H1B, J1, F1, Visa News – 2024-07-03
Welcome to the weekly news summary related to green card self-petition. This news page tries to capture immigration news that is relevant to self-petition applicants. It tries to gather broad immigration topics that may be of interest to self-petition EB1A, and EB2-NIW applicants. Hope you enjoy the news. All news sources are acknowledged. If you need additional details follow the source link.
News Articles
- How does the EB1A application differ for artists versus scientists?
- Successful EB2 NIW Petition for Water Resources Engineering Researcher
- Proposed Rule Change to Increase Fees for H1B and L-1 Visas by U.S. Department of Homeland Security
- USCIS Extends Deadline for Paper-Based H1B Petitions to July 1, 2024
- Can I apply for premium processing for the NIW petition?
- USCIS Announces Redesigned H-1B Visa Application Process for Fiscal 2025 to Curb Fraud
- DHS Proposes Additional Fees for Extending Work Visas to Fund National Security Programs
How does the EB1A application differ for artists versus scientists?
The EB1A application process for artists and scientists is fundamentally similar, but differences lie in the type of evidence presented to demonstrate extraordinary ability. For scientists with advanced degrees, evidence could include major awards, membership in prestigious associations, significant contributions to their field, or a high salary relative to others in the field. Artists, on the other hand, might demonstrate extraordinary ability through critical reviews, high box office sales, or recognition from organizations or critics. In both cases, the applicant must show that they are among the small percentage who have risen to the very top of their field. Advanced degree holders, such as scientists, may have an advantage in showing significant contributions to their field through their academic work.
Date: 2024/07/03
Successful EB2 NIW Petition for Water Resources Engineering Researcher
The Murthy Law Firm assists foreign nationals with self-sponsored immigrant petitions under the EB2 national interest waiver (NIW) and EB1(a) categories. A recent case highlighted a water resources engineering researcher who successfully demonstrated her work’s substantial merit and national importance. Her research improved safety and quality of life for U.S. citizens and provided environmental and economic benefits. The firm presented evidence of her qualifications and the national significance of her work, which led to the approval of her EB2 NIW petition. The Murthy Law Firm encourages individuals interested in exploring the possibility of filing an NIW or EB1(a) case to schedule a consultation.
Date: 2024/07/01
Proposed Rule Change to Increase Fees for H1B and L-1 Visas by U.S. Department of Homeland Security
The U.S. Department of Homeland Security has proposed a rule change that would alter the application of the 9-11 response and biometric entry-exit fee for H1B and L-1 visas. If implemented, employers would have to pay the added fee on nearly all H1B and L-1 petitions, including extensions. This proposed rule would add additional costs to certain employers filing these petitions. However, this is currently just a proposal and does not immediately impact U.S. immigration law. Updates will be provided as they become available.
Date: 2024/06/27
USCIS Extends Deadline for Paper-Based H1B Petitions to July 1, 2024
The USCIS has informed the American Immigration Lawyers Association (AILA) that H1B petitions, subject to the cap, will be considered timely if filed on Monday, July 1, 2024, as June 30 falls on a Sunday. This only applies to paper-based H1B filings; electronic submissions must still be made by June 30, 2024.
Date: 2024/06/25
Can I apply for premium processing for the NIW petition?
No, premium processing is not available for EB2-NIW (National Interest Waiver) petitions. The United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) does not provide the premium processing service for the I-140 petitions filed under the EB2-NIW category. This means that you cannot pay an extra fee to expedite the processing of your petition. The processing time for NIW petitions varies, but it generally takes several months. However, having an advanced degree may strengthen your case for an NIW petition as USCIS considers your educational qualifications, among other factors, when determining whether your employment is in the national interest. Therefore, while you cannot expedite the process, your advanced degree may potentially enhance the likelihood of your petition’s approval.
Date: 2024/07/03
USCIS Announces Redesigned H-1B Visa Application Process for Fiscal 2025 to Curb Fraud
The US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has announced that the H-1B visa application process for fiscal 2025 will start on March 6, with a significant redesign of the annual lottery. The H-1B visa allows US firms to hire foreign workers in speciality occupations, and is heavily relied on by tech companies. The new rules aim to strengthen the integrity of the process and reduce potential fraud. From fiscal 2025, applicants will need to provide valid passport or travel document information, and multiple applications by an individual will be counted as one. The USCIS also has the authority to reject or cancel H-1B petitions in cases of fraud.
Date: 2024/06/28
DHS Proposes Additional Fees for Extending Work Visas to Fund National Security Programs
The US Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is proposing a rule that would require employers to pay additional fees for extending work visas for foreign employees, effective from July 8. The proposal includes a $4,000 fee for extending an H-1B visa and a $4,500 fee for extending an L-1 visa. The move aims to fund national security programs and supports systems that track the entry and exit of non-US citizens. The change will impact the H-1B visa, which is favored by Indian professionals and is the main pathway for Indian IT companies to send their software engineers to the US. The DHS claims the additional funds will maintain and improve the biometric entry-exit system, enhancing national security.
Date: 2024/06/26
Disclaimer: The summarized content on this webpage is provided for informational purposes only. It does not constitute legal advice and may not be applicable to specific situations or circumstances. Always consult the original source links for comprehensive information. This website assumes no liability for any errors.