Secretary Mayorkas Announces Extension and Re-Designation of Somalia for Temporary Protected Status

Extension and Re-Designation Allows Additional Eligible Somalis to Apply for TPS and Employment Authorization Documents

WASHINGTON—Today, Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro N. Mayorkas announced an 18-month extension and re-designation of Somalia for Temporary Protected Status (TPS).  This extension and re-designation will be in effect from September 18, 2021, through March 17, 2023.

"Through the extension and re-designation of Somalia for Temporary Protected Status, the United States will be able to offer safety and protection to Somalis who may not be able to return to their country, due to ongoing conflict and a worsening humanitarian crisis," said Secretary Mayorkas.  "We will continue to offer our support to Somali nationals through this temporary form of humanitarian relief."

Secretary Mayorkas made this dec

DHS Publishes Federal Register Notice Extending and Re-Designating Yemen for Temporary Protected Status

Re-Designation Allows Additional Eligible Yemenis to Apply for TPS and Employment Authorization Documents

WASHINGTON—The Department of Homeland Security today published a Federal Register notice (FRN) extending and re-designating Yemen for Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for 18 months, from Sept. 4, 2021, through March 3, 2023. The extension and re-designation of Yemen for TPS is due to ongoing armed conflict and extraordinary and temporary conditions that prevent Yemeni nationals (or individuals having no nationality who last habitually resided in Yemen) from safely returning.

The extension of TPS for Yemen allows approximately 1,700 current beneficiaries to r

August 2021 Visa Bulletin Analysis

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

Please see below analysis of August 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	INDIA	MEXICO	PHILIPPINES
F1	+7 Days	+7 Days	+7 Days	+3 Months	+8 Days
F2A	No Change	No Change	No Change	No Change	No Change
F2B	+7 Days	+7 Days	+7 Days	+1 Month	+7 Days
F3	+7 Days	+7 Days	+7 Days	+1 Month 14 Days	No Change
F4	+21 Days	+21 Days	+17 Days	+1 Month 7 Days	+1 Month 16 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	INDIA	MEXICO	PHILIPPINES
F1	No Change	No Change	No Change	No Change	No Change
F2A	No Change	No Change	No Change	No Change	No Change
F2B	No Change	No Change	No Change	No Change	No Change
F3	No Change	No Change	No Change	No Change	No Change
F4	No Change	No Change	No Change	No Change	No Change

August 2021 Visa Bulletin

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

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

August 2021 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	22NOV14	22NOV14	22NOV14	01JAN99	01MAR12
F2A	C	C	C	C	C
F2B	22SEP15	22SEP15	22SEP15	01MAR00	22OCT11
F3	08NOV08	08NOV08	08NOV08	22APR97	08JUN02
F4	01MAR07	01MAR07	01SEP05	22JAN99	08AUG02

"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	08AUG00	01OCT13
F3	22AUG09	22AUG09	22AUG09	08SEP00	01OCT03
F4	01OCT07	01OCT07	01DEC05	08MAY99	01FEB04

August 2021 Visa Bulletin Special Notes

For the official August 2021 Visa Bulletin & Analysis, please click here: https://www.mygcvisa.com/visa-bulletin/2021/visa-bulletin-august-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 THE EMPLOYMENT-BASED FIFTH PREFERENCE I5 and R5 REGIONAL CENTER VISA CATEGORIES

Division O, Title 1, Section 104 of the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2021 extended the immigrant investor pilot program until June 30, 2021. No I5 or R5 visas may be issued overseas or final action taken on adjustment of status cases after June 30, 2021.

The final action dates for the I5 and R5 categories have been listed as "Unavailable" for August.

If there is legislative action extending this category for August, the final action dates would immediately become "Current" for August for all countries except China-mainland born I5 and R5, which would be subject to a November 15, 2015 final action date.

E. FOR THE LATEST INFORMATION ON VISA PROCESSING AT U.S. EMBASSIES AND CONSULATES DURING THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC, PLEASE VI

Secretary Mayorkas Announces Extension and Re-Designation of Yemen for Temporary Protected Status

Extension and Re-Designation Allows Additional Eligible Yemenis to Apply for TPS and Employment Authorization Documents

WASHINGTON – Today, Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro N. Mayorkas announced an 18-month extension and re-designation of Yemen for Temporary Protected Status (TPS). This extension and re-designation will be in effect from Sep. 4, 2021, through March 3, 2023.

"Yemen continues to experience worsening humanitarian and economic conditions that prevent individuals from safely returning to their homes," said Secretary Mayorkas. "Therefore, I have decided to extend and re-designate Yemen for Temporary Protected Status. We will continue to protect and offer these individuals a place of residency temporarily in the United States."

Secretary Mayorkas made this decision to extend and re-desig

DHS releases Interagency Strategy for Promoting Naturalization

WASHINGTON – Today the Department of Homeland Security's U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services released the Interagency Strategy for Promoting Naturalization (PDF, 3.77 MB), a whole-of-government approach to breaking down barriers to U.S. citizenship and promoting naturalization to all who are eligible, as outlined in <a target='_blank' href="https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/presidential-actions/2021/02/02/executive-order-restoring-faith-in-our-legal-immigration-systems-and-strengthening-integration-and-inclusion-efforts-for-new-a

USCIS Naturalization Policies Issued Since January 2021

The Biden-Harris Administration is committed to making the naturalization process both welcoming and accessible to all who are eligible. As part of that effort, President Biden issued Executive Order 14012: Restoring Faith in Our Legal Immigration System and Strengthening Integration and Inclusion Efforts for New Americans. Since the beginning of the Biden-Harris Administration, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has issued the following naturalization policies designed to support implementation of this Executive Order:

<a target='_blank' href="https://www.uscis.gov/sites/default/files/document/policy-manual-updates/20210222-Ci

USCIS to Celebrate Independence Day with Naturalization Ceremonies Across the Country

WASHINGTON— U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services will celebrate Independence Day this year by welcoming more than 9,400 new citizens in 170 naturalization ceremonies between June 30 and July 7. These ceremonies demonstrate our commitment to welcoming immigrants. USCIS is proud to welcome people from all over the world as our newest U.S. citizens during this celebration of Independence Day. 

"This year marks the 245th birthday of our Nation," said Acting USCIS Director Tracy Renaud. "We are committed to promoting policies and procedures that ensure we operate fairly and efficiently, and continue to encourage and embrace the full participation of the newest Americans in our democracy."  

<p paraeid="{7f94a667-

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

USCIS Will Allow Resubmission of Certain FY 2021 H-1B Petitions Rejected or Closed Due to Start Date

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services announced today it will accept resubmitted fiscal year (FY) 2021 H-1B cap-subject petitions that were rejected or administratively closed solely because the requested start date was after Oct. 1, 2020.

If your FY 2021 petition was rejected or administratively closed solely because your petition was based on a registration submitted during the initial registration period, but you requested a start date after Oct. 1, 2020, you may re-submit that previously filed petition, with all applicable fees, at the address below. Such petitions must be resubmitted before Oct. 1, 2021. If properly resubmitted, we will consider the petition to have been filed on the original receipt date.

USPS	FedEx, UPS, and DHL Deliveries	Forms I-129/I-907 Premi

USCIS Launches H-2B Employer Data Hub

USCIS has launched an H-2B Employer Data Hub to provide information to the public on employers or agents petitioning for H-2B workers. The data hub is part of our continued effort to increase transparency in employment-based visa programs, and allows the public to search for H-2B petitioners by cap fiscal year (back to FY 2015), employer (petitioner) name, city, state, ZIP code, worksite state, cap type, North American Industry Classification System code, and Standard

Statement from USCIS Acting Director Tracy L. Renaud on World Refugee Day June 20, 2021

On Sunday, June 20, we observe World Refugee Day. Every year, this day draws attention to the plight of refugees across the globe. At U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, the occasion is particularly meaningful.

Since 1980, the United States has resettled more than 3 million refugees who were forced to flee their homeland. USCIS plays a critical role in helping the U.S. government fulfill its humanitarian obligations by adjudicating refugee claims overseas and offering compassion to the displaced and persecuted.

This year, USCIS commemorates the 16th anniversary of our agency's refugee corps. Now, more than ever, this corps exemplifies the belief that generosity is a sign of American strength, and that when we offer refuge to those in need of protection, we are living up to our nation's highest ideals.

In the first days of his Administration, President Bi

USCIS Clarifies Evidence Requirements Under Liberian Refugee Immigration Fairness

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services today announced that it is updating guidance in the USCIS Policy Manual regarding eligibility for adjustment of status under Liberian Refugee Immigration Fairness (LRIF). The updated guidance clarifies what evidence an applicant may submit to establish Liberian nationality when applying for adjustment of status under LRIF.

The updated guidance includes examples of secondary evidence that could support an applicant's claim of Liberian nationality, as part of the totality of the evidence. These examples include, but are not limited to, expired Liberian passports, baptismal records or other religious documents, school records, and medical records. USCIS will evaluate all evidence an applicant provides, including the applicant's testimony during an interview, to evaluate their eligibility for adjustment of status

U

Statement from USCIS Acting Director Tracy Renaud on Today’s DOJ Asylum Decisions

"We applaud the attorney general's decisions today vacating two prior decisions that limited asylum eligibility for individuals fleeing violence perpetrated by domestic partners or on account of familial relationships in their home countries. We have advised our officers to no longer rely on the vacated decisions and are working to swiftly provide specific, comprehensive guidance to our workforce to align our policies with these decisions.

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 Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization, and whose applications remain pending on June 30, 2021. USCIS will automatically extend their parole (and employment authorization, if applicable)

Visa Bulletin August 2021 Predictions

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

Please see August 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	INDIA	MEXICO	PHILIPPINES
F1	22NOV14	22NOV14	22NOV14	01NOV98	08MAR12
F2A	C	C	C	C	C
F2B	22SEP15	22SEP15	22SEP15	01MAR00	01NOV11
F3	15NOV08	15NOV08	15NOV08	01APR97	01JUL02
F4	22FEB07	22FEB07	01SEP05	01JAN99	15JUL02

"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	15JUN16	15JUN16	15JUN16	15AUG00	01AUG15
F2A	01JUL21	01JUL21	01JUL21	01JUL21	01JUL21
F2B	08OCT16	08OCT16	08OCT16	01SEP00	01DEC13
F3	01SEP09	01SEP09	01SEP09	15SEP00	08NOV03
F4	22OCT07	22OCT07	22DEC05	01JUN99	01APR04

Statement from USCIS Acting Director Tracy Renaud in Honor of Immigrant Heritage Month

"June marks the seventh annual celebration of Immigrant Heritage Month, which honors the individual and collective contributions made by immigrants in communities across the United States.

In keeping with President Biden's Executive Order 14012, Restoring Faith in Our Legal Immigration Systems and Strengthening Integration and Inclusion Efforts for New Americans, we are working to rebuild confidence in our lawful immigration system and promote the benefits and privileges of citizenship to those who may be eligible.

At USCIS, our mission is to administer our nation's legal immigration system fairly, humanely and in a way that honors wh

Vermont Service Center Address Change

ALERT: The new addresses listed below will not be in effect until June 25, 2021. Please continue to use the St. Albans addresses in the below chart under "Previous Address" through June 24, 2021.

Effective June 14, 2021, the Vermont Service Center will no longer receive any incoming mail at the St. Albans, VT facility, which is being decommissioned.

Mail sent to the previous addresses will be forwarded for one year, but any mail sent to the previous addresses after June 2022 may be returned to the sender by the United States Postal Service or the courier service used.

Please refer to the chart below for the updated addresses.

Mail	<

USCIS Announces Lockbox Filing Flexibilities

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services will offer filing flexibilities to provide relief to certain applicants and petitioners impacted by delays at a USCIS lockbox. These flexibilities only apply to benefit requests submitted to a USCIS lockbox and not to USCIS service centers or field offices.

The following temporary flexibilities are effective for 60 days from June 10 until Aug. 9, 2021:

• If you submitted a benefit request to a USCIS lockbox between Oct. 1, 2020, and April 1, 2021, and that request was rejected during that timeframe solely due to a filing fee payment that expired while the benefit request was awaiting processing, you may resubmit the request with a new fee payment. If USCIS concurs that it has rejected the benefit request because of the delay, USCIS will deem the request to have been received on the initial filing date it was first received a

USCIS Updates Policies to Improve Immigration Services

WASHINGTON—U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services has issued new policy updates in the USCIS Policy Manual to clarify the criteria and circumstances for expedited processing; improve request for evidence (RFE) and notice of intent to deny (NOID) guidance; and increase the validity period for initial and renewal employment authorization documents (EADs) for certain noncitizens with pending adjustment of status applications.

"We are taking action to eliminate policies that fail to promote access to the legal immigration system, and will continue to make improvements that help individuals navigate the path to citizenship, and that modernize our immigration system," said Secretary of Homeland Secu

Cap Reached for Additional Returning Worker H-2B Visas for FY 2021

Under the recently announced H-2B supplemental cap temporary final rule, USCIS has received enough petitions to reach the cap for the additional 16,000 H-2B visas made available for returning workers only. We continue to accept petitions for H-2B nonimmigrant workers for the additional 6,000 visas allotted for nationals of Honduras, Guatemala and El Salvador (collectively called the Northern Triangle).

We began accepting H-2B petitions on May 25 under the temporary final rule increasing the cap by up to 22,000 additional H-2B nonimmigrant visas through the end of fiscal year (FY) 2021. Of the 22,000 additional visas, 1

July 2021 Visa Bulletin Analysis

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

Please see below analysis of July 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	INDIA	MEXICO	PHILIPPINES
F1	+14 Days	+14 Days	+14 Days	+5 Months	No Change
F2A	No Change	No Change	No Change	No Change	No Change
F2B	+24 Days	+24 Days	+24 Days	+4 Months 23 Days	No Change
F3	+2 Months	+2 Months	+2 Months	+3 Months 23 Days	No Change
F4	+2 Months	+2 Months	+3 Months 7 Days	+3 Months 14 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	INDIA	MEXICO	PHILIPPINES
F1	+2 Months 14 Days	+2 Months 14 Days	+2 Months 14 Days	+2 Months 17 Days	+11 Months 7 Days
F2A	+1 Month	+1 Month	+1 Month	+1 Month	+1 Month
F2B	+1 Month 7 Days	+1 Month 7 Days	+1 Month 7 Days	No Change	+2 Months
F3	+21 Days	+21 Days	+21 Days	No Change	+1 Month 24 Days
F4	No Change	No Change	No Change	No Change	+5 Months 24 Days

July 2021 Visa Bulletin

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

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

July 2021 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	15NOV14	15NOV14	15NOV14	01OCT98	22FEB12
F2A	C	C	C	C	C
F2B	15SEP15	15SEP15	15SEP15	01FEB00	15OCT11
F3	01NOV08	01NOV08	01NOV08	08MAR97	08JUN02
F4	08FEB07	08FEB07	15AUG05	15DEC98	22JUN02

"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	08AUG00	01OCT13
F3	22AUG09	22AUG09	22AUG09	08SEP00	01OCT03
F4	01OCT07	01OCT07	01DEC05	08MAY99	01FEB04

July 2021 Visa Bulletin Special Notes

For the official July 2021 Visa Bulletin & Analysis, please click here: https://www.mygcvisa.com/visa-bulletin/2021/visa-bulletin-july-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. SCHEDULED EXPIRATION OF THE EMPLOYMENT-BASED FIFTH PREFERENCE I5 and R5 REGIONAL CENTER VISA CATEGORIES

Employment Fifth Preference Categories (I5 and R5):

Division O, Title 1, Section 104 of the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2021 extended this immigrant investor pilot program until June 30, 2021. The I5 and R5 visas may be issued until close of business on June 30, 2021 and may be issued for the full validity period. No I5 or R5 visas may be issued overseas, or final action taken on adjustment of status cases, after June 30, 2021.

Since there has been no legislative action at this time, the final action dates for the I5 and R5 categories have been listed as "Unavailable" for July.

If there is legislative action extending this category for July, the final action dates would immediately become "Current" for July for all countries except

USCIS Announces Pilot Program for Credit Card Payments Using Form G-1450 When Filing Form I-485

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services today announced a pilot program for accepting credit card payments using Form G-1450, Authorization for Credit Card Transactions, for U nonimmigrants filing Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status.

The pilot program began on May 3 at the Nebraska Service Center and will be limited to this location. The service center started accepting credit card payments from certain Form I-485 applicants using Form G-1450. Applicants must be U nonimmigrants (victims of criminal activity). At the end of the pilot, USCIS will evaluate the results and determine the next steps for possibly expanding this payment option for other forms or other service centers.

For more information, please see our <a data-entity-substitution="canonical" data-entity-type="node" data-entity-uuid="91692def-24c5-403b-ac0d-7c11b4a70e85"

Updated Guidance on Naturalization for Veterans Living Overseas

We are updating guidance in the USCIS Policy Manual to provide clarification regarding certain naturalization applications filed by veterans of the U.S. armed forces under section 329 of the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA).

INA section 329 permits certain veterans who served and were honorably discharged from the military but are not lawful permanent residents (LPRs) to file an Application for Naturalization (Form N-400) to naturalize under <a target='_blank' href="http://uscode.house.gov/view.xhtml?req=granuleid%3AUSC-prelim-title8-section1440&nu

USCIS Eases Visitor Restrictions for Fully Vaccinated Individuals

Due to updated guidance from the CDC, USCIS has updated its visitor policy. Fully vaccinated individuals no longer have to wear a face covering. Individuals two years old and older who are not fully vaccinated must still wear a face covering.

To be considered fully vaccinated, it must be at least two weeks after receiving a second dose in a two-dose series or at least two weeks after receiving a dose of a single-dose vaccine.

USCIS has eased other requirements for fully vaccinated individuals who do not have COVID-19 symptoms. Those who have returned from domestic air, international air or cruise ship travel in the past 10 days may enter USCIS facilities if they are fully vaccinated. Individuals who have been in close contact (within six feet for a total of 15 minutes

DHS Announces Open Registration for Temporary Protected Status for Burma

New Designation Allows Eligible Burmese to Apply for TPS and Employment Authorization Documents

WASHINGTON—The Department of Homeland Security today published a Federal Register notice (FRN) designating Burma for Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for 18 months, effective May 25, 2021, through Nov. 25, 2022. Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro N. Mayorkas previously announced on March 12 that Burma would be designated for TPS.

The designation of Burma for TPS allows an estimated 1,600 Burmese nationals (or individuals having no nationality

U.S. Departments of Homeland Security and Labor Issue Joint Rule Supplementing H-2B Visa Cap

WASHINGTON—The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and the Department of Labor (DOL) have published a joint temporary final rule making available an additional 22,000 H-2B temporary nonagricultural guest worker visas for fiscal year (FY) 2021 to employers who are likely to suffer irreparable harm without these additional workers. Of the supplemental visas, 6,000 are reserved for nationals of the Northern Triangle countries of Honduras, El Salvador, and Guatemala.

DHS first announced the planned supplemental increase of 22,000 visas for the H-2B Temp

DHS Issues Final Rule to Remove Vacated H-1B Rule from Code of Federal Regulations

The Department of Homeland Security has issued a final rule that removes from the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) an interim final rule (IFR) issued in October 2020, which has since been vacated by a federal district court.

On Oct. 8, 2020, DHS issued an IFR titled, Strengthening the H-1B Nonimmigrant Visa
Classification Program. On Dec. 1, 2020, the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of California <a target='_blank' href="https://www.uscis.gov/news/alerts/us-district-court-for-the-northern-district-of-california-vacates-the-st

Visa Bulletin July 2021 Predictions

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

Please see July 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	INDIA	MEXICO	PHILIPPINES
F1	08NOV14	08NOV14	08NOV14	15MAY98	15MAR12
F2A	C	C	C	C	C
F2B	01SEP15	01SEP15	01SEP15	22SEP99	08NOV11
F3	08SEP08	08SEP08	08SEP08	01DEC96	01JUL02
F4	15DEC06	15DEC06	15MAY05	08SEP98	08JUL02

"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	01APR16	01APR16	01APR16	01JUN00	01AUG14
F2A	01JUN21	01JUN21	01JUN21	01JUN21	01JUN21
F2B	01SEP16	01SEP16	01SEP16	01SEP00	08OCT13
F3	08AUG09	08AUG09	08AUG09	15SEP00	22SEP03
F4	22OCT07	22OCT07	22DEC05	01JUN99	01OCT03

USCIS Announces Open Application Period for Citizenship and Integration Grant Program

WASHINGTON—U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services is accepting applications for two funding opportunities under the Citizenship and Integration Grant Program. The grant opportunities will provide up to $10 million in grants for citizenship preparation programs in communities across the country.

These competitive grant opportunities are open to organizations that prepare lawful permanent residents for naturalization and promote civic integration through increased knowledge of English, U.S. history, and civics. USCIS received support from Congress through appropriations to make these funding opportunities available to communities.

"It is critical that we provide immigrants pursuing citizenship and the organizations who help support their efforts with the tools to be successful," said Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas. "The Citizenship and Integration Grant

USCIS Temporarily Suspends Biometrics Requirement for Certain Form I-539 Applicants

Effective May 17, 2021, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services will temporarily suspend the biometrics submission requirement for certain applicants filing Form I-539, Application To Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status, requesting an extension of stay in or change of status to H-4, L-2, and E nonimmigrant status. USCIS will allow adjudications for those specific categories to proceed based on biographic information and related background checks, without capturing fingerprints and a photograph. This suspension will apply through May 17, 2023, subject to affirmative extension or revocation of the suspension period by the USCIS director. 

This temporary suspension will apply to applicants filing Form I-539 requesting the f

June 2021 Visa Bulletin

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

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

June 2021 Visa Bulletin has been officially released (valid from June 1 to June 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	01NOV14	01NOV14	01NOV14	01MAY98	22FEB12
F2A	C	C	C	C	C
F2B	22AUG15	22AUG15	22AUG15	08SEP99	15OCT11
F3	01SEP08	01SEP08	01SEP08	15NOV96	08JUN02
F4	08DEC06	08DEC06	08MAY05	01SEP98	08JUN02

"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	01MAR16	01MAR16	01MAR16	15MAY00	15MAY14
F2A	01MAY21	01MAY21	01MAY21	01MAY21	01MAY21
F2B	15AUG16	15AUG16	15AUG16	08AUG00	01AUG13
F3	01AUG09	01AUG09	01AUG09	08SEP00	08AUG03
F4	01OCT07	01OCT07	01DEC05	08MAY99	08AUG03

June 2021 Visa Bulletin Analysis

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

Please see below analysis of June 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	INDIA	MEXICO	PHILIPPINES
F1	+10 Days	+10 Days	+10 Days	+1 Month	+21 Days
F2A	No Change	No Change	No Change	No Change	No Change
F2B	+7 Days	+7 Days	+7 Days	+24 Days	+1 Month
F3	+10 Days	+10 Days	+10 Days	+1 Month	+1 Month 7 Days
F4	+1 Month	+1 Month	+23 Days	+24 Days	+1 Month 7 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	INDIA	MEXICO	PHILIPPINES
F1	+5 Months	+5 Months	+5 Months	+2 Months 14 Days	+6 Months 14 Days
F2A	+1 Month	+1 Month	+1 Month	+1 Month	+1 Month
F2B	+1 Month 23 Days	+1 Month 23 Days	+1 Month 23 Days	No Change	+6 Months 24 Days
F3	+1 Month 9 Days	+1 Month 9 Days	+1 Month 9 Days	No Change	+1 Month 7 Days
F4	No Change	No Change	No Change	No Change	+1 Month 7 Days

June 2021 Visa Bulletin Special Notes

For the official June 2021 Visa Bulletin & Analysis, please click here: https://www.mygcvisa.com/visa-bulletin/2021/visa-bulletin-june-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. FOR THE LATEST INFORMATION ON VISA PROCESSING AT U.S. EMBASSIES AND CONSULATES DURING THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC, PLEASE VISIT THE BUREAU OF CONSULAR AFFAIRS WEBSITE AT TRAVEL.STATE.GOV

E. @TRAVELGOV BEGINS HOSTING MONTHLY YOUTUBE LIVE "CHATS WITH CHARLIE"

@TravelGov will begin hosting "Chats with Charlie" on our YouTube channel (https://www.youtube.com/user/TravelGov) to discuss information provided in the monthly Visa Bulletin. This month's chat is scheduled to take place on May 24, 2021 at 1:00 p.m. EST to discuss the June Visa Bulletin. Questions can be emailed to VisaBulletin@state.gov ahead of the event with "Chat with Charlie Question" in the subject line. Questions will also be taken via the YouTube Live Chat and will be an

Rescheduling Biometric Services Appointments by Phone

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) announced today that applicants, petitioners, requestors and beneficiaries may now call the USCIS Contact Center (800-375-5283) to reschedule their biometric services appointments scheduled at a USCIS Application Support Center. Previously, applicants had to submit requests in writing to reschedule their biometrics appointments. This change helps eliminate undue paperwork and allows USCIS to track the request through a more efficient process.  

Applicants must establish good cause for rescheduling and must call before the date and time of their original appointment to reschedule. If an applicant fails to call before the scheduled appointment or fails to establish good cause, USCIS may consider the application, petition, or request abandoned and, as a result, it may be denied.

For more information, please see the<a data-

DHS Announces Continuation of International Entrepreneur Parole Program

Program Will Provide Opportunities for Foreign Entrepreneurs

WASHINGTON—U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services announced today that the Department of Homeland Security is withdrawing a 2018 notice of proposed rulemaking that proposed to remove the International Entrepreneur program from DHS regulations. The International Entrepreneur (IE) parole program, first introduced in 2017, will remain a viable program for foreign entrepreneurs to create and develop start-up entities with high growth potential in the United States. The program will help to strengthen and grow our nation's economy through increased capital spending, innovation, and job creation.

Today's announcement is

DHS Withdraws Proposed Biometrics Rule

The Department of Homeland Security has withdrawn a proposed rule that would have expanded department authorities and requirements for collecting biometrics by removing age restrictions; requiring submission of biometrics for every applicant, petitioner, sponsor, beneficiary, or other individual filing for or associated with any immigration or naturalization benefit or request unless DHS waives or exempts the biometrics requirement; codifying the authority to use DNA test results; and authorizing the use of additional types of biometric modalities.

DHS announced its decision to withdraw the proposed rule, originally published on Sept. 11, 2020, in a <a target='_blank' href="https://www.federalregister.gov/publ

USCIS Issues Policy Guidance on Deference to Previous Decisions

USCIS is issuing policy guidance in the USCIS Policy Manual instructing officers to give deference to prior determinations when adjudicating extension requests involving the same parties and facts unless there was a material error, material change, or new material facts.

With this update, USCIS is reverting in substance to prior long-standing guidance issued in 2004, which directed officers to generally defer to prior determinations of eligibility when adjudicating extension requests involving the same parties and facts as the initial peti

Visa Bulletin June 2021 Predictions

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

Please see June 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	INDIA	MEXICO	PHILIPPINES
F1	01NOV14	01NOV14	01NOV14	15APR98	08MAR12
F2A	C	C	C	C	C
F2B	01SEP15	01SEP15	01SEP15	01SEP99	22OCT11
F3	01SEP08	01SEP08	01SEP08	22OCT96	01JUN02
F4	15NOV06	15NOV06	22APR05	15AUG98	08JUN02

"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	22OCT15	22OCT15	22OCT15	15MAR00	08JAN14
F2A	01MAY21	01MAY21	01MAY21	01MAY21	01MAY21
F2B	08JUL16	08JUL16	08JUL16	08SEP00	08MAR13
F3	01JUL09	01JUL09	01JUL09	15SEP00	22AUG03
F4	22OCT07	22OCT07	22DEC05	15MAY99	01SEP03

DHS Seeks Public Input to Identify Barriers that Limit or Prevent Access to Immigration Benefits and Services

WASHINGTON—The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is seeking comment from the public on how U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) can reduce barriers that prevent both U.S. and foreign citizens from obtaining access to the full assortment of legally available immigration services and benefits.

DHS published a Request for Public Input in the Federal Register seeking the public's input on barriers to USCIS benefits and services, including but not limited to adjustment of status, naturalization, H-1B nonimmigrant status, refugee status, asylum, and parole. A central goal of the Request for Public Input is to promote equity, above all by reducing administrative burdens, undue complexity, unnecessary confusion, and processing and waiting times. The department requests feedback

May 2021 Visa Bulletin

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

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

May 2021 Visa Bulletin has been officially released (valid from May 1 to May 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	22OCT14	22OCT14	22OCT14	01APR98	01FEB12
F2A	C	C	C	C	C
F2B	15AUG15	15AUG15	15AUG15	15AUG99	15SEP11
F3	22AUG08	22AUG08	22AUG08	15OCT96	01MAY02
F4	08NOV06	08NOV06	15APR05	08AUG98	01MAY02

"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	01OCT15	01OCT15	01OCT15	01MAR00	01NOV13
F2A	01APR21	01APR21	01APR21	01APR21	01APR21
F2B	22JUN16	22JUN16	22JUN16	08AUG00	08JAN13
F3	22JUN09	22JUN09	22JUN09	08SEP00	01JUL03
F4	01OCT07	01OCT07	01DEC05	08MAY99	01JUL03

May 2021 Visa Bulletin Analysis

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

Please see below analysis of May 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	INDIA	MEXICO	PHILIPPINES
F1	+14 Days	+14 Days	+14 Days	+1 Month 7 Days	+10 Days
F2A	No Change	No Change	No Change	No Change	No Change
F2B	+7 Days	+7 Days	+7 Days	+24 Days	+14 Days
F3	+14 Days	+14 Days	+14 Days	+14 Days	+1 Month
F4	+7 Days	+7 Days	+7 Days	+17 Days	+23 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	INDIA	MEXICO	PHILIPPINES
F1	+16 Days	+16 Days	+16 Days	No Change	+2 Months
F2A	+1 Month	+1 Month	+1 Month	+1 Month	+1 Month
F2B	+7 Days	+7 Days	+7 Days	+1 Month	+2 Months
F3	No Change	No Change	No Change	No Change	+2 Months
F4	No Change	No Change	No Change	No Change	+2 Months

May 2021 Visa Bulletin Special Notes

For the official May 2021 Visa Bulletin & Analysis, please click here: https://www.mygcvisa.com/visa-bulletin/2021/visa-bulletin-may-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. FOR THE LATEST INFORMATION ON VISA PROCESSING AT U.S. EMBASSIES AND CONSULATES DURING THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC, PLEASE VISIT THE BUREAU OF CONSULAR AFFAIRS WEBSITE AT TRAVEL.STATE.GOV

E. @TRAVELGOV BEGINS HOSTING MONTHLY YOUTUBE LIVE "CHATS WITH CHARLIE"

@TravelGov will begin hosting "Chats with Charlie" on our YouTube channel (https://www.youtube.com/user/TravelGov) to discuss information provided in the monthly Visa Bulletin. The first chat is scheduled to take place on April 22, 2021 at 1:00 p.m. EST to discuss the April Visa Bulletin. Questions can be emailed to VisaBulletin@state.gov ahead of the event with "Chat with Charlie Question" in the subject line. Questions will also be taken via the YouTube Live Chat and will be an

Phony Immigration Attorney Who Filed Hundreds of Fraudulent Asylum Applications Sentenced to More Than 20 Years in Federal Prison

TAMPA, Fla.— Senior U.S. District Judge Virginia M. Hernandez Covington today sentenced Elvis Harold Reyes (56, Brandon, Florida) to 20 years and 9 months in federal prison for mail fraud and aggravated identity theft in connection with a scheme where he posed as an immigration attorney and filed hundreds of fraudulent asylum applications. The Court deferred consideration of victim restitution to a later date.

Reyes had pleaded guilty on December 15, 2020.

According to court documents, Reyes, who owned and operated EHR Ministries Inc., portrayed himself as an immigration attorney. He is not and has never been a licensed attorney. Reyes targeted undocumented immigrants from Spanish-speaking countries who were seeking Florida driver licenses and work authorization. Reyes gave false, inaccurate, and incomplete legal and immigration advice to victims in or

F-1 Students Seeking Optional Practical Training Can Now File Form I-765 Online

WASHINGTON—U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services today announced that F-1 students seeking optional practical training (OPT) can now file Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization, online if they are filing under one of these categories:

• (c)(3)(A) – Pre-Completion OPT;
• (c)(3)(B) – Post-Completion OPT; and
• (c)(3)(C) – 24-Month Extension of OPT for science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) students.

OPT is temporary employment that is directly related to an F-1 student's major area of study. Eligible students can apply to receive up to 12 months of OPT employment authorization before completing their academic studies (pre-completion) and/or

USCIS Confirms Elimination of “Blank Space” Criteria

USCIS today confirmed that for all forms it has reverted to the form rejection criteria it applied before October 2019 regarding blank responses.

In 2019, USCIS changed the form rejection criteria for:

• Form I-589, Application for Asylum and for Withholding of Removal;
• Form I-612, Application for Waiver of the Foreign Residence Requirement (under Section 212(e) of the Immigration and Nationality Act, as Amended); and
• <a data-entity-substitution="canonical" data-entity-type="node" data-entity-uuid="f1df85fb-ad77-4ebf-81d7-f4287d59fe3b

FY 2022 H-1B Cap Season Updates

H-1B Initial Electronic Registration Selection Process Completed

USCIS has received enough electronic registrations during the initial registration period to reach the fiscal year (FY) 2022 H-1B numerical allocations (H-1B cap) including the advanced degree exemption (master's cap). We randomly selected from among the registrations properly submitted to reach the cap. We have notified all prospective petitioners with selected registrations that they are eligible to file an H-1B cap-subject petition for the beneficiary named in the applicable selected registration.

Registrants' online accounts will now show one of the following statuses for each registration (that is, for each beneficiary registered):

• Submitted: The registration has been submitted and is eligible for selection. If the initial selection process has been comp

Updated Guidance on P-1A Internationally Recognized Athletes

Today, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services announced updated guidance for adjudicating requests for P-1A nonimmigrant classification for internationally recognized athletes.

The guidance clarifies the meaning of the phrase "major United States sports league or team" as used in the regulations, 8 CFR 214.2(p)(4)(ii)(B), and specific to internationally recognized athletes, a category that is distinct from the additional P-1A categories created by the COMPETE Act of 2006. The guidance explains that we interpret the phrase "major United States sports league" to mean one that has a distinguished reputation commensurate with an internationally recognized level of performance, and "major United States sports team" to mean a team that

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 d

DHS Withdraws ‘Affidavit of Support’ Proposed Rule

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) today announced the withdrawal of the affidavit of support proposed rule, consistent with DHS's commitment to reduce barriers within the legal immigration system that placed increased burdens on American families wishing to sponsor individuals immigrating to the U.S.

The Oct. 2, 2020, proposed rule would have changed the evidentiary requirements for U.S. citizens, U.S. nationals, and lawful permanent residents wishing to sponsor an individual immigrating to the U.S. by completing an affidavit of support under Section 213A of the Immigration and Nationalit

USCIS Updates Policy Guidance for Special Immigrant Juvenile Classification

Effective March 18, USCIS has updated policy guidance in the USCIS Policy Manual (PDF, 362.73 KB) regarding the Special Immigrant Juvenile (SIJ) classification based on the settlement agreement resulting from the Saravia v. Barr class action lawsuit.

The SIJ classification allows certain children who have been subject to state juvenile court proceedings related to abuse, neglect, abandonment, etc., to apply for lawful permanent residence (a Green Card). USCIS must review an SIJ petitioner's juvenile court order and supporting evidence to determin

Visa Bulletin May 2021 Predictions

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

Please see May 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	INDIA	MEXICO	PHILIPPINES
F1	01NOV14	01NOV14	01NOV14	08MAR98	08MAR12
F2A	C	C	C	C	C
F2B	01SEP15	01SEP15	01SEP15	08AUG99	15OCT11
F3	22AUG08	22AUG08	22AUG08	08OCT96	15MAY02
F4	08NOV06	08NOV06	15APR05	01AUG98	01JUN02

"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	08OCT15	08OCT15	08OCT15	08MAR00	15NOV13
F2A	01APR21	01APR21	01APR21	01APR21	01APR21
F2B	08JUL16	08JUL16	08JUL16	01AUG00	08JAN13
F3	08JUL09	08JUL09	08JUL09	15SEP00	01JUL03
F4	22OCT07	22OCT07	08DEC05	15MAY99	01JUL03

Registration period opens for Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Syria

Re-Designation Allows Additional Eligible Syrians to Apply

WASHINGTON—The Department of Homeland Security today published a Federal Register notice (FRN) extending and re-designating Syria for Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for 18 months, effective March 31, 2021, through Sept. 30, 2022. The extension and re-designation were announced on January 29 and were based upon ongoing armed conflict and extraordinary and temporary conditions in Syria that prevent safe return.

The ex

USCIS May Reopen H-1B Petitions Denied Under Three Rescinded Policy Memos

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services today announced it may reopen and/or reconsider adverse decisions on Form I-129, Petition for a Nonimmigrant Worker, made based on three rescinded policy memos. USCIS will generally use its discretion to accept a motion to reopen filed more than 30 days after the decision, if filed before the end of the validity period requested on the petition or labor condition application, whichever is earlier, and the decision was based on one or more policies in the rescinded H-1B memoranda below.

On June 17, 2020, USCIS issued Policy Memorandum 602-0114 (PDF, 379.71 KB), which officially rescinded two prior po

Update on USCIS Visitor Policy

In light of some states and municipalities relaxing mask mandates and other COVID-19 restrictions, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services reminds the public that we will continue to enforce our visitor policy in all USCIS facilities. This includes a requirement that all visitors 2 years of age or older wear a face covering while in USCIS facilities.

USCIS continues to prioritize the health and safety of our customers and employees, as well as the American public. We will continue to review and update our policies as ne

DHS Secretary Statement on the 2019 Public Charge Rule

Today, DHS Secretary Alejandro N. Mayorkas announced that the government will no longer defend the 2019 public charge rule as doing so is neither in the public interest nor an efficient use of limited government resources.

"The 2019 public charge rule was not in keeping with our nation's values. It penalized those who access health benefits and other government services available to them," said Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro N. Mayorkas. "Consistent with the President's vision, we will continue to implement reforms that improve our legal immigration system."

President Biden's Executive Order on Restoring Faith in Our Legal Immigration Systems and Strengthening Integration and Inclusion Efforts for New Americans called for an immediate review of agency actions on public charge inadmissibility and deportability. DHS's review, in consultation with the Department

April 2021 Visa Bulletin

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

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

April 2021 Visa Bulletin has been officially released (valid from April 1 to April 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	08OCT14	08OCT14	08OCT14	22FEB98	22JAN12
F2A	C	C	C	C	C
F2B	08AUG15	08AUG15	08AUG15	22JUL99	01SEP11
F3	08AUG08	08AUG08	08AUG08	01OCT96	01APR02
F4	01NOV06	01NOV06	08APR05	22JUL98	08APR02

"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	15SEP15	15SEP15	15SEP15	01MAR00	01SEP13
F2A	01MAR21	01MAR21	01MAR21	01MAR21	01MAR21
F2B	15JUN16	15JUN16	15JUN16	08JUL00	08NOV12
F3	22JUN09	22JUN09	22JUN09	08SEP00	01MAY03
F4	01OCT07	01OCT07	01DEC05	08MAY99	01MAY03

April 2021 Visa Bulletin Analysis

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

Please see below analysis of April 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	INDIA	MEXICO	PHILIPPINES
F1	+16 Days	+16 Days	+16 Days	+14 Days	+14 Days
F2A	No Change	No Change	No Change	No Change	No Change
F2B	+17 Days	+17 Days	+17 Days	+7 Days	+17 Days
F3	+7 Days	+7 Days	+7 Days	+16 Days	+24 Days
F4	+10 Days	+10 Days	+17 Days	+7 Days	+1 Month 7 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	INDIA	MEXICO	PHILIPPINES
F1	+1 Month 7 Days	+1 Month 7 Days	+1 Month 7 Days	No Change	+10 Months 10 Days
F2A	+1 Month	+1 Month	+1 Month	+1 Month	+1 Month
F2B	+24 Days	+24 Days	+24 Days	+6 Months 17 Days	+6 Months 23 Days
F3	No Change	No Change	No Change	No Change	+3 Months 24 Days
F4	No Change	No Change	No Change	No Change	+7 Months

April 2021 Visa Bulletin Special Notes

For the official April 2021 Visa Bulletin & Analysis, please click here: https://www.mygcvisa.com/visa-bulletin/2021/visa-bulletin-april-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. FOR THE LATEST INFORMATION ON VISA PROCESSING AT U.S. EMBASSIES AND CONSULATES DURING THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC, PLEASE VISIT THE BUREAU OF CONSULAR AFFAIRS WEBSITE AT TRAVEL.STATE.GOV

E. @TRAVELGOV BEGINS HOSTING MONTHLY YOUTUBE LIVE "CHATS WITH CHARLIE"

@TravelGov will begin hosting "Chats with Charlie" on our YouTube channel (https://www.youtube.com/user/TravelGov) to discuss information provided in the monthly Visa Bulletin. The first chat is scheduled to take place on March 17, 2021 at 1:00 pm EST to discuss the April Visa Bulletin. Questions can be emailed to VisaBulletin@state.gov ahead of the event with "Chat with Charlie Question" in the subject line. Questions will also be taken via the YouTube Live Chat and will be answ

Secretary Mayorkas Designates Venezuela for Temporary Protected Status for 18 Months

New Designation Allows Eligible Venezuelans to Apply for TPS and Employment Authorization Documents

WASHINGTON—Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro N. Mayorkas is designating Venezuela for Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for 18 months, until September 2022. This new designation of TPS for Venezuela enables Venezuelan nationals (and individuals without nationality who last resided in Venezuela) currently residing in the United States to file initial applications for TPS, so long as they meet eligibility requirements.

This designation is due to extraordinary and temporary conditions in Venezuela that prevent nationals from returning safely, including a complex humanitarian crisis marked by widespread hunger and malnutrition, a growing influence and presence of non-state armed groups, repression, and a crumbling infrastructure. TPS can be extended to a country

USCIS Extends Flexibilities to Certain Applicants Filing Form I-765 for OPT

USCIS today announced flexibilities for certain foreign students affected by delayed receipt notices for Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization. These flexibilities apply only to applications received on or after Oct. 1, 2020, through May 1, 2021, inclusive.

USCIS has experienced delays at certain lockboxes in issuing receipt notices for Form I-765 for optional practical training (OPT) for F-1 students. These delays are a result of COVID-19 restrictions, a dramatic increase in filings of certain benefit requests, postal service volume and delays, and other external factors. While we have made progress in addressing the problem, we are extending the following flexibilities to assist certain applicants for OPT impacted by the delays.

14-month OPT Period Flexibilities

F-1 students may participate in up to 12 months o

USCIS Expands Premium Processing Service to E-3 Petitioners

Starting Feb. 24, 2021, petitioners filing Form I-129, Petition for a Nonimmigrant Worker, requesting a change or extension of status to E-3 classification will have the option to request premium processing service for their petition. The E-3 classification applies only to nationals of Australia who are coming to the United States solely to perform services in a specialty occupation.

An Australian national who is outside the United States may apply for an E-3 nonimmigrant visa

H-2B Cap Reached for Second Half of FY 2021

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services has received enough petitions to meet the congressionally mandated H-2B cap for the second half of fiscal year (FY) 2021. Feb. 12, 2021, was the final receipt date for new cap-subject H-2B worker petitions requesting an employment start date before Oct. 1, 2021. We will reject new cap-subject H-2B petitions received after Feb. 12 that request an employment start date before Oct. 1.

On Feb. 12, the number of beneficiaries for whom USCIS received petitions surpassed the total number of remaining H-2B visas available for the H-2B cap for the second half of FY 2021. In accordance w

Visa Bulletin April 2021 Predictions

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

Please see April 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	INDIA	MEXICO	PHILIPPINES
F1	15OCT14	15OCT14	15OCT14	22FEB98	08MAR12
F2A	C	C	C	C	C
F2B	15AUG15	15AUG15	15AUG15	01AUG99	01OCT11
F3	15AUG08	15AUG08	15AUG08	01OCT96	08MAY02
F4	01NOV06	01NOV06	01APR05	01AUG98	01MAY02

"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	08SEP15	08SEP15	08SEP15	08MAR00	01JAN13
F2A	08MAR21	08MAR21	08MAR21	08MAR21	08MAR21
F2B	22JUN16	22JUN16	22JUN16	01JAN00	08JUN12
F3	15JUL09	15JUL09	15JUL09	15SEP00	15MAR03
F4	22OCT07	22OCT07	08DEC05	15MAY99	01DEC02

USCIS Reverts to the 2008 Version of the Naturalization Civics Test

WASHINGTON— U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services announced today it is reverting to the 2008 version of the naturalization civics test beginning March 1, 2021.  

On Dec. 1, 2020, USCIS implemented a revised naturalization civics test (2020 civics test) as part of a decennial test review and update process. USCIS determined the 2020 civics test development process, content, testing procedures, and implementation schedule may inadvertently create potential barriers to the naturalization process. This action is consistent with the framework of the <a target='_blank' href="https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/presidential-actions/2021/02/02/executive-order-restoring-faith-in-our-legal-immigration-systems-and-str

March 2021 Visa Bulletin Analysis

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

Please see below analysis of March 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	INDIA	MEXICO	PHILIPPINES
F1	+7 Days	+7 Days	+7 Days	+17 Days	+7 Days
F2A	No Change	No Change	No Change	No Change	No Change
F2B	+7 Days	+7 Days	+7 Days	+1 Month 14 Days	No Change
F3	+17 Days	+17 Days	+17 Days	+14 Days	+7 Days
F4	+7 Days	+7 Days	+7 Days	+7 Days	+1 Month

"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	No Change	No Change	No Change	No Change	No Change
F2A	+1 Month	+1 Month	+1 Month	+1 Month	+1 Month
F2B	No Change	No Change	No Change	No Change	No Change
F3	No Change	No Change	No Change	No Change	No Change
F4	No Change	No Change	No Change	No Change	No Change