DHS to End Temporary COVID-19 Flexibilities on I-9 Verification

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has signaled a significant shift in the way businesses handle their I-9 Verification processes. As of July 31, 2023, the temporary COVID-19 flexibilities that were introduced in March 2020 will come to an end. What’s more, businesses will have an additional 30 days to complete in-person physical inspections for…

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USCIS Extends Temporary Suspension of Biometrics for certain Nonimmigrants

The United States Citizenship & Immigration Services (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 a change of status to H-4, L-2, or E nonimmigrant status. The suspension was originally set to expire on…

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Compelling 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.…

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60-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…

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USCIS 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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H-1B Initial Electronic Registration Selection Process Completed: What’s Next?

We are pleased to inform you that the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has completed the initial H-1B electronic registration selection process for fiscal year 2023. As you may be aware, the H-1B visa program allows U.S. employers to temporarily hire foreign workers in specialty occupations that require specialized knowledge and a bachelor’s…

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Interpreter for Visa Interview at a U.S. Embassy in India

Attending a visa interview at a U.S. Embassy or Consulate in India can be a challenging experience, especially if you are not comfortable with English or the language spoken by the consular officer. In such cases, requesting an interpreter can help ensure clear communication and a smoother interview process. In this blog, we will guide…

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H-1B Extension Does Not Automatically Extend H-4 Status

Navigating the United States immigration system can be complicated, particularly when it comes to work visas and their dependent visas. One such situation arises when an H-1B visa holder extends their status, but what does this mean for their H-4 dependents? In this blog, we will discuss the implications of an H-1B status extension on…

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Updated USCIS Policy for Child Status Protection Act (CSPA) Age Calculation

The Child Status Protection Act (CSPA) is a crucial immigration law provision that provides relief to children who would otherwise reach the age of majority and lose eligibility for certain immigration benefits. Under CSPA, the age of a child is “frozen” when the initial application for certain immigration benefits, such as adjustment of status to…

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Pilot Program for H & L Visa Renewal in the US

The H-1B & L-1 visas are most popular visas for foreign workers in the United States. When it comes time to renew the visa, however, foreign workers have traditionally been required to leave the country and apply for a new visa at a US consulate abroad. This procedure can be time-consuming, costly, and inconvenient for…

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