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Immigration Solutions

Law Office of Hamid R. Kashani

Attorney at Law

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Immigration News

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USCIS Updates Guidance on Lawful Admission for Permanent Residence Requirement for Naturalization
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services is issuing policy guidance in the USCIS Policy Manual to clarify that a naturalization applicant’s burden to demonstrate they have been lawfully admitted for permanent residence applies only to their initial admission as a lawful permanent resident (LPR) or adjustment to LPR status.

Immigration Medical Examination Documentation Will Be Valid Indefinitely for Certain Afghan Nationals
We are updating guidance in the USCIS Policy Manual, Volume 8, Part B, Chapter 3, to reflect that immigration medical examination documentation for certain Afghan nationals who arrived in the United States during Operation Allies Welcome (OAW) is valid indefinitely.

Tools Outage
USCIS will conduct system maintenance to the Contact Relationship Interface System (CRIS) on Wednesday, Nov. 13, 2024 at 11:50 p.m. through Thursday, Nov. 14, 2024 at 2:00 a.m. Eastern.

USCIS Updates Policy Manual Guidance for T Visa
We are revising our guidance in the USCIS Policy Manual to align with the Classification for Victims of Severe Forms of Trafficking in Persons; Eligibility for “T” Nonimmigrant Status Final Rule.

USCIS Updates Guidance on the International Entrepreneur Rule
We have updated guidance on the International Entrepreneur Rule in our Policy Manual to clarify the required triennial increase in investment, revenue, and other thresholds, and to clarify how we arrange biometrics appointments for certain applicants.

USCIS Issues New Guidance on EB-1 Eligibility Criteria for Individuals with Extraordinary Ability
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services is issuing policy guidance in our Policy Manual to further clarify the types of evidence that we may evaluate to determine eligibility for extraordinary ability (E11) EB-1 immigrant visa classifications.

USCIS Makes Additional Updates to Policy Guidance for the “Sought to Acquire” Requirement Under the Child Status Protection Act
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services is updating guidance in the Policy Manual (Volume 7, Part A, Chapter 7), to clarify how to calculate the Child Status Protection Act (CSPA) age for noncitizens who demonstrate extraordinary circumstances.

Guidance on Paying Fees and Completing Information for Form I-140, Immigrant Petition for Alien Workers
Be sure to provide the correct payment and complete information when filing Form I-140, Immigrant Petition for Alien Workers.

USCIS Reaches H-2B Cap for First Half of Fiscal Year 2025
We have received enough petitions to reach the congressionally mandated cap on H-2B visas for temporary nonagricultural workers for the first half of fiscal year 2025. Sept. 18 was the final receipt date for new cap-subject H-2B worker petitions requesting an employment start date before April 1, 2025.

USCIS Extends Green Card Validity Extension to 36 Months for Green Card Renewals
Effective Sept. 10, 2024, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services automatically extended the validity of Permanent Resident Cards (also known as Green Cards) to 36 months for lawful permanent residents who file Form I-90, Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card. 

California Service Center Relocates
On Aug. 12, the California Service Center (CSC) moved to a new facility as USCIS centralizes processing for immigration benefits.

USCIS Updates Guidance for F/M Nonimmigrant Student Classification
We are updating guidance in the USCIS Policy Manual regarding when students may be eligible for optional practical training (OPT) extensions for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) fields.

USCIS Publishes Filing Guide for Keeping Families Together
On Aug. 19, USCIS will begin accepting requests for, using a new electronic form, Form I-131F, Application for Parole in Place for Certain Noncitizen Spouses and Stepchildren of U.S. Citizens.

California Service Center Moving to New Address August 12
On Aug. 12, the California Service Center will move to a new address. The new facility will help streamline processes by concentrating operations in the new location.

Second Random Selection from Previously Submitted Registrations Complete for FY 2025 H-1B Regular Cap
USCIS recently announced that we would need to select additional registrations for unique beneficiaries to reach the fiscal year 2025 H-1B regular cap numerical allocation.

USCIS Will Conduct Second Random Selection for Regular Cap from Previously Submitted FY 2025 H-1B Cap Registrations
In March, USCIS conducted an initial random selection on properly submitted electronic registrations for the fiscal year 2025 H-1B cap, including for beneficiaries eligible for the advanced degree exemption.

USCIS to Begin Triennial Investment and Revenue Threshold Updates for International Entrepreneur Rule
Effective Oct. 1, 2024, we will increase the investment and revenue thresholds under the International Entrepreneur Rule, as required every three years. The application fee will not change, however.

USCIS Issues Policy Guidance on Children’s Acquisition of Citizenship
USCIS is updating guidance in the USCIS Policy Manual regarding provisions for children’s acquisition of citizenship.

Reminders on the Process to Promote the Unity and Stability of Families
On June 18, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) announced actions to promote family unity in the immigration process. This announcement is consistent with the Biden-Harris administration’s commitment to keep families together. DHS is establishing a process to consider, on a case-by-case basis, requests for parole in place from certain noncitizen spouses of U.S. citizens who have been in the U.S. for at least a decade.

New Policy Guidance on Noncompliance with EB-5 Regional Center Program
We are issuing policy guidance on new provisions in the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA) that cover consequences for noncompliance with the EB-5 Regional Center program.

USCIS Updates Customer Service and Safe Address Procedures for Individuals Protected Under Confidentiality Provisions
We have implemented provisions in the USCIS Policy Manual that provide guidance on customer service and safe address procedures for individuals protected under 8 U.S.C. 1367.

USCIS Extends Employment Authorization Documents under Temporary Protected Status Designations of El Salvador, Honduras, Nepal, Nicaragua, and Sudan
We are extending the validity of certain Employment Authorization Documents (EADs) issued to Temporary Protected Status (TPS) beneficiaries under the designations of El Salvador, Honduras, Nepal, Nicaragua and Sudan through March 9, 2025.

USCIS Clarifies Guidance About How to Adopt a Child under the Hague Adoption Convention
Effective June 14, 2024, we have updated the USCIS Policy Manual, Volume 5, Part D, to clarify how prospective adoptive parents can adopt a child under the Hague Adoption Convention.

USCIS Issues Policy Guidance on Customer Service and Confidentiality Protections for Certain Naturalized U.S. Citizens
USCIS is issuing guidance in the USCIS Policy Manual that interprets that the confidentiality protections under 8 U.S.C. 1367 end at naturalization, which will allow naturalized U.S. citizens previously protected under 8 U.S.C. 1367 (specifically, Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) self-petitioners and those seeking or with approved T and U nonimmigrant status) the ability to fully access e-filing and other customer service tools.

USCIS Issues Guidance on In-Person Filing for Certain SIJ Petitioners
We are updating the USCIS Policy Manual to clarify how certain petitioners for special immigrant juvenile (SIJ) classification (or their representatives) may file Form I-360, Petition for Amerasian, Widower, or Special Immigrant.

USCIS Shifts Workload for Form I-730 Following-to-Join Refugee Petitions
Effective May 6, 2024, all Forms I-730, Refugee/Asylee Relative Petition, filed for following to join refugees (FTJ-R) are being processed at the USCIS International Operations Division rather than the Asylum Vetting Center.

USCIS Updates Guidance for Family-Based Immigrant Visas
Effective May 22, 2024, we are updating guidance in the USCIS Policy Manual on family-based immigrant visa petitions (including Form I-130, Petition for Alien Relative and, in limited situations, family-based Form I-360, Petition for Amerasian, Widow(er), or Special Immigrant), including explaining how we handle correcting approval notice errors, requests for consular processing or adjustment of status on the beneficiary’s behalf, and routing procedures for approved petitions.

USCIS Opens Additional San Francisco Asylum Office Location
USCIS’ San Francisco Asylum Office is opening an additional temporary location in Oakland, California. Effective May 15, 2024, asylum applicants under the jurisdiction of the San Francisco Asylum Office may receive an interview notice to appear at the asylum office located in Oakland instead of San Francisco.

USCIS Clarifies Policy on Location of H-3 Training
We have issued policy guidance in the USCIS Policy Manual clarifying when H-3 nonimmigrants may participate in training provided on the property of an academic or vocational institution.

Centralized Intake Processing of VAWA Self-Petitions and Related Filings at the Nebraska Service Center
Effective April 1, 2024, we centralized the intake process of Form I-360, Petition for Amerasian, Widow(er), or Special Immigrant, and related filings under the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) for self-petitioning abused spouses, children, and parents at the Nebraska Service Center.

USCIS Reminds Certain Employment-Based Petitioners to Submit the Correct Required Fees
We are updating our Frequently Asked Questions on the USCIS Fee Rule to help certain employment-based petitioners understand how to submit the correct required fees.

Cap Reached for Additional Returning Worker H-2B Visas for the Early Second Half of FY 2024
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services has received enough petitions to reach the cap for the additional 19,000 H-2B visas made available for returning workers for the early second half of fiscal year (FY) 2024 with start dates from April 1 to May 14, 2024, under the H-2B supplemental cap temporary final rule (FY 2024 TFR).

USCIS Adopts Department of Labor Definition of “Science or Art”
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services is issuing policy guidance in the USCIS Policy Manual to add the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) definition of “science or art” for Schedule A, Group II cases.

USCIS Announces Information Regarding EB-5 Regional Center Audits
Under the new provisions of section 203(b)(5)(E)(vii) added by the EB-5 Reform and Integrity Act of 2022 (RIA) to the Immigration and Nationality Act, we must audit each designated regional center at least once every five years.

USCIS Announces New Guidance on Form I-693 Validity Period
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services today announced that any Form I-693, Report of Immigration Medical Examination and Vaccination Record, that was properly completed and signed by a civil surgeon on or after Nov. 1, 2023, does not expire and can be used indefinitely as evidence to show that the applicant is not inadmissible on health-related grounds.

Notice of FY 2025 H-1B Cap Initial Registration Selection Process Completion and Cap Season Reminders
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services has received enough electronic registrations for unique beneficiaries during the initial registration period to reach the fiscal year (FY) 2025 H-1B numerical allocations (H-1B cap), including the advanced degree exemption (master’s cap).

USCIS Provides Third Gender Option on Form N-400
We have revised Form N-400, Application for Naturalization, to provide a third gender option, “X,” defined as “Another Gender Identity.” We are also updating guidance in the USCIS Policy Manual accordingly to account for this form revision and other forthcoming form revisions that will add a third gender option; see the Policy Alert.

USCIS Revises Policy Manual to Align with New Fee Rule
We are revising our guidance in the USCIS Policy Manual to align with the Fee Schedule and Changes to Certain Other Immigration Benefit Request Requirements Final Rule published in the Federal Register on Jan. 31, 2024, and effective on April 1, 2024.

USCIS Announces Filing Location Change for Certain Employment-Based I-485 and Related Forms
On, April 1, 2024, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services is changing the filing location for concurrently filed Forms I-907, Request for Premium Processing Service; I-140, Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker; and I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status, and for related Forms I-131, Application for Travel Document; I-765, Application for Employment Authorization; and I-824, Application for Action on an Approved Application or Petition, filed with the application package, from USCIS service centers to a USCIS lockbox.

New Citizens Will Be Able to Seamlessly Request Social Security Updates
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services today announced that, starting April 1, applicants filing Form N-400, Application for Naturalization, will have the option to request an original or replacement Social Security number (SSN) or card and update their immigration status with the Social Security Administration (SSA) without having to visit an SSA office.

H-1B Form I-129 Filing Location Change and FY 2025 H-1B Cap Season Updates and Reminders
The initial registration period for the FY 2025 H-1B cap season closed at noon Eastern on March 25, 2024.

USCIS Extends Initial Registration Period for FY 2025 H-1B Cap
USCIS has extended the initial registration period for the fiscal year (FY) 2025 H-1B cap.

USCIS Updates Policy Guidance Clarifying Expedite Requests
USCIS is updating guidance in the USCIS Policy Manual to clarify how we consider expedite requests related to government interests and requests related to emergencies or urgent humanitarian situations, including travel-related requests.

USCIS Clarifies Anti-Discrimination Policy
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services today announced agency-wide anti-discrimination guidance that addresses public-facing interactions and affirms our public service principles.

USCIS Streamlines Process for Refugee Employment Authorization Documents
USCIS has begun implementing a streamlined process for Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization, to provide Employment Authorization Documents (EADs) more efficiently to eligible refugees after they are admitted into the United States.

USCIS Reaches H-2B Cap for Second Half of FY 2024 and Announces Filing Dates for the Second Half of FY 2024 Supplemental Visas
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services has received enough petitions to meet the H-2B cap for the second half of fiscal year (FY) 2024 and is announcing the filing dates for supplemental H-2B visas for the reminder of FY 2024 made available under the FY 2024 H-2B supplemental visa temporary final rule.

Reminder: Certain Updated Forms Take Effect on April 1 with No Grace Period
With the new fee rule that goes into effect April 1, 2024, you must use the new 04/01/24 editions

FY 2025 H-1B Registration Period and myUSCIS Organizational Account Reminders
On Feb. 28, 2024, we launched new myUSCIS organizational accounts that will allow multiple people within an organization, as well as their legal representatives, to collaborate on and prepare H-1B registrations, H-1B petitions, and any associated Form I-907, Request for Premium Processing Service. A new organizational account is required to participate in the H-1B Electronic Registration Process starting in March 2024. 

Eligible Ukrainians Can Now Apply for Re-Parole
Beginning Feb. 27, 2024, eligible Ukrainian citizens and their immediate family members who are physically present in the United States can now be considered for re-parole so they can continue to temporarily remain in the United States.

Eligible Ukrainians Can Now Apply for Re-Parole - Russian
С 27 февраля 2024 года некоторые категории граждан Украины и их ближайшие родственники, которые физически находятся в Соединенных Штатах, могут подать заявку на повторное получение гуманитарного пароля, чтобы иметь возможность временно оставаться в Соединенных Штатах.

Eligible Ukrainians Can Now Apply for Re-Parole - Ukrianian
Починаючи з 27 лютого 2024 року, певні категорії громадян України та їхніх найближчих родичів, які фізично перебувають у Сполучених Штатах, можуть подати заявку про повторне отримання гуманітарного паролю, щоб мати можливість тимчасово залишатись в Сполучених Штатах.

Reminder: Adjustment to Premium Processing Fees Takes Effect Today
As previously announced, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services’ new inflation-adjusted premium processing fees take effect today, increasing the filing fee for Form I-907, Request for Premium Processing. USCIS published a final rule announcing the change on Dec. 28, 2023.

USCIS Changes Fee Payment Process for Filing In-Person
We are starting a new process for most applicants, petitioners, and requestors, and their attorneys and accredited representatives to pay for certain benefit request forms by mail or remotely instead of in person at a field office.

USCIS Updates Guidance on Untimely Filed Extension of Stay and Change of Status Requests
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services today announced an update to its Policy Manual providing that USCIS, in our discretion and under certain conditions, may excuse a nonimmigrant’s failure to timely file an extension of stay or change of status request if the delay was due to extraordinary circumstances beyond the control of the applicant or petitioner.

Cap Reached for Additional Returning Worker H-2B Visas for the First Half of FY 2024
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services has received enough petitions to reach the cap for the additional 20,716 H-2B visas made available for returning workers for the first half of fiscal year 2024 with start dates on or before March 31, 2024, under the H-2B supplemental cap temporary final rule (FY 2024 TFR).

USCIS Issues Policy Guidance on “Ability to Pay” Requirement When Adjustment of Status Applicants Change Employers
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services today issued policy guidance on how we analyze an employer’s ability to pay the proffered wage for immigrant petitions in certain first, second, and third preference employment-based immigrant visa classifications, including instances when the sponsored worker is changing employers.

USCIS Announces Inflation Adjustment to Premium Processing Fees
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services today announced a final rule that will increase the filing fee for Form I-907, Request for Premium Processing, to adjust for inflation.

USCIS Updates Policy Guidance for International Students
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is issuing policy guidance regarding the F and M student nonimmigrant classifications, including the agency’s role in adjudicating applications for employment authorization, change of status, extension of stay, and reinstatement of status for these students and their dependents in the United States.

USCIS Changes Filing Location for Form I-907 for Pending Form I-140
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services will begin transitioning the filing location for Form I-907, Request for Premium Processing, when filed for a pending Form I-140, Immigrant Petition for Alien Workers, from the service centers to appropriate USCIS lockboxes on Dec. 15.

USCIS Reaches Fiscal Year 2024 H-1B Cap
USCIS has 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) 2024.

USCIS Updates Guidance and Clarifies Policy on Family-Based Conditional Permanent Residence
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services is updating guidance on family-based conditional permanent residence in its Policy Manual. The update consolidates and updates guidance on eligibility, filing, and adjudication for Form I-751, Petition to Remove Conditions on Residence.

Tampa Asylum Office Moving to New Location
USCIS’ Tampa Asylum Office is moving to a new location.

USCIS Expands myProgress to Form I-485 and Form I-821
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services announced today that we are expanding myProgress (formerly known as personalized processing times) to Form I-821, Application for Temporary Protected Status, and Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status. myProgress will initially only be available for family-based or Afghan special immigrant I-485 applicants.

USCIS Changes Filing Location for Form I-907 With Form I-140
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services will begin transitioning the filing location for Form I-907, Request for Premium Processing, when filed with Form I-140, Immigrant Petition for Alien Workers, from the service centers to the USCIS lockbox on Nov. 13.

USCIS Updates Guidance for Special Immigrant Juvenile Petitions
Effective immediately, we are updating guidance in the USCIS Policy Manual for adjudicating Special Immigrant Juvenile (SIJ) petitions.

DHS Announces Countries Eligible for H-2A and H-2B Visa Programs
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS), in consultation with the Department of State (DOS), has announced the lists of countries whose nationals are eligible to participate in the H-2A and H-2B visa programs in the next year.

USCIS Potomac Service Center Will No Longer Accept Paper Responses
As of Aug. 21, 2023, the Potomac Service Center (PSC) has begun to move to a new facility in Camp Springs, MD, and can no longer receive paper responses to correspondence such as Notices of Intent to Deny (NOID), Notices of Intent to Revoke (NOIR), Intents to Deny (ITD), Requests for Evidence (RFE) or supporting documentation for filings currently pending at the PSC.

Certain Renewal Applicants for Employment Authorization to Receive Automatic 180 Day Extension
Certain renewal applicants who have filed Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization, qualify for an automatic extension of their expiring employment authorization and/or employment authorization documents (EADs) while their renewal application is pending.

Filing Location Change for H-2A, H-2B, CNMI-related Form I-129 Petitions, Form I-129CW Petitions, and CNMI-related Form I-539 Applications
Beginning Nov. 1, 2023, all H-2A, H-2B, CNMI-related Form I-129 petitions, Form I-129CW petitions, and CNMI-related Form I-539 applications must be filed directly at the Texas Service Center.

USCIS Extends Parole by Two Years for Certain Afghan Nationals Under Age 14
USCIS announced today that we will consider two-year extensions of the initial parole period on a case-by-case basis for certain Afghan nationals who:

USCIS Updates Guidance on EB-5 Regional Center Program
We are updating the USCIS Policy Manual with new guidance on the EB-5 Regional Center Program and new content on regional center designation and obligations, project applications, and direct and third-party promoters.

USCIS Issues Policy Guidance Regarding the 2-Year Foreign Residence Requirement for the J Nonimmigrant Classification
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is issuing policy guidance in the USCIS Policy Manual regarding the 2-year foreign residence requirement for the nonimmigrant exchange visitor (J) classification.

USCIS Clarifies Policy on L-1 Petitions
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services has issued policy guidance in the USCIS Policy Manual clarifying that a sole proprietorship may not file a petition on behalf of its owner because the sole proprietorship does not exist as a distinct legal entity separate and apart from the owner.

USCIS Reaches H-2B Cap for First Half of FY 2024
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services has received enough petitions to reach the congressionally mandated cap on H-2B visas for temporary nonagricultural workers for the first half of fiscal year (FY) 2024.

USCIS Issues New Instructions for Filing Asylum Applications with USCIS After EOIR Dismissal or Termination of Removal Proceedings
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is issuing new instructions for asylum applications submitted by individuals whose removal proceedings were dismissed or terminated by the Executive Office for Immigration Review (EOIR).

USCIS Launches New Online Change of Address Tool
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services has launched a new Enterprise Change of Address (E-COA) self-service tool to allow customers with pending applications, petitions, or requests to update their address with USCIS more easily.

USCIS Provides Additional Guidance for EB-5 Required Investment Timeframe and Investors Associated with Terminated Regional Centers
We are providing additional guidance on our interpretation of changes to the EB-5 program in the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA) made by the EB-5 Reform and Integrity Act of 2022 (RIA), specifically the required investment timeframe and how we treat investors who are associated with a terminated regional center.

USCIS Continues Fee Exemptions and Expedited Processing for Afghan Nationals
Today, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) announced it is extending and expanding previously announced filing fee exemptions and expedited application processing for certain Afghan nationals.

USCIS Increases Employment Authorization Document Validity Period for Certain Categories
We are updating guidance in the Policy Manual to increase the maximum validity period to 5 years for initial and renewal Employment Authorization Documents (EADs) for certain noncitizens who are employment authorized incident to status or circumstance, including those admitted as refugees, paroled as refugees, and granted asylum, as well as recipients of withholding of removal.

USCIS Exempts Biometric Services Fee for all Form I-539 Applicants
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) today announced that it is exempting the biometric services fee for Form I-539, Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status.

Important Update on Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals
On Sept. 13, 2023, the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Texas issued a decision finding the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) Final Rule unlawful and expanding the original July 16, 2021 injunction and order of vacatur to cover the Final Rule.

USCIS Clarifies Guidance for EB-1 Eligibility Criteria
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services is issuing policy guidance in our Policy Manual to clarify the types of evidence that we may evaluate to determine eligibility for extraordinary ability (E11) and outstanding professor or researcher (E12) EB-1 immigrant visa classifications.

Affirmative Asylum Applicants Must Provide Interpreters Starting Sept. 13
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services reminds affirmative asylum applicants that, starting Sept. 13, 2023, you must bring an interpreter to your asylum interview if you are not fluent in English or wish to proceed with your interview in a language other than English.

DHS Extends TPS Re-registration Periods for El Salvador, Haiti, Honduras, Nepal, Nicaragua and Sudan to 18 Months
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is extending from 60 days to 18 months the periods to re-register for Temporary Protected Status (TPS) under the designations of El Salvador, Haiti, Honduras, Nepal, Nicaragua and Sudan.

USCIS Updates Voter Registration Guidance for Naturalization Ceremonies
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services is updating guidance in our Policy Manual to provide clarification on voter registration access at our administrative naturalization ceremonies.

USCIS Updates Policy Guidance for the “Sought to Acquire” Requirement Under the Child Status Protection Act
We are updating the USCIS Policy Manual to clarify how we will apply the extraordinary circumstances exception to the “sought to acquire” requirement under the Child Status Protection Act (CSPA) in light of a Feb. 14, 2023, policy change.

USCIS Launches Online Appointment Request Form
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services has launched a new online form for individuals, attorneys, and accredited representatives to request an in-person appointment at their local field office without having to call the USCIS Contact Center.

USCIS Reopens Field Office in Havana, Cuba
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services will reopen an international field office in Havana, Cuba.

USCIS Updates Receipts Process for Form I-129S
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) today announced changes to the way we issue receipts for L-1 nonimmigrant intracompany transferees (executives, managers, or specialized knowledge professionals) under a previously approved blanket L petition.

Second Random Selection from Previously Submitted Registrations Complete for FY 2024 H-1B Cap
USCIS recently announced that we would need to select additional registrations to reach the FY 2024 H-1B numerical allocations.

Invitations to be Issued for Family Reunification Parole Process
The Department of State’s National Visa Center (NVC) will begin issuing invitations under the family reunification parole (FRP) processes for Colombia, El Salvador, Guatemala, and Honduras on July 31, 2023.

USCIS Will Conduct Second Random Selection from Previously Submitted FY 2024 H-1B Cap Registrations
In March 2023, USCIS conducted an initial random selection on properly submitted electronic registrations for the fiscal year (FY) 2024 H-1B cap, including for beneficiaries eligible for the advanced degree exemption. Only those petitioners with selected registrations for FY 2024 are eligible to file H-1B cap-subject petitions.

USCIS To Publish Revised Form I-9
On Aug. 1, 2023, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services will publish a revised version of Form I-9, Employment Eligibility Verification.

USCIS Updates Policy Manual to Make It Easier to Identify Who Is Subject to the Public Charge Ground of Inadmissibility
We have incorporated important information regarding the categories of adjustment of status applicants to whom the public charge ground of inadmissibility applies from the appendices in Volume 8, Part G, of the USCIS Policy Manual, to Chapter 3, Applicability, to make it easier to identify whether the public charge ground of inadmissibility applies to a specific adjustment of status category.

USCIS Updates Visa Availability Approach for Managing Form I-526 Petition Inventory
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) today announced it would update its visa availability approach for managing the inventory of Form I-526, Immigrant Petition by Alien Investor, to promote greater efficiency.

USCIS Expands myProgress to Form I-765 and Form I-131
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services announced today that we are expanding myProgress (formerly known as personalized processing times) to Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization, and Form I-131, Application for Travel Document.

USCIS Provides Guidance on Employment Authorization Documents Based on Compelling Circumstances
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services today released policy guidance on the eligibility criteria for initial and renewal applications for employment authorization documents (EADs) in compelling circumstances based on existing regulatory requirements at 8 CFR 204.5(p).

USCIS Expands Premium Processing for Applicants Seeking to Change into F, M, or J Nonimmigrant Status
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services today announced the expansion of premium processing for applicants filing Form I-539, Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status, and seeking a change of status to F-1, F-2, M-1, M-2, J-1, or J-2 nonimmigrant status. Online filing of Form I-907, Request for Premium Processing Service, will also be available for these applicants.

Certain Individuals Requesting Parole Can Now File Form I-131 Online
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) today announced that certain individuals requesting parole based on urgent humanitarian reasons or significant public benefit can file Form I-131, Application for Travel Document, online.

Applications for Re-Parole and Work Authorization Renewal Are Fee-Exempt for Certain Afghan Nationals
Effective June 9, 2023, through July 31, 2024, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) will consider, on a case-by-case basis for urgent humanitarian reasons or significant public benefit, a two-year extension of the original parole period for Afghan parolees who have already applied for asylum or for adjustment to lawful permanent resident (LPR) status (such as adjustment of status as a special immigrant).

Certain Afghan Parolees Are Employment Authorized Incident to Parole
Effective June 8, 2023, certain additional Afghan parolees are employment authorized incident to parole.

Lockbox Filing Location Updates Webpage Expanded to Include Service Center Filing Location Updates
USCIS has updated the Lockbox Filing Location Updates page on our website to now include service center filing location updates as well: Lockbox and Service Center Filing Location Updates.

USCIS Changes Filing Location and Documentation Requirements for Certain Affirmative Asylum Applications Using Form I-589
Effective today, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services has changed the filing location for certain affirmative asylum applications submitted by mail.

USCIS Updates Review Process for the Processes for Cubans, Haitians, Nicaraguans, and Venezuelans
The U.S. government is granting advance travel authorization for up to 30,000 noncitizens each month to come to the United States to seek parole on a case-by-case basis under the processes for Cubans, Haitians, Nicaraguans, and Venezuelans.

USCIS Providing Documents After Notice of Immigration Judge and BIA Decisions About Immigration Status
We now are affirmatively creating and providing documented evidence of their status to certain new asylees and lawful permanent residents upon our receiving notification that an immigration judge or the Board of Immigration Appeals (BIA) has granted status.

USCIS Clarifies Guidance on Citizenship and Naturalization for Adopted Children
Effective immediately, we are updating Volumes 5 and 12 of the USCIS Policy Manual to clarify how U.S. citizenship and naturalization provisions apply to adopted children.

USCIS Extends Temporary Suspension of Biometrics Submission for Certain Form I-539 Applicants
USCIS has extended the temporary suspension of the biometrics submission requirement for certain applicants filing Form I-539, Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status, requesting an extension of stay in or change of status to H-4, L-2, or E nonimmigrant status.

USCIS Updates Policy Guidance on Safe Mailing Address and Case Handling Procedures for Certain Protected Persons
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is updating policy guidance in the USCIS Policy Manual to provide guidance on mailing address procedures for persons eligible for and recipients of victim-based immigration relief, specifically Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) self-petitioners as well as those who are seeking or currently hold T or U nonimmigrant status (protected persons).

Employers May File H-2B Petitions for FY 2023 Late Second Half Returning Workers
Starting April 13, 2023, USCIS will begin accepting petitions for workers for the late second half of fiscal year (FY) 2023, requesting employment start dates from May 15, 2023, to Sept. 30, 2023 under the H-2B supplemental cap temporary final rule.

USCIS Updates Guidance on Administrative Naturalization Ceremony Venues
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services is issuing policy guidance in the USCIS Policy Manual to clarify the types of venues USCIS may use for administrative naturalization ceremonies.

Cap Reached for Additional Returning Worker H-2B Visas for the Early Second Half of FY 2023
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services has received enough petitions to reach the cap for the additional 16,500 H-2B visas made available for returning workers for the early second half of fiscal year (FY) 2023 with start dates from April 1, 2023 to May 14, 2023, under the FY 2023 H-2B supplemental visa temporary final rule.

USCIS Updates Policy Guidance on Self-Selecting a Gender Marker on Forms and Documents
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services is updating policy guidance in the USCIS Policy Manual to clarify that, effective immediately, USCIS will accept the self-identified gender marker for individuals requesting immigration benefits

USCIS Removes 60-Day Rule for Civil Surgeon Signatures on Form I-693
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services is removing the requirement that civil surgeons sign Form I-693, Report of Immigration Medical Examination and Vaccination Record, no more than 60 days before an individual applies for an underlying immigration benefit, including Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status.

New Filing Address for Courier Delivery Services to USCIS Phoenix Lockbox
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services has changed the filing location for courier delivery services to the Phoenix lockbox. The facility has moved to Tempe, Arizona, and the filing location for courier delivery services for UPS, FedEx, and DHL has also changed to Tempe. The filing location remains the same when using the U.S. Postal Service.

Provision Allowing Special Immigrant Juveniles to File Form I-360 in Person Before Their 21st Birthday
Petitioners for Special Immigrant Juvenile (SIJ) classification (or their representatives) may schedule an appointment within two weeks before their 21st birthday to file Form I-360, Petition for Amerasian, Widow(er), or Special Immigrant, in person.

USCIS Updates Policy on Time Frames for Paper-Based Filings and Responses Ending on Saturdays, Sundays, or Federal Holidays
We are updating the USCIS Policy Manual to address situations when the last day to file a benefit request or respond to a USCIS action falls on a Saturday, Sunday, or federal holiday.

FY 2024 H-1B Cap Season Updates
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has received enough electronic registrations during the initial registration period to reach the fiscal year (FY) 2024 H-1B numerical allocations (H-1B cap), including the advanced degree exemption (master’s cap).

USCIS Announces End of COVID-Related Flexibilities
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services today announced that certain flexibilities it first announced in March 2020, to address the COVID-19 pandemic will end on March 23, 2023.

USCIS Form and Policy Updates for Applying for Naturalization Based on Military Service
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services today announced updated policy guidance in the USCIS Policy Manual to clarify and conform with the revision of Form N-426, Request for Certification of Military or Naval Service.

Update to Filing Location for U Nonimmigrant-Based Form I-485
U nonimmigrants applying to become lawful permanent residents must now file Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status, only at the Nebraska Service Center and not at the Vermont Service Center.

USCIS Relocates Lockbox From Phoenix To Tempe, Arizona for Courier Delivery Services
On March 31, applicants and petitioners filing at the Phoenix lockbox will see a new filing location for courier delivery services such as UPS, FedEx, and DHL.

USCIS Announces Additional Mail Delivery Process for Receiving ADIT Stamp
Lawful permanent residents may receive temporary evidence of their lawful permanent resident status by mail rather than physically visiting a field office to receive an Alien Documentation, Identification and Telecommunication (ADIT) stamp (also known as an I-551 stamp).

USCIS Removes Biometrics Requirement for Form I-526E Petitioners
Beginning on March 15, 2023, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services is removing the biometrics submission requirement and $85 fee requirement for petitioners filing Form I-526E, Immigrant Petition by Regional Center Investor.

USCIS Extends Rule Providing Interpreters at Affirmative Asylum Interviews
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services announced today a fourth extension to a temporary final rule (TFR) requiring use of a USCIS interpreter at certain affirmative asylum interviews.

USCIS Issues Guidance on Analyzing Employers’ Ability to Pay Wages
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services today issued policy guidance on how we analyze an employer’s ability to pay the proffered wage for immigrant petitions in certain first, second, and third preference employment-based immigrant visa classifications.

USCIS Processing Times for Orphan and Hague Adoption Cases
On Nov. 2, 2022 USCIS announced a change in our method for calculating orphan and Hague adoption case processing times.

USCIS Provides Guidance on Program for International Entrepreneurs
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services has issued comprehensive guidance on parole for international entrepreneurs.

New Entrepreneur Resources Available on USCIS Website
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services has published additional online resources on uscis.gov to provide an overview of some of the temporary and permanent pathways for noncitizen entrepreneurs to work in the United States.

USCIS Updates Policy Guidance on Mobile Biometrics Services
We are issuing policy guidance in the USCIS Policy Manual to address how we provide mobile biometrics services.

USCIS Issues Clarifying Guidance on Eligibility for the O-1B Visa Classification
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services today issued policy guidance clarifying how it evaluates evidence to determine eligibility for O-1B nonimmigrants of extraordinary ability in the arts and nonimmigrants of extraordinary achievement in the motion picture or television industry.

USCIS Reaches H-2B Cap for Second Half of FY 2023 and Announces Filing Dates for the Second Half of FY 2023 Supplemental Visas
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has received enough petitions to meet the H-2B cap for the second half of fiscal year (FY) 2023 and is announcing the filing dates for supplemental H-2B visas for the reminder of FY 2023 made available under the FY 2023 H-2B supplemental visa temporary final rule.

USCIS to Start Collecting Fee for EB-5 Integrity Fund
Today, the Department of Homeland Security posted a Federal Register notice providing information related to the EB-5 Integrity Fund.

USCIS Issues Clarifying Guidance for Individuals Authorized to Work Under Special Student Relief Provisions
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services is issuing policy guidance in the USCIS Policy Manual to clarify the validity period of employment authorization for F-1 nonimmigrant students experiencing severe economic hardship due to emergent circumstances (also known as special student relief (SSR)) who are work authorized under the SSR provisions of 8 CFR.

USCIS Updates Child Status Protection Act (CSPA) Age Calculation for Certain Adjustment of Status Applicants
WASHINGTON—U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services has issued guidance in the USCIS Policy Manual to update when an immigrant visa number “becomes available” for the purpose of calculating a noncitizen’s age in certain situations under the Child Status Protection Act (CSPA).

Reminder to Submit All Required Initial Evidence and Supporting Documentation, including Form I-693, for Form I-485
Save time by filing all required initial evidence and supporting documentation listed under the “Checklist of Required Initial Evidence” heading at the same time you file Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status.

Update to Filing Location for Form I-360 and Form I-485 for Self-Petitioning Abused Spouses, Children, and Parents
Starting February 10, 2023, self-petitioning abused spouses, children, and parents must file Form I-360, Petition for Amerasian, Widow(er), or Special Immigrant, and Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status, at the Nebraska Service Center instead of the Vermont Service Center.

USCIS Clarifies Physical Presence Guidance for Asylees and Refugees Applying for Adjustment of Status
Effective immediately, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has updated guidance in the USCIS Policy Manual to clarify that both asylees and refugees must have been physically present in the United States for one year when we adjudicate their Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status, rather than at the time they file their adjustment of status application.

Cap Reached for Additional Returning Worker H-2B Visas for the First Half of FY 2023
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services has received enough petitions to reach the cap for the additional 18,216 H-2B visas made available for returning workers for the first half of fiscal year (FY) 2023 with start dates on or before March 31, 2023, under the recently announced H-2B supplemental cap temporary final rule.

FY 2024 H-1B Cap Initial Registration Period Opens on March 1
Today, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services announced that the initial registration period for the fiscal year 2024 H-1B cap will open at noon Eastern on March 1 and run through noon Eastern on March 17, 2023.

USCIS Extends COVID-19-related Flexibilities
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services is extending certain COVID-19-related flexibilities through March 23, 2023.

USCIS Extends Green Card Validity for Conditional Permanent Residents with a Pending Form I-751 or Form I-829
USCIS is extending the validity of Permanent Resident Cards (also known as Green Cards) for petitioners who properly file Form I-751, Petition to Remove Conditions on Residence, or Form I-829, Petition by Investor to Remove Conditions on Permanent Resident Status for 48 months beyond the card’s expiration date.

Asylum Applicants Can Now File Form I-765 Online
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services today announced that certain asylum applicants can now file Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization, online.

USCIS Announces Final Phase of Premium Processing Expansion for EB-1 and EB-2 Form I-140 Petitions and Future Expansion for F-1 Students Seeking OPT and Certain Student and Exchange Visitors
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services is implementing the final phase of the premium processing expansion for Form I-140, Immigrant Petition for Alien Workers, under the EB-1 and EB-2 classifications.

DHS Implements New Processes for Cubans, Haitians, and Nicaraguans and Eliminates Cap for Venezuelans
On Jan. 5, 2023, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) announced a safe and lawful way for qualifying Cubans, Haitians, and Nicaraguans with U.S.-based supporters to travel by air to and temporarily reside in the United States.

Filing Location Change for Form I-730, Refugee/Asylee Relative Petition
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services is changing the filing location for Form I-730, Refugee/Asylee Relative Petition, to streamline workloads in an ever-increasing electronic environment.

USCIS Releases New Immigrant Investor Form
We have published Form I-956K, Registration for Direct and Third-Party Promoters.

Options for Nonimmigrant Workers Following Termination of Employment
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is providing information for nonimmigrant workers whose employment has terminated, either voluntarily or involuntarily.

DHS’s Public Charge Final Rule Goes into Effect on Dec. 23
On Dec. 23, 2022, the Department of Homeland Security’s (DHS) Public Charge Ground of Inadmissibility final rule will go into effect.

USCIS Updates Policy to Automatically Extend Green Cards for Naturalization Applicants
Effective Dec. 12, 2022, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is updating the USCIS Policy Manual to allow USCIS to automatically extend the validity of Permanent Resident Cards (commonly called Green Cards) for lawful permanent residents who have applied for naturalization.

USCIS Announces Important Filing Information for Upcoming FY 2023 H-2B Supplemental Cap Petitions
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is announcing important filing updates for petitioners who will be requesting additional H-2B workers for fiscal year 2023 under the upcoming temporary final rule.

USCIS Extends and Expands Fee Exemptions and Expedited Processing for Afghan Nationals
Today, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services announced it is extending and expanding previously announced filing fee exemptions and expedited application processing for certain Afghan nationals.

Certain Afghan and Ukrainian Parolees Are Employment Authorized Incident to Parole
Congress has recently passed laws relating to certain Afghan and Ukrainian parolees that have included language providing that parolees covered by the legislation “…shall be eligible for resettlement assistance, entitlement programs, and other benefits available to refugees admitted under section 207 of the Immigration and Nationality Act (8 U.S.C. 1157)....” Under DHS regulations, refugees are authorized employment incident to status, and under current USCIS policy and practice, refugees are not charged a fee by USCIS for their initial Form I-766, Employment Authorization Document (EAD).

Recommendations for Paper Filings to Avoid Scanning Delays
As we move toward an increasing electronic environment, we now scan and upload many documents into electronic database systems. If you are filing your form with a USCIS service center, To avoid delays and improve scanning efficiency, we recommend that you do not:

DHS Continues Temporary Protected Status and Related Documentation for Certain Beneficiaries of TPS
On Nov. 10, 2022, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) posted a Federal Register Notice announcing the continuation of Temporary Protected Status (TPS) and certain related documents for beneficiaries under the TPS designations that remain subject to the court orders in the Ramos et al. v. Nielsen and Bhattarai et al. v. Nielsen et al. lawsuits.

DHS Announces Countries Eligible for H-2A and H-2B Visa Programs
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS), in consultation with the Department of State (DOS), has announced the lists of countries whose nationals are eligible to participate in the H-2A and H-2B visa programs in the next year.

New Processing Time Method for Orphan and Hague Applications and Petitions
Starting in mid-November, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) will change how we calculate processing times for orphan and Hague cases.

ACICS Loss of Recognition May Affect Certain Students Applying for English Language Study and 24-month STEM OPT Extension Programs, H-1B, and I-140 Applicants
On Aug. 19, the U.S. Department of Education (ED) announced that it no longer recognizes the Accrediting Council for Independent Colleges and Schools (ACICS) as an accrediting agency.

USCIS Will Only Consider CW-1 Petitions Approved and with Starting Validity on or after June 18, 2020, when Applying the Temporary Departure Requirement
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services is clarifying its Aug. 25, 2020, policy on implementing the requirement that workers leave the United States for at least 30 days after two renewals of their CNMI-Only Transitional Worker (CW-1) visa classification.

USCIS Extends COVID-19-related Flexibilities
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services is extending certain COVID-19-related flexibilities through Jan. 24, 2023, to assist applicants, petitioners, and requestors.

Filing Guidance for CW-1 Petitions Seeking to Extend Status
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services will consider certain CW-1 petitions seeking an extension of status for temporary workers present in the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands (CNMI) to be filed on time, even if USCIS receives them after the worker’s current period of CW-1 petition validity expires.

USCIS Implements New Process for Venezuelans
On Oct. 12, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) announced a new process for Venezuelans.

USCIS Issues Policy Guidance on the EB-5 Reform and Integrity Act of 2022
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has issued policy guidance in the USCIS Policy Manual based on the vacatur of the EB-5 Modernization Rule and the EB-5 Reform and Integrity Act of 2022.

USCIS Updates Military Naturalization Guidance for Calixto Class Members
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services published updated guidance in the USCIS Policy Manual as a result of a settlement agreement in Calixto v. Department of the Army, Civ. A. No. 18-1551 (PLF) (D.D.C.), known as the Calixto Agreement. In the Calixto Agreement, effective Sept. 22, 2022, the U.S. Army agreed to certify Form N-426, Request for Certification of Military or Naval Service, for Calixto class members.

Extension of Temporary Waiver of 60-Day Rule for Civil Surgeon Signatures on Form I-693
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services is extending our temporary waiver of the requirement that civil surgeons must sign Form I-693, Report of Medical Examination and Vaccination Record, no more than 60 days before an individual applies for the underlying immigration benefit (including Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status).

USCIS Extends Green Card Validity Extension to 24 Months for Green Card Renewals
Effective Sept. 26, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is automatically extending the validity of Permanent Resident Cards (also known as Green Cards) to 24 months for lawful permanent residents who file Form I-90, Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card.

USCIS Stops Accepting CW-1 Petitions Under the Disaster Recovery Workforce Act
USCIS will no longer accept CW-1 petitions filed by employers in the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands (the CNMI) under the Disaster Recovery Workforce Act on or after Oct. 1, 2022.

USCIS Reviewing Military Naturalization Policy Based on Settlement Agreement in Calixto v. Department of the Army, Civ. A. No 18-1551 (PLF) (D.D.C.)
On Sept. 22, 2022, USCIS was notified of a settlement agreement between the U.S. Army and class members of the civil action captioned Calixto v. Department of the Army, Civ. A. No. 18-1551 (PLF) (D.D.C.).

Immigration Help Available to Those Affected by Natural Disasters and Other Unforeseen Circumstances
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services reminds the public that we offer immigration services that may help people affected by unforeseen circumstances such as natural disasters in the United States and abroad.

DHS Publishes Final Rule to Restore Asylum Regulations Consistent with Asylumworks Vacatur
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) today announced publication of a final rule consistent with the vacatur of the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia in Asylumworks et al. v. Mayorkas et al. This final rule is effective starting Feb. 7, 2022.

USCIS to Implement Next Phase of Premium Processing for Certain Previously Filed EB-1 and EB-2 Form I-140 Petitions
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services is implementing the next phase of the premium processing expansion for certain petitioners who have a pending Form I-140, Immigrant Petition for Alien Workers, under the EB-1 and EB-2 classifications.

USCIS Reaches H-2B Cap for First Half of FY 2023
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services has received enough petitions to reach the congressionally mandated cap on H-2B visas for temporary nonagricultural workers for the first half of fiscal year (FY) 2023.

USCIS Released Revised Editions of Forms I-589 and I-765
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services released revised editions of Form I-589, Application for Asylum and for Withholding of Removal, and Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization, dated 07/26/22.

USCIS Resumes Cuban Family Reunification Parole Program Operations
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is resuming operations under the Cuban Family Reunification Parole (CFRP) program, beginning with pending CFRP program applications.

USCIS Updates Guidance Related to Religious Workers
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is issuing policy guidance in the USCIS Policy Manual to reorganize and expand on existing guidance related to special immigrant and nonimmigrant religious workers.

USCIS Reaches Fiscal Year 2023 H-1B Cap
USCIS has 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) 2023.

Updated COVID-19 Vaccination Requirements for Uniting for Ukraine Parolees
The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has updated the COVID-19 vaccination requirements for beneficiaries paroled into the United States under Uniting for Ukraine.

USCIS Updates Interpretation of “Under Honorable Conditions” for Military Naturalization
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services is publishing an update to its Policy Manual to clarify that a current or former service member who received an uncharacterized discharge may be eligible for naturalization under sections 328 and 329 of the Immigration and Naturalization Act (INA).

New STEM Resources Available on USCIS Website
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services has published additional online resources on uscis.gov to provide an overview of some of the temporary and permanent pathways for noncitizens to work in the United States in the fields of science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM). This guide also highlights some of the most important considerations for STEM professionals who want to work in the United States.

Parolees Can Now File Form I-765 Online
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services today announced that certain parolees can now file Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization, online.

USCIS Extends COVID-19-related Flexibilities
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services is extending certain COVID-19-related flexibilities through Oct. 23, 2022, to assist applicants, petitioners, and requestors.

USCIS Updates Guidance for O-1 Petitions with a Focus on STEM Fields
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services today updated its Policy Manual to provide further guidance on evidence that can be used to support a petition for an O-1A nonimmigrant of extraordinary ability with a focus on science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields.

USCIS Updates Guidance for Afghans and Iraqis Seeking Special Immigrant Classification
USCIS is updating guidance in the USCIS Policy Manual regarding Afghan and Iraqi nationals seeking special immigrant classification.

USCIS to Implement Second Phase of Premium Processing for Certain Previously Filed EB-1 and EB-2 Form I-140 Petitions
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is implementing the second phase of the premium processing expansion for certain petitioners who have a pending Form I-140, Immigrant Petition for Alien Workers, under the EB-1 and EB-2 classifications.

Time Frame Extended for Uniting for Ukraine Parolees to Comply with Medical Screening and Attestation After Arrival to the United States
The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has extended the time beneficiaries paroled into the United States under Uniting for Ukraine have to attest to their compliance with the medical screening for tuberculosis and additional vaccinations, if required. Effective immediately, beneficiaries paroled into the United States under Uniting for Ukraine must complete their medical attestation within 90 days of arrival in the United States. Previously, beneficiaries paroled into the United States under Uniting for Ukraine were required to complete the medical screening and attestation within 14 days of arrival to the United States.

USCIS Releases New Forms for Immigrant Investor Program
USCIS is revising Form I-526, Immigrant Petition by Alien Entrepreneur, to accommodate the EB-5 Reform and Integrity Act of 2022, which made significant changes to both the filing and eligibility requirements for investors under the EB-5 program.

USCIS Transfers Certain H-1B Petitions to the California Service Center
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services announced today that certain H-1B petitions and fiscal year (FY) 2023 H-1B cap petitions awaiting intake at the Vermont Service Center (VSC) are being transferred to the California Service Center (CSC) for data entry and adjudication.

Parole Requests in Response to the Shooting in Uvalde, Texas
If you are seeking parole into the United States for yourself or someone else to attend a funeral or provide emergency assistance to a family member affected by the shooting at Robb Elementary School in Uvalde, Texas, submit a request for urgent humanitarian or significant public benefit parole by filing Form I-131, Application for Travel Document.

USCIS Updates Public Charge Resources Webpage to Provide Information on the Public Charge Ground of Inadmissibility and Public Benefits Available to Noncitizens
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services has updated our public charge resources webpage with more information to help reduce undue fear and confusion among immigrants and their families, including U.S. citizens and their children, that may prevent them from obtaining access to critical government services available to them.

USCIS Releases New Forms for Immigrant Investor Program
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services has released two new forms under the EB-5 Reform and Integrity Act of 2022, which revised INA 203(b)(5).

Cap Reached for Additional Returning Worker H-2B Visas for Second Half of FY 2022
Under the recently announced H-2B supplemental cap temporary final rule increasing the cap by up to 35,000 additional H-2B nonimmigrant visas through the end of fiscal year (FY) 2022, USCIS has received enough petitions to reach the cap for the additional 23,500 visas made available for returning workers only.

Immigration Help Available to Those Affected by Special Situations, Including the Shooting in Uvalde, Texas
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services reminds the public that we offer immigration services that may help people affected by unforeseen circumstances, including the shooting in Uvalde, Texas.

USCIS to Implement Premium Processing for Certain Previously Filed EB-1 and EB-2 Form I-140 Petitions
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services is implementing premium processing for certain petitioners who have a pending Form I-140, Immigrant Petition for Alien Workers, under the EB-1 and EB-2 classifications.

Two New Forms Published for Regional Center Designation
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services today published two new forms for regional center designation under the EB-5 Immigrant Investor Program: Form I-956, Application for Regional Center Designation, and Form I-956H, Bona Fides of Persons Involved with Regional Center Program. Both forms are available on the USCIS website.

USCIS надає інформацію щодо «Єднання заради України»
21 квітня Сполучені Штати оголосили про започаткування програми «Єднання заради України», яка є ключовим кроком у виконанні зобов’язання президента Байдена вітати українців, які рятуються від вторгнення Росії в Україну.

USCIS Provides Information on Uniting for Ukraine
On April 21, the United States announced Uniting for Ukraine, a key step towards fulfilling President Biden’s commitment to welcome Ukrainians fleeing Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. Uniting for Ukraine provides a pathway for displaced Ukrainian citizens and their immediate family members who are outside the United States to come to the United States and stay temporarily for a two-year period of parole.

USCIS Service Center Expands Credit Card Payment Pilot Program to Most Forms
As part of our credit card payment pilot program, the USCIS service centers are now accepting credit card payments using Form G-1450, Authorization for Credit Card Transactions, for most forms.

USCIS Extends Flexibility for Responding to Agency Requests
In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services is extending certain flexibilities through July 25, 2022, to assist applicants, petitioners, and requestors.

FY 2023 H-1B Cap Season Updates
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services has received enough electronic registrations during the initial registration period to reach the fiscal year (FY) 2023 H-1B numerical allocations (H-1B cap), including the advanced degree exemption (master’s cap).

USCIS Updates Guidance on Employment Authorization for E and L Nonimmigrant Spouses
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services is updating guidance in the USCIS Policy Manual to address the documentation that certain E and L nonimmigrant spouses may use as evidence of employment authorization based on their nonimmigrant status.

USCIS Urges Eligible Individuals to Consider Applying for Adjustment of Status in the EB-2 Category Based on the April Visa Bulletin Date for Filing for India
In the recently published April Visa Bulletin, the Department of State advanced the Date for Filing (also known as the application date) applications for an immigrant visa or adjustment of status in the employment-based, second preference (EB-2) category for India from Sept. 1, 2013, to Sept. 1, 2014.

USCIS to Offer Deferred Action for Special Immigrant Juveniles
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services today announced that it is updating the USCIS Policy Manual to consider deferred action and related employment authorization for noncitizens who have an approved Form I-360, Petition for Amerasian, Widow(er), or Special Immigrant, for Special Immigrant Juvenile (SIJ) classification but who cannot apply to adjust status to become a lawful permanent resident (LPR) because a visa number is not available.

Immigration Help Available to Those Affected by Special Situations, Including the Invasion of Ukraine
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services reminds the public that we offer immigration services that may help people affected by extreme situations, including the invasion of Ukraine.

USCIS Expands Credit Card Payment Pilot Program to All Service Centers
As part of our credit card payment pilot program, the USCIS service centers are now accepting credit card payments using Form G-1450, Authorization for Credit Card Transactions, for all forms except Form I-129, Petition for a Nonimmigrant Worker, for H-1B and H-2A petitions.

H-2B Cap Reached for Second Half of FY 2022
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services has received enough petitions to meet the congressionally mandated H-2B cap for the second half of fiscal year (FY) 2022.

USCIS Reaches Fiscal Year 2022 H-1B Cap
USCIS has 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) 2022.

USCIS Launches H-2A Employer Data Hub
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services has launched an H-2A Employer Data Hub to provide information to the public on employers or agents petitioning for H-2A workers.

USCIS Urges Eligible Applicants to Switch Employment-Based Categories
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services encourages eligible applicants to consider requesting to transfer the underlying basis of their adjustment of status application to the first (priority workers) or second (noncitizens in professions with advanced degrees or with exceptional ability) employment-based preference categories, because there is an exceptionally high number of employment-based immigrant visas available in these categories during this fiscal year (October 2021 through September 2022).

USCIS Opens a New Lockbox Facility
As we announced in November 2021, we have opened a new lockbox facility in Elgin, Illinois. We are beginning to transition incoming work to the new location.

USCIS Updates Policy Guidance on VAWA Self-Petitions
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services is publishing policy guidance in the USCIS Policy Manual on eligibility, filing, and adjudication requirements addressing Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) self-petitions to update practices and align USCIS policies with recent court decisions.

USCIS Issues Policy Guidance Regarding Exemptions from the Temporary Need Requirement for H-2B Workers on Guam and the CNMI Under the FY 2021 National Defense Authorization Act
USCIS is issuing updated policy guidance in the USCIS Policy Manual to clarify how petitioners may demonstrate that they qualify for an exemption from the temporary need requirement for a nonimmigrant visa petition for a temporary nonagricultural H-2B worker on Guam and in the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands (CNMI) that falls under the Fiscal Year 2021 National Defense Authorization Act.

USCIS Updates Guidelines on Maximum Validity Periods for New Employment Authorization Documents for Certain Applicants
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services today published updated policy guidance to change the maximum validity period that may be granted for Employment Authorization Documents (EADs) issued to certain applicants, as well as to provide general guidance on adjudicating Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization.

USCIS Statement on the International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation
On Feb. 6, the International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services joins other U.S. government agencies and the international community in calling for an end to the practice of female genital mutilation or cutting (FGM/C).

Readout of Director Ur M. Jaddou’s Virtual Briefing with Stakeholders to Mark One-Year Anniversary of Executive Orders Aimed at Restoring Faith in Our Immigration System
Yesterday, on the one-year anniversary of several executive orders (EOs) from the Biden-Harris administration aimed at restoring faith in our nation’s legal immigration system, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) Director Ur M. Jaddou briefed national stakeholders on the agency’s efforts to implement these EOs.

USCIS Updates Medical Examination Guidance for Afghan Parolees Arriving Under Operation Allies Welcome (OAW)
USCIS announced today that it is updating guidance in the USCIS Policy Manual regarding immigration medical examination requirements for certain Afghan nationals applying for adjustment of status after arriving in the United States under Operation Allies Welcome (OAW).

FY 2023 H-1B Cap Initial Registration Period Opens on March 1
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services today announced that the initial registration period for the fiscal year 2023 H-1B cap will open at noon Eastern on March 1 and run through noon Eastern on March 18, 2022.

USCIS Updates Guidance on Expedite Requests
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services has updated the USCIS Policy Manual to reflect new guidance on how we determine whether a case warrants expedited treatment.

USCIS Provides Clarifying Guidance for O-1 Petitions with a Focus on STEM Fields
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services today issued policy guidance clarifying how it evaluates evidence to determine eligibility for O-1A nonimmigrants of extraordinary ability, with a focus on petitions filed for individuals in science, technology, engineering, or math (STEM) fields, as well as how USCIS determines whether an O-1 beneficiary’s prospective work is within their area of extraordinary ability or achievement.

USCIS Provides Clarifying Guidance on O-1 Nonimmigrants in Arts vs. Motion Picture and Television
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services today announced clarifying guidance on how we determine whether an O-1B beneficiary will be evaluated as a person of extraordinary ability in the arts or as a person of extraordinary achievement in the motion picture or television industry when a case has elements of both.

Immigration Help Available to Those Affected by Natural Disasters and Other Unforeseen Circumstances
USCIS is reminding the public that we offer immigration services that may help people affected by unforeseen circumstances such as natural disasters. Examples of unforeseen circumstances include, but are not limited to, the Marshall fire in Colorado.

USCIS Extends Flexibility for Responding to Agency Requests
In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services is extending the flexibilities it announced on March 30, 2020.

DHS Withdraws H-1B Selection Final Rule
The Department of Homeland Security has published a final rule that withdraws the Modification of Registration Requirement for Petitioners Seeking to File Cap-Subject H-1B Petitions final rule, also known as the H-1B Selection Final Rule, issued Jan. 8, 2021.

Immigration Help Available to Those Affected by Natural Disasters and Other Unforeseen Circumstances
USCIS is reminding the public that we offer immigration services that may help people affected by unforeseen circumstances such as natural disasters. Examples of unforeseen circumstances include, but are not limited to, the recent tornadoes in Kentucky and surrounding states.

USCIS Reverts to Previous Criteria for Interviewing Petitioners Requesting Derivative Refugee and Asylee Status for Family Members
USCIS is rescinding a November 2020 policy memorandum requiring interviews of all petitioners filing Form I-730, Refugee/Asylee Relative Petition. Effective immediately, USCIS will return to its prior long-standing practice of making case-by-case determinations on whether to interview Form I-730 petitioners.

USCIS Temporarily Waiving 60-Day Rule for Civil Surgeon Signatures
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services is temporarily waiving the requirement that the civil surgeon sign Form I-693, Report of Medical Examination and Vaccination Record, no more than 60 days before an applicant files an application for the underlying immigration benefit (including Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status), until Sept. 30, 2022.

USCIS Extends Transitional Parole for CNMI Long-Term Resident Status Applicants
USCIS announced today that it will automatically extend parole and employment authorization, if applicable, for parolees who timely applied for Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands (CNMI) long-term resident status.

All Temporary Protected Status (TPS) Applicants May Now File Forms I-821 and I-765 Online
As of Nov. 29, all applicants eligible to file for TPS under one of the current designations may file Form I-821, Application for Temporary Protected Status, and Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization, online.

USCIS Incorporates General Adjudications Guidance into the Policy Manual
We are incorporating existing guidance from the Adjudicator’s Field Manual (AFM) into the USCIS Policy Manual.

Certain Petitioners for U Nonimmigrant Status May Receive a Refund for Applications for Employment Authorization Submitted Before Sept. 30, 2021
USCIS mistakenly rejected certain applications for employment authorization (Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization) from petitioners for U nonimmigrant status that were filed without a fee (or request for fee waiver) from June 14 through Sept. 29, 2021.

USCIS Conducts Third Random Selection from Previously Submitted FY 2022 H-1B Cap Registrations
We recently determined that we needed to select additional registrations to reach the fiscal year (FY) 2022 H-1B numerical allocations, including the advanced degree exemption.

USCIS Opening a New Lockbox Facility
We are planning to open a new facility in Elgin, Illinois, next year to expand our lockbox capability.

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