The U.S. will grant an additional 20,000 H-2B visas for the first half of the fiscal year to address the labor shortage. The move is intended to provide relief to U.S. employers having difficulty finding employees. The H-2B nonimmigrant program permits employers to temporarily hire nonimmigrants to perform nonagricultural labor or[…]
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) expanded the number of students eligible for Optional Practical Training (OPT) in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) fields. DHS published on January 21, 2022 a Federal Register notice announcing that “The Secretary of Homeland Security is amending the DHS STEM Designated Degree Program List[…]
On March 18, 2021, House Democrats passed a pair of immigration bills that would create a pathway to citizenship for Dreamers and some migrant farm workers, taking a piecemeal approach as President Biden’s major immigration package looks increasingly uncertain. The Dream and Promise Act would provide certainty to undocumented people[…]
On February 24, 2021, the USCIS announced that it would expand premium processing services to include change of status or extension of status petitions for E-3 nonimmigrant visa classification for Australian nationals. This expansion of the premium processing option is effective immediately. Classification for E-3 nonimmigrant visa status applies only to Australian nationals who:[…]
US extends travel restrictions at land borders with Canada and Mexico through March 21. Traveling to Canada and Mexico by car is going to remain extremely difficult for the foreseeable future. The United States’ land borders with Mexico and Canada will stay closed to non-essential travel until March 21. The[…]
The USCIS announced yesterday that it is going back to the 2008 version of the naturalization civics test beginning March 1, 2021. On Dec. 1, 2020, the USCIS announced the use of a new naturalization civics test as part of their review and update process. The USCIS determined the 2020[…]
In an earlier article, I spoke of the the need for an immigration lawyer and why you should hire one. I hope I convinced you to seriously consider talking with an immigration lawyer about your immigration goals. In this article, I will discuss some ideas as to how to chose[…]
On February 16, 2021, the USCIS received a sufficient number of petitions needed to reach the congressionally mandated 65,000 H-1B visa regular cap and the 20,000 H-1B visa U.S. advanced degree exemption, known as the master’s cap, for fiscal year (FY) 2021. The agency completed sending non-selection notifications to registrants’[…]
With all the attention that national security is getting these days, immigration laws and regulations are constantly changing and making your immigration goals more difficult than ever. Incorrect filings lead to delays, denials, or even deportation from the United States and an appeal is often difficult and costly. When you[…]
STOP! Despite the excitement about new White House immigration announcements, it is more important than ever to seek advice from a qualified immigration attorney or an accredited representative about your specific situation. BE PATIENT and take the time to find the right help. The wrong advice could harm your chances[…]