U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services

This section provides our readers with the latest news and information on the recent developments at the USCIS.

The links below are in chronological order,latest at the top.

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USCIS Memo On Aging Out And V Visas
Posted June 28, 2006 
USCIS issued a memo clarifying aging out provisions as they affect preference relatives and immediate family members under the Child Status Protection Act Section 6 and Form I-539 adjudications for V status.

USCIS Final Rule on Affidavits of Support on Behalf of Immigrants
Posted June 21, 2006 
This final rule adopts, with specified changes, an interim rule published by the former INS on October 20, 1997 regarding the affidavit of support. This rule clarifies several issues raised under the interim rule and is effective 7/21/ 2006.

USCIS Issues Latest H-1B Advanced Degree Cap Count
Posted June 19, 2006 
USCIS issued the latest cap count as of June 2, 2006, for the H-1B advanced degree exemption.

USCIS Memo On Permanent Employment for Outstanding Professors and Reserachers
Posted June 09, 2006 
USCIS provides guidance on applying the definition of "permanent employment" when adjudicating first preference (EB-1) petitions filed on behalf of outstanding researchers.

USCIS Memo Regarding Eligibility For Exemption From H-1B Cap On AC21
Posted June 09, 2006 
USCIS provides guidance on determining eligibility for exemptions to the H-1B cap based on employment or an offer of employment at an institution of higher education, a related or affiliated nonprofit entity, a nonprofit research organization, or a governmental research organization as provided by section 103 of AC21.

USCIS Issues Latest H-1B Advanced Degree Cap Count
Posted June 06, 2006 
USCIS issued the latest cap count as of June 2, 2006, for the H-1B advanced degree exemption.

USCIS Reaches H-1B Cap
Posted June 01, 2006 
USCIS announced that it has received a sufficient number of H-1B petitions to meet the congressionally mandated cap for FY 2007. The "final receipt date" for H-1B petitions subject to the FY 2007 annual cap was May 26, 2006.

USCIS Notifies Public of Recent Changes Regarding Premium Processing
Posted May 25, 2006 
USCIS public notice explains that the Federal Register notice designating certain I-140s, I-539s and I-765s for premium processing does not open these categories for premium processing filing until a formal notice is posted on the USCIS site.

USCIS Completes Latest Military Naturalization Effort
Posted May 24, 2006 
USCIS announces the naturalization of over 200 members of the armed forces from 70 countries who are serving in Iraq.

USCIS Again Publishes Notice Of Correction On TPS Extension Date
Posted May 24, 2006 
USCIS published a Federal Register notice correcting the end date of the 60-day re-registration period for Nicaragua TPS to be June 1, 2006.

USCIS Issues Summer Travel Advisory for Adjustment of Status Applicants
Posted May 24, 2006 
USCIS reminds adjustment applicants, TPS grantees, asylum applicants, and NACARA § 203 beneficiaries, to obtain Advance Parole before traveling abroad.

USCIS Releases Latest H Cap Count
Posted May 23, 2006 
USCIS has updated its website with revised figures for H-1B usage for fiscal year 2007.

USCIS Interim Rule Regarding Procedures for Notifying the Public of Premium Processing Service Designations and Availability
Posted May 23, 2006 
This interim rule amends DHS regulations to change the process whereby USCIS will notify the public of the dates and conditions for Premium Processing Service of designated employment-based petitions and applications. Comments are due by July 24, 2006.

USCIS Notice of Designation of Certain Employment-Based Petitions and Applications as Eligible for Premium Processing Service
Posted May 23, 2006 
USCIS Federal Register notice May 23, 2006, establishes future eligibility of EB-1, EB 2 (except NIW), and EB-3 I-140 petitions for premium processing, along with premium processing eligibility for certain I-765 and -539 categories.

DOS Statement on Recall of K-1 Fiancé(e) I-129F Petitions by DHS
Posted May 23, 2006 
DHS SCOPS Units has recalled 1,100 K-1 fiancé(e) petitions with priority dates on or after March 6, 2006. These petitions were approved in error and sent through NVC to posts for processing, despite DHS’ failure to request criminal background information from petitioners in compliance with the International Marriage Broker Regulation (IMBR).

Current Work Distribution of Form I-129 Between VSC And CSC
Posted May 23, 2006 
USCIS announced the current work distribution of Form I-129 between the Vermont Service Center and California Service Center.

USCIS Publishes Interim Rule On Eligibility Of Arriving Aliens For AOS
Posted May 14, 2006 
USCIS and EOIR published an interim rule effective May 12, 2006, on the eligibility of arriving aliens in removal proceedings to apply for adjustment of status and jurisdiction to adjudicate applications for adjustment of status.

USCIS Reissues Reminder for Hondurans and Nicaraguans Eligible for Temporary Protected Status
Posted May 14, 2006 
USCIS re-issued a reminder to Hondurans and Nicaraguans eligible to file a re-registration application for Temporary Protected Status (TPS) by the closing date of June 1, 2006.

USCIS Memo On Legal And Discretionary Analysis For Adjudication
Posted May 11, 2006 
USCIS issued a memo on the importance of carefully analyzing the factual findings, legal requirements, and discretionary factors in adjudicating applications and petitions.

USCIS Memo on H-1B Cap Exemption for Aliens Holding Master's or Higher Degrees from U.S. Institutions
Posted May 09, 2006 
This USCIs memo is regarding evaluation of eligibility for the exemption from the H-1B cap for graduates of U.S. master's or higher programs.

USCIS Issues Reminder for Hondurans and Nicaraguans Eligible for Temporary Protected Status
Posted May 02, 2006 
USCIS issued a reminder to Hondurans and Nicaraguans eligible to file a re-registration application for Temporary Protected Status (TPS) by the closing date of June 1, 2006.

USCIS Memo Amends Guidance On Posthumous Immigration Benefits
Posted May 02, 2006 
USCIS issued guidance providing revised instructions on the processing of Forms I-360 and I-485 filed for the purpose of seeking posthumous immigration benefits, and guidance on how to interpret the statutory requirement "died as a result of injury or disease incurred in or aggravated by combat," as found in Public Law 108-136.

USCIS Closes Katrina Post Office Box at Texas Service Center
Posted April 28, 2006 
USCIS announced that it is closing the Katrina Post Office Box at the Texas Service center. Established in the wake of Hurricane Katrina.

USCIS Notifies Employers of Filing Changes
Posted April 28, 2006 
Due to large volume of cases receipts at the service centers during the first week of April, it is taking longer than expected for USCIS to enter cases into the system. It may take nearly two weeks to generate and mail receipt notices.

USCIS Issues Fact Sheet for Background Checks
Posted April 26, 2006 
USCIS conducts background checks on all applicants for an immigration benefit.

USCIS Formally Establishes National Security and Records Verification Directorate
Posted April 11, 2006 
USCIS Director Emilio T. Gonzalez has established a new operational Directorate, National Security and Records Verification.

Current Cap Count for Non-Immigrant Worker Visas For Fiscal Year 2007
Posted April 11, 2006 

USCIS Warns of Potential for Immigration Fraud
Posted April 10, 2006 
USCIS warns the public of the potential for immigration fraud perpetrated by individuals or organizations seeking fees for services in connection with any temporary worker program.

USCIS Announces H-2B Cap Is Reached
Posted April 06, 2006 
USCIS announced today that it has received a sufficient number of petitions to reach the congressionally mandated H-2B cap and that April 4, 2006 is the "final receipt date" for new H-2B worker petitions requesting employment start dates prior to October 1, 2006.

USCIS Warns of Spoof H-1B Release
Posted April 05, 2006 
USCIS became aware of the circulation of a bogus release indicating that USCIS has received enough petitions to meet the congressionally-mandated H-1B cap for FY 2007. The bogus release is not accurate and was not issued by USCIS.

USCIS Provides H-1B Guidance
Posted March 28, 2006 
USCIS issued H-1B filing guidance in anticipation of the April 1, 2006 FY 2007 beginning filing date.

USCIS Provides Information on Bi-specialization Filing of I-129 and I-140 Petitions
Posted March 28, 2006 
USCIS announced that starting on April 1st, employers filing Form I-129 should mail that form directly to the Vermont Service Center. Also starting on April 1st, employers filing Form I-140 should mail that form directly to the Nebraska Service Center.

USCIS Guidance for Schedule A Blanket Labor Certifications effective February 14, 2006
Posted February 15, 2006 
Schedule A is a list of pre-certified occupations codified in 20 CFR 656.10 and 20 CFR 656.22 in the pre-PERM regulations and in 20 CFR 656.5 and 656.15 in the PERM regulations for which the Secretary of the DOL previously has determined that there are not sufficient U.S. workers who are able, willing, qualified and available and that the wages and working conditions of U.S. workers similarly employed will not be adversely affected by the employment of aliens in such occupations.

USCIS Memo Extends Authority Denying I-751 To USCIS Service Center Directors
Posted February 14, 2006 
The USCIS issued a memorandum on 30 January, 2006 to delegate to the USCIS Service Center Directors the authority to deny an I-751, "Petition to Remove Conditions on Residence" where the Service Center Director is satisfied that the marriage is for the purpose of evading US immigration laws.

USCIS Memo on Rescheduling Interviews and Handling Failures to Appear for Interviews
Posted January 27, 2006 
Memo from USCIS provides guidance on evaluating requests for rescheduling interviews and handling failures to appear for scheduled interviews.

USCIS Public Notice to Decouple Naturalization Applications
Posted January 24, 2006 
In order to speed the processing of naturalization cases, USCIS will no longer process the group naturalization applications (a systems function known as group Manaqgement) unless specifically requested by a family.

USCIS Reaches H-1B Exemption Cap for Fiscal Year 2006
Posted January 19, 2006 
USCIS announced today that it has received enough H-1B petitions that qualify for the exemption from the H-1B numerical limitations for foreign workers with a U.S.-earned master’s or higher. The “final receipt date” for these 20,000 cap-exempt H-1B petitions is January 17, 2006.

USCIS Issues Extension of Validity of Medical Certifications on Form I-693
Posted January 17, 2006 
This USCIS memo temporarily extends the validity of civil surgeon endorsements on Form I-693 for certain adjustment of status applicants.

USCIS Guidance on Applications for U Nonimmigrant Status
Posted January 17, 2006 
This memo provides guidance to USCIS officers in the field regarding the U nonimmigrant classification for victims of certain qualifying criminal activity.

Advanced Degree H-1Bs Nears Limit For FY 2006
Posted January 11, 2006 
The limit for H-1Bs for graduates of U.S. advanced degree programs is 20,000. USCIS indicates that the count reaches at 19,047 for fiscal year 2006.

USCIS Issues E-3 Specialty Occupation Worker Guidance
Posted December 17, 2005 
USCIS provides information on the eligibility requirements and documentation needed for individuals wishing to either change their nonimmigrant status to that of an E-3 worker or to extend their E-3 status.

H-2B Cap Reached For FY 2006
Posted December 17, 2005 
USCIS announced that H-2B cap has been reached for first half of FY 2006.

USCIS Releases Latest H Count
Posted December 17, 2005 
USCIS has received enough petitions to reach the H-2B cap for the first-half of FY2006. and updated H-1B numbers for graduates of U.S.

USCIS Issues Citizenship and Naturalization Facts
Posted December 16, 2005 
USCIS issues fact sheet for the citizenship and naturalization facts.

OIG Reviews USCIS Alien Security Checks
Posted December 14, 2005 
This report assesses the strengths and weaknesses of the use of security checks by USCIS when processing applications for immigration benefits. It is based on interviews with employees and officials, direct observations, and a review of applicable documents.

USCIS policy Regarding Form I-864. Affidavit of Support
Posted December 06, 2005 
This memorandum notifies that a person completing an Affidavit of Support(Form I-864) on behalf of an adjustment of status applicant is only required to file one Federal income tax retum, for the tax year that is most recent as of the date the Form I-864 was signed, rather than having to submit a Federal income tax return for each of the three most recent tax years.

Updated USCIS Counts on H-2B and H-1B Advanced Degrees Usage
Posted December 06, 2005 
Updated figures on fiscal year 2006 usage of H-2B first-half numbers and H-1B numbers for graduates of U.S. advanced degree programs(updated on December 01, 2005).

USCIS Announces New Address Change Procedures for ABC Class Members
Posted December 01, 2005 
USCIS will no longer accept change of address forms sent to the box address, as ABC Project Post Office Box now closed. Class members must now use the address listed on Form AR-11 in order to report a change of address.

USCIS Publishes Latest Cap Count on H-2B and H-1B Advanced Degree Usage
Posted November 24, 2005 
Updated figures on fiscal year 2006 usage of H-2B first-half numbers and H-1B numbers for graduates of U.S. advanced degree programs.

USCIS Memo on Section 209(c) Waivers
Posted November 10, 2005 
USCIS issues memo regarding procedures for processing waivers of excludability for refugees and asylees under Section 209(c) of the Act.

USCIS Memo on Procedures for Calculating Maximum Period of Stay for H-1B and L-1 Nonimmigrants
Posted November 04, 2005 
This memo explains the procedures for determining the amount of time that can be recaptured for H-1B and L-1 nonimmigrants who have been out of the country.

USCIS Reminds Applicants for Adjustment of Status to Obtain Advance Parole Before Holiday Travel Abroad
Posted November 04, 2005 
USCIS reminds individuals with an application for adjustment of status to that of lawful permanent resident, an application for relief under section 203 of the NACARA 203) or an asylum application, that they must obtain Advance Parole by filing Form I-131, Application for Travel Document before traveling abroad.

USCIS Update on Multiple Biometrics Appointments
Posted November 03, 2005 
USCIS Service Center Operations has informed that the new system, biometrics appointments will be scheduled by USCIS. No longer will an applicant have to schedule a biometrics appointment by calling the NCSC.

USCIS Update on Multiple Biometrics Appointments
Posted November 03, 2005 
USCIS Service Center Operations has informed that the new system, biometrics appointments will be scheduled by USCIS. No longer will an applicant have to schedule a biometrics appointment by calling the NCSC.

USCIS Begins Issuing "Adopted Decisions"
Posted October 27, 2005 
The USCIS has begun to issue decisions from the AAO designated as "USCIS Adopted Decisions." These decisions provide guidance to applicants, petitioners, practitioners and government officials in the correct interpretation of immigration law, regulations and policy.

USCIS Refuses to Use FY 2005 Chile and Singapore H-1B Numbers
Posted October 26, 2005 
USCIS responded to a letter from Senators on the Immigration Subcommittee, and it refused to add unused fiscal 2005 Chile and Singapore H-1B1 numbers back into the H-1B pool.

Guidance Memo on PERM-Related Issues and Extension of H-1B Beyond 6th Year
Posted October 14, 2005 
USCIS memo from William Yates provides guidance to the field on how PERM will impact Labor certification validity; Determining priority dates for employment-based Form I-140 petitions; Duplicate labor certification requests; and Adjudicating extensions of H-1B status beyond the 6th year.

USCIS Memorandum For Remedial Measures Made Necessary by Hurricanes
Posted October 14, 2005 
USCIS memo disscusses measures to be taken in order to assist individuals and entities affected by Hurricanes Katrina and Rita with their immigration-related problems.

USCIS Reminds Customers of Revised Fees to Appeal an AAO Decision
Posted September 29, 2005 
USCIS reminded that a revised fee structure is now in place for all appeals and motions under the jurisdiction of USCIS’ Administrative Appeals Office (AAO). Beginning today, anyone wishing to file such an appeal or motion must pay a fee of $385.

USCIS Publishes Latest Cap Count for Non-Immigrant Visas
Posted September 27, 2005 
USCIS published the latest H-cap count.

USCIS Immigration Assistance Contacts in Texas for Hurricane Victims
Posted September 10, 2005 
USCIS established points of contact in Texas to get immigration assistance for victims of Hurricane Katrina.

USCIS Fact Sheet for El Salvadoran TPS Re-registration and the Issuance of EADs
Posted September 10, 2005 
Fact Sheet from USCIS indicates what actions are being taken with respect to Salvadoran TPS applicants who have not yet received their work authorization documents. Although the blanket authorization expires today, the government has failed to make provision to authorize those whose cases it was unable to process in a timely manner.

USCIS Notifies I-90 Applicants of Process Change
Posted September 10, 2005 
USCIS is announcing changes to the Form I-90 filing process to correct previous USCIS errors on an expedited basis without charging applicants an additional filing fee. USCIS will apply this process to errors in production and delivery of permanent resident cards, including those received through the immigrant visa process.

USCIS Reaches H-1B Cap
Posted August 12, 2005 
USCIS announces that sufficient H-1Bs have been received to reach the fiscal 2006 H-1B cap, and that filings are cut off for any petitions received after August 10, 2005.

USCIS Reminds I-90 Applicants That E-Filing Remains an Option
Posted August 04, 2005 
USCIS reminded its customer today that e-filings remains a secure and viable option for filing an I-90 application to replace a Permanent Resident Card commonly known as "Green Card".

USCIS Updated Non-immigrant Worker Visa Cap Numbers
Posted August 03, 2005 
The latest H-1B and H-2B non-immigrant worker visa cap numbers are available now.

USCIS Announces Update Regarding New H-1B Exemptions
Posted July 13, 2005 
The USCIS announced today that it has received 8,069 H-1B petitions that will count against the Congressionally-mandated exemption cap for FY 2005.

90-Day Extension of Work Permits for Hondurans and Nicaraguans with Temporary Protected Status (TPS)
Posted July 07, 2005 
The USCIS announces an automatic EAD extension for Hondurans and Nicaraguans with Temporary Protected Status (TPS) valid until October 5, 2005.

USCIS Implements L-1 Visa Reform Act of 2004
Posted June 22, 2005 
USCIS announced today the implementation of new provisions to the L-1 temporary worker program, commonly known as intracompany transferees. The changes were mandated by L-1 Visa Reform Act of 2004 which became law last December as part of the Omnibus Appropriations Act for FY 2005. The L-1 Visa Reform Act amends previous legislation to address the "outsourcing" of L-1B temporary workers.

DHS Issues Updated Form I-9
Posted June 21, 2005 
USCIS and ICE announced today that they have updated the Employment Eligibility Verification Form (Form I-9) to eliminate outdated references to the former Immigration and Naturalization Service (INS) and its parent agency, the Department of Justice.

USCIS Releases Revised News Release on New I-90 Lock Box
Posted June 18, 2005 
A revised notice from USCIS advises the public about the new procedure for filing (Form I-90 (the application for a replacement green card). In this notice addresses are also given for the new California lock box.

USCIS Update on FY 2006 H-1B Numbers
Posted June 14, 2005 
USCIS advises that it has NOT reached enough fiscal year 2006 cap-subject H-1B petitions to be nearing the cap. It has been indicated that petitions are coming slowly, however it is still believed that the fiscal 2006 cap likely will be reached before the actual start of fiscal year 2006 on October 1, 2005.

USCIS Releases "The USCIS Strategic Plan"
Posted June 14, 2005 
The plan provides a total departmental overview and incorporates the USCIS Vision and Mission with key business objectives and goals.

USCIS Launches Guide For New Immigrants In Multiple Languages
Posted June 08, 2005 
The guide contains practical information about the rights and responsibilities of new permanent residents, practical information about getting settled in the U.S., and basic information for those immigrants interested in becoming naturalized citizens.

USCIS Memo on Accredited Parentage Testing Laboratories
Posted June 03, 2005 
This memo advises USCIS offices on how to obtain a current list of the American Association of Blood Banks accredited parentage testing laboratories.

USCIS Announces that 6,393 H-1B Petitions Counted Against FY 2005 Cap
Posted May 24, 2005 
USCIS announced that it has received more than 6,393 H-1B petitions that will count against the Congressionally-mandated exemption cap for FY 2005.

USCIS Announces H-2B Filing Notice for FY 2005 and 2006
Posted May 23, 2005 
USCIS has issued a public notice about additional petitions for H-2B workers as required by the Save Our Small and Seasonal Businesses Act of 2005.

USCIS Issues Updated Guidance on AC-21
Posted May 18, 2005 
USCIS has issued updated guidance on AC-21 regarding the 180 day portability rule, H-1B portability and extensions of H-1Bs after six years. This memo indicates that the final version of AC-21 regulation will be published soon.

USCIS Announces Valid V2, V3 Visa Holders Will No Longer Age-Out
Posted May 18, 2005 
The USCIS announced that valid V-2 and V-3 status holders will no longer "age-out" of V-2 or V-3 status. USCIS will now approve extension of status applications for children of lawful permanent residents who are 21 years old or older with V-2 or V-3 status, as long as they meet the requirements for extension of status in every other way.

USCIS Announces CSS And LULAC Settlement Deadline Extension
Posted May 18, 2005 
Filing deadline for applications for legalization under the terms of the CSS and LULAC (Newman) agreements extended from May 23, 2005 until December 31, 2005.

USCIS Memo on Procedures under New EOIR Security Clearance Regulations
Posted May 11, 2005 
The USCIS issues a memo on March 31, 2005 on new procedures required under the new EOIR security clearance regulations for respondents filing applications for relief, and for USCIS issuance of immigration documentation.

OIS Report on Temporary Admissions of Nonimmigrants to the United States
Posted May 11, 2005 
This OIS report examines the number and characteristics of nonimmigrant admissions in fiscal year 2004.

USCIS Announces Procedures for Additional 20,000 H-1B for FY 2005, Filings Starts from May 12, 2005
Posted May 04, 2005 
The USCIS announced new H-1B regulations that take effect upon publication in the Federal Register and change the H-1B filing procedures for FY 2005 and for future fiscal years. The filing period for the FY05 20,000 new H-1Bs for those with a master's or higher degree from a U.S. institution of higher education begins 5/12/05.

USCIS Issues Regulation Implementing the 20,000 FY 2005 H-1B Numbers
Posted May 02, 2005 
USCIS Issues advance copy of the regulation implementing the additional 20,000 H-1B for fiscal year 2005.

USCIS Amends Petitioning Requirements for O and P Nonimmigrant Classifications
Posted April 28, 2005 
This rule proposes to amend the regulations to enable petitioners to file O and P nonimmigrant petitions up to one year prior to the petitioners' need for the alien's services.

USCIS Requests Emergency Clearance of Old Form I-129 From OMB
Posted April 21, 2005 
USCIS is requesting emergency clearance of the December 10, 2001 version of Form I-129, Petition for Nonimmigrant Worker until April 30, 2005. USCIS seeks approval of this prior version to run concurrent with the new amended version until 4/30/05. After that date, approval of the old I-129 expires and the new version will be the only one approved for use.

USCIS Releases Notice for NBC Lockbox Direct Mail Address for Forms I-485, I-765 and I-131
Posted April 06, 2005 
This USCIS notice gives more information about the Chicago Lockbox which accepts certain applications pertaining to family-based adjustment of status cases like Forms I-485, I-765, and I-131.

Overview of USCIS Structure
Posted April 05, 2005 
USCIS provides an overview of its structure and operations, including a chart of senior personnel.

USCIS Launches "Civics Flash Cards"
Posted March 31, 2005 
Civics Flash Cards will help immigrants to increase their knowledge and understanding of U.S. history and government and help in the preparation for the naturalization exam.

Welcome to the United States:A Guide for New Immigrants
Posted March 31, 2005 
USCIS issued the orientation guide for new immigrants that is “Welcome to the United States”

USCIS Announces New Guidance On IndoChinese Parolee Adjustments
Posted March 30, 2005 
USCIS announced today two significant changes to the management of the Indochinese Parolee Adjustment Program first is the elimination of both the three-year filing period window and the second is adjustment cap.

USCIS Reminds Applicants of Phase Two of Direct Mail Program
Posted March 30, 2005 
USCIS reminds that, starting on April 01, 2005 applicants must mail the following applications directly to the Chicago lock box instead of submitting them to their local District Office. These forms include: Form I-485, Form I-765 and Form I-131.

USCIS Announces Backlog Elimination Update
Posted March 23, 2005 
USCIS quarterly report is designed to provide the congress with an update on the progress. USCIS has made in its effort to eliminate the backlog of pending applications for immigration benefits and naturalization by the end of FY 2006.

USCIS Seeks Comments on Information Collection Request for Special Immigrant Visas for Fourth Preference Employment-Based Broadcasters
Posted March 23, 2005 
USCIS announces it has submitted an information collection request regarding Special Immigrant Fourth Preference Employment-Based Broadcasters for review and clearance in accordance with the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995. Comments will be accepted until 5/23/05.

USCIS Seeks Comments on Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status and Supplement A Form I-485
Posted March 23, 2005 
USCIS announces it has submitted an information collection request regarding I-485s for review and clearance in accordance with the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995. Comments will be accepted until 5/23/05.

USCIS Extends Information Collection Comment Period for I-687(Application for Status as Temporary Resident under Section 245A of the INA)
Posted March 23, 2005 
USCIS Extends Information Collection Comment Period for I-687(Application for Status as Temporary Resident under Section 245A of the INA)

USCIS Updates Instructions for Form I-90
Posted March 18, 2005 
USCIS updated the instructions for form I-90, Application to Replace Permanent Residence Card.

USCIS Allows Temporary Use of Old Form I-129
Posted March 16, 2005 
Use of old Petition for a Nonimmigrant Worker form to continue through April 30, 2005.

USCIS Issues Guidance Memo to Clarifiy Certain Eligibility Requirements Pertaining to an Application to Adjust Status under Section 245(i)
Posted March 15, 2005 
Memo from William Yates providing guidance to the field on issues related to section 245(i). This memo clarifies issues pertaining to a "derivative" of a grandfathered alien, when an application for labor certification serves to grandfather an alien, and multiple filings for adjustment of status under section 245(i).

USCIS Extends Comment Period for Proposed rule of Temporary Nonagricultural Service or Labor (H-2B)
Posted March 09, 2005 
USCIS has extended the comment period for the proposed rule of temporary Nonagricultural Service or Labor (H-2B) for an additional 30 days. The comment period has been extended until April 8, 2005.

USCIS Indicates that Additional Petitions of 20,000 for FY 2005 for H-1Bs Will be Applied to All Qualified H-1B Nonimmigrant Aliens
Posted March 08, 2005 
USCIS Issues Press release which indicates that the 20,000 H-1B numbers for FY 2005 under the exemption will NOT be limited to individuals holding a master's or higher from a U.S. university, but instead will be applied to all qualified H-1B nonimmigrants. The date when filing can begin is not yet announced.

USCIS Says Not To File Petitions for H-1Bs for U.S. Advanced Degree Graduates Until New Guidance Issued
Posted March 07, 2005 
USCIS Advises Employers Not to File Petitions Until New Guidance Issued. USCIS is currently preparing guidance for the implementation of the Omnibus Appropriations Act for Fiscal Year 2005 which created a new exemption from the annual H-1B congressionally mandated cap of 65,000 visas.

USCIS Memo Provides New Guidance about Issuance of RFE and NOID
Posted Feb 20, 2005 
The memorandum on RFEs of May4, 2004 is rescinded and provides new instructions on when RFEs or NOIDs should be used, when filings should be approved or denied without RFE or NOID.

USCIS Fact Sheet on Status of the Citizens of the Freely Associated States of the Federated States of Micronesia(FSM) and the Republic of the Marshall Islands(RMI)
Posted Feb 15, 2005 
Citizens of the RMI or the FSM are not citizens or nationals of the United States.

USCIS Prioritizes Backlog Elimination in FY 2006 Budget
Posted Feb 07, 2005 
The USCIS issued a press release requested $1.854 billion in the FY 2006 budget, including a total of $100 million specifically for backlog elimination efforts.The USCIS issued a press release requested $1.854 billion in the FY 2006 budget, including a total of $100 million specifically for backlog elimination efforts.

USCIS Issues Instructions to NBC to Apply Akhtar v. Burzynski Case Decision Nationally
Posted Feb 05, 2005 
USCIS Director, Field Operations, instructs the NBC to apply Akhtar v. Burzynski, the case invalidating the V visa age-out regulations, to all cases, not just those in the 9th Circuit.

USCIS Release Memo On Victims Of Trafficking And Violence Protection Act
Posted Feb 05, 2005 
USCIS issued a memo to clarify the classes of applicants eligible for naturalization under Section 319 of the INA, as amended by the Victims Violence Protection Act of 2000.

USCIS Announces H-2B One-step Application Process for U.S. Employers Seeking Workers to Perform Temporary Labor
Posted Jan 28, 2005 
The USCIS announced a proposed rule that would significantly alter the H2B program. These changes would streamline the current burdensome process for filling short-term jobs, making it more responsive to urgent workforce needs while maintaining appropriate labor market and security safeguards.

USCIS Establishes EB-5 Immigrant Investor and Regional Center Unit
Posted Jan 26, 2005 
William Yates, Associate Director of CIS Operations issued a memo which provides, policy and regulation development, field guidance, form design, case auditing, and training regarding Regional Center adjudications and associated investor petitions within the EB-5 Investor Program, shall reside with PRD/Investor and Regional Center Unit (IRCU).

USCIS Guidance Memo On Good Moral Character And VAWA
Posted Jan 25, 2005 
William Yates, Associate Director of CIS Operations issued a memo and supporting attachments to the Vermont Service Center on standards for good moral character in Violence Against Women Act cases.

USCIS Guidance on Extension of Status for Conditional Residents with Pending or Denied Form I-829
Posted Jan 22, 2005 
This supplemental memo provides instructions for the field on paroles for EB-5 investors not present in the U.S. to seek final determinations on an I-526 or I-829. This guidance is effective immediately.

DHS Announces Extension of Temporary Protected Status (TPS) For Nationals of El Salvador
Posted Jan 06, 2005 
DHS and USCIS today announced 18 month extension of TPS for nationals of El Salvador until September 9, 2006. The 60 day re-registration period begins January 07, 2005 and ends March 08, 2005.

USCIS Releases Guidance Memo on EB-3 Retrogression/Rescissions for Concurrent Filings
Posted Dec 28, 2004 
USCIS memo provides guidance to the field on how to handle Form I-485s subject to visa availability retrogression. Note that such filings must be received by 12/30/04 to be accepted because 12/31/04 is a Federal holiday. The memo also rescinds the 3/3/04 memo on concurrent adjudication of I-140s and I-485s, although concurrent filing continues.

USCIS Memo on Extension of Validity of Medical Certifications on Form I-693
Posted Dec 15, 2004 
This memo temporarily extends the validity of civil surgeon endorsements on Form I-693 for certain adjustment of status applicants.

USCIS Announces FY 2005 H-2b Processing
Posted Dec 14, 2004 
USCIS announced that it had received H-2B petitions for 61,747 beneficiaries counting against the 66,000 statutory visa cap for fiscal year 2005. USCIS advises further that it needs to approve approximately 100,000 beneficiaries to fully utilize the 66,000 H-2B visa cap during a fiscal year.

H-1B Fee Increased to $ 1500 in Most Cases 2005
Posted Dec 09, 2004 
The USCIS issued a press release on the new law changes aspects of the temporary work program and fee change. It indicates that the new $1500 fee is now in effect. Therefore, all filings being sent after December 8th, 2004 should include that fee. No reference is made to the $500 fee.

USCIS Reminds Eligible Hondurans and Nicaraguans to Re-register for Temporary Protected Status (TPS) by January 3, 2005
Posted Dec 07, 2004 
The USCIS issued a reminder to eligible Hondurans and Nicaraguans to re-register for the 18-month extension of Temporary Protected Status (TPS) by January 3, 2005. Applicants must submit both Form I-765 and Form I-821 to the Chicago lockbox. Photographs are not required upon submission, and no filing fee is required for the I-765 if the applicant does not seek an EAD.

United States and Canada to Implement Safe Third Country Agreement on Asylum
Posted Nov 29, 2004 

USCIS Information Regarding the H-1B Numerical Limitation for FY 2005
Posted Nov 23, 2004 
This notice explains the USCIS procedure for processing H-1B petitions for new employment, which are subject to the H-1B cap, and filed by employers seeking to employ H-1B aliens on or before September 30, 2005. As we know the H-1B cap has been reached for FY05 in that case e-filing for H-1B nonimmigrant classification has also been suspended. H-1B extensions and non-cap H-1B cases must now be filed under the mail-in process.

USCIS Announces Address Change For Certain Immigration Filings Beginning December 1, 2004
Posted Nov 23, 2004 
The USCIS today announced that, in compliance with a Federal Register notice published on Nov. 19, individuals filing certain applications with USCIS should mail their forms directly to the Chicago Lockbox instead of submitting them to their District Office, These forms include Form I-485, Form I-765, and Form I-131.

USCIS Administrative Appeals Office's Contact and Delivery Information
Posted Nov 22, 2004 
This information is the contact information regarding USCIS Administrative Appeals Office for eg. Mailing address, courier service address, phone number and fax number for the USCIS Administrative Appeals Office.

USCIS Announces Relocation of Arlington Office
Posted Nov 22, 2004 
USCIS Announced that the Washington District Office will Move to a new location (2675 Prosperity Avenue in Fairfax, Virginia) on Friday November 26, 2004. For this move office will be closed between 11/23/2004 to 11/29/2004. In case of emergency, an Immigration Information Officer will be on site at the 4420 Fairfax Drive location during this transition period.

USCIS Announces FY 2005 H-2B Processing
Posted Nov 17, 2004 
USCIS announces that it has received H-2B petitions for 33,153 beneficiaries toward the fiscal year 2005 cap of 66,000. Based on past experience, it indicates that USCIS needs to approve 100,000 beneficiaries to fully utilize the cap numbers.

USCIS Announces New Look For Green Card
Posted Nov 15, 2004 
USCIS announced that it has manor changes to the look of the Permanent Resident Card ("green card"). The new Permanent Resident Card now features the DHS seal on the front and prominently mentions the "Department of Homeland Security" on the back.

USCIS Announces Backlog Elimination Update - 11/9/04
Posted Nov 09, 2004 
USCIS announced today that the backlog has declined for the processing immigration benefits such as work authorization, permanent residency, and naturalization.

Fact Sheet: Military Naturalizations 
Posted Oct 04, 2004 
The USCIS issued a fact sheet on military naturalizations.

USCIS Extends Validity Of Liberia EADs
Posted Oct 01, 2004 
The USCIS announced that Liberia EADs would be extended to October 24, 2004, due to an error in its Federal Register notice. .

USCIS Interpretation of Specialized Knowledge for Chefs and Specialty Cooks Seeking L-1B Status
Posted Sep 17, 2004 
This Memo clarifies that Chefs or Specialty Cooks general;ly are not considered to have "specialized knowledge" for L-1B purposes, even though they may have knowledge of a restaurant's special recipe or food preparation technique.

USCIS Reminder for Change in Photograph Standard
Posted Aug 31, 2004
The purpose of this memo is to remind about change in passport style photographs, which is effective from September 1, 2004 and to provide additional guidance on implementation of the new standard.

USCIS To Terminate Fingerprint Contract with Designated Law Enforcement Agencies
Posted Aug 23, 2004
USCIS announces that, on 10/1/04, it will terminate its contract with Designated Law Enforcement Agencies, where some immigrants in rural areas have gone for fingerprints.

USCIS Announces September 17, 2004, Public Meeting to Address Regional Centers and the Immigrant Investor Pilot
Posted Aug 13, 2004

USCIS Launches Infopass In Upstate New York and New Jersey
Posted Aug 09, 2004     
InfoPass now available in Newark and Buffalo Districts.

USCIS Launches InfoPass Online Appointment in Philadelphia and Pittsburgh    
Posted Aug 06, 2004
USCIS announces that InfoPass, its internet-based appointment system, was formally launched in the Philadelphia and Pittsburgh offices on August 5, 2004.

USCIS Memo Instructs Petitions and Applications for Transsexual Individuals    
Posted Aug 04, 2004
The purpose of this memo is to provide guidance related to the adjudication of petitions and applications filed by or on behalf of, or document requests by, transsexual individuals, including those who have either undergone sex reassignment surgery, or are in the process of doing so.

USCIS Announces Changes in Photo Standard to Take Effect August 2nd, 2004    
Posted Aug 03, 2004
The USCIS announced a change in the photo requirements for all applicants from a three-quarter face position to a standard, full frontal face position to take effect August 2, 2004.  For a photo flyer, see here .

USCIS Field Guidance on Special Immigrant Juvenile Status Petitions    
Posted July 29, 2004
The purpose of the memo is to provide policy and procedural clarification on the adjudication of Special Immigrant Juvenile (SIJ) petitions.

USCIS Plans to Launch InfoPass Nationwide     
Posted July 27, 2004
USCIS announces that InfoPass has commenced in New York and that USCIS will implement InfoPass nationwide to include 33 USCIS Districts by September 2004.

USCIS Announces Extension Of Stay For F And J Visa Holders Until H-1B Petitions Are Decided    
Posted July 27, 2004
USCIS announced that certain academic and exchange foreign students (F and J Visa holders) seeking to adjust to H-1B status may remain in the US legally until their H-1B petitions are decided. .

USCIS Director Eduardo Aguirre Addresses the Fee Adjustment     
Posted May 02, 2004
USCIS Director Aguirre issued a press statement on the the recent fee hike saying, "This is an important moment for USCIS; we are fundamentally transforming a tired immigration services system, uniformly recognized in need of reform, into a more efficient and effective operation." .

USCIS Memo Provides Guidance for CIS or Asylum Offices to Correct Erroneous I-94s    
Posted April 02, 2004
USCIS Memo provides guidance for CIS or Asylum Offices to Correct Erroneous I-94s.

USCIS Launches Pilot Program In Dallas District Office To Concurrently Process I-130s And I-485s        
Posted April 21, 2004
The USCIS announced its pilot program in the Dallas District Office to concurrently adjudicate I-130s and I-485s in a remarkably short timespan.