USCIS celebrated Independence Day 2023 by conducting over 180 naturalization ceremonies between June 30 and July 7, welcoming more than 5,500 new citizens. These ceremonies reflect the agency’s commitment to embracing immigrants and promoting the benefits of U.S. citizenship. In FY 2022, USCIS welcomed 974,000 new citizens, and in FY 2023 so far, 588,900 new citizens have been welcomed. USCIS…
The upcoming update to the U.S. citizenship test has raised concerns among immigrants and advocates, particularly regarding the inclusion of an English-speaking section that may disadvantage test-takers with lower levels of English proficiency. The proposed changes by USCIS entail the addition of a speaking section, in which an officer will present photos depicting ordinary scenarios such as daily activities, weather,…
USCIS has provided confirmation regarding the submission requirements for both Schedule A and National Interest Waiver I-140 petitions on the new Form 9089 Application for Permanent Employment Certification. The petitioner or self-petitioner should include the following sections: • Appendix A (Foreign Worker Information) of the new ETA Form 9089. • Appendix C (Supplemental Information), if additional information cannot be accommodated…
The Department of State (DOS) has recently made an important announcement regarding the Diversity Visa (DV) program for fiscal year 2024 (DV-2024) and subsequent years. Effective immediately, selectees are only required to submit the DS-260 immigrant visa application form for themselves and any accompanying family members to the Kentucky Consular Center (KCC). No other supporting documents should be submitted to…
An Employment Authorization Document (EAD) is a document that allows individuals in various immigration categories to work legally in the United States and can be used to prove eligibility to employers. USCIS temporarily extends the automatic extension period for Employment Authorization Documents (EADs) for up to 540 days while the EAD renewal application is pending, due to long processing times.…
USCIS announced new designs to improve the security of Permanent Resident Cards and Employment Authorization Documents. USCIS started issuing redesigned cards on January 30, 2023. The new Green Card and EAD designs contain state-of-the-art technology that continues to safeguard national security and improve service for the applicants. Current cards will remain valid until their expiration date (unless otherwise noted, such…
