Immigration.com - U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services

USCIS Announces Enhancements to E-Verify Program
Posted May 08, 2008
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) announced today improvements to the E-Verify employment authorization program that will reduce an already low mismatch rate, while also streamlining and increasing the effectiveness of the overall program.

USCIS Reaches FY 2009 H-1B CAP
Posted April 09, 2008
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) announced today that it has received enough H-1B petitions to meet the congressionally mandated cap for fiscal year 2009.

USCIS to Accept H-1B Petitions Sent to California or Vermont Service Centers
Posted April 07, 2008
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) announced that it will not reject an H-1B petition that is subject to the fiscal year 2009 cap solely on the grounds that it was received at the wrong service center (e.g., the petition may have been inadvertently mailed to the California Service Center instead of the Vermont Service Center or vice versa).

USCIS National Stakeholder Meeting
Posted April 03, 2008
Question and Answers on I-589 nunc pro tunc application filing procedures, adjustment applications and material support, repeat requests for fingerprints, filing fees for adjustment applications in proceedings that are later administratively closed, Child Status Protection Act, Fee waivers, Diversity Visa 90 Day filing procedures and other issues.

Aytes Memo Revises AFM Regarding U Visas
Posted April 03, 2008
USCIS, revises Chapter 39 of the Adjudicator�s Field Manual, establishing the requirements and procedures for foreign nationals seeking U nonimmigrant status.

USCIS And FBI Release Joint Plan To Eliminate Backlog Of FBI Name Checks
Posted April 03, 2008
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) today announced a joint plan to eliminate the backlog of name checks pending with the FBI.

USCIS Updates Projected Naturalization Case Processing Time
Posted April 03, 2008
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) announced today that it will finish more than one million naturalization cases during fiscal year 2008 � far exceeding the number of cases completed last year.

USCIS Announces Interim Rule on H-1B Visas
Posted April 03, 2008
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) transmitted an interim final rule to the Federal Register that prohibits employers from filing multiple H-1B petitions for the same employee.

USCIS Announces Changes to Guatemala Adoptions
Posted April 03, 2008
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) today announced it is not able to approve any Form I-800, Petition to Classify Convention Adoptee as an Immediate Relative, filed on behalf of a child to be adopted from Guatemala.

Processing of Initial Parole or Renewal Parole Requests Presented by Natives or Citizens of Cuba to USCIS Field Offices
Posted April 03, 2008
This memorandum provides U.S.Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) Filed Offices guidance on processing of initial parole or renewal parole requests presented by natives or citizens of Cuba.

USCIS to Review Immigration Cases that Could Benefit From Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2008
Posted March 31, 2008
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) today announced it would immediately place certain cases on hold while individuals and groups are considered for exemptions under the Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2008 (CAA).

H-1B Petition Mailing During Cap Season
Posted March 31, 2008
USCIS Q & A on H-1B Petition Mailing and Delivery. The Q & As address couriers, hours during which deliveries will be accepted, P.O. boxes, and acceptable methods of delivery.

USCIS Extends Comment Period For Proposed Change To H-2A Program
Posted March 31, 2008
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) announced today that it is extending the public comment period until April 14, 2008 for a proposed rule that would encourage and facilitate the lawful employment of H-2A foreign temporary agricultural workers.

USCIS published an interim final rule amending its regulations governing H-1B petitions
Posted March 26, 2008
Petitions Filed on Behalf of H-1B Temporary Workers Subject to or Exempt from the Annual Numerical Limitation.

CIS Ombudsman's 2007 Annual Report to Congress
Posted March 26, 2008
USCIS� recently released response to the CIS Ombudsman�s 2007 Annual Report to Congress.

Aytes Memo Revises Adjudicator�s Field Manual Chapter 31
Posted March 26, 2008
Aytes Memo revises Chapter 31 of the Adjudicator�s Field Manual regarding professional licensure required for particular H-1B specialty occupations.

Aytes Memo Revises Adjudicator�s Field Manual Regarding DNA Tests
Posted March 26, 2008
Aytes Memo revises Chapter 21 of the Adjudicator�s Field Manual regarding genetic relationship testing.

Naturalization Interviews to be Conducted on Saturdays, Sundays and After Normal Business Hours on Weekdays
Posted March 24, 2008
In Fiscal Year 2007, USCIS received a significant increase in naturalization applications (Form N-400). To address the increase,USCIS is expanding work hours and adding staff to complete these filings within our processing time goals.

USCIS Revises Filing Instructions for Petition for Alien Relative
Posted March 24, 2008
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has revised the filing instructions for the Petition for Alien Relative (Form I-130). Effective immediately, all petitioners filing stand-alone Form I-130s must file their petitions with the Chicago Lockbox instead of a USCIS Service Center.

Revised Information Collection on Form N-426 Issued by USCIS
Posted March 21, 2008
USCIS issued a revised information collection on Form N-426, Request for Certification of Military or Naval Service.

USCIS Announces Interim Rule on H-1B Visas
Posted March 21, 2008
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) transmitted an interim final rule to the Federal Register today that prohibits employers from filing multiple H-1B petitions for the same employee.

USCIS FAQs: Interim Rule on H-1B Visas
Posted March 21, 2008
USCIS issued FAQs on March 19, 2008 regarding the interim final rule that prohibits employers from filing more than one petition for an H-1B visa for a single employee in a fiscal year. The interim final rule will become effective upon publication in the Federal Register.

Changes To The FY2009 H-1B Program
Posted March 21, 2008
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) issued an interim final rule today that prohibits employers from filing more than one petition for an H-1B visa for a single employee in a fiscal year.

H-1B Interim rule with request for comments
Posted March 21, 2008
Petitions Filed on Behalf of H-1B Temporary Workers Subject to or Exempt from the Annual Numerical Limitation.

USCIS Releases Update on Naturalization Application Processing
Posted March 18, 2008
USCIS published an information collection on Supplement C, HRIFA Supplement to Form I-485.

Comment Request on HRIFA Supplement to I-485 published by USCIS
Posted March 12, 2008
USCIS published an information collection on Supplement C, HRIFA Supplement to Form I-485.

USCIS National Stakeholder Meeting
Posted March 12, 2008
The FAQ's address fee waiver rejections, I-730s, Asylee EADS and security checks, Iraqi and Afghan Special Immigrant applicants for adjustment of status, refugee travel documents and re-entry permit, I-129 extension cases, and other issues.

USCIS Announces 18-Month Extension of Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Nationals of Somalia
Posted March 12, 2008
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) announced today an 18-month extension of Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for nationals of Somalia through September 17, 2009. Under this extension, those who have already been granted TPS are eligible to live and work in the United States for an additional 18 months and continue to maintain their status.

USCIS issued a revised information collection on Form I-192
Posted March 05, 2008
USCIS has issued revised instructions for Form I-131, Application for Travel Document. The instructions require applicants for re-entry permits and refugee travel documents to provide biometrics at USCIS Application Support Centers. The changes become effective March 5, 2008.

USCIS Strengthens Intercountry Adoption Process
Posted March 03, 2008
Children, birthparents and prospective adoptive parents will have greater protections under the Hague Adoption Convention, effective April 1. New safeguards under the Convention include the creation of new forms and improved, centralized examination processes.

Updated Questions and Answers on Background Check Policy
Posted February 28, 2008
USCIS released updated background check Q & As. The first draft of the Q & As was released on 2/20/08.

USCIS Revises Filing Instructions for Petition for Alien Relative
Posted February 20, 2008
Effective immediately, all stand-alone Form I-130s (Petition for Alien Relative) must be filed with the Chicago Lockbox instead of a USCIS Service Center.

USCIS to Offer Free Copies of the Civics and Citizenship Toolkit to Organizations that Serve Immigrants
Posted February 20, 2008
USCIS announced that a "Civics & Citizenship Toolkit" containing educational materials is being offered to Community-Based Organizations. CBOs can order one free toolkit on a first come first served basis.

USCIS Issues Questions & Answers on FBI Name Check Policy
Posted February 20, 2008
USCIS released Q & A on its FBI name check policy.

USCIS Memo on Revised National Security Adjudication and Reporting Requirements
Posted February 20, 2008
USCIS conducts background checks on all applicants, petitioners, and beneficiaries seeking immigration benefits. This is done both to enhance national security and to ensure the integrity of the immigration process.

USCIS Consolidates Biometrics Appointment Letter Into One Notice For Adjustment Of Status Applicants
Posted February 18, 2008
USCIS Update announces changes in biometric procedures for I-485 and I-765 applicants.

USCIS Fact Sheet on the Status of Citizens of Micronesia and the Republic of the Marshall Islands
Posted February 14, 2008
USCIS Fact Sheet addresses the immigration provisions of the Compact of Free Association Amendments Act of 2003, which affect citizens of the Federated States of Micronesia and the Republic of the Marshall Islands. The Compacts, as amended, became effective for the RMI on May1, 2004, and for the FSM on June 30, 2004.

USCIS Proposes Streamlining Procedures For H-2A Program
Posted February 13, 2008
USCIS released an Update outlining the proposed revisions to H-2A regulations.

USCIS Answers National Stakeholder Questions
Posted February 13, 2008
USCIS published its responses to national stakeholder questions from its January 29, 2008 USCIS National Stakeholder meeting.

USCIS Press Releases on Increasing Employer Participation in E-Verify
Posted February 12, 2008
USCIS announced that 52,000 employers have signed up for E-Verify. The program has been growing by approximately 1,000 new employers each week.

USCIS Extension of Information Collection on National Interest Waivers; Supplemental Evidence to I-140 and I-485
Posted February 08, 2008
USCIS published an extension on an information collection regarding evidence requirements for adjudications of adjustment applications for I-140 National Interest Waiver physicians.

USCIS Updates Information on Filing for Replacement EAD
Posted February 05, 2008
USCIS updated information on its website regarding the renewal of EAD applications prior to the expiration of the original EAD.

USCIS Announces Centralized Filing Location for Certain H-1B Cap Exempt Petitioners
Posted January 31, 2008
USCIS announced that a new customer service initiative to stramline the adjudication of H-1B petitions.USCIS will employ a special unit dedicated to processing these types of H-1B cap exempt petitions at the USCIS California Service Center.

USCIS Fact Sheet on Naturalization Through Military Service
Posted January 28, 2008
USCIS Fact Sheet on naturalization through military service. It includes statistics that reflect an increase in the number of naturalized service members since the last Fact Sheet was released in October 2007.

USCIS Announces New Guatemalan Adoption Legislation
Posted January 28, 2008
USCIS announced that the Guatemalan Congress passed new adoption legislation in late 2007 to meet obligations under the Hague Convention on Intercountry Adoption.

Gonzalez Testimony on Naturalization Delays
Posted January 18, 2008
Emilio T. Gonzalez, Director, USCIS, testified before the House Judiciary Committee, Subcommittee on Immigration, Citizenship, Refugees, Border Security and International Law, January 17, 2008

USCIS Answers Frequently Asked Questions about Receipting and Processing Delays
Posted January 18, 2008
USCIS has revised and updated its frequently asked questions on receipt and processing delays to reflect the current situation.

USCIS Update on Service Center and Lockbox Receipting
Posted January 10, 2008
USCIS Update on current receipting times at the Chicago Lockbox.

USCIS Announces Improvements for E-Verify Telephone Customer Assistance
Posted January 08, 2008
USCIS announced that employers and other requesting information on E-Verify could contact the program through the NCSC by calling the E-Verify program number.

USCIS Guidance for Processing "IDENT" I-90 Applications
Posted January 07, 2008
USCIS addresses the processing of IDENT I-90 applications that are sent to the resolution unit of a USCIS office.

USCIS Extends Suspension of Premium Processing Service for Religious Workers (R-1) Nonimmigrant Visa
Posted January 04, 2008
USCIS announced that suspension of premium processing services for religious worker (R-1) visa petitions will be extended until July 8, 2008.

USCIS Reminds Employers to Use New Form I-9
Posted January 04, 2008
After December 26, 2007, employers who fail to use the new Form I-9 may be subject to all applicable penalties. All employers are required to complete a Form I-9 for each new employee hired in the United States.

USCIS Issues Application And Receipting Update
Posted January 04, 2008
USCIS issued an application and receipting update, as of Dec ember 31, 2007.

Notice for Illinois Employers on E-Verify
Posted January 04, 2008
USCIS issued a Notice for employers on the status of E-Verify in Illinois, which addresses enrollment in the employment verification program while DHS�s lawsuit against the state remains unresolved.

USCIS Reaches H-2B CAP For Second Half of Fiscal Year 2008
Posted January 03, 2008
USCIS announced that it has received a sufficient number of petitions to reach the H-2B cap for the second half of fiscal year 2008.

USCIS Issues Latest Application And Receipting Update
Posted December 18, 2007
USCIS issues latest application and receipting update, effective December 14, 2007.

USCIS E-Verify Presentation
Posted December 18, 2007
Text of the Powerpoint presentation given December 17, 2007 at USCIS, on "E-Verify: Employment Eligibility Verfication."

USCIS Issues Update on Permanent Resident Card Replacement Proposal
Posted December 16, 2007
USCIS published a proposed rule in the Federal Register that, when implemented, would require lawful permanent residents to replace permanent resident cards (Form I-551) with no expiration date. The comment period closed on September 21, 2007. USCIS is currently reviewing the 298 comments received.

USCIS Statement on Validity of I-551 Cards without Expiration Dates
Posted December 12, 2007
USCIS released a statement confirming the continuing validity of I-551 cards without an expiration date.

USCIS Updates Guide for New Immigrants
Posted December 12, 2007
USCIS released an updated Guide for New Immigrants. The Guide provides a summary of essential information for new immigrants. The goal is to reach as many immigrants as possible.

USCIS Application and Receipting Update
Posted December 10, 2007
USCIS provides a weekly update to give updates customers with accurate information about current receipt times. This update reflects processing through December 7, 2007.

USCIS Announces Fee Waiver for California Fire Victims
Posted December 10, 2007
USCIS announced that it would give special consideration to fee waiver requests from applicants who lost their residence or employment as a result of the wildfires in Southern California and are seeking to replace certain documents.

USCIS Updates Task Force on New Americans Fact Sheet
Posted December 07, 2007
USCIS released an Fact Sheet on the Task Force on New Americans. Minor additions have been made to sections discussing civics education training conferences and a USCIS publication for immigrant visa recipients.

Stakeholder/USCIS Question & Answers
Posted December 07, 2007
The USCIS releases Q & As from Stakeholder meeting held on December 4th, 2007.

USCIS Issues Reminder to Nationals of Burundi to Re-register for TPS
Posted December 05, 2007
USCIS reminded nationals of Burundi eligible for Temporary Protected Status (TPS) to file a re-registration application for TPS by the closing date of December 28, 2007.

USCIS Update on Service Center and Lockbox Receipting
Posted December 04, 2007
A USCIS Update on current receipting times. This update reflects processing through November 30, 2007.

USCIS Revises Filing Instructions For I-130 (Petition for Alien Relative)
Posted December 04, 2007
USCIS announced that effective Dec. 3, 2007, all applicants filing stand-alone Form I-130s are encouraged to file their petitions with the Chicago Lockbox instead of a USCIS Service Center.

USCIS Application And Receipting Update
Posted November 28, 2007
USCIS issued a "Application and Receipting Update" reflecting data as of November 23, 2007.

USCIS Reminds Employers to Transition to New Employment Eligibility Verification Form
Posted November 27, 2007
USCIS announced that the Federal Register Notice providing information on when the revised Form I-9 must be used by employers will be published on November 26, 2007.

USCIS Advisory on Processing Times
Posted November 27, 2007
USCIS has received a significant increase in the number of applications filed; nearly double the number received in the same period last year. The agency is working to improve processes and focus increased resources, including hiring approximately 1,500 new employees, to address this workload.

Final Report Findings on E-verify
Posted November 27, 2007
This report contains the final report of the Findings of the Web-Based Basic Pilot Evaluation and related supplementary materials including copies of surveys and interview protocols.

USCIS Announces Cuban Family Reunification Parole Program
Posted November 25, 2007
This Notice announces U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services' Cuban Family Reunification Parole Program. The purpose of the program is to expedite family reunification through safe, legal, and orderly channels of migration to the United States and to discourage irregular and inherently dangerous maritime migration.

USCIS Releases Q & As on National Stakeholder Meeting October 30, 2007
Posted November 15, 2007
USCIS Releases Q & As on Stakeholder meeting which was held on October 30, 2007, these Q & As address Cuban parolees, religious worker case site visits, refugee travel documents, fee waivers, mismatch A numbers on I-485 receipts, waiver applications at the Mexico City District office, and more.

Citizenship Ceremonies in Chula Vista and San Diego Rescheduled for November
Posted November 14, 2007
USCIS announced that individuals who were scheduled to be naturalized at citizenship ceremonies in San Diego and Chula Vista on October 24, 2007, have had their ceremonies for Wednesday, November 14.

USCIS Centralizes Filing for H-2A Petitions
Posted November 12, 2007
USCIS announced that effective December 10, 2007, USCIS will only accept H-2A filings mailed or delivered to its California Service Center.

USCIS Application and Receipting Update
Posted November 12, 2007
USCIS provides a weekly update to give updates to our customers with accurate information about current receipt times. This update reflects processing through November 9, 2007.

New Handbook for Employers for Completing the Form I-9
Posted November 08, 2007
The Handbook for Employers contains instructions for Completing Form I-9 Employment Verification.

USCIS Revises Employment Eligibility Verification Form I-9
Posted November 08, 2007
USCIS announced that a revised Employment Eligibility Verification Form (I-9) is Now available for use. All employers are required to complete a Form I-9 for each employee hired in the United States.

USCIS Application and Receipting Update
Posted November 05, 2007
USCIS provides a weekly update to give updates to customers with accurate information about current receipt times. This update reflects processing through November 1, 2007.

USCIS Reopens Comment Period on Proposed Rule for Religious Worker Visa Classifications
Posted November 01, 2007
USCIS announced that it is reopening the public comment period until November 16, 2007, on a proposed rule for special immigrant (SR/SD) and nonimmigrant (R-1) religious worker visa classification.

USCIS Streamlines Readmissions for Certain H and L Nonimmigrant with Pending Permanent Residence Applications
Posted November 01, 2007
This rule removes the requirement that certain H and L nonimmigrant returning to the United States following a trip abroad must present a receipt notice for their adjustment of status applications to avoid having such applications deemed abandoned. This rule is effective November 1, 2007.

USCIS Issues Application And Receipting Update
Posted October 28, 2007
USCIS issued an updated application and receipting update, effective as of October 26, 2007.

USCIS Terminates TPS For Burundi
Posted October 28, 2007
USCIS determined that the Temporary Protected Status (TPS) designation for Burundi should be terminated. The termination will not take effect until 5/2/09.

USCIS Announces Changes to Vietnam Adoptions
Posted October 26, 2007
USCIS announced that the agency�s office in Ho Chi Minh City will have sole jurisdiction over all Form I-600s, Petition to Classify Orphan as an Immediate Relative, filed on behalf of a Vietnamese child on or after 10/29/07.

Updated Fact Sheet: Naturalization Through Military Service
Posted October 26, 2007
USCIS released a Fact Sheet on naturalization through military service, updating a Fact Sheet issued on 8/1/07.

Two Naturalization Ceremonies in San Diego Scheduled for 10/24/07 Postponed
Posted October 24, 2007
Two Naturalization ceremonies in the San Diego area, scheduled for Wednesday, Oct. 24, have been postponed. These are the ceremony at Golden Hall in San Diego and the ceremony at the Chula Vista Service Center in Chula Vista.

USCIS Launches Community Relations Webpage
Posted October 18, 2007
USCIS launched a Community Relations webpage. The USCIS Community Relations program develops and maintains collaborative relationships with immigrant-serving organizations.

USCIS U Visa Interim Rule Is Effective October 17th
Posted October 17, 2007
USCIS issued a reminder that a new interim rule that authorizes temporary immigration benefits to certain victims of crimes who help law enforcement will be effective October 17, 2007.

USCIS Reminds Applicants to Apply for Travel Documents for Holiday Travel Abroad Before the End of October
Posted October 17, 2007
USCIS urges applicants needing a travel document to file Form I -131 before the end of October 2007.

USCIS Announces Centralized Filing Location for the H-2A Temporary Agricultural Worker Program
Posted October 17, 2007
USCIS announced today a new customer service initiative to improve the H-2A (temporary/seasonal agricultural worker) petition process.

USCIS Issues TPS Reminder to Nationals of El Salvador
Posted October 15, 2007
USCIS reminds nationals of El Salvador eligible for Temporary Protected Status to file a re-registration application by October 22, 2007.

USCIS Announces Revised Guatemalan Adoption Processing Procedures
Posted October 15, 2007
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services will, effective October 15, 2007, place a ceiling on the number of initial orphan petition submissions in Guatemala.

USCIS Answers Frequently Asked Questions about Receipting Delays
Posted October 15, 2007
Due to a tremendous increase in the number of applications filed in the last few months, USCIS advises customers that the processing of fee payments and entry of cases into our tracking system is behind schedule. USCIS providing the answers to those questions which they most frequently receive on this matter.

USCIS Issues Interim Rule Establishing New Procedures for Adopted Children Under the Hague Convention
Posted October 05, 2007
USCIS issued an interim rule to establish new administrative procedures for the immigration of children who are adopted by U.S. citizens and who come from countries that are parties to the Hague Convention on Protection of Children and Co-operation in Respect of Intercountry Adoption.

USCIS Reaches H-2B Cap For First Half FY 2008
Posted October 01, 2007
USCIS issued a press release stating that September 27, 2007 is the "final receipt date" for new H-2B worker petitions requesting employment start dates prior to April 1, 2008.

USCIS Update on Service Center and Lockbox Receipting
Posted October 01, 2007
A USCIS update on current receipting times at CSC, NSC, TSC, VSC.

USCIS Answers Frequently Asked Questions about Receipting Delays
Posted September 28, 2007
Due to a tremendous increase in the number of applications filed in the last few months, USCIS advises customers that the processing of fee payments and entry of cases into our tracking system is behind schedule.

USCIS Announces New Naturalization Test
Posted September 27, 2007
USCIS announced the 100 questions and answers that comprise the civics component of the new naturalization test. USCIS will administer this new test to citizenship applicants beginning in October 2008.

USCIS Announces A New Filing Address for Humanitarian Parole Applications
Posted September 26, 2007
USCIS announced a change of filing address for humanitarian parole applications.

USCIS Implements Authority to Exempt Certain Persons Who Provided Material Support Under Duress to the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC)
Posted September 26, 2007
DHS issued a memo to USCIS which authorizes USCIS, in consultation with United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement(ICE), to implement the DHS secretary's discretionary authority under the INA to exempt from the material support inadmissibility provision certain individuals who provided material support under duress to the Revolutionary Armed forces of Colombia(FARC).

USCIS Launches Photo Screening Tool for E-Verify Program
Posted September 25, 2007
The photo tool will be the first step in giving employers the tools they need to help detect some forms of identity fraud in the employment eligibility process.

USCIS Issues Service Center And Lockbox Receipting Update
Posted September 24, 2007
USCIS provides a weekly update to give updates to our customers with accurate information about current receipt times. This update reflects processing through September 21, 2007.

USCIS Guidance to Clarify the Adjudication Of Form N-648, Medical Certification For Disability Exceptions
Posted September 21, 2007
USCIS issued guidance clarifying the adjudication of Form N-648, medical certification for disability exceptions.

USCIS Issues Information On Deferred Enforced Departure
Posted September 21, 2007
USCIS issued more information on deferred enforced departure for certain Liberians.

USCIS Issues Interim Final Rule for U Visas
Posted September 17, 2007
USCIS requests comments on interim final rule establishing procedures for applicants seeking U nonimmigrant status.

USCIS Fact Sheet: Liberians Provided Deferred Enforced Departure
Posted September 13, 2007
USCIS issued a fact sheet that any qualified Liberian national (or person without nationality who last habitually resided in Liberia) who is currently present in the US and who is under a grant of Temporary Protected Status (TPS) as of September 30, 2007, will be granted a deferrment of the enforced departure for 18 months, until March 31, 2009.

USCIS Announces Case Status Online Outage
Posted September 11, 2007
Some USCIS web-based systems will be out for maintenance from the evening of September 12 to the morning of September 13.

USCIS Publishes New Rule for Nonimmigrant Victims of Criminal Activity
Posted September 06, 2007
USCIS announces it will publish an interim rule that grants temporary immigration benefits to certain victims of crimes who assist government officials in investigating or prosecuting the criminal activity.

USCIS Issues Application and Petition Receipting Update
Posted September 05, 2007
USCIS update on current data entry and receipting times at service centers and the USCIS Lockbox.

USCIS Issues Service Center And Lockbox Update
Posted August 30, 2007
USCIS issued a Service Center and lockbox receipting update.

USCIS Issues Service Center And Lockbox Receipting Update
Posted August 15, 2007
USCIS issues Service Center and lockbox receipting update dated August 10, 2007.

USCIS Launches Toll-Free Military Immigration Help Line
Posted August 13, 2007
USCIS announced the establishment of a dedicated, toll-free telephone help line for immigration services and benefits by members of the US military and their families stationed around the world.

USCIS Issues Service Center And Lockbox Receipting Update
Posted August 07, 2007
USCIS announced that it has experienced a tremendous increase in the number of applications filed, which has resulted in a front log of cases awaiting data-entry.

USCIS to Administer Additional Humanitarian Programs
Posted August 07, 2007
USCIS administer the humanitarian parole Program, the Moscow Refugee Parole Program and the Cuban Haitian Entrant Program. These programs were formerly administered by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).

USCIS Implements Changes to Assist Prospective Adoptive Parents
Posted August 07, 2007
USCIS on July 30,2007 implemented several changes benefiting prospective adoptive parents who experience delays finalizing their adoptions.

USCIS Fact Sheet On Military Naturalizations
Posted August 06, 2007
USCIS issued an updated fact sheet on naturalization through military service.

USCIS Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) on I-485 Adjustment of Status Processing
Posted August 06, 2007
This Standard Operating Procedures(SOP) has been created for the standardizing operational policies and procedures between all service centers in the processing of the I-485. Note that this SOP was last updated in March 2003

USCIS Update on Employment Authorization (I-765) Validity
Posted August 01, 2007
Certain aliens who are temporarily in the United States may file a Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization, to request an Employment Authorization Document (EAD).

USCIS Update On New Fees, Effective July 30th
Posted July 30, 2007
USCIS reminded the public that all filings submitted on or after July 30, 2007 via the electronic filing system must be submitted with payment of the new fees.

USCIS Issues Final Reminder to Hondurans and Nicaraguans Eligible for TPS
Posted July 30, 2007
USCIS issued a final TPS reminder to Honduran and Nicaraguan nationals eligible for Temporary Protected Status (TPS) to file a re-registration application for TPS by the closing date of July 30, 2007.

USCIS FAQ #2 on EB Adjustments Filed by Aliens Whose Priority Dates are Current under Department of State July Visa Bulletin
Posted July 28, 2007
USCIS answers questions on courier service tracking as "postmark", physicals by overseas physicians, applicable filing fees, etc., for employment-based adjustment filings under the July Visa Bulletin.

USCIS Webpage on Electronic Filing for Immigration Benefits
Posted July 28, 2007
The link to the USCIS Webpage on e-filing.

USCIS Neufeld Memo On Fee Waiver Guidelines
Posted July 28, 2007
USCIS Acting Associate Director Neufeld issued a memo providing updated fee waiver guidelines.

USCIS Posts Correct Version of Form I-485
Posted July 28, 2007
USCIS inadvertently posted on its website a version of Form I-485 that reflected the fee increase which does not take effect until July 30, 2007. USCIS has now posted the correct version of the Form I-485.

USCIS Issues FAQ on I-485 Filings
Posted July 24, 2007
USCIS released FAQs related to EB adjustments filed under the July Visa Bulletin.

New Application and Petition Fees Go Into Effect on July 30, 2007
Posted July 24, 2007
USCIS issued a reminder that the fee increase is effective July 30, 2007.

USCIS Discontinues Use of "Prepaid Mailers" for Issuing Notices and Documents
Posted July 24, 2007
USCIS announced that it will only accept "prepaid mailers" for refugee travel documents and reentry permits given their high rate of expedited handling.

USCIS Announces Extension of Temporary Suspension of Premium Processing Service for Form I-140 Immigrant Alien Petitions
Posted July 24, 2007
USCIS announced an extension of the temporary suspension of Premium Processing for Form I-140, Immigrant Alien Worker Petitions, which was previously announced on June 27, 2007 and became effective on July2, 2007.

USCIS Releases Questions and Answers on SIMS Pilot Program for Inter-Country Adoption Applications
Posted July 17, 2007
On 7/16/07 USCIS announced the launch of the first Secure Information Management Service (SIMS) pilot program to test the web-based information management tool. The pilot program is using SIMS to process inter-country adoption applications.

USCIS Announces Revised Processing Procedures for Adjustment of Status Applications
Posted July 17, 2007
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services announced that, beginning immediately, it will accept employment-based applications to adjust status (Form I-485) filed by aliens whose priority dates are current under the July Visa Bulletin, No. 107. USCIS will accept applications filed not later than August 17, 2007.

USCIS Issues Service Center Receipting Update
Posted July 16, 2007
USCIS provided projections concerning fee receipting and data entry processing of cases currently at USCIS Service Centers as well as the anticipated in time-compliance dates at each site.

USCIS Issues Guidance Regarding Form I-140 Immigrant Alien Worker Filings with Labor Certification Substitution Requests
Posted July 16, 2007
USCIS issued a correction of previous guidance regarding Form I-140 immigrant alien worker filings with labor certification substitution requests and announced that it will accept filings received on July 16, 2007.

USCIS Re-Issues Reminder to Hondurans and Nicaraguans Eligible for Temporary Protected Status (TPS)
Posted July 11, 2007
USCIS reminded Hondurans and Nicaraguans eligible for Temporary Protected Status(TPS) to file a re-registration application for TPS by the closing date of July 30,2007.

USCIS Issues Service Center Receipting Update
Posted July 08, 2007
USCIS is providing the following projections concerning fee receipting and data entry processing of cases currently at USCIS service centers as well as the anticipated in time-compliance dates at each site.

USCIS Introduces New Educational Resource for Immigrants
Posted July 08, 2007
USCIS today introduced its latest educational tool for immigrants interested in becoming United States citizens.

USCIS Customer Letter on Direct Filing of Some Forms Beginning July 30, 2007
Posted July 03, 2007
USCIS letter to customers provides instructions on Direct Filing of Forms I-129F, I-131, I-140, I-360, I-485, I-765, and I-907, which take effect July 30, 2007.

USCIS Fact Sheet on Expanded Special Immigrant Status for Afghan and Iraqi Translators and Interpreters
Posted July 03, 2007
USCIS released a Fact Sheet announcing a temporary increase in the number of Afghani and Iraqi translators and interpreters allowed to immigrate in FY 07 and FY 08 from 50 to 500.

USCIS Announces Update on Employment-Based Adjustment of Status Processing
Posted July 03, 2007
Dept. of State has revised its July Visa Bulletin to reflect that all available employment-based immigrant visas have been allocated for fiscal year 2007. USCIS is rejecting applications to adjust status (I-485) filed by aliens whose priority dates are not current under the revised July Bulletin.

USCIS Reminds New Application and Petition Fees Go Into Effect on July 30, 2007
Posted July 02, 2007
USCIS reminds its customers that the agency's new fee schedule is effective on July 30, 2007. Applications or petitions postmarked or otherwise filed on or after that date must include the new fee.

USCIS Announces Temporary Suspension of Premium Processing Service for Form I-140, Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker
Posted July 02, 2007
USCIS announced the temporary suspension of premium processing service for Form I-140, immigrant petition for alien worker, in accordance with 8 CFR 103.2(f)(2), lasting for 30 days beginning on July 2, 2007 and ending on August 1, 2007.

California service Center Experiencing System Delays
Posted June 27, 2007
USCIS Update reports that the California Service Center is experiencing systems problems that are causing delays in the printing of certain notices.

USCIS Fact Sheet On Status Of Citizens Of Republic Of Palau
Posted June 25, 2007
USCIS issued a fact sheet on the status of citizens of the Republic of Palau.

USCIS Issues Reminder to Hondurans and Nicaraguans Eligible for Temporary Protected Status (TPS)
Posted June 25, 2007
USCIS reminded Hondurans and Nicaraguans eligible for Temporary Protected Status (TPS) to file a re-registration application for TPS by the closing date of July 30, 2007.

USCIS Fact Sheet on Naturalization Through Military Service
Posted June 25, 2007
USCIS released a Fact Sheet on naturalization for members and certain veterans of the U.S. Armed Forces.

USCIS Modifies Participation Requirement in District Office Rapid Adjudication (DORA) Pilot Program
Posted June 25, 2007
USCIS announced that adjustment applicants in the Dallas, El Paso and Oklahoma City areas will no longer be required to participate in the DORA pilot program under which certain aliens were required to file Form I-485 in person.

USCIS Announces Direct Filing Instructions for Forms I-129F, I-131, I-140, I-360, I-485, I-765, and I-907
Posted June 25, 2007
USCIS today announced new "Direct Filing" instructions for additional immigration forms that were transitioned last year into the Bi-Specialization initiative.

USCIS Modifies Participation Requirement in District Office Rapid Adjudication (DORA) Pilot Program
Posted June 21, 2007
USCIS announced today that immigrant applicants in the Dallas, El Paso and Oklahoma City areas will no longer be required to participate in a pilot program that uses alternate filing procedures to process permanent residence or adjustment of status applications.

USCIS Temporary R1 Premium Processing Suspension Continues
Posted June 19, 2007
USCIS extended the suspension of premium processing for I-129 Religious Worker applications for an additional six months.

2007 USCIS Ombudsman's Annual Report
Posted June 12, 2007
The USCIS Ombudsman released his annual report to Congress on June 11, 2007.

USCIS Reminds Customers of Correct Customer Service Phone Number
Posted June 11, 2007
USCIS reminds its customers that the correct phone number for the National Customer Service Center (NCSC) is 800-375-5283.

USCIS Contact Information and Organization Chart (Updated 6/1/07)
Posted June 04, 2007
This is a list of contact information for U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) Headquarters officers and offices, followed by a USCIS organization chart.

USCIS Advises Public Regarding Immigration Fraud and Proposed Immigration Reform Legislation
Posted June 01, 2007
USCIS would like to inform the public that, although the U.S. Senate is debating and considering immigration legislation (S. 1348), that bill has not become law. If immigration reform legislation does become law, USCIS will advise the public on how to proceed.

USCIS Sets Final Fee Schedule
Posted May 30, 2007
USCIS announced a new fee schedule, effective on July 30, 2007, for immigration benefit applications and petitions.These fees fund the cost of processing applications and petitions for immigration benefits and services.

USCIS Announces TPS Extension For Honduran And Nicaraguan Nationals
Posted May 30, 2007
USCIS announced the designation of Hondurans and Nicaraguans for Temporary Protected Status (TPS) has been extended for 18 months to January 5, 2009, from its current expiration date of July 5, 2007.

USCIS Issues Service Center Receipting Update
Posted May 25, 2007
USCIS issued a press release providing projections concerning fee receipting and data entry processing of cases currently at USCIS Service Centers as well as the anticipated in time-compliance dates at each site.

USCIS Fact Sheet on Military Naturalizations
Posted May 25, 2007
Members of the U.S. Armed Forces who may apply for citizenship under special provisions of the Immigration and Nationality Act.

USCIS Announces New Procedures for I-140 in Response to New DOL Rule Eliminating Substitutions on Labor Certifications
Posted May 24, 2007
This USCIS Update outlines new I-140 filing procedures following the DOL's rule eliminating substitutions on labor certification applications.

USCIS Provides Information About EB-5 Program
Posted May 22, 2007
USCIS provides information about the EB-5 program. These include a list of current "active" regional centers, statistics showing the growth of the EB-5 program, and a PowerPoint concerning the EB-5 program.

USCIS Updates Guatemala Adoption Processing Times
Posted May 17, 2007
USCIS announced new processing times for Guatemalan orphan petitions today. The USCIS office in Guatemala will now take up to 60 days to review initial documents and up to four business days to review final adoption document in support of an orphan petition.

USCIS Terminates Premium Processing Service for Form I-140 Requesting Labor Certification Substitution
Posted May 17, 2007
USCIS announced today that beginning on Friday, May 18, 2007, it will terminate Premium Processing Service for Form I-140 petitions that request labor certification substitution in accordance with 8 CFR 103.2(f)(2). USCIS anticipates a substantial increase in the number of petitioning employers that will file Form I-140 petitions requesting Premium Processing Service and seeking labor certification substitution prior to July 16, 2007.

USCIS Issuance of Receipts for H-1B Cap Cases On-Going
Posted May 14, 2007
USCIS confirmed a fee receipt and data entry front log for H-1B petitions that were not filed premium processing.

USCIS Revised Information Collection on Form I-777
Posted May 12, 2007
USCIS published a revision of an existing information collection on Form I-777, Application for Issuance or Replacement of Northern Mariana Card. The purpose of this notice is to allow an additional 30 days for public comments. Comments will be accepted until June 11, 2007.

USCIS Issues Revised Information Collection on Form I-612
Posted May 12, 2007
USCIS published a revision of an existing information collection on Form I-612(Application for Waiver of the Foreign Residence Requirement of Section 212(e) of the Immigration and Nationality Act). Comments will be accepted until June 11, 2007.

USCIS Extends Temporary Protected Status for Eligible Hondurans, Nicaraguans and Salvadorans
Posted May 02, 2007
Department of Homeland Security Secretary Michael Chertoff announced his decision to extend Temporary Protected Status (TPS) designations for eligible nationals of Honduras, Nicaragua and El Salvador for 18 months.

Update on New Pilot Program for I-601 in Ciudad Juarez
Posted April 26, 2007
An update on the new pilot program to provide same day adjudication of many I-601 Waivers of Excludability. The program was implemented this year by the USCIS Ciudad Juarez Office in conjunction with the State Department.

USCIS Proposed Rule on Religious Worker Visas
Posted April 25, 2007
This rule proposes to amend U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) regulations regarding the specail immigrant and nonimmigrant religious worker visa classifications.

USCIS Updates Count of FY 2008 U.S.-Earned Masters Degree H-1B Cap Filings
Posted April 23, 2007
USCIS announced today an updated number of filings for H-1B petitions filed on behalf of aliens with U.S.-earned masters or higher degrees.

Current Cap Count for Non-Immigrant Worker Visas for Fiscal Year 2008
Posted April 20, 2007
As of 4/16/07, 16,987 petitions for the U.S. master�s degree exemption had been received.

USCIS Proposes Revisions for Religious Worker Visas