General
DOL to soon Begin Accepting PERM Applications in FLAG System
Immigration can be a complex and often frustrating process for many individuals seeking to work or reside in the United States. The Office of Foreign Labor Certification (OFLC), a division of Employment & Training Administration within the Department of Labor (DOL), plays a crucial role in this process, as it is responsible for ensuring that…
Read MoreOptions for Child Born Abroad to US Citizen parents
Understanding the immigration options for a child born abroad with one US citizen parent and one non-US citizen parent can be challenging. In this blog post, we will discuss the various pathways to citizenship or permanent residency for these children, including acquiring US citizenship at birth, obtaining a Consular Report of Birth Abroad (CRBA), and…
Read MoreCompelling Circumstances EAD: A Comprehensive Guide
In the complex world of immigration and visa-related issues, the term ‘Compelling Circumstances Employment Authorization Document (EAD)‘ may not be as familiar as others. This blog post aims to demystify this crucial aspect of nonimmigrant visas in the United States, shedding light on the nuances of this benefit, the eligibility criteria, and the application process.…
Read More60-Day Grace Period: Options Upon Employment Termination
The discretionary 60-day grace period offers a critical safety net for non-immigrant visa holders (and their dependents), in the United States, such as E-1, E-2, E-3, H-1B, H-1B1, L-1, O-1, and TN classifications who unexpectedly lose their jobs. This period enables individuals to maintain their legal status while they explore alternative options, such as finding…
Read MoreEvidence of LPR Status (ADIT stamp)
Introduction The US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has implemented a new procedure that allows LPRs to receive ADIT stamp by mail. Alien Documentation, Identification, and Telecommunication (ADIT) stamp, also known as an I-551 stamp is a temporary evidence of lawful permanent residence (LPR) status which, traditionally, an applicant was able to obtain by visiting…
Read MoreF Visas Now Issued up to 365 Days in Advance
Students can now be issued F & M visas up to 365 days in advance of their program start date listed on the I-20 form, a major increase from the previous 120-day limit. The U.S. Department of State (DOS) has recently announced a significant policy change that will benefit first-time F and M student visa…
Read MoreForeign Student Liability for Social Security and Medicare Taxes
Foreign students liability for Social Security and Medicare Taxes is a question that all students have on their mind as they pursue their education in the United States. In this blog, we will discuss the liability of foreign students for Social Security and Medicare taxes and the factors that determine their tax obligations. Understanding these…
Read MoreUSCIS Removes 60-Day Rule for Civil Surgeons Signing Medicals
The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has recently announced a significant change to its policy regarding Form I-693, Report of Immigration Medical Examination and Vaccination Record. Previously, civil surgeons were required to sign Form I-693 no more than 60 days before an individual applied for an underlying immigration benefit, such as Form I-485, Application…
Read MorePremium Processing Service for OPT EADs Expanded
USCIS recently announced plans to expand premium processing services for F-1 students applying for Employment Authorization Documents (EADs) under STEM OPT extensions and Optional Practical Training (OPT). This change aims to make the adjudication process for F-1 students applying for STEM OPT and EADs more predictable and timelier. Premium Processing Eligibility: First Phase The USCIS…
Read MoreUSCIS Deadlines for Weekend and Holiday Submissions
The United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has recently announced an update to its Policy Manual for filing deadlines 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. This update aims to increase flexibility for applicants and…
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