USCIS Revises ‘Ability to Pay’ Criteria for Employment Based Visas
The landscape of employment-based immigration is constantly evolving, and keeping abreast of these changes is crucial for employers and immigrants alike. A significant aspect of this process involves establishing an employer’s ability to pay the proffered wage to beneficiaries under specific employment-based immigrant visa classifications. The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) recently updated its…
Read MoreUSCIS to Increase Premium Processing Fee
The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has announced a significant update that impacts many seeking expedited processing of their immigration-related applications. Effective from February 26, 2024, there will be an increase in the filing fee for Form I-907, known as the Request for Premium Processing. This change, influenced by inflation rates and aimed at…
Read MoreH-1B Visa Renewal Program Details
The U.S. Department of State (DOS) has introduced a pilot program for the renewal of H-1B visas within the United States. This significant development is set to officially launch on January 29, 2024. The program, however, is characterized by its stringent eligibility criteria. Who Can Apply? The eligibility for this pilot program is quite specific.…
Read MoreChallenges with the New US Visa Scheduling System
In the past few weeks, several posts worldwide—including those in India, Australia, South Korea, and Japan—have switched from the US Traveldocs system to a new platform for appointment scheduling: US Visa Scheduling. As visa applicants navigate this change, a myriad of issues have arisen. We had previously reported about this in our blog Visa Appointment…
Read MoreDelayed Medicals Impact on Immigrant Visa at the USCON in Sydney, Australia
For those dreaming of living in the United States, navigating the immigrant visa process can be both exciting and nerve-wracking. While you’re eagerly waiting to start your new life, even the smallest hiccup can set you back, causing delays and endless stress. One such hiccup many applicants overlook is the significance of timely medical exam…
Read MoreProposed Changes to the H-1B Program: Quick Summary
On October 23, 2023, the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) will publish a notice of proposed rulemaking in the Federal Register concerning the H-1B visa program which may also impact other nonimmigrant classifications, like F-1, L-1, O, R-1, E-3, TN, etc. While these proposed rules are not yet in effect and are open for…
Read MoreL-1 for sole proprietorship: USCIS updates it policy
The L-1 nonimmigrant visa classification is an essential instrument for multinational companies that need to temporarily transfer employees from foreign offices to U.S. locations. This visa classification allows managerial, executive, or specialized knowledge staff to come to the U.S. temporarily for work purposes. However, not all entities can petition for the L-1 visa, and the…
Read MoreCitizens of Israel Can Now Travel to the U.S. Visa-Free
Today marks a significant milestone in U.S.-Israel relations as the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) announces visa-free travel for eligible Israeli citizens and nationals. Beginning October 19, 2023, Israeli citizens will be able to use the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) to apply for permission through U.S. Customs and Border Protection. Israel Joins…
Read MoreUpdate on H-1B Visa Renewals: Introduction of Stateside Visa Renewal Pilot Program for 2024
On October 17, 2023, the Department of State (DOS) made a significant announcement, sending a Federal Register notice for review, which is titled “Pilot Program to Resume Renewal of H-1B Nonimmigrant Visas in the United States for Certain Qualified Noncitizens.” This forthcoming document promises to bring a change in the landscape of domestic visa renewals,…
Read MoreVisa Appointment Scheduling Issues at Sydney, Australia
The recent launch of Sydney’s new visa appointment scheduling website was supposed to be a technological leap towards streamlined and efficient visa processing for the U.S Consulates in Australia. Instead, it has proven to be a source of frustration, confusion, and stress for visa applicants. From failed email correspondences to vanishing MRV fees, the new…
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