Visa Bulletin For May 2024

Number 89

Volume X

Washington, D.C

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A. STATUTORY NUMBERS FOR PREFERENCE IMMIGRANT VISAS

This bulletin summarizes the availability of immigrant numbers during May for: “Final Action Dates” and “Dates for Filing Applications,” indicating when immigrant visa applicants should be notified to assemble and submit required documentation to the National Visa Center.

Agency

Green Card

Immigration Law

USCIS Announces New Guidance on Form I-693 Validity Period

Release Date:

04/04/2024

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services today announced (PDF, 317.28 KB) that any Form I-693, Report of Immigration Medical Examination and Vaccination Record, that was properly completed and signed by a civil surgeon on or after Nov. 1, 2023, does not expire and can be used indefinitely as evidence to show that the applicant is not inadmissible on health-related grounds.

Unemployment Benefits for H-1, H-4 + EAD Holders with Previous H-1B Employment

Question details

Can someone in H4 + EAD status receive unemployment benefits if they only worked on H1b status? Would receiving such benefits be considered a public charge or have any other negative impact down the road?

 

Video URL
FAQ Transcript

Unemployment benefits in the US vary by state and can be complex. If you are an H1B visa holder who has been laid off, you may be eligible for benefits during your 60-day grace period, but it's important to confirm with your state's unemployment office. Regardless of your visa situation, it's important to remember that unemployment benefits are considered an earned benefit funded by your employer's contributions, so there's no public charge concern. Always check with your state's unemployment office for specific requirements and the application process.

 

Staying outside the US on Re-Entry Permit Validity, Usage, and Multiple Entries for Green Card Holders

Question details

Background Context

Applied for I131, ReEntry Permit for my parents, who hold GC

Receipt Notice: 12/27/2022

Biometrics: Jan 2023

Left US: March 1, 2023

Approval Notice received: 03/07/2024 with validity from 02/29/2024 to 02/27/2026

Question

While the intention is to be back in the US as soon as possible, can parents stay outside US till 02/27/2026 or do they need to be back before Feb 25, 2025 (as it would be two years by then since they left)?​

Can the re-entry permit be used for multiple entries, or is it just for one-time use?​

 

Video URL
FAQ Transcript

One can stay outside the US for the entire validity period of the re-entry permit, and yes, they can use it for multiple entries during that time.

 

USCIS Provides Third Gender Option on Form N-400

Release Date:

04/01/2024

USCIS has revised Form N-400, Application for Naturalization, to provide a third gender option, “X,” defined as “Another Gender Identity.” USCIS is also updating guidance in the USCIS Policy Manual accordingly to account for this form revision and other forthcoming form revisions that will add a third gender option; see the Policy Alert (PDF, 344.77 KB).