Effective May 6, 2024, USCIS has relocated the processing of Forms I-730, Refugee/Asylee Relative Petition, for following-to-join refugees (FTJ-R) from the Asylum Vetting Center to the USCIS International Operations Division. This change aims to enhance efficiency in handling these petitions by establishing a dedicated team for initial domestic processing. All pending Form I-730 FTJ-R petitions will automatically transfer from the…
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has proposed amendments to clarify regulations regarding the 9-11 Response & Biometric Entry-Exit Fee for H-1B and L-1 Visas. The proposed changes aim to interpret statutory language more clearly, requiring covered employers to submit the 9-11 Biometric Fee for all extension-of-stay petitions, including those without a change of employer. This fee will continue to…
A nonimmigrant visa, placed in your passport, allows temporary travel to the United States. Typically, citizens of foreign countries must apply for and obtain a U.S. visa suitable for their travel purpose. A flyer for applicants to understand the process of obtaining a nonimmigrant visa, including completing the DS-160 online visa application and scheduling and attending a visa appointment. https://www.aila.org/aila-files/172340EF-A6BB-4784-A821-3D9FA7B646DA/Client-Flyer-Nonimmigrant-Visas.pdf…
It has been closely monitoring that processing challenges linked to the adjudication of long-pending Form I-130, Petition for Alien Relative. Concerning the prolonged processing times of USCIS, particularly for Immediate Relative (IR) category petitions pending over 14 months and F2A category (spouses and children of lawful permanent residents) petitions pending over 24 months (approximately 2 years). These delays significantly disrupt…
A flyer issued by AILA designed to assist applicants in understanding their obligations when signing an Affidavit of Support. By signing Form I-864, individuals are legally promising to provide financial support to the person they are sponsoring. This serves as a guarantee that the sponsored individual won’t need to rely on government assistance. https://www.aila.org/aila-files/9C71E40A-6FAA-4041-86D4-60E000672FF6/Client-Flyer-I-864.pdf Remzi Guvenc Kulen, Esq. Kulen Law Firm,…
The Department of State (DOS) has issued a final rule regarding the General Provisions of the Exchange Visitor Program. This rule applies to sponsors designated to conduct international educational and cultural exchange programs and allows for the use of digital signatures and electronic transmission for Form DS-2019. The rule will be effective from May 23, 2024. Previously, on March 28,…
