On October 17, 2023, the Department of State (DOS) took the first steps to implement stateside processing of nonimmigrant visas. The DOS notified the federal Office of Information and Regulatory Affairs that it will introduce a pilot stateside processing program on a limited basis in the first quarter of 2024. Those able to utilize stateside
Other Non-immigrant Visas
Implications of Priority Date Retrogression for R-1 Religious Worker Visas
A change in calculating the availability of immigrant numbers means some foreign national ministers who are in the United States on temporary R-1 religious worker visas and waiting in lines for green cards will have to wait even longer, it seems. Some may even have to leave their congregations.
Ministers entering the United States solely…
USCIS E-COA Allows Foreign Nationals to Update Their Addresses Online
By Brenda Oliver on
USCIS has launched a new Enterprise Change of Address (E-COA) self-service tool to make it easier for foreign nationals to update their addresses.
All foreign nationals, even green card holders, are required to notify USCIS of a change of address within 10 days of the move. Beyond that regulation, it is important to notify USCIS…
DHS Issues Additional Visa Waiver Program Guidance for Cuba, Hungary, Israel
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has issued additional Visa Waiver Program guidance involving Cuba, Hungary, and Israel.
The Visa Waiver Program allows individuals from selected countries to enter the United States for business or tourism for up to 90 days without obtaining a visa. To enter under the Visa Waiver Program, foreign nationals must…
DHS Makes Qualified Employers’ Virtual Inspection of Form I-9 Original Documentation Permanent Option
On July 21, 2023, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) announced a final rule, which will be officially published on July 25, 2023, that will provide eligible employers filling out the Employment Eligibility Verification Form I-9 an optional alternative to the in-person physical document examination method that employers have followed as part of the…
International Entrepreneur Parole Series Part 3: Program Application Procedures
The Immigration and Nationality Act delegates authority to the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to decide whether to parole a foreign person into the United States. Parole is a discretionary remedy decided on a case-by-case basis, evaluating the totality of evidence to determine if the foreign person’s presence in the United States will provide a…
Nonimmigrant Visas Fees at Consulates to Increase May 30, 2023
On May 30, 2023, fees for nonimmigrant visas at all consulates abroad will increase. The increase can be avoided if the visa fee is paid on or after October 1, 2022, and before May 30, 2023, and an interview is scheduled within 365 days of payment. The interview need not take place during the 365…
OSHA’s New Authority to Issue T, U Nonimmigrant Law Enforcement Visas
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has been given the authority to issue certifications in support of applications for T and U nonimmigrant visas beginning March 30, 2023.
To assist agencies in combatting human trafficking and other crimes, OSHA will issue these certifications during workplace safety investigations that identify qualifying criminal activities, including trafficking…