January visa bulletin stayed the same as December 2024. USCIS determined that for January 2024, applicants in all family-sponsored preference categories and all employment-based preference categories must use the Dates for Filing chart. According to the January 2024 visa bulletin, the priority date for the Second preference (F2A) – spouses and children (unmarried and under 21 years of age) of…
Effective from December 2, 2024, USCIS requires applicants filing Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status, to include Form I-693, Report of Immigration Medical Examination and Vaccination Record. Applications missing this form may be rejected to reduce Requests for Evidence (RFEs) during processing. USCIS has not clarified which applications might be accepted or rejected without the required…
The incoming Trump Administration may try to end DACA and DACA Advance Parole, prompting many DACA recipients to explore ways to secure H-1B or other visas abroad. Around 40% of DACA beneficiaries can get H-1B visas without additional waivers, but about 60%—mostly older recipients—might face challenges due to unlawful presence bars. On July 15, 2024, the Department of State introduced…
USCIS recently updated its policy guidance on how evidence is evaluated for individuals applying under the “extraordinary ability” classification (typically EB-1A). Here are the key points: 1. Team Awards: Clarification: USCIS now explicitly considers team awards as qualifying under the criterion for “lesser nationally or internationally recognized prizes or awards for excellence.” Implication: If an applicant was part of a…
Applying for a U.S. nonimmigrant tourist visa, or B-2 visa, can be complex. Some citizens may not need to apply at all, so it’s essential to review the Department of State’s information carefully. Here are ten key considerations for the application process: 1. Understand Visa Purpose: The B-2 visa is for tourism, medical treatment, or visiting family; it does not…
To vote in U.S. federal elections, you must be a U.S. citizen (by birth, overseas to a U.S. citizen parent, or through naturalization), meet your state’s residency requirements, and be at least 18 years old by Election Day. You need to register by your state’s deadline and can check age requirements if you’ll be 18 by Election Day. Some states…
