DHS revised the STEM list, which is the complete list of fields recognized by DHS as science, technology, engineering, or mathematics (STEM) disciplines for its 24-month optional practical training extensions. For additional information, you can visit: stem-list.pdf (ice.gov) Remzi Guvenc Kulen, Esq. Kulen Law Firm, P.C.
You can find interview wait times on the travel.state.gov website here: https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/us-visas/visa-information-resources/wait-times.html. The wait times often include those for third country nationals (TCNs), but the site does not specify if there are separate queues for TCNs at individual posts. Additionally, due to technical constraints, the Department of State has noted that providing TCN-specific wait times is currently not feasible. To…
Form N-400, used for applying for U.S. citizenship, has several key updates and common questions associated with it. Recent changes include updates to the form’s structure and requirements, which are designed to streamline the application process. One significant update is the introduction of new sections that address recent legal and procedural changes. Applicants often inquire about fee waivers, which are…
President Biden has invoked sections 212(f) and 215(a) of immigration laws to issue a new proclamation and rule that restricts asylum access for migrants entering the United States between ports of entry. In response to heightened immigration challenges, DHS is preparing to establish a case-by-case process for certain noncitizen spouses of U.S. citizens who have lived in the U.S. for…
On June 18, 2024, the Biden-Harris Administration announced initiatives to enhance the efficiency of obtaining employment-based nonimmigrant visas for U.S. college graduates with job offers. This effort aims to expedite visa processing for eligible individuals. As part of these measures, the Department will provide clearer guidelines to consular officers on recommending waivers of ineligibility to the Department of Homeland Security…
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…
