H1B, J1, F1, Visa News – 2024-10-30
News Articles:
- Self Petition FAQ: Can I apply for an NIW if I have a criminal record or visa violations?
- Self Petition FAQ: Can I use my work being displayed at exhibitions or performances as evidence?
- AILA and USCIS Discuss Improvements to Immigration Services and Online Features.
- Trump and Harris Appeal to Latino Voters; USCIS Updates Expedite Requests; Nobel Prize Winners Highlight Immigrant Contributions; Temporary Protected Status Granted to Lebanese.
Self Petition FAQ: Can I apply for an NIW if I have a criminal record or visa violations?
Yes, you can apply for a National Interest Waiver (NIW) under the EB2 category even if you have a criminal record or visa violations. However, these issues may negatively affect your application, as the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) evaluates your case based on your overall character, achievements, and potential contributions to the U.S. national interest. It is crucial to consult with an immigration attorney to assess the impact of your criminal record or visa violations on your application. For advanced degree holders, the EB2-NIW category provides an avenue to self-petition for a green card, bypassing the need for a U.S. employer sponsorship. This pathway recognizes that their specialized skills and knowledge can significantly contribute to the U.S. national interest, but any criminal or immigration violations may undermine this potential benefit.
Date: 2024/10/30
Self Petition FAQ: Can I use my work being displayed at exhibitions or performances as evidence?
Yes, your work being displayed at exhibitions or performances can be used as evidence for an EB1A self-petition. This is particularly relevant if you applying in a field like art, music, or performance studies, where exhibitions and performances are a significant part of professional achievement. If you are refering to scientific exhibitions, this can also serve as evidence if you are invited or perfroming a demonstration. USCIS considers evidence of your work being showcased at significant exhibitions or performances as one of the criteria for demonstrating extraordinary ability. However, it’s important to note that the exhibitions or performances should be prestigious and recognized in your field. You should provide detailed information about the event, its significance, selection criteria, and any recognition or awards associated with it. The more prestigious the event, the stronger your case. Your advanced degree can further support your claim of extraordinary ability by showing a high level of expertise in your field.
Date: 2024/10/30
AILA and USCIS Discuss Improvements to Immigration Services and Online Features
The American Immigration Lawyers Association (AILA) and the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) recently held a joint meeting to discuss customer service improvements. USCIS reported that 17 of its high-volume case forms are available for online filing, which currently accounts for 41% of cases. They are working to make more forms available online to streamline the filing and adjudication process. USCIS also highlighted the “Connect to Live Agent” feature in its virtual assistant, Emma, and improvements to its online form for requesting in-person appointments. AILA requested more clarity on the reasons for package rejections by USCIS lockboxes, to which USCIS agreed to review.
Date: 2024/10/28
Trump and Harris Appeal to Latino Voters; USCIS Updates Expedite Requests; Nobel Prize Winners Highlight Immigrant Contributions; Temporary Protected Status Granted to Lebanese
Donald Trump and Kamala Harris participated in Univision town halls to appeal to Latino voters. Trump emphasized his economic achievements and legal immigration, while Harris shared stories of her immigrant mother, promised to protect “Dreamers,” and pushed for a path to citizenship. USCIS has updated its guidelines for expedite requests, explaining how to request faster processing for cases involving government interests, emergencies, or urgent travel needs. Three immigrants to the U.S. won the 2024 Nobel Prize in economics, highlighting the contributions of immigrants. The Biden administration has granted Temporary Protected Status to Lebanese citizens already in the U.S. due to the ongoing conflict between Hezbollah and Israeli forces.
Date: 2024/10/23
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