Immigration Updates

Release Date 03/17/2022 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. If you are a…

TO BUILD A BETTER IMMIGRATION SYSTEM CONGRESS NEEDS TO ACT

Release Date: February 7, 2022 WASHINGTON – On February 7, 2022, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), in partnership with the Departments of Veterans Affairs and Defense, launched two new resources to support our nation’s noncitizen service members, veterans, and their families. Through its Immigrant Military Members and Veterans Initiative (IMMVI), DHS will host a…

U.S. Businesses rely on their ability to employ foreign nationals to compete efficiently in today’s global market. Particularly critical in this regard are the H-1B program, which permits U. S. employers to retain the temporary services of foreign professionals, and L-1 transfer managers, executives, and other employees with “Specialized Knowledge” from a foreign office to…

“Reinstatement of removal” is a summary removal procedure pursuant to § 241(a)(5) of the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA), 8 U.S.C. § 1231(a)(5), 8 C.F.R. § 241.8. With limited statutory and judicial exceptions, the reinstatement statute applies to noncitizens who return to the United States without authorization after having been removed under a prior order…

America needs an immigration system that respects our long traditions as a welcoming nation and builds a foundation for meeting the challenges of the 21st century. The current system is sorely outdated and badly in need of reform. Congress must act swiftly, using not only its legislative power but also its oversight and budget authorities…

In a Federal Register notice published on January 21, 2022, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) announced, “The Secretary of Homeland Security is amending the DHS STEM Designated Degree Program List [for OPT] by adding 22 qualifying fields of study.” “The government uses the STEM Designated Degree Program List to determine F-1 students’ eligibility for…

The direction of COVID-19 variants remains difficult to predict, but the CDC now recommends lifting the travel restrictions imposed in Proclamation 10315. And, the President, Joseph R. Biden Jr. has done that. ” In light of these changed circumstances, and based on the recommendation of the CDC, I have determined that it is in the…

Dear Client and Visitors, Please be advised that effective Monday, December 13, 2021, New York State has ordered an indoor mask mandate. Please plan to wear a proper-fitting mask at Servcorp | 17 State Street. If you do not have one, feel free to ask the front desk. Thank you. LAW OFFICES OF NORKA M.…