Newsletter

District Court Extends Hold on “Keeping Families Together” PIP Approvals Until September 23 * USCIS Updates Guidance for F and M Nonimmigrant Students * F-1 CPT, OPT, and STEM OPT Rules and Compliance Protocols

International students on F-1 visas in the United States are provided with unique opportunities to gain practical experience in their field of study through two main programs: Curricular Practical Training (CPT) and Optional Practical Training (OPT), including the STEM OPT extension for certain eligible students. Employers who wish to hire these students must follow specific regulations established by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). This article outlines the compliance protocols and employer responsibilities for hiring students under CPT, OPT, and STEM OPT programs.

EB-1 Immigrant Visa Category Unavailable Through September 30 After Reaching Annual Limit for FY 2024 * USCIS Issues Update Following Administrative Stay in "Keeping Families Together" Case * BIA Upholds Removal Based on Attempted Child Abuse Conviction * USCIS Updates Guidance for F/M Nonimmigrant Student Classification * Navigating OPT and STEM OPT Extensions: Critical Timelines and Cautionary Advice for F-1 Students

For international students on F-1 visas, Optional Practical Training (OPT) provides an invaluable opportunity to gain practical experience in their field of study in the United States.

Who is eligible for How the "Keeping Families Together" Parole-in-Place Program? * USCIS Rejections Triggered by Payment Security Measures * EB-3 and EB-5 Unreserved Immigrant Visa Categories Unavailable Until October 1 * Preservation of Residency for Naturalization: Understanding Form N-470

The “Keeping Families Together” Parole-in-Place (PIP) program is designed to help eligible noncitizen spouses and stepchildren of U.S. citizens stay in the U.S. and eventually apply for lawful permanent residence. This guide provides a step-by-step approach to applying for parole under this program. It is highly recommended that applicants seek the assistance of experienced immigration attorneys, who can not only assist with the parole application but also prepare for the future I-485 adjustment of status application.

Second Random Selection Complete for FY 2025 H-1B Regular CAP * August 2024 Update: DOL PERM and PWD Processing Times * September 2024 Visa Bulletin Briefing * What If your Employment-Based Form I-485 Was Approved When the Priority Date Was Not Current? * New 212(d)(3) Waiver Guidance *

USCIS Updates on FY2025 H-1B Electronic Registration * September 2024 Visa Bulletin: Key Updates and Insights * USCIS Adjustment of Status Filing Dates for September 2024 * National Interest Waiver: A Pathway to U.S. Permanent Residency for Talented Professionals

The National Interest Waiver is a valuable option for talented professionals in various fields, providing a pathway to U.S. permanent residency without the need for employer sponsorship. By focusing on the substantial merit of an individual's work, their ability to advance their field, and the national importance of their contributions, our law firm has helped many professionals achieve their immigration goals. If you believe your work could qualify for a NIW, our team is here to guide you through the process and help you present the strongest possible case to USCIS.

In today's volatile economic landscape, successfully navigating the Program Electronic Review Management (PERM) labor certification process can be particularly challenging for employers. The PERM process, which requires employers to prove that there are no qualified U.S. workers available for a particular job before hiring a foreign worker, involves a meticulous recruitment process. Here are key strategies to help employers successfully navigate the recruitment of U.S. workers in a bad economy.

USCIS to Conduct Second Lottery for FY2025 H-1B CAP Cases * USCIS to Begin Triennial Investment and Revenue Threshold Updates for International Entrepreneur Rule * Navigating PERM Recruitment in a Challenging Economy: Key Strategies for Success * President Biden Announces Deferred Enforced Departure for Lebanese Nationals

Updates on International Entrepreneur Parole Rule * DHS Updates STEM Designated Degree Program List with One New Entry * Immigrant Visa Options for Nurses: A Comprehensive Guide

Nursing remains a critical field in the U.S. healthcare system, and the demand for qualified nurses continues to grow. For foreign nurses seeking to work in the United States, there are several immigration pathways available. This article explores two primary options: the Schedule A I-140 Immigrant Petition and the H-1B Visa, along with the requirements for passing licensing exams.

Traveling internationally with H-1B status can be tricky. Here's a straightforward checklist and some essential tips to help you prepare. Note that some airports, like Chicago, and pre-flight immigration stations, such as Abu Dhabi, can be particularly strict for H-1B holders, especially those wo...

Biden to ease the visa application process for U.S. college graduates

Traveling internationally with H-1B status can be tricky. Here's a straightforward checklist and some essential tips to help you prepare. Note that some airports, like Chicago, and pre-flight immigration stations, such as Abu Dhabi, can be particularly strict for H-1B holders, especially those working at client sites or for smaller companies.

DOL PERM and PWD Processing Times

Successfully Respond to H-1B RFEs

The H-1B visa is a coveted work visa for foreign professionals seeking employment in the United States. However, receiving a Request for Evidence (RFE) from the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) can be a daunting obstacle in the H-1B application process. An RFE indicates that USCIS requires additional information or documentation to make a decision on your petition. Successfully responding to an RFE is crucial to the approval of your H-1B visa.

The employer must read and agree to statements (1) through (4) below and demonstrate that agreement by marking “Yes” in Section F of Form ETA 9035 and by signing the application form.

Navigating AC 21 Section 106(c) Provision for Adjustment Portability USCIS Extends TPS Employment Authorization Documents for El Salvador, Honduras, Nepal, Nicaragua, and Sudan  DHS Proposed Rule Would Increase Cost of Some H-1B and L-1 Extensions  USCIS Confirms H-1B CAP Filing Deadline is July 1, 2024

The American Competitiveness in the Twenty-First Century Act (AC 21) includes a crucial provision, Section 106(c), which offers significant benefits to foreign nationals seeking employment-based permanent residency (a green card).

Easing the Nonimmigrant Visa Process for U.S. College Graduates White House and DHS Announce New Pathways for Undocumented Spouses and Dreamers Applying for U.S. Citizenship with a DWI or Criminal Record: Key Considerations Relief for Undocumented Spouses of U.S. Citizens

As an immigrant visa applicant, it is crucial to understand the intricacies of panel physician evaluations, particularly concerning your history of DUI arrests or marijuana use. These evaluations can significantly impact the outcome of an immigrant visa application.

Applying for U.S. citizenship can be a complex process, particularly if you have a history of driving while intoxicated (DWI) or other criminal records. Navigating the path to naturalization requires careful preparation and an understanding of how your past can impact your application. Here are essential considerations for individuals with DWI or other criminal records when applying for U.S. citizenship: