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Visa News
DHS Announces Implementation of the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) for Visa Waiver Program (VWP) Travelers WASHINGTON - The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) announced today implementation of the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA), which will begin to accept voluntary ESTA applications starting on August 1, 2008. ESTA is a new fully automated, electronic system for screening passengers before they begin travel to the United States under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP). ESTA applications may be submitted at any time prior to travel to the United States, and VWP travelers are encouraged to apply for authorization as soon as they begin to plan a trip to the United States. It is anticipated that ESTA will become mandatory for VWP travelers on January 12, 2009. USCIS Announces a Proposal to Increase Periods of Stay for TN Professional Workers From Canada or Mexico WASHINGTON - U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) announced today that it is publishing a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM) to increase the maximum amount of time a Trade-NAFTA (TN) professional worker from Canada or Mexico can remain in the United States before seeking readmission or obtaining an extension of stay. The proposal will extend the maximum period of admission for TN workers from one year to three years, the same term that USCIS currently may grant to H-1B specialty occupation worker USCIS' Role in the Visa Process Chairwoman Lofgren, Ranking Member King, Members of the Subcommittee, thank you for the opportunity to appear before you today to discuss the role of U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) in the visa process, particularly USCIS and Department of State (DOS) efforts to maximize visa issuance in accordance with the law. I am accompanied today by Don Neufeld, Acting Associate Director for Domestic Operations. In recent years, over 1 million people became Lawful Permanent Residents of the United States (LPRs). Under the law there are a variety of different categories and means through which a person may become eligible for permanent residence. A substantial number of these categories have numerical limitations – annual caps on how many people can immigrate. There are other aspects to these caps as well, such as limitations per country. New York Business Group Seeks Fewer Restrictions on Foreign Worker Visas By Nathan KingNew York 29 April 2008 New York City business leaders say the U.S. visa system has become so restrictive that the city is losing out to other cities in the search for global talent. The business group Partnership for New York City says security fears and the political debate over immigration have resulted in added restrictions on the number of visas available for skilled foreign workers. Nathan King has more. New Yorkers like to say their city is the world's melting pot. But when it comes to attracting global talent to work here, New York business leaders say the Big Apple is losing its global standing. They blame current U.S. immigration policy, especially the limited number of H-1B visas granted each year to companies that want to bring highly talented individuals to the U.S. to work. Overseas Education More Attainable for Chinese Students By Jenifer PakBeijing 28 April 2008 A record number of Chinese students are expected to study abroad this year, as more and more apply for visas to attend universities in the United States, Europe and Australia. Many students say they want an overseas degree to help them compete in China's tough job market. Jennifer Pak reports from Beijing. Not long ago, people are jammed into the Beijing office of New Oriental, a company that helps students apply to study abroad. Liu Hui is among the many hopefuls. She wants to get a master's degree in the United States. Immigration Tops Agenda at North American Summit By Greg FlakusNew Orleans 21 April 2008 President Bush is in New Orleans, playing host to his North American counterparts, Mexican President Felipe Calderon and Canadian Prime Minister Stephen Harper. As VOA's Greg Flakus reports from New Orleans, immigration was a top issue with President Calderon. President Bush accompanied President Calderon to the opening of Mexico's newest consulate here in New Orleans. The previous consulate located here had been Mexico's oldest one, opened in 1822, shortly after the country gained independence from Spain. It was closed in 2002, but thousands of Mexican laborers have come to New Orleans since the city was devastated by Hurricane Katrina in August 2005 to work on reconstruction projects. USCIS Modifies Report of Medical Examination and Vaccination Record WASHINGTON—U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) announced today that it has revised Form I-693, Report of Medical Examination and Vaccination Record. The revision was necessitated by changes to the Tuberculosis (TB) Component of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s Technical Instructions for Civil Surgeons. USCIS Modifies Application for Employment Authorization Previous Versions of Form I-765 Accepted until July 8, 2008 WASHINGTON—U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) announced today that it has revised Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization. The form now includes additional eligibility codes. These changes have been made in accordance with the Department of Homeland Security's recent interim final rule regarding Optional Practical Training (OPT), published on April 8, 2008 in the Federal Register. The rule modifies the conditions and duration of OPT for qualified F-1 non-immigrant students. DHS Proposes Biometric Airport and Seaport Exit Procedures The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) announced today a notice of proposed rulemaking that will establish biometric exit procedures at all U.S air and sea ports of departure. The majority of the Canadians are already required to submit digital fingerprints and a digital photograph for admission into the country.* The US-VISIT Exit proposal would require non-U.S. citizens who provide biometric identifiers for admission to also provide digital fingerprints when departing the country from any air or sea ports of departure. DHS Signs Visa Waiver Program Agreement with Korea U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary Michael Chertoff signed today a Visa Waiver Program (VWP) Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Korean Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade Yu Myung-hwan. The security enhancements outlined in the agreement puts Korea on the path toward visa-free travel to the U.S., and potential designation as a VWP member as early as later this year. USCIS Issues Guidance For Approved Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) Self-Petitioners U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) recently provided guidance to USCIS adjudicators for adjudicating Adjustment of Status (Form I-485) applications filed by Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) self-petitioners who are present in the United States without having been inspected and admitted or paroled. The guidance memo was issued on April 11, 2008. USCIS to Allow F-1 Students Opportunity to Request Change of Status WASHINGTON—U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) announced today that it would allow F-1 students who are the beneficiaries of selected H-1B petitions for fiscal year (FY) 2009 to request a change of status in lieu of consular notification. USCIS Runs Random Selection Process For H-1B Petitions WASHINGTON – U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) today conducted the computer-generated random selection processes on H-1B petitions, to select which H-1B petitions for fiscal year 2009 (FY 2009) would continue to full adjudication. If approved these H-1B petitions will be eligible to receive an H-1B visa number. USCIS conducted two random selections, first on petitions qualifying for the 20,000 “master’s or higher degree” (advanced degree) exemption, and second on the remaining advance degree petitions together with the general H-1B pool of petitions, for the 65,000 cap. USCIS Announces Update for Processing Petitions for Nonimmigrant Victims of Criminal Activity WASHINGTON—U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) announced today that, until further notice, it will not terminate interim relief for aliens who have not yet filed for U nonimmigrant status, except in those cases where USCIS is aware of adverse factors. USCIS will continue to accept petitions for U nonimmigrant status at any time. USCIS Releases Preliminary Number Of FY 2009 H-1B Cap Filings WASHINGTON – U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) today announced a preliminary number of nearly 163,000 H-1B petitions received during the filing period ending on April 7, 2008. More than 31,200 of those petitions were for the advanced degree category. USCIS expects next week it will conduct the computer-generated random selection process, beginning with the selection of the 20,000 petitions under the advanced degree exemption. Those petitions not selected under the advanced degree category will join the random selection process for the cap-subject 65,000 limit. USCIS Revises Filing Instructions for Petition for Alien Relative WASHINGTON – U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) announced today that it has received enough H-1B petitions to meet the congressionally mandated cap for fiscal year 2009. USCIS has also received more than 20,000 H-1B petitions filed on behalf of persons exempt from the cap under the “advanced degree” exemption. Before running the random selection process, USCIS will complete initial data entry for all filings received during the filing period ending on April 7, 2008. Due to the high number of petitions, USCIS is not yet able to announce the precise day on which it will conduct the random selection process. USCIS to Accept H-1B Petitions Sent to California or Vermont Service Centers Temporary Accomodation Made for FY 09 Cap-Subject H-1B Petitions WASHINGTON – U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) announced today that it will not reject an H-1B petition that is subject to the fiscal year 2009 cap solely on the grounds that it was received at the wrong service center (e.g., the petition may have been inadvertently mailed to the California Service Center instead of the Vermont Service Center or vice versa). 17-Month Extension of Optional Practical Training for Certain Highly Skilled Foreign Students The U.S. Department of Homeland Security released today an interim final rule extending the period of Optional Practical Training (OPT) from 12 to 29 months for qualified F-1 non-immigrant students. The extension will be available to F-1 students with a degree in science, technology, engineering, or mathematics who are employed by businesses enrolled in the E-Verify program. Hague Convention on Intercountry Adoption Enters into Force Today, the Hague Convention on Protection of Children and Co-operation in Respect of Intercountry Adoption enters into force in the United States. The provisions of the Hague Convention now govern both incoming and outgoing intercountry adoptions between the United States and other Convention countries. The Hague Convention establishes international norms and procedures for processing intercountry adoption cases involving more than 70 Convention member countries. It mandates safeguards to protect the interests of children, birth parents, and adoptive parents. It also provides that member nations recognize adoptions that take place within other Convention countries. USCIS EXTENDS COMMENT PERIOD FOR PROPOSED CHANGE TO H-2A PROGRAM WASHINGTON—U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) announced today that it is extending the public comment period until April 14, 2008 for a proposed rule that would encourage and facilitate the lawful employment of H-2A foreign temporary agricultural workers. The notice extending the comment period will be published in the March 31, 2008 Federal Register. USCIS Revises Filing Instructions for Petition for Alien Relative
Form I-130s to be filed with the Chicago Lockbox
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has revised the filing instructions for the Petition for Alien Relative (Form I-130). Effective immediately, all petitioners filing stand-alone Form I-130s must file their petitions with the Chicago Lockbox instead of a USCIS Service Center. A USCIS Update was issued on Nov. 30, 2007, encouraging petitioners to file with the Chicago Lockbox while the form was being revised. Questions and Answers: USCIS Announces Interim Rule on H-1B Visas
Rule Modifies Petition Selection Process and Prohibits Multiple Filings
Fact Sheet: Changes to the FY2009 H-1B Program WASHINGTON _ U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) issued an interim final rule today that prohibits employers from filing more than one petition for an H-1B visa for a single employee in a fiscal year. The change is intended to promote a fair and systematic process for H-1B petitioners. This rule ensures that companies filing H-1B petitions that are subject to numerical limits will have an equal chance to receive consideration for an H-1B worker. USCIS Announces Interim Rule on H-1B Visas
Rule Modifies Selection Process and Prohibits Multiple Filings
WASHINGTON _ U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) transmitted an interim final rule to the Federal Register today that prohibits employers from filing multiple H-1B petitions for the same employee. These changes will ensure that companies filing H-1B petitions subject to congressionally mandated numerical limits have an equal chance to employ an H-1B worker. To ensure a fair and orderly distribution of available H-1B visas, USCIS will deny or revoke multiple petitions filed by an employer for the same H-1B worker and will not refund the filing fees submitted with multiple or duplicative petitions. DHS Signs Visa Waiver Program Agreements with Slovakia, Hungary and Lithuania U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary Michael Chertoff signed today Visa Waiver Program (VWP) Memoranda of Understanding (MOU) with Slovak Minister of the Interior Robert Kali_ák, Hungarian Ambassador Ferenc Somogyi and Lithuanian Ambassador Audrius Br_zga. The security enhancements outlined in the agreements put all three countries on track for visa-free travel to the U.S., and potential designation as VWP members later this year. Latvia, Estonia Sign Deals with US on Visa-Free Travel
The United States has signed agreements with Latvia and Estonia that will allow the Baltic countries to join a U.S. visa waiver program later this year. With All the Talk About Illegal Immigration, a Look at the Legal Kind Second of two programs on immigration issues in the US examines the rules for seeking permanent residency. Transcript of radio broadcast: Update: Biometric Changes For Re-entry Permits and Refugee Travel Documents WASHINGTON –U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has issued revised instructions for USCIS Form I-131, Application for Travel Document. The instructions include changes, which will become effective March 5, 2008, that require applicants for re-entry permits and refugee travel documents to provide biometrics (e.g., fingerprints and photographs) at a USCIS Application Support Centers (ASC) for background and security checks and requirements for secure travel and entry documents containing biometric identifiers. As indicated in the instructions, when the biometrics requirement becomes effective, USCIS will notify applicants of their appointment at the designated ASC after submission of the I-131 application. Testimony of Stephen A. “Tony” Edson on U.S. House of Representatives, Committee on Science and Technology Subcommittee on Research and Science Education, House Committee on Science and Technology U.S. House of RepresentativesCommittee on Science and Technology Subcommittee on Research and Science Education, House Committee on Science and Technology Testimony of Stephen A. “Tony” Edson Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for Visa Service February 7, 2008 "Thank you very much, Chairman Baird and members of the Committee, for allowing me the opportunity to give you an update on the status of the State Department’s visa policy and procedures for foreign students and scholars. My colleague, the Consular Bureau’s Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary Janice Jacobs, has presented testimony in 2003 and 2004 on this same subject. I am happy to report that, while our commitment to security has not diminished, we have worked diligently to streamline the process to attract and bring the best and brightest foreign students and scholars to the United States. The Department is aware of the particular interest this Committee has with regard to these students, and we appreciate your support of our efforts to improve and expand visa services for students." DHS Proposes Changes to Improve H-2A Temporary Agricultural Worker Program Release Date: February 6, 2008For Immediate Release Office of the Press Secretary Fact Sheet: H-2A Temporary Agricultural Worker Program The U.S. Department of Homeland Security announced today a series of proposed rule modifications to provide employers with a streamlined hiring process for temporary and seasonal agricultural workers under the H-2A program. “These proposed changes are designed to provide an efficient and secure program for farmers to legally fulfill their need for agricultural workers within the law rather than outside the law,” said Homeland Security Secretary Michael Chertoff. “This common-sense simplification of H-2A will provide farm employers with a more orderly and timely flow of legal workers, while continuing to protect the rights of laborers and promoting legal and secure methods for determining who is coming into the country.” Briefing on Developments in the Iraqi Refugee and Special Immigrant Visa (SIV) Admissions Programs Washington, DCFebruary 4, 2008 Senior Coordinator on Iraqi Refugee Issues Ambassador James Foley, Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for Consular Affairs Tony Edson, and the Department of Homeland Security’s Senior Advisor to the Secretary on Iraqi Refugee Issues Lori Scialabba Senior Advisors to Brief Press on the Latest Developments in Iraqi Refugee and Special Immigrant Visa Issues Senior Coordinator on Iraqi Refugee Issues Ambassador James Foley, Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for Consular Affairs Tony Edson, and the Department of Homeland Security’s Assistant Secretary for Policy Stewart Baker will brief the press on developments in the Iraqi refugee and special immigrant visa (SIV) admissions programs. The briefing will take place on Monday, February 4 at 2:00 p.m. in the Public Affairs Conference Room 2208 at the Department of State. This briefing is ON-THE-RECORD / OFF CAMERA. DHS Begins Collecting 10 Fingerprints From International Visitors at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport Washington, D.C.—The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) announced today that it has begun collecting additional fingerprints from international visitors arriving at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (Hartsfield). The change is part of the department’s upgrade from two- to 10-fingerprint collection to enhance security and facilitate legitimate travel by more accurately and efficiently establishing and verifying visitors’ identities. USCIS Extends Suspension of Premium Processing Service for Religious Workers (R-1) Nonimmigrant Visa Classification WASHINGTON—U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) announced today that suspension of premium processing services for religious worker (R-1) visa petitions will be extended until July 8, 2008. A previous six-month suspension was announced on June 18, 2007. The Premium Processing Service provides faster processing of certain employment-based petitions and guarantees a 15-calendar day processing time. USCIS needs additional time to assess whether it is possible to provide this level of service for nonimmigrant religious worker petitions. Due to the complexities with adjudicating R-1 visa petitions, USCIS cannot reasonably ensure a level of processing service within 15 calendar days. USCIS Field Office Adopts Teletech Call Appointment System For Filing Waiver of Inadmissibility Applications WASHINGTON – As of December 17, 2007, immigrant visa applicants seeking to file an application for waiver of inadmissibility (Form I-601) with the USCIS field office in Ciudad Juarez can now use the Teletech Call Center to make an appointment. The changeover from the pilot InfoPass program is a result of USCIS and the Department of State teaming together to improve customer service through more timely appointment scheduling. Application Fees for Non-Immigrant Visas to Increase On January 1, 2008 Effective January 1, 2008, the application fee for a U.S. nonimmigrant visa will increase from $100 to $131. This increase allows the Department to recover the costs of security and other enhancements to the non-immigrant visa application process. This increase applies both to non-immigrant visas issued on machine-readable foils in passports and to border crossing cards issued to certain applicants in Mexico. Electronic Submission of Diversity Visa Lottery Applications Taken Question Question: Comment on the requirement that DV applicants submit applications electronically, in light of the fact that Internet access is limited in many parts of the world. Is there is a wide enough representation of citizens from eligible countries applying considering the electronic submission requirement? Answer: The Department of State implemented the electronic registration system for the Diversity Visa Lottery to improve efficiency and make the process less prone to fraud and less vulnerable to use by persons who may pose a threat to the security interests of the United States. The electronic submission requirement has not affected the representation of citizens from eligible countries. Since implementation of the electronic registration system in 2005, applications for the DV Lottery have increased every year. Applications for the 2009 DV Lottery are 45 percent higher than for 2008 DV Lottery. U.S. security officials will begin scanning all 10 fingerprints of most non-Americans traveling to the United States Man demonstrates the new 10-fingerprint scanner and its output on the computer at the American Embassy in Brussels The new 10-finger scanners will replace the current two-finger machines currently in use. The Department of Homeland Security says the program will begin Thursday at Washington Dulles International airport. It plans to have the new scanners at all U.S. ports of entry by the end of next year. The U.S. State Department currently uses 10-fingerprint scanners when it issues visas for travel to America. 16 November 2007 U.S. Student Visas Reach Record Numbers in 2007 The best way to know America is to study here, State's Harty saysWashington -- In 2007, the Department of State issued a record number of student and exchange visitor visas -- more than 600,000 -- greater than 10 percent more than last year. The numbers are proof of the success of the U.S. government's effort to reverse the drop in student and other visa applications after the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001, U.S. Assistant Secretary of State for Consular Affairs Maura Harty told USINFO. 3 November 2007 Record Numbers of U.S. Students Are Studying Abroad Middle East, Asia and Africa growing in popularity as student destinationsWashington -- The number of Americans studying abroad -- which has risen 150 percent in the past decade -- continues to set records, rising 8.5 percent in 2005-2006, according to the Institute of International Education's (IIE) 2007 report on international education exchange. "The opportunity for more young Americans to study abroad is a goal shared by the president, the secretary of state, and leaders in Congress, industry and academia," IIE President Allan E. Goodman said in issuing the report, Open Doors 2007 USCIS CENTRALIZES FILING FOR H-2A PETITIONS Streamlines Process and Improves Services for Agricultural Employers WASHINGTON--In a Federal Register notice published today, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) announced that, effective December 10, 2007, it will only accept H-2A (temporary/seasonal agricultural worker) petitions mailed or delivered to its California Service Center. Biometrics Help Identify, Apprehend and Deter Illegal Migrants The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) announced today that in the first year of operation, its biometrics-at-sea program has been a success and accomplished its intended goals. In its first 12 months, the program collected biometric data from 1,368 migrants, prosecuted 90 of those migrants, and helped reduce the flow of illegal migration by nearly 50 percent in the waters between Puerto Rico and the Dominican Republic. USCIS REOPENS COMMENT PERIOD ON PROPOSED RULE FOR RELIGIOUS WORKER VISA CLASSIFICATIONS U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) announced today that it is reopening the public comment period until November 16, 2007, on a proposed rule for special immigrant (SR/SD) and nonimmigrant (R-1) religious worker visa classifications. The notice extending the comment period is published in today's Federal Register. USCIS STREAMLINES READMISSIONS FOR CERTAIN H AND L NONIMMIGRANTS WITH PENDING PERMANENT RESIDENCE APPLICATIONS WASHINGTON--U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) today published a final rule in the Federal Register to streamline the readmission of certain "H" and "L" nonimmigrants who have applied for adjustment of status to become permanent residents. The rule removes the requirement that such persons present a receipt notice (Form I-797, Notice of Action) for their adjustment applications when returning to the United States from travel abroad. USCIS ANNOUNCES CENTRALIZED FILING LOCATION FOR THE H-2A TEMPORARY AGRICULTURAL WORKER PROGRAM WASHINGTON ¡V U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) announced today a new customer service initiative to improve the H-2A (temporary/seasonal agricultural worker) petition process. On August 10, 2007, Homeland Security Secretary Michael Chertoff and Commerce Secretary Carlos Gutierrez announced a series of reforms to strengthen border security and address immigration challenges. One of those goals was streamlining the H-2A program. To accomplish this goal, USCIS will institute a series of changes to provide agricultural employers with an orderly and timely flow of legal workers while protecting laborers' rights. US Visa Lottery Underway Despite Uncertain Future By Alex Villarreal The United States is now accepting entries for its annual visa lottery, which has brought more than 500,000 immigrants into the country since 1995. But the lottery faces an uncertain future. Both the U.S. House of Representatives and the Senate have approved a bill to eliminate funding for the program. VOA's Alex Villarreal reports from Washington. NEW RULE FOR NONIMMIGRANT VICTIMS OF CRIMINAL ACTIVITY GOES INTO EFFECT TOMORROW Public comment period remains open until Nov. 16WASHINGTON--U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) reminds its customers that a new interim rule that authorizes temporary immigration benefits to certain victims of crimes who help law enforcement will be effective October 17, 2007. USCIS published the interim rule last month that establishes procedures for applicants seeking U nonimmigrant status. The "U" classification offers protection and temporary benefits to alien victims of certain crimes who assist government officials in investigating or prosecuting the criminal activity. 2009 Diversity Visa Lottery Registration To Start October 3 Registration period ends December 2, 2007; applicants urged to apply earlyWashington -- Applicants for the United States' 2009 Diversity Visa Lottery (DV-2009) are encouraged to enter early in the two-month registration period because excessive demand might slow down the system as the deadline nears, according to the State Department. The Diversity Visa Lottery registration period will be October 3 to December 2, 2007, the State Department announced September 25. Diversity Visa Applicants Must Meet Eligibility Requirements Lottery selects persons who can proceed with visa applicationWashington -- Each year, the State Department holds a lottery -- a computerized random drawing -- to select the names of persons who may apply for one of the 50,000 visas made available through the Diversity Immigrant Visa program. The lottery for the fiscal year 2009 program (DV-2009) is October 3-December 2, 2007. Persons who register for the lottery should be aware that diversity visas are available only to persons who meet "simple but strict eligibility requirements," according to the State Department. Media Note 2009 Diversity Visa Lottery Program Registration Applications for the 2009 Diversity Visa (DV) Lottery will be accepted between noon Eastern Daylight Time (EDT) (GMT-4), Wednesday, October 3, 2007 and noon Eastern Standard Time (EST) (GMT-5) Sunday, December 2, 2007. Applicants may access the electronic Diversity Visa entry form at www.dvlottery.state.gov during the registration period. Paper entries will not be accepted. Applicants are strongly encouraged not to wait until the last week of the registration period to enter. Heavy demand may result in website delays. No entries will be accepted after noon EST on December 2, 2007. Diversity Visa (DV) Lottery Instructions The Diversity Visa (DV) 2009 Lottery online entry begins at Noon EDT on October 3, 2007, and ends at Noon EST on December 2, 2007. After you have carefully reviewed the instructions, access the Diversity Visa electronic Entry Form during the entry period explained above. CERTIFYING U NONIMMIGRANT STATUS U Nonimmigrant Status Certification (Form I-918, Supplement B) Fact Sheet
An alien victim of criminal activity may file for U Nonimmigrant Status--status set aside for victims of crimes who have suffered substantial mental or physical abuse because of the activity and who also are willing to assist law enforcement agencies or government officials in the investigation of that activity. USCIS PUBLISHES RULE FOR NONIMMIGRANT VICTIMS OF CRIMINAL ACTIVITY Fact Sheet
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services is publishing an interim final rule that grants immigrant benefits to certain victims of crimes who will assist government and law enforcement officials in investigating or prosecuting the criminal activity. "U" Nonimmigrant Status is set aside for victims of crimes who have suffered mental or physical abuse because of the crime and who not only have information regarding the activity, but also are willing to assist government officials in the investigation of the criminal activity. USCIS can grant up to 10,000 U-visas each year authorizing the holder to remain in the United States for up to four years. USCIS PUBLISHES NEW RULE FOR NONIMMIGRANT VICTIMS OF CRIMINAL ACTIVITY Fact Sheet
U-visas will provide temporary immigration benefits to victims who help law enforcement WASHINGTONThe U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services today announced it would publish an interim rule that grants temporary immigration benefits to certain victims of crimes who assist government officials in investigating or prosecuting the criminal activity. USCIS invites public comments on the rule that has been submitted to the Federal Register for publication and currently is available for public review at www.uscis.gov. The Department of State announces a revision of the Exchange Visitor Program (J Visa) trainee category, and in addition, creation of a new intern category for students and recent graduates. As part of these changes, a new form, the Training/Internship Placement Plan, form DS-7002, is now required for prospective J visa trainee or intern visa applicants having DS-2019 forms dated on or after July 19, 2007. For more information, and to access the form, see Exchange Visitor Visas For more information about the new rules for trainee and intern programs, see the Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs, Exchange Visitor Program, Private Sector Programs . New Application and Petition Fees Go Into Effect on July 30, 2007 WASHINGTON--U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) reminds its customers that the agency's new fee schedule is effective on Monday, July 30, 2007. Applications or petitions postmarked or otherwise filed on or after that date must include the new fee. USCIS announced the new fee schedule in May following a comprehensive review of nearly 4,000 public comments. The final fee schedule includes a reduction in fees for some families applying for adjustment of status, expands fee waiver and exemption eligibility, and allows a one-time free extension of orphan petitions for prospective adoptive parents. Overall, application and petition fees will increase, on average, about 66 percent. USCIS Announces Extension of Temporary Suspension of Premium Processing Service for Form I-140 Immigrant Alien Petitions July 24, 2007 WASHINGTON--U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) announced today an extension of the temporary suspension of Premium Processing Service for Form I-140, Immigrant Alien Worker Petitions, which was previously announced on June 27, 2007 and became effective on July 2, 2007. USCIS anticipates that the volume of Form I-140 petitions filed that request Premium Process Service will continue to exceed USCIS? capacity to provide the Premium Process Service according to the Premium Process Service program guidelines. Gloria Roa Bodin Explains U.S. Immigration Issues on VOA's New WebChat 'T2A' Join us online Wednesday, July 25th, for our new weekly webchat, T2A, when our guest will be Miami, Florida-based U.S. immigration attorney and VOA favorite Gloria Roa Bodin as she answers questions about how to come to the United States. Gloria has been helping immigrants for nearly 30 years. Her areas of expertise include visas for those she describes as "extraordinary ability" individuals, especially professionals with advanced degrees and internationally acclaimed artists. Gloria will be with us to discuss how to navigate the country?s immigration and visa system. Join the chat Wednesdays at 18 hours universal time - just log on to VOANews.com, and click on the T2A link Executive Director Traveler Security and Facilitation Office of Field Operations U.S. Customs and Border Protection Before the House Subcommittee on Border, Maritime, and Global Counter Terrorism Release Date: June 29, 2007 The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) plans to modernize and improve our immigration and border management system through integration, collaboration, and cooperation among all parts of the immigration and border management community. This community includes important stakeholders in the private sector, such as air and sea carriers. As a component of that overall vision, the Secretary of Homeland Security, Congress, and the 9/11 Commission have all identified exit control as a priority in order to secure our Nation's borders. In this testimony we will provide an overview of how we plan to implement biometric exit strategies through a phased approach at our air, sea, and land ports. The data obtained through biometric exit will allow DHS and the Department of State (DOS), as well as other federal agencies, to determine whether a foreign traveler has left the country and, if so, when; and whether such an individual is deserving of future benefits, such as visa renewal or re-admittance to the United States.Presently, DHS captures biometric information on entry through the United States Visitor and Immigrant Status Indicator Technology (US-VISIT) Program. This includes the verification of biometrics of travelers with visas, who are fingerprinted abroad by the Department of State as part of the BioVisa Program. USCIS Continues Temporary Suspension of Premium Processing Service for Religious Workers (R-1) Nonimmigrant Visa Classification WASHINGTON--On November 28, 2006, USCIS temporarily suspended Premium Processing Service for Aliens in a Religious Occupation which is filed on Form I-129, along with the Q-1 and R-1 Classifications Supplement. This announcement informs the public that additional time is needed to access whether it is possible to provide premium processing services for Religious Worker petitions. USCIS is therefore extending the suspension for another 6 months, with an expiration date of December 18, 2007. This is being done because USCIS' first and foremost mission is to ensure integrity in the adjudications process. Bush Hopes To Improve Visa Process for Slovaks Tells Prime Minister Dzurinda he wants more student exchanges President Bush said the United States is working to make its visa policy operate better for Slovaks seeking to enter the United States, and said he wants to use student exchanges to help both countries improve their knowledge base. Speaking March 13 with Slovak Prime Minister Mikulas Dzurinda, Bush said the prime minister ?expects there to be some progress on the visa issue,? including a constant renewal of the visa process ?to make sure that it is fair.? United States and Peru Sign Partnership to Secure and Facilitate Travel and Trade (Thursday, March 02, 2006) Washington, D.C. ? U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Assistant Commissioner E. Keith Thomson, Office of International Affairs and Dr. Eduardo Ferrero, Ambassador, Embassy of Peru, Washington, D.C. signed a Customs Mutual Assistance Agreement (CMAA) between the U.S. and Peru on March 1, 2006. This CMAA is designed to assist the two countries in improving the flow of travel and trade while securing them against terrorism and illegal activities. ?This Customs Mutual Assistance Agreement with Peru will allow for the exchange of information, intelligence, and documents that will assist both countries in the prevention of terrorism and customs offenses,? said United States Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Acting Commissioner Deborah J. Spero. U.S. To Issue Student Visas 120 Days Ahead of Start of Classes Measure part of Rice-Chertoff joint vision on secure borders, open doors The United States has extended the length of time foreign students may be issued student visas, and will issue student visas up to 120 days before classes begin, as compared to 90 days under previous regulations, the State Department announced February 14. Under the new regulations, students applying for initial-entry F-1 (academic student), F-2 (spouse or child of F-1) and M-1 (vocational training) and M-2 (spouse or child of M-1) visas now may be issued those visas up to 120 days before their academic program start date. Assistant Secretary for Consular Affairs Maura Harty, Remarks at a Breakfast with the American Chamber of Commerce Assistant Secretary for Consular Affairs February 3, 2006 It is a pleasure for me to be here today and to have the opportunity to meet you and discuss some of the efforts of the Department of State, to support the business relationship between the United States and Russia by facilitating legitimate travel. With over 800 member firms, The American Chamber Of Commerce in Russia has played a key role in the efforts to support business and investment between our two nations, with considerable success. I understand, for example, that the export of U.S. goods to Russia in 2005 were $4.2 Billion, Up 43 Percent from the previous Year. The efforts of the Amcham underscore the importance of maintaining and expanding a vibrant commercial relationship with Russia to the benefit of both of our nations. Student Visas: Secure Borders and Open Doors in the Information Age Media Note The Department of State is pleased to announce we have extended the length of time foreign students may be issued student visas. This is one of the elements of the recently announced Rice-Chertoff Joint Vision which will enhance border security while streamlining security processes and facilitating travel for visitors to the United States. Students applying for initial-entry F-1, F-2, and M-1 and M-2 visas may now be issued those visas up to 120 days before their academic program start date (as compared to 90 days under previous regulations). J-1 and J-2 visitors may be issued visas at any time before the beginning of their programs. U.S. Envoy Praises Bush State of the Union Remarks on Immigration Ambassador Antonio Garza urges secure U.S.-Mexican border with "open doors" President George W. Bush delivers his fifth State of the Union speech, January 31, 2006. (?AP/WWP) By Eric Green Washington File Staff Writer Washington -? The United States wants a secure border with Mexico, ?with open doors,? that is capable of allowing for trade between the two countries at legal entry points, says Antonio Garza, the U.S. ambassador to Mexico. In a January 31 statement, Garza praised the comments President Bush made that evening during his State of the Union speech on immigration reform. Garza said Bush?s comments showcased the U.S. desire for a border that allows Mexican workers to legally enter and work in the United States. U.S. Hails International Partnership in Migration Management Homeland Security official meets with Europeans on migration policies A U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) official salutes international partners for working with the United States to facilitate legitimate travel while improving border security and inhibiting the movement of terrorists and criminals. Homeland Security acting Assistant Secretary of Policy Development Elaine Dezenski spoke at a conference in Brussels, Belgium, January 24 on migration issues. Mexico-U.S. Discussions Continue on Illegal Immigration Problem State Department spokesman reaffirms U.S. effort to protect border Washington -- The problem of illegal immigration from Mexico into the United States continues to be a topic of discussion between the two countries, says U.S. State Department spokesman Sean McCormack. Briefing reporters January 25, McCormack said the United States has worked for "some time" with the Mexican government on preventing illegal entry from Mexico into America. President Bush, he added, "has made his views clear on these issues in terms of trying to deal with this question of [illegal] immigration." United States To Begin Issuing New, Secure Passport Cards in 2006 Cards will meet proposed Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative requirements Existing land visa programs such as SENTRI, used by this motorist to enter the U.S. from Mexico, will continue to be accepted. (?AP/WWP) By Anthony Kujawa Washington -- The United States anticipates issuing a new, secure passport card for land border crossings by the end of 2006, an alternative to the traditional passport book that will meet the proposed documentation requirements of the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative, according to Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary Michael Chertoff. Renewing America's Welcome, Student Visas Called "Top Priority" Secretary Rice also announces videoconferencing pilot for visa interviews Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice (?AP/WWP) Washington ? The United States is working to renew its welcome to foreign visitors and is giving "top priority" to getting visas into the hands of prospective students, according to Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice. United States To Use Better Technology for Security, Hospitality Officials unveil new initiatives to ensure secure borders, open doors Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice and Homeland Security Secretary Michael Chertoff explain strategies for safer, easier entry into the United States, January 17, 2006.(? AP/WWP) By Charlene Porter Washington ? Two top U.S. officials January 17 presented a broad strategy for ensuring security at the nation?s borders and at the same time welcoming travelers, students and businesspeople into the United States. State, Homeland Security Summarize Border Security Initiative Fact sheet outlines U.S. vision for secure borders, open doors in information age U.S. Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice and Secretary of Homeland Security Michael Chertoff unveiled January 17 a three-part vision to ensure the use of the best new technologies and most efficient processes to improve border security, while facilitating travel and welcoming visitors to the United States. ?The United States is a welcoming country, encouraging citizens from all over the world to visit, study, and do business. While security remains paramount, we will ensure that the experience of travelers reflects this welcoming spirit ? and shows that the United States is open to business travelers, tourists and students ? while ensuring that our homeland is secure,? a fact sheet on the Rice-Chertoff joint vision said. Secretary of Homeland Security Michael Chertoff Secure Borders and Open Doors in the Information Age Special Briefing Rice-Chertoff Joint Vision: Secure Borders and Open Doors in the Information Age Remarks by Homeland Security Secretary Michael Chertoff on Secure Borders and Open Doors in the Information Age, at an Event at the Department of State Fact Sheet On Secure Borders and Open Doors SECRETARY CHERTOFF: Thank you, Condi, for that eloquent statement of where we want to go as two departments in facing outward to the rest of the world. I'm delighted to join Secretary Rice and a lot of distinguished guests here from government and from the private sector to talk a little bit about our vision for strengthening security at the border but keeping the welcome mat out for those who want to come from overseas. World Travel Is Safer with US-VISIT, Security Official Says Homeland Security plans more steps to boost travel, and safety Incorporating biometric entry procedures at border entry points has been a key goal since the US-VISIT program began in 2004. (?AP/WWP) By Charlene Porter Washington - After two years implementing new border entry policies and procedures, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) reports that further measures still are ahead as the agency strives to smooth and speed the process for legitimate travel and "stop the bad guys." State's Harty Says "Welcome Mat is Out" for Foreign Students U.S. dedicated to ensuring transparent, efficient visa application process The "welcome mat" is out for foreign students and the visa process should not be perceived as an impediment for people interested in studying in the United States, says Maura Harty, assistant secretary of state for consular affairs. Vibrant international participation is one of the foundations of the U.S. academic and scientific communities and the United States is dedicated to ensuring that the visa application process "is as transparent and efficient as possible," she told the U.S. University Presidents Summit on International Education January 6. Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice and Homeland Security Secretary Michael Chertoff to Announce a Joint Vision: Secure Borders and Open Doors in the Information Age Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice and Homeland Security Secretary Michael Chertoff will announce a joint vision to enhance border security while streamlining security processes and facilitating travel for visitors to the United States. The event will take place on Tuesday, January 17, 2006 at 10:30 a.m. in the Dean Acheson Auditorium at the U.S. Department of State's Harry S Truman Building, located at 2201 C St. NW, Washington, DC. Summit Underlines Importance of Education Across Boundaries State's Harty notes U.S. educational opportunities, touts visa improvementsEducational opportunities in the United States remain ?unparalleled? andforeign students should not be deterred by ?outdated perceptions? of delaysin processing student visa applications, U.S. officials say. Biometric Entry System Installed at Final U.S. Land Border Ports Since inception, US-VISIT has intercepted 970 people with criminal historiesUS-VISIT (United States Visitor and Immigrant Status Indicator Technology),an automated entry-exit program created by the Department of HomelandSecurity, has completed installation of biometric entry capabilities at allports of entry along the U.S.-Canada and U.S.-Mexico borders, the departmentsaid in a December 30, 2005, press release. Bush Seeks Tougher Immigration Policy, Temporary Worker Program Says America can be both "a welcoming society and a lawful society" President Bush urges Congress to pass immigration reform legislation, in Tucson, Arizona, November 28, 2005. (?AP/WWP) President Discusses Border Security and Immigration Reform in Arizona Tucson, Ariz. Thank you all. Please be seated. Thank you for the warm welcome. It is such a pleasure to be back in Arizona, and it's great to be here in Tucson. The last time I was here I think there was probably about a 50-degree temperature differential. It's an honor to stand here with the men and women of Davis-Monthan Air Force Base. As well, to be here with the men and women of the Customs and Border Protection Agency, and the Immigration and Customs Enforcement Agency, as well. Securing our border is essential to securing the homeland. And I want to thank all of those who are working around the clock to defend our border, to enforce our laws, and to uphold the values of the United States of America. America is grateful to those who are on the front lines of enforcing the border. U.S. Official Outlines U.S. Border Security Goals, Strategy Homeland Security's Chertoff explains president's temporary worker program Washington -- Secretary of Homeland Security Michael Chertoff explained President Bush?s proposals and answered questions regarding border security and immigration in a November 30 ?Ask the White House? webchat. United States Extends Visa Waiver for 25 Nations Status of Italy, Portugal remains under review Twenty-five nations will maintain eligibility to participate in the Visa Waiver Program (VWP), allowing their citizens to enter the United States without applying for a visa, the Department of Homeland Security announced November 8.
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