H1B, J1, F1, Visa News – 2024-09-04
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 many letters of recommendation do I need?
- Several Employment-Based Immigrant Visa Categories Unavailable for Rest of Fiscal Year 2024, Says U.S. Department of State
- Texas Federal Judge Temporarily Halts Biden’s Keeping Families Together Program
- Can I apply for an NIW while on a non-immigrant visa status?
- USCIS Updates Rules to Benefit Indian STEM Students: Extended Work Period and More Flexibility in Education
How many letters of recommendation do I need?
The number of recommendation letters for an EB1A green card varies, but a general guideline is to have at least five to eight letters. This answer helps someone with an advanced degree because the letters of recommendation should come from experts in your field, and having an advanced degree likely means you have a network of these individuals. These letters should be from independent and well-recognized experts who can confirm your extraordinary ability in your field. It’s important to note that the quality of the letters is more important than the quantity. The letters should provide specific examples of your work and contributions, and explain why you are considered extraordinary in your field. USCIS gives significant weight to these letters during the evaluation of your EB1A petition, so they are a crucial part of the application process.
Date: 2024/09/04
Several Employment-Based Immigrant Visa Categories Unavailable for Rest of Fiscal Year 2024, Says U.S. Department of State
The U.S. Department of State has announced that several employment-based immigrant visa categories will be unavailable for the rest of fiscal year 2024. This means that no applications for these categories can be approved or issued until the new fiscal year, starting October 1, 2024. It is also possible that other categories, including EB2, may become unavailable before the end of the fiscal year. However, this will be temporary, with new immigrant visa numbers available at the start of fiscal year 2025.
Date: 2024/08/30
Texas Federal Judge Temporarily Halts Biden’s Keeping Families Together Program
A Texas federal judge has temporarily halted the Biden Administration’s Keeping Families Together program, which allows certain undocumented spouses and stepchildren of U.S. citizens to apply for parole in place. The order was issued by District Court Judge J. Campbell Barker, an appointee of former President Donald Trump.
Date: 2024/08/27
Can I apply for an NIW while on a non-immigrant visa status?
Yes, you can apply for an NIW (National Interest Waiver) while on a non-immigrant visa status such as H1-B, F-1, J-1, or L-1. The NIW falls under the EB-2 employment-based immigrant visa category, which allows for self-petition, meaning you do not need an employer to sponsor your application. However, you need to demonstrate that your work is of substantial intrinsic merit and national importance and you are well positioned to advance the proposed endeavor. Having an advanced degree could strengthen your case, as it indicates a high level of expertise in your field. Remember, applying for an NIW does not automatically change your status, you will remain under your current non-immigrant status until your NIW petition is approved and you adjust your status to a permanent resident. Please consult with an immigration attorney for personalized advice.
Date: 2024/09/04
USCIS Updates Rules to Benefit Indian STEM Students: Extended Work Period and More Flexibility in Education
The US Citizenship and Immigration Service (USCIS) has updated its rules to benefit Indian students studying STEM subjects in America. Previously, foreign students could only work in the US for a year after graduation. However, under the updated Optional Practical Training (OPT) program, STEM students can now stay and work for an extra two years. The new rules also permit F1 visa holders to take up to three credits or one online course every semester, and allow transfer from one SEVP-certified school to another. After completing the OPT program, students have a 60-day grace period to change their education level, transfer institutions, or apply for a change in immigration status.
Date: 2024/09/02
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.