F2A 01SEP21 01SEP21 01SEP21 01SEP21 01SEP21
F2B 22SEP16 22SEP16 22SEP16 01JAN01 01OCT13
F3 22AUG09 22AUG09 22AUG09 08SEP00 01OCT03
F4 01OCT07 01OCT07 01JAN06 01AUG99 01FEB04



Comments posted above will only appear in this blog post. Comments posted below will appear across all blog posts:

comments powered by Disqus

Friday, November 12, 2021

USCIS Commemorates Veterans Day with Special Naturalization Ceremonies

WASHINGTON— U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services will honor Veterans Day this year by holding more than 90 ceremonies naturalizing more than 4,440 current and former members of the military and their families. Each year, on Nov. 11, the nation honors members of the U.S. armed forces who have served our country and defended our freedom.

"USCIS is committed to serving the U.S. military community by making sure they have meaningful and efficient access to the immigration benefits they or their families may be entitled to," said USCIS Director Ur M. Jaddou. "USCIS is dedicated to improving policies and procedures that assist service members and their loved ones on their path to U.S. citizenship."

Additionally, USCIS Director Jaddou will strengthen the agency's collaborative partnership with the National Park Service (through a memorandum of understand



Comments posted above will only appear in this blog post. Comments posted below will appear across all blog posts:

comments powered by Disqus

Monday, November 8, 2021

USCIS Expands Credit Card Payment Pilot Program to California Service Center

As part of our credit card payment pilot program, the California Service Center is now accepting credit card payments using Form G-1450, Authorization for Credit Card Transactions, for petitioners filing Form I-129, Petition for a Nonimmigrant Worker, for O and P nonimmigrants.

At the end of the pilot, we will evaluate the results and determine the next steps for expanding this payment option for other forms or other service centers. The goal of this pilot is to bring USCIS one step closer to accepting digital payments using a credit card at all service centers.



Comments posted above will only appear in this blog post. Comments posted below will appear across all blog posts:

comments powered by Disqus

Friday, November 5, 2021

Policy Update: Liberian Refugee Immigration Fairness (LRIF)

USCIS has expanded its guidance in the USCIS Policy Manual about Liberian Refugee Immigration Fairness (LRIF) to clarify steps applicants must take if they cannot submit primary evidence of Liberian nationality to support an LRIF-based application for adjustment of status. The deadline to apply to adjust status under LRIF is Dec. 20, 2021.

At the time of this update, the Department of State's Reciprocity and Civil Documents by Country for Liberia webpage indicates that primary evidence is available. Examples of primary evidence include, but are not limited to, an unexpired Liberian passport or Liberian certificate of naturalization. However, if an applicant cannot provide primary evidence at the time of filing (for example, if they have



Comments posted above will only appear in this blog post. Comments posted below will appear across all blog posts:

comments powered by Disqus

Monday, November 1, 2021

Directions for Class Members Filing Motions to Reopen Pursuant to Settlement Agreement in H-1B Market Research Analyst Class Action Litigation

USCIS reached a settlement agreement (PDF, 268.06 KB) [PDF] in the case of MadKudu Inc., et al. v. U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, et al., No. 20-cv-2653 (N.D. Cal.). On Oct. 19, 2021, the U.S. District Court, Northern District of California, San Jose Division, granted final approval of the settlement agreement. This agreement outlines new, overarching guidance for adjudicating pending or future H-1B petitions for market research analysts.

Additionally, the agreement allows class members to submit a Form I-290B, Notice of Appeal or Motion, to request that certain denied Forms I-129, Petition for a Nonimmigrant Worker, seeking H-1B classification for a market research analyst be reopened and adjudicated per



Comments posted above will only appear in this blog post. Comments posted below will appear across all blog posts:

comments powered by Disqus

Friday, October 29, 2021

USCIS Expands Credit Card Payment Pilot Program to Vermont Service Center

As part of our credit card payment pilot program, the Vermont Service Center is now accepting credit card payments using Form G-1450, Authorization for Credit Card Transactions, for petitioners filing Form I-129, Petition for a Nonimmigrant Worker, for O and P nonimmigrants.

At the end of the pilot, we will evaluate the results and determine the next steps for expanding this payment option for other forms or other service centers. The goal of this pilot is to bring USCIS one step closer to accepting digital payments using a credit card at all service centers.

We started, and then



Comments posted above will only appear in this blog post. Comments posted below will appear across all blog posts:

comments powered by Disqus

Tuesday, October 26, 2021

Visa Bulletin December 2021 Predictions

For official November 2021 Visa Bulletin & Analysis, please click here: https://www.mygcvisa.com/visa-bulletin/2021/visa-bulletin-november-2021.aspx

Please see December 2021 Visa Bulletin Predictions below (for both Family Based and Employment Based categories for all countries):

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
INDIAMEXICOPHILIPPINES
F108DEC1408DEC1408DEC1415FEB9908MAR12
F2ACCCCC
F2B01NOV1501NOV1501NOV1515APR0001NOV11
F308DEC0808DEC0808DEC0808JUN9715JUN02
F408APR0708APR0701OCT0501MAR9915SEP02
"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
INDIAMEXICOPHILIPPINES
F108JUN1608JUN1608JUN1615AUG0015JUL15
F2A01JUL2101JUL2101JUL2101JUL2101JUL21
F2B08OCT1608OCT1608OCT1601NOV0022NOV13
F301SEP0901SEP0901SEP0915SEP0001NOV03
F422OCT0722OCT0722JAN0622JUN9922MAR04



Comments posted above will only appear in this blog post. Comments posted below will appear across all blog posts:

comments powered by Disqus

Monday, October 25, 2021

USCIS Issues Updated and Comprehensive Guidance on T Visa Adjudications

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services is issuing updated and comprehensive guidance in the USCIS Policy Manual on adjudicating applications for T nonimmigrant status (or T visas) submitted by victims of human trafficking, including clarifying how applicants establish eligibility.

Our policy guidance (PDF, 339.32 KB) clarifies the physical presence eligibility requirement, the age-based exemption from the requirement to comply with law enforcement requests, and how the agency evaluates involuntary servitude claims.

The guidance reduces barriers for noncitizen victims of traff



Comments posted above will only appear in this blog post. Comments posted below will appear across all blog posts:

comments powered by Disqus

Friday, October 22, 2021

USCIS Implements Employment Authorization for Individuals Covered by Deferred Enforced Departure for Hong Kong Residents

Eligible Hong Kong Residents May Apply for EADs and Travel Authorization

WASHINGTON— U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) today issued a Federal Register notice with information on how to apply for employment authorization for eligible Hong Kong residents covered under the president's Aug. 5 memorandum directing Deferred Enforced Departure (DED) for 18 months, through Feb. 5, 2023.

DED for Hong Kong residents applies only to certain eligible Hong Kong residents who were present in the United States as



Comments posted above will only appear in this blog post. Comments posted below will appear across all blog posts:

comments powered by Disqus

Monday, October 18, 2021

USCIS Reaches H-2B Cap for First Half of FY 2022

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services has received enough petitions to reach the congressionally mandated cap on H-2B visas for temporary nonagricultural workers for the first half of fiscal year 2022. Sept. 30 was the final receipt date for new cap-subject H-2B worker petitions requesting an employment start date before April 1, 2022. USCIS will reject new cap-subject H-2B petitions received after Sept. 30 that request an employment start date before April 1, 2022.

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

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


Comments posted above will only appear in this blog post. Comments posted below will appear across all blog posts:

comments powered by Disqus

Thursday, October 14, 2021

November 2021 Visa Bulletin Analysis

For November 2021 Visa Bulletin, please click here: https://www.mygcvisa.com/visa-bulletin/2021/visa-bulletin-november-2021.aspx

Please see below analysis of November 2021 Visa Bulletin:

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
INDIAMEXICOPHILIPPINES
F1No ChangeNo ChangeNo ChangeNo ChangeNo Change
F2ANo ChangeNo ChangeNo ChangeNo ChangeNo Change
F2BNo ChangeNo ChangeNo ChangeNo ChangeNo Change
F3No ChangeNo ChangeNo ChangeNo ChangeNo Change
F4No ChangeNo ChangeNo ChangeNo ChangeNo Change
"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
INDIAMEXICOPHILIPPINES
F1No ChangeNo ChangeNo ChangeNo ChangeNo Change
F2ANo ChangeNo ChangeNo ChangeNo ChangeNo Change
F2BNo ChangeNo ChangeNo ChangeNo ChangeNo Change
F3No ChangeNo ChangeNo ChangeNo ChangeNo Change
F4No ChangeNo ChangeNo ChangeNo ChangeNo Change



Comments posted above will only appear in this blog post. Comments posted below will appear across all blog posts:

comments powered by Disqus

November 2021 Visa Bulletin

For October 2021 Visa Bulletin, please click here: https://www.mygcvisa.com/visa-bulletin/2021/visa-bulletin-october-2021.aspx

For analysis of November 2021 Visa Bulletin, please click here: https://www.mygcvisa.com/visa-bulletin/2021/visa-bulletin-analysis-november-2021.aspx

November 2021 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 01DEC14
01DEC14 01DEC14 15JAN99 01MAR12
F2A C C C C C
F2B 22SEP15 22SEP15 22SEP15 15MAR00 22OCT11
F3 22NOV08 22NOV08 22NOV08 15MAY97 08JUN02
F4 22MAR07 22MAR07 15SEP05 08FEB99 22AUG02
"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 15MAY16 15MAY16 15MAY16 01AUG00 22APR15
F2A 01JUN21 01JUN21 01JUN21 01JUN21 01JUN21
F2B 22SEP16 22SEP16 22SEP16 01OCT00 01OCT13
F3 22AUG09 22AUG09 22AUG09 08SEP00 01OCT03
F4 01OCT07 01OCT07 01JAN06 01JUN99 01FEB04



Comments posted above will only appear in this blog post. Comments posted below will appear across all blog posts:

comments powered by Disqus

Friday, October 8, 2021

Most CW-1 Employers Must File Required Semiannual Report (Form I-129CWR)

USCIS reminds employers of Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands (CNMI) Transitional Workers (CW-1) that, if you have a currently-approved CW-1 petition with a validity period of six months or more, you must file Form I-129CWR, Semiannual Report for CW-1 Employers, with USCIS every six months after the petition validity start date. Employers use this report to certify the continued employment and payment of each worker under the terms and conditions of the approved petition. You are not required to file Form I-129CWR if your petition has been withdrawn for all beneficiaries.

If you fail to comply with the semiannual reporting requirement, we may revoke an approved petition or deny subsequent petitions. To avoid



Comments posted above will only appear in this blog post. Comments posted below will appear across all blog posts:

comments powered by Disqus

Monday, October 4, 2021

USCIS Extends Flexibility for Responding to Agency Requests

In response to the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services is extending the flexibilities it announced on March 30, 2020, to assist applicants, petitioners and requestors who are responding to certain:

  • Requests for Evidence;
  • Continuations to Request Evidence (N-14);
  • Notices of Intent to Deny;
  • Notices of Intent to Revoke;
  • Notices of Intent to Rescind;
  • Notices of Intent to Terminate regional centers; and
  • Motions to Reopen an N-400 Pursuant to 8 CFR 335.5, Receipt of Derogatory Information After Grant.

In addition, USCIS will consider a Form I-290B, Notice of Appeal or Motion, or Form N-336, Request for a Hearing on a Decision in Naturalization Proceedings (Under Section 336 of the INA), if:

  • The form was filed up to 60 calendar days from the issuance of a


Comments posted above will only appear in this blog post. Comments posted below will appear across all blog posts:

comments powered by Disqus

Friday, October 1, 2021

DHS waxay ku dhawaaqdey kordhinta iyo dib u qaabeynta Soomaaliya Xaalada Si kumeel gaadhka ah in loo ilaaliyo

Dib u qaabeynta ayaa u oggolaanaysa Soomaalida u-qalma ee Dheeraadka ah inay Dalbadaan TPS iyo Dhukumentiyada Oggolaanshaha Shaqada

WASHINGTON—Waaxda Amniga Gudaha ayaa maanta daabacday ogeysiiska Diiwaangelinta Federaalka (FRN) oo ku kordhisay isla markaana dib u habeyn ku sameyneysa Xaalada ku meelgaadhka ah ee Ilaalinta Somaaliya (TPS) ilaa 18 bilood, laga bilaabo 18 Sebtember, 2021, illaa 17 Maarso, 2023. Kordhinta iyo dib u qaabeynta Soomaaliya ee TPS waxaa sabab u ah iska horimaadyada hubeysan ee socda iyo xaaladaha aan caadiga ahayn iyo kuwa kumeel gaadhka ah ee ka hor istaagaya muwaadiniinta Soomaaliyeed inay si nabad ah iney ugu soo laabtaan.

Kordh



Comments posted above will only appear in this blog post. Comments posted below will appear across all blog posts:

comments powered by Disqus

Monday, September 27, 2021

USCIS Awards FY 2021 Citizenship and Integration Grants

Nearly $10 Million Will Expand Citizenship Preparation Services in 25 States

Introduction

On Sept. 20, 2021, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services announced the award of $10 million in grants to 40 organizations that prepare lawful permanent residents (LPRs) for naturalization. The grants also aim to promote prospective citizens' integration into American civic life by funding educational programs designed to increase their knowledge of English, U.S. history and civics. Located in 25 states, these organizations will receive federal funding to support citizenship preparation services for LPRs through September 2023.

Background

Since it began in 2009, the <a data-entity-substitution="canonical" data-entity-type="node" data-entity-uuid="75c18082-056e-4c9d-945c-68ce87fe9f70" href="https://www.uscis.gov/citizenship/civic-in



Comments posted above will only appear in this blog post. Comments posted below will appear across all blog posts:

comments powered by Disqus

Sunday, September 26, 2021

Visa Bulletin November 2021 Predictions

For official October 2021 Visa Bulletin & Analysis, please click here: https://www.mygcvisa.com/visa-bulletin/2021/visa-bulletin-october-2021.aspx

Please see November 2021 Visa Bulletin Predictions below (for both Family Based and Employment Based categories for all countries):

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
INDIAMEXICOPHILIPPINES
F108DEC1408DEC1408DEC1415FEB9908MAR12
F2ACCCCC
F2B01NOV1501NOV1501NOV1515APR0001NOV11
F308DEC0808DEC0808DEC0808JUN9715JUN02
F408APR0708APR0701OCT0501MAR9915SEP02
"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
INDIAMEXICOPHILIPPINES
F108JUN1608JUN1608JUN1615AUG0015JUL15
F2A01JUL2101JUL2101JUL2101JUL2101JUL21
F2B08OCT1608OCT1608OCT1601NOV0022NOV13
F301SEP0901SEP0901SEP0915SEP0001NOV03
F422OCT0722OCT0722JAN0622JUN9922MAR04



Comments posted above will only appear in this blog post. Comments posted below will appear across all blog posts:

comments powered by Disqus

Friday, September 24, 2021

USCIS to Welcome 21,000 New Citizens in Celebration of Constitution Day and Citizenship Day

WASHINGTON— U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services will celebrate Constitution Day and Citizenship Day this year by welcoming 21,000 new citizens in 335 naturalization ceremonies across the country between Sept. 17 and 23.

"It is an honor to welcome so many new Americans this Citizenship Day and Constitution Day," said USCIS Director Ur M. Jaddou. "Citizenship Day and Constitution Day are special days at USCIS – an agency where many people come to work every day to help those at home and abroad realize the full meaning of U.S. citizenship. As we take time to reflect on what citizenship means to each of us, let us share in the commitment to invest fully in this country's promise to be a place of hope and possibilities for all."

On Sept. 17, the nation observes Constitution Day and Citizenship Day as part of Constitution We



Comments posted above will only appear in this blog post. Comments posted below will appear across all blog posts:

comments powered by Disqus

Monday, September 20, 2021

USCIS Expands Credit Card Payment Pilot Program to Texas Service Center

As part of our credit card payment pilot program, the Texas Service Center is now accepting credit card payments using Form G-1450, Authorization for Credit Card Transactions, for petitioners filing Form I-140, Immigrant Petition for Alien Workers, with Form I-907, Request for Premium Processing Service, or when filing Form I-907 to upgrade a pending Form I-140 to premium processing.

At the end of the pilot,



Comments posted above will only appear in this blog post. Comments posted below will appear across all blog posts:

comments powered by Disqus

Friday, September 17, 2021

COVID-19 Vaccination Required for Immigration Medical Examinations

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services today announced that, effective Oct. 1, 2021, applicants subject to the immigration medical examination must be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 before the civil surgeon can complete an immigration medical examination and sign Form I-693, Report of Medical Examination and Vaccination Record.

We are updating our policy guidance in accordance with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's Aug. 17, 2021 update to the Technical Instructions for Civil Surgeons. That update requires applicants subject to the immigration medical examination to complete the



Comments posted above will only appear in this blog post. Comments posted below will appear across all blog posts:

comments powered by Disqus

Monday, September 13, 2021

DHS Continues Temporary Protected Status Designations for El Salvador, Haiti, Honduras, Nepal, Nicaragua and Sudan

WASHINGTON—The Department of Homeland Security has announced the automatic extension of TPS designations for El Salvador, Haiti, Honduras, Nepal, Nicaragua, and Sudan. TPS beneficiaries from these six countries will retain their status, provided they continue to meet all the individual requirements for TPS eligibility. The automatic extension of TPS-related documentation includes Employment Authorization Documents (EADs) through Dec. 31, 2022.

Eligible individuals whose TPS under the Haiti designation is presently continued by court orders and this notice are strongly encouraged to apply for Haiti TPS under the recently announced <a data-entity-substitution="canonical" data-entity-type="node" data-entity-uuid="fec6d7a4-679d-4a3f-b207-91c5926bf7e6" href="https://www.uscis.gov/news/news-releases/dhs-announces-registration-process-for-temporary-protected-status-f



Comments posted above will only appear in this blog post. Comments posted below will appear across all blog posts:

comments powered by Disqus

October 2021 Visa Bulletin Analysis

For October 2021 Visa Bulletin, please click here: https://www.mygcvisa.com/visa-bulletin/2021/visa-bulletin-october-2021.aspx

Please see below analysis of October 2021 Visa Bulletin:

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
INDIAMEXICOPHILIPPINES
F1No ChangeNo ChangeNo ChangeNo ChangeNo Change
F2ANo ChangeNo ChangeNo ChangeNo ChangeNo Change
F2BNo ChangeNo ChangeNo ChangeNo ChangeNo Change
F3No ChangeNo ChangeNo ChangeNo ChangeNo Change
F4No ChangeNo ChangeNo ChangeNo ChangeNo Change
"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
INDIAMEXICOPHILIPPINES
F1No ChangeNo ChangeNo ChangeNo ChangeNo Change
F2ANo ChangeNo ChangeNo ChangeNo ChangeNo Change
F2BNo ChangeNo ChangeNo ChangeNo ChangeNo Change
F3No ChangeNo ChangeNo ChangeNo ChangeNo Change
F4No ChangeNo ChangeNo ChangeNo ChangeNo Change



Comments posted above will only appear in this blog post. Comments posted below will appear across all blog posts:

comments powered by Disqus

October 2021 Visa Bulletin

For September 2021 Visa Bulletin, please click here: https://www.mygcvisa.com/visa-bulletin/2021/visa-bulletin-september-2021.aspx

For analysis of October 2021 Visa Bulletin, please click here: https://www.mygcvisa.com/visa-bulletin/2021/visa-bulletin-analysis-october-2021.aspx

October 2021 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 01DEC14
01DEC14 01DEC14 15JAN99 01MAR12
F2A C C C C C
F2B 22SEP15 22SEP15 22SEP15 15MAR00 22OCT11
F3 22NOV08 22NOV08 22NOV08 15MAY97 08JUN02
F4 22MAR07 22MAR07 15SEP05 08FEB99 22AUG02
"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 15MAY16 15MAY16 15MAY16 01AUG00 22APR15
F2A 01JUN21 01JUN21 01JUN21 01JUN21 01JUN21
F2B 22SEP16 22SEP16 22SEP16 01OCT00 01OCT13
F3 22AUG09 22AUG09 22AUG09 08SEP00 01OCT03
F4 01OCT07 01OCT07 01JAN06 01JUN99 01FEB04



Comments posted above will only appear in this blog post. Comments posted below will appear across all blog posts:

comments powered by Disqus

October 2021 Visa Bulletin Special Notes

For the official October 2021 Visa Bulletin & Analysis, please click here: https://www.mygcvisa.com/visa-bulletin/2021/visa-bulletin-october-2021.aspx

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

D. EXPIRATION OF TWO EMPLOYMENT CATEGORIES

Employment Fourth Preference Certain Religious Workers (SR):

Pursuant to Section 102 of Division I, Title I of the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2021 (Public Law 116-260), the non-minister special immigrant program expires on September 30, 2021. No SR visas may be issued overseas, or final action taken on adjustment of status cases, after midnight September 29, 2021. Visas issued prior to this date will only be issued with a validity date of September 29, 2021, and all individuals seeking admission as a non-minister special immigrant must be admitted (repeat, admitted) into the U.S. no later than midnight September 29, 2021.

The final action date for this category has been listed as "Unavailable" for October.

If there is legislative action extending this category for FY-2022, the final action



Comments posted above will only appear in this blog post. Comments posted below will appear across all blog posts:

comments powered by Disqus

Monday, September 6, 2021

USCIS Extends Evidence of Status for Conditional Permanent Residents to 24 Months with Pending Form I-751 or Form I-829

Starting Sept. 4, 2021, USCIS is extending the time that receipt notices can be used to show evidence of status from 18 months to 24 months for petitioners who properly file Form I-751, Petition to Remove Conditions on Residence, or Form I-829, Petition by Investor to Remove Conditions on Permanent Resident Status. We are making the change from 18 to 24 months to accommodate current processing times for Form I-751 and Form I-829, which have increased over the past year.

Conditional permanent residents who properly file Form I-751 or Form I-829 will



Comments posted above will only appear in this blog post. Comments posted below will appear across all blog posts:

comments powered by Disqus

Thursday, September 2, 2021

USCIS Creates New Webpage for Lockbox Filing Location Updates

We have created a new Lockbox Filing Location Updates page on our website for customers to keep track of updates we make to lockbox filing locations. You can use this page to easily see which lockbox form filing locations we have updated and when we made the update. We will update this page regularly, but we always encourage you to check the "Where to File" section of your form's webpage for the most current information on where to mail your form.

We periodically adjust filing locations among our lockbox facilities to balance our incoming workload for timely processing.

To receive updates on these lockbox filing location changes, please <a target='_blank' href="https:



Comments posted above will only appear in this blog post. Comments posted below will appear across all blog posts:

comments powered by Disqus

Monday, August 30, 2021

DHS Seeks Public Comment on Public Charge Rulemaking

WASHINGTON—The U.S. Department of Homeland Security is seeking data and information from the public that DHS intends to use to develop a public charge regulatory proposal. The purpose of public comment is to ensure that the proposal is fair, consistent with law, and informed by relevant data and evidence. Public comment also will help DHS ensure that the proposed regulation does not impose undue burdens on noncitizens seeking admission to or adjustment of status in the United States.

"It is critical that immigrants, many of whom are essential and frontline workers, can access necessary government services for which they are eligible to keep their families safe and healthy," said Ur M. Jaddou, director of U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services. "DHS is taking an essential step to implement a fair and rational rule that does not cause fear and confusion among



Comments posted above will only appear in this blog post. Comments posted below will appear across all blog posts:

comments powered by Disqus

Thursday, August 26, 2021

Visa Bulletin October 2021 Predictions

For official September 2021 Visa Bulletin & Analysis, please click here: https://www.mygcvisa.com/visa-bulletin/2021/visa-bulletin-september-2021.aspx

Please see October 2021 Visa Bulletin Predictions below (for both Family Based and Employment Based categories for all countries):

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
INDIAMEXICOPHILIPPINES
F108DEC1408DEC1408DEC1415FEB9908MAR12
F2ACCCCC
F2B01NOV1501NOV1501NOV1515APR0001NOV11
F308DEC0808DEC0808DEC0808JUN9715JUN02
F408APR0708APR0701OCT0501MAR9915SEP02
"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
INDIAMEXICOPHILIPPINES
F108JUN1608JUN1608JUN1615AUG0015JUL15
F2A01JUL2101JUL2101JUL2101JUL2101JUL21
F2B08OCT1608OCT1608OCT1601NOV0022NOV13
F301SEP0901SEP0901SEP0915SEP0001NOV03
F422OCT0722OCT0722JAN0622JUN9922MAR04



Comments posted above will only appear in this blog post. Comments posted below will appear across all blog posts:

comments powered by Disqus

Cap Reached for Remaining H-2B Visas for Returning Workers for FY 2021

As of Aug. 13, 2021, USCIS has received enough petitions for returning workers to reach the additional 22,000 H-2B visas made available under the FY 2021 H-2B supplemental visa temporary final rule. We will reject and return any cap-subject petitions for H-2B returning workers received after Aug. 13, together with any accompanying fees.

As previously announced, we began accepting additional



Comments posted above will only appear in this blog post. Comments posted below will appear across all blog posts:

comments powered by Disqus

Tuesday, August 24, 2021

USCIS Reaches Settlement Agreement in “No Blank Space Rejection Policy” Case

Affected filers have until July 20, 2022, to receive an earlier receipt date

WASHINGTON—U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services reached a settlement agreement in the case of Vangala et al. v. USCIS et al., No. 4:20-cv-08143(N.D. Ca



Comments posted above will only appear in this blog post. Comments posted below will appear across all blog posts:

comments powered by Disqus

Sunday, August 22, 2021

DHS and DOJ Publish Notice of Proposed Rulemaking to Make Asylum Process More Efficient and Ensure Fairness

WASHINGTON – In a key step toward implementing the Administration's blueprint for a fair, orderly, and humane immigration system, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and Department of Justice (DOJ) are publishing a notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) that would amend current regulations to improve the processing of asylum claims.  The proposed rule would allow, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) asylum officers to hear and decide applications for asylum, withholding of r



Comments posted above will only appear in this blog post. Comments posted below will appear across all blog posts:

comments powered by Disqus

Saturday, August 21, 2021

USCIS Temporarily Extending Validity Period of Form I-693

Beginning Aug. 12, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services is temporarily extending the validity period for Form I-693, Report of Medical Examination and Vaccination Record, from two years to now four years due to COVID-19-related delays in processing.

USCIS may consider a completed Form I-693 as valid if: 



Comments posted above will only appear in this blog post. Comments posted below will appear across all blog posts:

comments powered by Disqus

Thursday, August 19, 2021

USCIS Expands Partnership with Social Security Administration

WASHINGTON— USCIS announced today that applicants filing for lawful permanent resident status are now able to apply for a Social Security number (SSN) or replacement card as part of the adjustment of status application process. Previously, these individuals had to apply for a Social Security number at a Social Security office. USCIS is revising Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status, to include the additional questions needed to apply for an SSN or a replacement card.

"This expansion of our partnership with the Social Security Administration illustrates our commitment to operating our nation's immigration system more efficiently to save applicants time," said USCIS Director Ur M. Jaddou. "Eliminating unnecessary bureaucracy and optimizing collaboration across public-serving agencies is a key priority for this agency and the Bi



Comments posted above will only appear in this blog post. Comments posted below will appear across all blog posts:

comments powered by Disqus

Tuesday, August 17, 2021

USCIS Removes Barriers to U.S. Citizenship for Children Born Abroad Through Assisted Reproductive Technology

WASHINGTON— Today, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services announced updated policy guidance affecting children born outside of the United States and the determination of whether children born through assisted reproductive technology (ART) are considered to have been born "in wedlock." This policy update will allow a non-genetic, non-gestational legal parent of a child to transmit U.S. citizenship to the child if the parent is married to the child's genetic or gestational parent at the time of the child's birth, and the relevant jurisdiction recognizes both parents as the child's legal parents.

"USCIS is taking a crucial step towards ensuring fair access and support for all families and their loved ones," said USCI



Comments posted above will only appear in this blog post. Comments posted below will appear across all blog posts:

comments powered by Disqus

Sunday, August 15, 2021

Statement from Ur M. Jaddou as New Director of U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services

"As a proud American and a daughter of immigrants, I am deeply humbled and honored to return to USCIS as director. I look forward to leading a team of dedicated public servants committed to honoring the aspirations of people like my parents and millions of others who are proud to choose this country as their own. USCIS embodies America's welcoming spirit as a land of opportunity for all and a place where possibilities are realized.

"Since January, USCIS has taken immediate steps to reduce barriers to legal immigration, increase accessibility for immigration benefits, and reinvigorate the size and scope of humanitarian relief. As USCIS director, I will work each and every day to ensure our nation's legal immigration system is managed in a way that honors our heritage as a nation of welcome and as a beacon of hope to the world; reducing unnecessary barriers and supporting our ag



Comments posted above will only appear in this blog post. Comments posted below will appear across all blog posts:

comments powered by Disqus

Saturday, August 14, 2021

Registration Period Extended to 18 Months for TPS Applicants from Venezuela, Syria and Burma

WASHINGTON—The Department of Homeland Security today published a Federal Register notice (FRN) announcing extensions of the registration periods from 180 days to 18 months for initial (new) applicants for Temporary Protected Status (TPS) under the designations of Venezuela and Burma, and the redesignation of Syria. This notice also provides certain specific corrections to the FRN regarding Venezuela (86 FR 13574).

After reevaluating the 180-day registration periods for initial TPS applicants announced for the de



Comments posted above will only appear in this blog post. Comments posted below will appear across all blog posts:

comments powered by Disqus

Friday, August 13, 2021

September 2021 Visa Bulletin Analysis

For September 2021 Visa Bulletin, please click here: https://www.mygcvisa.com/visa-bulletin/2021/visa-bulletin-september-2021.aspx

Please see below analysis of September 2021 Visa Bulletin:

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
INDIAMEXICOPHILIPPINES
F1+9 Days+9 Days+9 Days+14 DaysNo Change
F2ANo ChangeNo ChangeNo ChangeNo ChangeNo Change
F2BNo ChangeNo ChangeNo Change+14 DaysNo Change
F3+14 Days+14 Days+14 Days+23 DaysNo Change
F4+21 Days+21 Days+14 Days+17 Days+14 Days
"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
INDIAMEXICOPHILIPPINES
F1No ChangeNo ChangeNo ChangeNo ChangeNo Change
F2ANo ChangeNo ChangeNo ChangeNo ChangeNo Change
F2BNo ChangeNo ChangeNo Change+1 Month 24 DaysNo Change
F3No ChangeNo ChangeNo ChangeNo ChangeNo Change
F4No ChangeNo Change+1 Month+24 DaysNo Change



Comments posted above will only appear in this blog post. Comments posted below will appear across all blog posts:

comments powered by Disqus

September 2021 Visa Bulletin

For August 2021 Visa Bulletin, please click here: https://www.mygcvisa.com/visa-bulletin/2021/visa-bulletin-august-2021.aspx

For analysis of September 2021 Visa Bulletin, please click here: https://www.mygcvisa.com/visa-bulletin/2021/visa-bulletin-analysis-september-2021.aspx

September 2021 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 01DEC14
01DEC14 01DEC14 15JAN99 01MAR12
F2A C C C C C
F2B 22SEP15 22SEP15 22SEP15 15MAR00 22OCT11
F3 22NOV08 22NOV08 22NOV08 15MAY97 08JUN02
F4 22MAR07 22MAR07 15SEP05 08FEB99 22AUG02
"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 15MAY16 15MAY16 15MAY16 01AUG00 22APR15
F2A 01JUN21 01JUN21 01JUN21 01JUN21 01JUN21
F2B 22SEP16 22SEP16 22SEP16 01OCT00 01OCT13
F3 22AUG09 22AUG09 22AUG09 08SEP00 01OCT03
F4 01OCT07 01OCT07 01JAN06 01JUN99 01FEB04



Comments posted above will only appear in this blog post. Comments posted below will appear across all blog posts:

comments powered by Disqus