https://www.uscis.gov/ The RSS Feed for the Alerts page en https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/uscis-updates-policy-guidance-clarifying-expedite-requests USCIS is updating guidance in the USCIS Policy Manual to clarify how we consider expedite requests related to government interests and requests related to emergencies or urgent humanitarian situations, including travel-related requests. Fri, 11 Oct 24 13:45:14 -0400 USCIS ba991849-7759-4598-bd36-879351bc1da7 https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/uscis-updates-guidance-on-the-international-entrepreneur-rule We have updated guidance on the International Entrepreneur Rule in our Policy Manual to clarify the required triennial increase in investment, revenue, and other thresholds, and to clarify how we arrange biometrics appointments for certain applicants. Thu, 10 Oct 24 09:06:41 -0400 USCIS df4f4109-ad1a-4fee-892c-072265995634 https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/uscis-issues-new-guidance-on-eb-1-eligibility-criteria-for-individuals-with-extraordinary-ability U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services is issuing policy guidance in our Policy Manual to further clarify the types of evidence that we may evaluate to determine eligibility for extraordinary ability (E11) EB-1 immigrant visa classifications. Wed, 02 Oct 24 09:08:37 -0400 USCIS 9247d5de-ebf4-412e-aa16-b13121f9c6c6 https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/tools-outage USCIS will conduct system maintenance to the Contact Relationship Interface System (CRIS) on Wednesday, Oct. 2, 2024 at 11:50 p.m. through Thursday, Oct. 3, 2024 at 2:00 a.m. Eastern. Tue, 01 Oct 24 10:41:25 -0400 USCIS 804a26b9-56e9-4e16-bd9d-1554b360c667 https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/uscis-makes-additional-updates-to-policy-guidance-for-the-sought-to-acquire-requirement-under-the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services is updating guidance in the Policy Manual (Volume 7, Part A, Chapter 7), to clarify how to calculate the Child Status Protection Act (CSPA) age for noncitizens who demonstrate extraordinary circumstances. Wed, 25 Sep 24 10:19:07 -0400 USCIS a6d566a6-74f7-477c-abbc-e87554b8c97f https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/guidance-on-paying-fees-and-completing-information-for-form-i-140-immigrant-petition-for-alien Be sure to provide the correct payment and complete information when filing Form I-140, Immigrant Petition for Alien Workers. Mon, 23 Sep 24 12:38:44 -0400 USCIS 50d0288c-f355-4ca1-8035-870d11751f45 https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/uscis-reaches-h-2b-cap-for-first-half-of-fiscal-year-2025 We have received enough petitions to reach the congressionally mandated cap on H-2B visas for temporary nonagricultural workers for the first half of fiscal year 2025. Sept. 18 was the final receipt date for new cap-subject H-2B worker petitions requesting an employment start date before April 1, 2025. Thu, 19 Sep 24 16:28:08 -0400 USCIS e7ee0248-69b7-4a95-84c2-2cf291bb8a1e https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/uscis-extends-green-card-validity-extension-to-36-months-for-green-card-renewals Effective Sept. 10, 2024, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services automatically extended the validity of Permanent Resident Cards (also known as Green Cards) to 36 months for lawful permanent residents who file Form I-90, Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card.   Wed, 18 Sep 24 10:47:55 -0400 USCIS 7f5c6a6a-a064-4ee6-86b5-876bb42c2f7b https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/california-service-center-relocates On Aug. 12, the California Service Center (CSC) moved to a new facility as USCIS centralizes processing for immigration benefits. Wed, 11 Sep 24 10:17:07 -0400 USCIS a323ce62-027f-457e-b6e1-b638a62b72bc https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/uscis-updates-guidance-for-fm-nonimmigrant-student-classification We are updating guidance in the USCIS Policy Manual regarding when students may be eligible for optional practical training (OPT) extensions for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) fields. Tue, 27 Aug 24 09:06:47 -0400 USCIS b7e868e5-65a5-4aa4-9535-05adfba2b5bc https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/uscis-publishes-filing-guide-for-keeping-families-together On Aug. 19, USCIS will begin accepting requests for, using a new electronic form, Form I-131F, Application for Parole in Place for Certain Noncitizen Spouses and Stepchildren of U.S. Citizens. Fri, 16 Aug 24 12:18:55 -0400 USCIS 9c329bd0-6fd2-4899-b0e8-3533e73db4b9 https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/california-service-center-moving-to-new-address-august-12 On Aug. 12, the California Service Center will move to a new address. The new facility will help streamline processes by concentrating operations in the new location. Wed, 07 Aug 24 08:51:37 -0400 USCIS 6111e608-656b-4aa4-973b-4203fa386875 https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/second-random-selection-from-previously-submitted-registrations-complete-for-fy-2025-h-1b-regular USCIS recently announced that we would need to select additional registrations for unique beneficiaries to reach the fiscal year 2025 H-1B regular cap numerical allocation. Mon, 05 Aug 24 09:04:14 -0400 USCIS a6152334-5bd7-46e0-a5d9-59edda6b4b6b https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/uscis-will-conduct-second-random-selection-for-regular-cap-from-previously-submitted-fy-2025-h-1b In March, USCIS conducted an initial random selection on properly submitted electronic registrations for the fiscal year 2025 H-1B cap, including for beneficiaries eligible for the advanced degree exemption. Tue, 30 Jul 24 09:54:18 -0400 USCIS fd635e7a-ebe4-4bb8-9648-c7c2334d1687 https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/uscis-to-begin-triennial-investment-and-revenue-threshold-updates-for-international-entrepreneur Effective Oct. 1, 2024, we will increase the investment and revenue thresholds under the International Entrepreneur Rule, as required every three years. The application fee will not change, however. Wed, 24 Jul 24 15:31:03 -0400 USCIS 1a082089-680c-468a-8cfc-8176e137654e https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/uscis-issues-policy-guidance-on-childrens-acquisition-of-citizenship USCIS is updating guidance in the USCIS Policy Manual regarding provisions for children’s acquisition of citizenship. Thu, 18 Jul 24 09:14:47 -0400 USCIS ea7cff9f-ace6-480c-8f70-096a90039a2a https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/reminders-on-the-process-to-promote-the-unity-and-stability-of-families On June 18, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) announced actions to promote family unity in the immigration process. This announcement is consistent with the Biden-Harris administration’s commitment to keep families together. DHS is establishing a process to consider, on a case-by-case basis, requests for parole in place from certain noncitizen spouses of U.S. citizens who have been in the U.S. for at least a decade. Wed, 17 Jul 24 12:58:33 -0400 USCIS 9307d39c-aa20-45fe-8d05-6ba3cf76cb5a https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/new-policy-guidance-on-noncompliance-with-eb-5-regional-center-program We are issuing policy guidance on new provisions in the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA) that cover consequences for noncompliance with the EB-5 Regional Center program. Tue, 16 Jul 24 10:30:05 -0400 USCIS 08b9cf44-8072-4d15-9f72-94555cd73ab8 https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/uscis-updates-customer-service-and-safe-address-procedures-for-individuals-protected-under We have implemented provisions in the USCIS Policy Manual that provide guidance on customer service and safe address procedures for individuals protected under 8 U.S.C. 1367. Wed, 03 Jul 24 10:22:34 -0400 USCIS 7317eb64-fe44-45dc-bd50-a44efa25b921 https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/uscis-extends-employment-authorization-documents-under-temporary-protected-status-designations-of-el We are extending the validity of certain Employment Authorization Documents (EADs) issued to Temporary Protected Status (TPS) beneficiaries under the designations of El Salvador, Honduras, Nepal, Nicaragua and Sudan through March 9, 2025. Thu, 20 Jun 24 13:46:02 -0400 USCIS 3eaf67f2-0517-4ede-9b9e-588d48e32e69 https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/uscis-clarifies-guidance-about-how-to-adopt-a-child-under-the-hague-adoption-convention Effective June 14, 2024, we have updated the USCIS Policy Manual, Volume 5, Part D, to clarify how prospective adoptive parents can adopt a child under the Hague Adoption Convention. Fri, 14 Jun 24 09:51:12 -0400 USCIS 1da4135c-d328-4048-9c5f-88c5414f8477 https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/uscis-issues-policy-guidance-on-customer-service-and-confidentiality-protections-for-certain USCIS is issuing  guidance in the USCIS Policy Manual that interprets that the confidentiality protections under 8 U.S.C. 1367 end at naturalization, which will allow naturalized U.S. citizens previously protected under 8 U.S.C. 1367 (specifically, Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) self-petitioners and those seeking or with approved T and U nonimmigrant status) the ability to fully access e-filing and other customer service tools. Wed, 12 Jun 24 09:21:49 -0400 USCIS f977d957-118e-4db2-81ba-fb43943acfc1 https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/uscis-issues-guidance-on-in-person-filing-for-certain-sij-petitioners We are updating the USCIS Policy Manual to clarify how certain petitioners for special immigrant juvenile (SIJ) classification (or their representatives) may file Form I-360, Petition for Amerasian, Widower, or Special Immigrant. Thu, 06 Jun 24 09:28:26 -0400 USCIS f64ec7ea-1836-49dd-9e21-37c4846db15c https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/uscis-shifts-workload-for-form-i-730-following-to-join-refugee-petitions Effective May 6, 2024, all Forms I-730, Refugee/Asylee Relative Petition, filed for following to join refugees (FTJ-R) are being processed at the USCIS International Operations Division rather than the Asylum Vetting Center. Wed, 29 May 24 13:03:07 -0400 USCIS e038fae4-4892-4fa2-8c48-7a9b8c7c88f9 https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/uscis-updates-guidance-for-family-based-immigrant-visas Effective May 22, 2024, we are updating guidance in the USCIS Policy Manual on family-based immigrant visa petitions (including Form I-130, Petition for Alien Relative and, in limited situations, family-based Form I-360, Petition for Amerasian, Widow(er), or Special Immigrant), including explaining how we handle correcting approval notice errors, requests for consular processing or adjustment of status on the beneficiary’s behalf, and routing procedures for approved petitions. Wed, 22 May 24 09:22:48 -0400 USCIS e0602353-af62-4889-b153-c2444a7fae09 https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/uscis-opens-additional-san-francisco-asylum-office-location USCIS’ San Francisco Asylum Office is opening an additional temporary location in Oakland, California. Effective May 15, 2024, asylum applicants under the jurisdiction of the San Francisco Asylum Office may receive an interview notice to appear at the asylum office located in Oakland instead of San Francisco. Mon, 13 May 24 14:37:36 -0400 USCIS f983acff-fd3f-424d-aab1-e9791a08f828 https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/uscis-clarifies-policy-on-location-of-h-3-training We have issued policy guidance in the USCIS Policy Manual clarifying when H-3 nonimmigrants may participate in training provided on the property of an academic or vocational institution. Wed, 08 May 24 09:06:50 -0400 USCIS f2ac20a8-2489-4499-b812-d52e1e32a941 https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/centralized-intake-processing-of-vawa-self-petitions-and-related-filings-at-the-nebraska-service Effective April 1, 2024, we centralized the intake process of Form I-360, Petition for Amerasian, Widow(er), or Special Immigrant, and related filings under the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) for self-petitioning abused spouses, children, and parents at the Nebraska Service Center. Tue, 07 May 24 14:11:15 -0400 USCIS 164fe752-50ba-4728-bd2d-ea0cf9091fb8 https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/uscis-reminds-certain-employment-based-petitioners-to-submit-the-correct-required-fees We are updating our Frequently Asked Questions on the USCIS Fee Rule to help certain employment-based petitioners understand how to submit the correct required fees. Mon, 29 Apr 24 15:36:41 -0400 USCIS 05042f6e-4ae4-4ff7-9d7e-6b08092aa633 https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/cap-reached-for-additional-returning-worker-h-2b-visas-for-the-early-second-half-of-fy-2024 U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services has received enough petitions to reach the cap for the additional 19,000 H-2B visas made available for returning workers for the early second half of fiscal year (FY) 2024 with start dates from April 1 to May 14, 2024, under the H-2B supplemental cap temporary final rule (FY 2024 TFR). Thu, 18 Apr 24 13:10:29 -0400 USCIS 8c7923a8-2825-4053-aa36-8bdbc5a8622e https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/uscis-adopts-department-of-labor-definition-of-science-or-art U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services is issuing policy guidance in the USCIS Policy Manual to add the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) definition of “science or art” for Schedule A, Group II cases. Wed, 10 Apr 24 09:09:43 -0400 USCIS f74fea2e-e50d-433e-add9-a6fc1a5f97a0 https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/uscis-announces-information-regarding-eb-5-regional-center-audits Under the new provisions of section 203(b)(5)(E)(vii) added by the EB-5 Reform and Integrity Act of 2022 (RIA) to the Immigration and Nationality Act, we must audit each designated regional center at least once every five years. Tue, 09 Apr 24 14:48:38 -0400 USCIS 6be220b4-28de-486f-94a2-aa6ab0fca801 https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/uscis-announces-new-guidance-on-form-i-693-validity-period U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services today announced that any Form I-693, Report of Immigration Medical Examination and Vaccination Record, that was properly completed and signed by a civil surgeon on or after Nov. 1, 2023, does not expire and can be used indefinitely as evidence to show that the applicant is not inadmissible on health-related grounds. Thu, 04 Apr 24 13:34:19 -0400 USCIS 64e84de0-8593-4202-8748-639f0652e5b5 https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/notice-of-fy-2025-h-1b-cap-initial-registration-selection-process-completion-and-cap-season U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services has received enough electronic registrations for unique beneficiaries during the initial registration period to reach the fiscal year (FY) 2025 H-1B numerical allocations (H-1B cap), including the advanced degree exemption (master’s cap). Mon, 01 Apr 24 14:28:28 -0400 USCIS bbf67f0a-acaf-4420-8d82-fafdf1c3dbe8 https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/uscis-provides-third-gender-option-on-form-n-400 We have revised Form N-400, Application for Naturalization, to provide a third gender option, “X,” defined as “Another Gender Identity.” We are also updating guidance in the USCIS Policy Manual accordingly to account for this form revision and other forthcoming form revisions that will add a third gender option; see the Policy Alert. Mon, 01 Apr 24 12:27:38 -0400 USCIS 8342df73-89d9-41e2-8f1e-55bf7a73623a https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/uscis-revises-policy-manual-to-align-with-new-fee-rule We are revising our guidance in the USCIS Policy Manual to align with the Fee Schedule and Changes to Certain Other Immigration Benefit Request Requirements Final Rule published in the Federal Register on Jan. 31, 2024, and effective on April 1, 2024. Mon, 01 Apr 24 10:10:14 -0400 USCIS f24a453f-d5b7-487c-b626-77fa78b82e1e https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/uscis-announces-filing-location-change-for-certain-employment-based-i-485-and-related-forms On, April 1, 2024, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services is changing the filing location for concurrently filed Forms I-907, Request for Premium Processing Service; I-140, Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker; and I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status, and for related Forms I-131, Application for Travel Document; I-765, Application for Employment Authorization; and I-824, Application for Action on an Approved Application or Petition, filed with the application package, from USCIS service centers to a USCIS lockbox. Fri, 29 Mar 24 08:47:32 -0400 USCIS 1cf1d3a8-d1f1-4586-b8c2-694efcfeb632 https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/new-citizens-will-be-able-to-seamlessly-request-social-security-updates U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services today announced that, starting April 1, applicants filing Form N-400, Application for Naturalization, will have the option to request an original or replacement Social Security number (SSN) or card and update their immigration status with the Social Security Administration (SSA) without having to visit an SSA office. Thu, 28 Mar 24 11:50:26 -0400 USCIS b35d8630-fe7d-4a9d-a291-f60d2df8c008 https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/h-1b-form-i-129-filing-location-change-and-fy-2025-h-1b-cap-season-updates-and-reminders The initial registration period for the FY 2025 H-1B cap season closed at noon Eastern on March 25, 2024. Tue, 26 Mar 24 10:42:35 -0400 USCIS 2d749de2-a7a5-4f21-aa48-5f724812df44 https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/uscis-extends-initial-registration-period-for-fy-2025-h-1b-cap USCIS has extended the initial registration period for the fiscal year (FY) 2025 H-1B cap. Thu, 21 Mar 24 18:28:13 -0400 USCIS 9efdbd5c-c1c4-441f-8bd7-c0f10e0060a7 https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/uscis-clarifies-anti-discrimination-policy U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services today announced agency-wide anti-discrimination guidance that addresses public-facing interactions and affirms our public service principles. Fri, 15 Mar 24 11:34:23 -0400 USCIS f26c4835-ea4c-4a9f-b956-91c62337b796 https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/uscis-streamlines-process-for-refugee-employment-authorization-documents USCIS has begun implementing a streamlined process for Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization, to provide Employment Authorization Documents (EADs) more efficiently to eligible refugees after they are admitted into the United States. Tue, 12 Mar 24 13:00:06 -0400 USCIS 2c6adf99-710a-46ef-aeed-580aa3a082e5 https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/uscis-reaches-h-2b-cap-for-second-half-of-fy-2024-and-announces-filing-dates-for-the-second-half-of U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services has received enough petitions to meet the H-2B cap for the second half of fiscal year (FY) 2024 and is announcing the filing dates for supplemental H-2B visas for the reminder of FY 2024 made available under the FY 2024 H-2B supplemental visa temporary final rule. Fri, 08 Mar 24 15:46:36 -0500 USCIS 8731fffe-31c6-4c28-8643-d846cff32e23 https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/reminder-certain-updated-forms-take-effect-on-april-1-with-no-grace-period With the new fee rule that goes into effect April 1, 2024, you must use the new 04/01/24 editions Fri, 01 Mar 24 13:04:47 -0500 USCIS e94ca263-75e1-4acc-8e2d-9386da8788e5 https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/fy-2025-h-1b-registration-period-and-myuscis-organizational-account-reminders On Feb. 28, 2024, we launched new myUSCIS organizational accounts that will allow multiple people within an organization, as well as their legal representatives, to collaborate on and prepare H-1B registrations, H-1B petitions, and any associated Form I-907, Request for Premium Processing Service. A new organizational account is required to participate in the H-1B Electronic Registration Process starting in March 2024.  Wed, 28 Feb 24 13:22:29 -0500 USCIS 2a97a895-972e-4c9a-b420-12f6fee6531f https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/eligible-ukrainians-can-now-apply-for-re-parole Beginning Feb. 27, 2024, eligible Ukrainian citizens and their immediate family members who are physically present in the United States can now be considered for re-parole so they can continue to temporarily remain in the United States. Tue, 27 Feb 24 13:52:26 -0500 USCIS a35b059b-3622-463a-ac95-da2ee0a46664 https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/eligible-ukrainians-can-now-apply-for-re-parole-russian С 27 февраля 2024 года некоторые категории граждан Украины и их ближайшие родственники, которые физически находятся в Соединенных Штатах, могут подать заявку на повторное получение гуманитарного пароля, чтобы иметь возможность временно оставаться в Соединенных Штатах. Tue, 27 Feb 24 10:31:38 -0500 USCIS ce3b57a9-99b9-44c9-8b6f-7ece8bdc3850 https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/eligible-ukrainians-can-now-apply-for-re-parole-ukrianian Починаючи з 27 лютого 2024 року, певні категорії громадян України та їхніх найближчих родичів, які фізично перебувають у Сполучених Штатах, можуть подати заявку про повторне отримання гуманітарного паролю, щоб мати можливість тимчасово залишатись в Сполучених Штатах. Tue, 27 Feb 24 10:31:36 -0500 USCIS 16af516e-9290-480b-838a-920f7dbefd59 https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/reminder-adjustment-to-premium-processing-fees-takes-effect-today As previously announced, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services’ new inflation-adjusted premium processing fees take effect today, increasing the filing fee for Form I-907, Request for Premium Processing. USCIS published a final rule announcing the change on Dec. 28, 2023. Mon, 26 Feb 24 11:00:40 -0500 USCIS cd0e4dd6-4a94-4c50-b1e4-0c621266b2f5 https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/uscis-changes-fee-payment-process-for-filing-in-person We are starting a new process for most applicants, petitioners, and requestors, and their attorneys and accredited representatives to pay for certain benefit request forms by mail or remotely instead of in person at a field office. Fri, 26 Jan 24 16:21:04 -0500 USCIS c108c355-7ff0-4f3d-92ac-4866c9e17591 https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/uscis-updates-guidance-on-untimely-filed-extension-of-stay-and-change-of-status-requests U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services today announced an update to its Policy Manual providing that USCIS, in our discretion and under certain conditions, may excuse a nonimmigrant’s failure to timely file an extension of stay or change of status request if the delay was due to extraordinary circumstances beyond the control of the applicant or petitioner. Wed, 24 Jan 24 09:36:46 -0500 USCIS 9646230d-6e1a-4d35-bbd7-b2ee8990dd1e https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/cap-reached-for-additional-returning-worker-h-2b-visas-for-the-first-half-of-fy-2024 U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services has received enough petitions to reach the cap for the additional 20,716 H-2B visas made available for returning workers for the first half of fiscal year 2024 with start dates on or before March 31, 2024, under the H-2B supplemental cap temporary final rule (FY 2024 TFR). Fri, 12 Jan 24 13:38:59 -0500 USCIS dbb44575-d473-43f5-ad66-1d83b44943cc https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/uscis-issues-policy-guidance-on-ability-to-pay-requirement-when-adjustment-of-status-applicants U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services today issued policy guidance on how we analyze an employer’s ability to pay the proffered wage for immigrant petitions in certain first, second, and third preference employment-based immigrant visa classifications, including instances when the sponsored worker is changing employers. Fri, 05 Jan 24 09:29:41 -0500 USCIS 0df55e82-0ff4-4eb3-9f5c-0b6e178f8f1b https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/uscis-announces-inflation-adjustment-to-premium-processing-fees U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services today announced a final rule that will increase the filing fee for Form I-907, Request for Premium Processing, to adjust for inflation. Wed, 27 Dec 23 09:29:42 -0500 USCIS 88e169f0-78b0-44bc-9ed6-1ce517ea9bee https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/uscis-updates-policy-guidance-for-international-students U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is issuing policy guidance regarding the F and M student nonimmigrant classifications, including the agency’s role in adjudicating applications for employment authorization, change of status, extension of stay, and reinstatement of status for these students and their dependents in the United States. Wed, 20 Dec 23 09:36:01 -0500 USCIS 85d7bdab-d343-49dd-ad0d-3027bc84dd8e https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/uscis-changes-filing-location-for-form-i-907-for-pending-form-i-140 U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services will begin transitioning the filing location for Form I-907, Request for Premium Processing, when filed for a pending Form I-140, Immigrant Petition for Alien Workers, from the service centers to appropriate USCIS lockboxes on Dec. 15. Wed, 13 Dec 23 14:56:46 -0500 USCIS a28cf09a-169e-4155-a4a0-1da5e04aadd5 https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/uscis-reaches-fiscal-year-2024-h-1b-cap USCIS has received a sufficient number of petitions needed to reach the congressionally mandated 65,000 H-1B visa regular cap and the 20,000 H-1B visa U.S. advanced degree exemption, known as the master’s cap, for fiscal year (FY) 2024. Wed, 13 Dec 23 11:19:06 -0500 USCIS 08b41c54-ad0c-4a0d-aecd-3ca9d598d18c https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/uscis-updates-guidance-and-clarifies-policy-on-family-based-conditional-permanent-residence U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services is updating guidance on family-based conditional permanent residence in its Policy Manual. The update consolidates and updates guidance on eligibility, filing, and adjudication for Form I-751, Petition to Remove Conditions on Residence. Tue, 12 Dec 23 09:27:10 -0500 USCIS 65cf23e3-2285-4efa-a062-a6b63dc28b98 https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/tampa-asylum-office-moving-to-new-location USCIS’ Tampa Asylum Office is moving to a new location. Mon, 27 Nov 23 12:41:30 -0500 USCIS 84bdb8c2-ec35-4f2c-9689-eac4a69a64ce https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/uscis-expands-myprogress-to-form-i-485-and-form-i-821 U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services announced today that we are expanding myProgress (formerly known as personalized processing times) to Form I-821, Application for Temporary Protected Status, and Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status. myProgress will initially only be available for family-based or Afghan special immigrant I-485 applicants. Tue, 21 Nov 23 13:15:00 -0500 USCIS f74979b4-498e-48e3-863a-0ffd16b1bd59 https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/uscis-changes-filing-location-for-form-i-907-with-form-i-140 U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services will begin transitioning the filing location for Form I-907, Request for Premium Processing, when filed with Form I-140, Immigrant Petition for Alien Workers, from the service centers to the USCIS lockbox on Nov. 13. Thu, 09 Nov 23 09:43:43 -0500 USCIS 2af724ea-71e8-44c5-8dc9-e225fb4befa2 https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/uscis-updates-guidance-for-special-immigrant-juvenile-petitions Effective immediately, we are updating guidance in the USCIS Policy Manual for adjudicating Special Immigrant Juvenile (SIJ) petitions. Wed, 08 Nov 23 12:23:34 -0500 USCIS 71885021-69d4-4c27-9183-7b86b828b29d https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/dhs-announces-countries-eligible-for-h-2a-and-h-2b-visa-programs-1 The Department of Homeland Security (DHS), in consultation with the Department of State (DOS), has announced the lists of countries whose nationals are eligible to participate in the H-2A and H-2B visa programs in the next year. Wed, 08 Nov 23 09:10:42 -0500 USCIS 50215359-8116-4ca2-8f1a-9ada669f90fa https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/uscis-potomac-service-center-will-no-longer-accept-paper-responses As of Aug. 21, 2023, the Potomac Service Center (PSC) has begun to move to a new facility in Camp Springs, MD, and can no longer receive paper responses to correspondence such as Notices of Intent to Deny (NOID), Notices of Intent to Revoke (NOIR), Intents to Deny (ITD), Requests for Evidence (RFE) or supporting documentation for filings currently pending at the PSC. Mon, 06 Nov 23 15:39:17 -0500 USCIS bf4cbbb1-1962-4c8e-9095-c70f249e5728 https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/certain-renewal-applicants-for-employment-authorization-to-receive-automatic-180-day-extension Certain renewal applicants who have filed Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization, qualify for an automatic extension of their expiring employment authorization and/or employment authorization documents (EADs) while their renewal application is pending. Fri, 27 Oct 23 15:03:05 -0400 USCIS 2cc8ae8a-5804-4a1c-8484-ef602a30ae47 https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/filing-location-change-for-h-2a-h-2b-cnmi-related-form-i-129-petitions-form-i-129cw-petitions-and Beginning Nov. 1, 2023, all H-2A, H-2B, CNMI-related Form I-129 petitions, Form I-129CW petitions, and CNMI-related Form I-539 applications must be filed directly at the Texas Service Center. Fri, 27 Oct 23 08:57:28 -0400 USCIS da949b2a-18a2-4b13-a9ba-f3bf91462478 https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/uscis-extends-parole-by-two-years-for-certain-afghan-nationals-under-age-14 USCIS announced today that we will consider two-year extensions of the initial parole period on a case-by-case basis for certain Afghan nationals who:   Thu, 26 Oct 23 11:41:49 -0400 USCIS 0e9c5e37-06d6-4db3-b54a-9be53ccbce3d https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/uscis-updates-guidance-on-eb-5-regional-center-program We are updating the USCIS Policy Manual with new guidance on the EB-5 Regional Center Program and new content on regional center designation and obligations, project applications, and direct and third-party promoters. Thu, 26 Oct 23 09:18:59 -0400 USCIS b09ffbee-d114-4c3f-85a7-947493c088a8 https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/uscis-issues-policy-guidance-regarding-the-2-year-foreign-residence-requirement-for-the-j U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is issuing policy guidance in the USCIS Policy Manual regarding the 2-year foreign residence requirement for the nonimmigrant exchange visitor (J) classification. Tue, 24 Oct 23 09:29:35 -0400 USCIS 88afb634-1964-4f47-8670-bb85e686a50c https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/uscis-clarifies-policy-on-l-1-petitions U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services has issued policy guidance in the USCIS Policy Manual clarifying that a sole proprietorship may not file a petition on behalf of its owner because the sole proprietorship does not exist as a distinct legal entity separate and apart from the owner. Fri, 20 Oct 23 13:16:58 -0400 USCIS c795066a-8d2a-40d4-baaf-909cd9468ffe https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/uscis-reaches-h-2b-cap-for-first-half-of-fy-2024 U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services has received enough petitions to reach the congressionally mandated cap on H-2B visas for temporary nonagricultural workers for the first half of fiscal year (FY) 2024. Fri, 13 Oct 23 16:27:29 -0400 USCIS 2294aeb1-1eea-4416-bc09-31dd8a78e439 https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/uscis-issues-new-instructions-for-filing-asylum-applications-with-uscis-after-eoir-dismissal-or U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is issuing new instructions for asylum applications submitted by individuals whose removal proceedings were dismissed or terminated by the Executive Office for Immigration Review (EOIR). Fri, 13 Oct 23 14:01:01 -0400 USCIS 7408c59d-30b4-437f-8927-80f3e174cbeb https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/uscis-launches-new-online-change-of-address-tool U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services has launched a new Enterprise Change of Address (E-COA) self-service tool to allow customers with pending applications, petitions, or requests to update their address with USCIS more easily. Thu, 12 Oct 23 12:44:59 -0400 USCIS 1b757ec8-72d1-482d-b12a-408fdeef774c https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/uscis-provides-additional-guidance-for-eb-5-required-investment-timeframe-and-investors-associated We are providing additional guidance on our interpretation of changes to the EB-5 program in the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA) made by the EB-5 Reform and Integrity Act of 2022 (RIA), specifically the required investment timeframe and how we treat investors who are associated with a terminated regional center. Wed, 11 Oct 23 10:26:34 -0400 USCIS f1641292-d736-4e2c-8985-7639586dde82 https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/uscis-continues-fee-exemptions-and-expedited-processing-for-afghan-nationals Today, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) announced it is extending and expanding previously announced filing fee exemptions and expedited application processing for certain Afghan nationals. Fri, 29 Sep 23 14:24:44 -0400 USCIS 9551f834-a972-454e-a4c1-83748253e33f https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/uscis-increases-employment-authorization-document-validity-period-for-certain-categories We are updating guidance in the Policy Manual to increase the maximum validity period to 5 years for initial and renewal Employment Authorization Documents (EADs) for certain noncitizens who are employment authorized incident to status or circumstance, including those admitted as refugees, paroled as refugees, and granted asylum, as well as recipients of withholding of removal. Wed, 27 Sep 23 14:13:04 -0400 USCIS ea1eeec4-07f5-4832-8d7b-0ab0438dc04f https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/uscis-exempts-biometric-services-fee-for-all-form-i-539-applicants U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) today announced that it is exempting the biometric services fee for Form I-539, Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status. Mon, 25 Sep 23 12:46:12 -0400 USCIS d9c77256-7985-4e68-b151-8e0e3dc59326 https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/important-update-on-deferred-action-for-childhood-arrivals On Sept. 13, 2023, the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Texas issued a decision finding the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) Final Rule unlawful and expanding the original July 16, 2021 injunction and order of vacatur to cover the Final Rule. Mon, 18 Sep 23 12:06:28 -0400 USCIS c18fcbb5-2e3b-4745-9158-ffe64d6d1c37 https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/uscis-clarifies-guidance-for-eb-1-eligibility-criteria U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services is issuing policy guidance in our Policy Manual to clarify the types of evidence that we may evaluate to determine eligibility for extraordinary ability (E11) and outstanding professor or researcher (E12) EB-1 immigrant visa classifications. Tue, 12 Sep 23 09:35:40 -0400 USCIS 1f7585b1-5a0c-4eac-ba6a-e3a788e2872a https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/affirmative-asylum-applicants-must-provide-interpreters-starting-sept-13 U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services reminds affirmative asylum applicants that, starting Sept. 13, 2023, you must bring an interpreter to your asylum interview if you are not fluent in English or wish to proceed with your interview in a language other than English. Mon, 11 Sep 23 14:40:14 -0400 USCIS ce1ded58-76e6-42fe-8cef-bb44023b8d34 https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/dhs-extends-tps-re-registration-periods-for-el-salvador-haiti-honduras-nepal-nicaragua-and-sudan-to The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is extending from 60 days to 18 months the periods to re-register for Temporary Protected Status (TPS) under the designations of El Salvador, Haiti, Honduras, Nepal, Nicaragua and Sudan.  Fri, 08 Sep 23 14:39:07 -0400 USCIS b5ea3eab-4f61-4b83-9fe1-2084c8939453 https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/uscis-updates-voter-registration-guidance-for-naturalization-ceremonies U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services is updating guidance in our Policy Manual to provide clarification on voter registration access at our administrative naturalization ceremonies. Fri, 25 Aug 23 09:33:06 -0400 USCIS d2c2e0bb-ddac-4658-8249-6385452a7044 https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/uscis-updates-policy-guidance-for-the-sought-to-acquire-requirement-under-the-child-status We are updating the USCIS Policy Manual to clarify how we will apply the extraordinary circumstances exception to the “sought to acquire” requirement under the Child Status Protection Act (CSPA) in light of a Feb. 14, 2023, policy change. Thu, 24 Aug 23 09:43:15 -0400 USCIS 58ba0c5c-6642-42e1-9451-b9ad073ee95a https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/uscis-launches-online-appointment-request-form U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services has launched a new online form for individuals, attorneys, and accredited representatives to request an in-person appointment at their local field office without having to call the USCIS Contact Center. Mon, 21 Aug 23 11:09:51 -0400 USCIS 938b64f0-dd5a-42b8-9171-957014ca00cd https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/uscis-reopens-field-office-in-havana-cuba U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services will reopen an international field office in Havana, Cuba. Thu, 17 Aug 23 13:53:49 -0400 USCIS c0ed7e2f-822c-4d09-be36-0fd73fad5783 https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/uscis-updates-receipts-process-for-form-i-129s U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) today announced changes to the way we issue receipts for L-1 nonimmigrant intracompany transferees (executives, managers, or specialized knowledge professionals) under a previously approved blanket L petition. Thu, 03 Aug 23 11:25:44 -0400 USCIS d2c03181-0d6d-4333-99ca-06cab6fd2116 https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/second-random-selection-from-previously-submitted-registrations-complete-for-fy-2024-h-1b-cap USCIS recently announced that we would need to select additional registrations to reach the FY 2024 H-1B numerical allocations. Mon, 31 Jul 23 17:22:29 -0400 USCIS b1427975-2fb6-47fe-83dc-2baad5e9219c https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/invitations-to-be-issued-for-family-reunification-parole-process The Department of State’s National Visa Center (NVC) will begin issuing invitations under the family reunification parole (FRP) processes for Colombia, El Salvador, Guatemala, and Honduras on July 31, 2023. Fri, 28 Jul 23 14:22:37 -0400 USCIS 771ed550-1922-4c9f-a83d-6b6e75904fff https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/uscis-will-conduct-second-random-selection-from-previously-submitted-fy-2024-h-1b-cap-registrations In March 2023, USCIS conducted an initial random selection on properly submitted electronic registrations for the fiscal year (FY) 2024 H-1B cap, including for beneficiaries eligible for the advanced degree exemption. Only those petitioners with selected registrations for FY 2024 are eligible to file H-1B cap-subject petitions. Thu, 27 Jul 23 12:33:53 -0400 USCIS d266952e-9bcf-4b0a-ac11-08828a9d2c41 https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/uscis-to-publish-revised-form-i-9 On Aug. 1, 2023, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services will publish a revised version of Form I-9, Employment Eligibility Verification. Fri, 21 Jul 23 11:16:49 -0400 USCIS f57f3763-5897-4030-92c7-653d1d4d5522 https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/uscis-updates-policy-manual-to-make-it-easier-to-identify-who-is-subject-to-the-public-charge-ground We have incorporated important information regarding the categories of adjustment of status applicants to whom the public charge ground of inadmissibility applies from the appendices in Volume 8, Part G, of the USCIS Policy Manual, to Chapter 3, Applicability, to make it easier to identify whether the public charge ground of inadmissibility applies to a specific adjustment of status category. Thu, 20 Jul 23 09:33:54 -0400 USCIS e7867da3-2deb-41ce-a27e-5580b4570f58 https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/uscis-updates-visa-availability-approach-for-managing-form-i-526-petition-inventory U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) today announced it would update its visa availability approach for managing the inventory of Form I-526, Immigrant Petition by Alien Investor, to promote greater efficiency. Tue, 18 Jul 23 14:25:13 -0400 USCIS 2f6b5d86-8715-42bc-ace8-376bf45eee6f https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/uscis-expands-myprogress-to-form-i-765-and-form-i-131 U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services announced today that we are expanding myProgress (formerly known as personalized processing times) to Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization, and Form I-131, Application for Travel Document. Wed, 12 Jul 23 09:43:48 -0400 USCIS 0ce98e1b-3ec0-473b-9803-8970fed65dfe https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/uscis-provides-guidance-on-employment-authorization-documents-based-on-compelling-circumstances U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services today released policy guidance on the eligibility criteria for initial and renewal applications for employment authorization documents (EADs) in compelling circumstances based on existing regulatory requirements at 8 CFR 204.5(p). Wed, 14 Jun 23 11:09:21 -0400 USCIS d6e045e8-3182-4223-a22e-eabd5e564c84 https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/uscis-expands-premium-processing-for-applicants-seeking-to-change-into-f-m-or-j-nonimmigrant-status U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services today announced the expansion of premium processing for applicants filing Form I-539, Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status, and seeking a change of status to F-1, F-2, M-1, M-2, J-1, or J-2 nonimmigrant status. Online filing of Form I-907, Request for Premium Processing Service, will also be available for these applicants. Mon, 12 Jun 23 13:48:14 -0400 USCIS 952e4516-1f5a-4837-86d9-437c4b0f451f https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/certain-individuals-requesting-parole-can-now-file-form-i-131-online U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) today announced that certain individuals requesting parole based on urgent humanitarian reasons or significant public benefit can file Form I-131, Application for Travel Document, online.   Fri, 09 Jun 23 11:12:43 -0400 USCIS 3c63c477-7584-43d1-8dc6-d916db1489e6 https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/applications-for-re-parole-and-work-authorization-renewal-are-fee-exempt-for-certain-afghan Effective June 9, 2023, through July 31, 2024, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) will consider, on a case-by-case basis for urgent humanitarian reasons or significant public benefit, a two-year extension of the original parole period for Afghan parolees who have already applied for asylum or for adjustment to lawful permanent resident (LPR) status (such as adjustment of status as a special immigrant). Fri, 09 Jun 23 09:03:54 -0400 USCIS 2a338176-c19f-44e3-9666-74d7ff62f796 https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/certain-afghan-parolees-are-employment-authorized-incident-to-parole Effective June 8, 2023, certain additional Afghan parolees are employment authorized incident to parole. Thu, 08 Jun 23 14:10:15 -0400 USCIS 47a4a785-f563-4346-a9f0-a59676488806 https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/lockbox-filing-location-updates-webpage-expanded-to-include-service-center-filing-location-updates USCIS has updated the Lockbox Filing Location Updates page on our website to now include service center filing location updates as well: Lockbox and Service Center Filing Location Updates. Tue, 06 Jun 23 12:36:07 -0400 USCIS 9c9e2b88-286d-4346-9daa-5523914da8b1 https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/uscis-changes-filing-location-and-documentation-requirements-for-certain-affirmative-asylum Effective today, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services has changed the filing location for certain affirmative asylum applications submitted by mail. Wed, 31 May 23 10:51:13 -0400 USCIS 9832c869-b91b-4e06-bdf2-607db21cda14 https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/uscis-updates-review-process-for-the-processes-for-cubans-haitians-nicaraguans-and-venezuelans The U.S. government is granting advance travel authorization for up to 30,000 noncitizens each month to come to the United States to seek parole on a case-by-case basis under the processes for Cubans, Haitians, Nicaraguans, and Venezuelans. Thu, 18 May 23 10:37:48 -0400 USCIS f1218efc-a0e1-4861-b77f-37b9ee95e13b https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/uscis-providing-documents-after-notice-of-immigration-judge-and-bia-decisions-about-immigration We now are affirmatively creating and providing documented evidence of their status to certain new asylees and lawful permanent residents upon our receiving notification that an immigration judge or the Board of Immigration Appeals (BIA) has granted status. Thu, 04 May 23 10:34:54 -0400 USCIS 75f37797-3e17-4cd8-8fba-b3f9c2c5c759 https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/uscis-clarifies-guidance-on-citizenship-and-naturalization-for-adopted-children Effective immediately, we are updating Volumes 5 and 12 of the USCIS Policy Manual to clarify how U.S. citizenship and naturalization provisions apply to adopted children. Fri, 21 Apr 23 10:09:29 -0400 USCIS ef5cec31-c072-4b68-ae79-973e1ed7ae0e https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/uscis-extends-temporary-suspension-of-biometrics-submission-for-certain-form-i-539-applicants USCIS has extended the temporary suspension of the biometrics submission requirement for certain applicants filing Form I-539, Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status, requesting an extension of stay in or change of status to H-4, L-2, or E nonimmigrant status. Wed, 19 Apr 23 10:02:40 -0400 USCIS f842f2a3-d080-4b5a-a6ab-a0b02fd067c2 https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/uscis-updates-policy-guidance-on-safe-mailing-address-and-case-handling-procedures-for-certain U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is updating policy guidance in the USCIS Policy Manual to provide guidance on mailing address procedures for persons eligible for and recipients of victim-based immigration relief, specifically Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) self-petitioners as well as those who are seeking or currently hold T or U nonimmigrant status (protected persons). Tue, 11 Apr 23 14:47:22 -0400 USCIS 0e601e8b-b82e-454d-a836-7292bdc0f57f https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/employers-may-file-h-2b-petitions-for-fy-2023-late-second-half-returning-workers Starting April 13, 2023, USCIS will begin accepting petitions for workers for the late second half of fiscal year (FY) 2023, requesting employment start dates from May 15, 2023, to Sept. 30, 2023 under the H-2B supplemental cap temporary final rule. Mon, 10 Apr 23 12:40:16 -0400 USCIS 7782fc12-1334-41d0-9ba6-91e6908984eb https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/uscis-updates-guidance-on-administrative-naturalization-ceremony-venues U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services is issuing policy guidance in the USCIS Policy Manual to clarify the types of venues USCIS may use for administrative naturalization ceremonies. Tue, 04 Apr 23 09:41:49 -0400 USCIS a145c5af-72f0-401b-90a0-669a58d7cef6 https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/cap-reached-for-additional-returning-worker-h-2b-visas-for-the-early-second-half-of-fy-2023 U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services has received enough petitions to reach the cap for the additional 16,500 H-2B visas made available for returning workers for the early second half of fiscal year (FY) 2023 with start dates from April 1, 2023 to May 14, 2023, under the FY 2023 H-2B supplemental visa temporary final rule. Fri, 31 Mar 23 16:33:19 -0400 USCIS 1d88e355-04df-42a7-9b72-2302cb3a1f20 https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/uscis-updates-policy-guidance-on-self-selecting-a-gender-marker-on-forms-and-documents U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services is updating policy guidance in the USCIS Policy Manual to clarify that, effective immediately, USCIS will accept the self-identified gender marker for individuals requesting immigration benefits Fri, 31 Mar 23 14:53:23 -0400 USCIS 6011354e-02b1-427c-bd18-8f95d8d20261 https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/uscis-removes-60-day-rule-for-civil-surgeon-signatures-on-form-i-693 U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services is removing the requirement that civil surgeons sign Form I-693, Report of Immigration Medical Examination and Vaccination Record, no more than 60 days before an individual applies for an underlying immigration benefit, including Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status. Fri, 31 Mar 23 09:12:01 -0400 USCIS 0cb94482-01b5-4d42-ade9-cd444a0c2d89 https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/new-filing-address-for-courier-delivery-services-to-uscis-phoenix-lockbox U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services has changed the filing location for courier delivery services to the Phoenix lockbox. The facility has moved to Tempe, Arizona, and the filing location for courier delivery services for UPS, FedEx, and DHL has also changed to Tempe. The filing location remains the same when using the U.S. Postal Service. Thu, 30 Mar 23 13:03:22 -0400 USCIS 90521359-d790-4a78-868e-f9cc7be8b51e https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/provision-allowing-special-immigrant-juveniles-to-file-form-i-360-in-person-before-their-21st Petitioners for Special Immigrant Juvenile (SIJ) classification (or their representatives) may schedule an appointment within two weeks before their 21st birthday to file Form I-360, Petition for Amerasian, Widow(er), or Special Immigrant, in person. Thu, 30 Mar 23 11:22:04 -0400 USCIS 25d67c55-ca39-4be3-8524-c472d3140ea6 https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/uscis-updates-policy-on-time-frames-for-paper-based-filings-and-responses-ending-on-saturdays We are updating the USCIS Policy Manual to address situations when the last day to file a benefit request or respond to a USCIS action falls on a Saturday, Sunday, or federal holiday. Wed, 29 Mar 23 09:43:14 -0400 USCIS 1a3fc9b2-dae9-4aba-85ed-400c8bf5b55c https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/fy-2024-h-1b-cap-season-updates U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has received enough electronic registrations during the initial registration period to reach the fiscal year (FY) 2024 H-1B numerical allocations (H-1B cap), including the advanced degree exemption (master’s cap). Mon, 27 Mar 23 14:34:00 -0400 USCIS 170b7ce2-8fcd-455d-8324-6d491bbe9f84 https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/uscis-announces-end-of-covid-related-flexibilities U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services today announced that certain flexibilities it first announced in March 2020, to address the COVID-19 pandemic will end on March 23, 2023. Thu, 23 Mar 23 09:43:40 -0400 USCIS b3bd5f50-4565-4b39-b094-a91620547759 https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/uscis-form-and-policy-updates-for-applying-for-naturalization-based-on-military-service U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services today announced updated policy guidance in the USCIS Policy Manual to clarify and conform with the revision of Form N-426, Request for Certification of Military or Naval Service. Wed, 22 Mar 23 10:10:26 -0400 USCIS 6cad8835-c2e7-438c-bf27-aa3c477da2f8 https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/update-to-filing-location-for-u-nonimmigrant-based-form-i-485 U nonimmigrants applying to become lawful permanent residents must now file Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status, only at the Nebraska Service Center and not at the Vermont Service Center. Mon, 20 Mar 23 09:32:27 -0400 USCIS 00dd6abc-14e5-4806-b876-6fbebd84e0fd https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/uscis-relocates-lockbox-from-phoenix-to-tempe-arizona-for-courier-delivery-services On March 31, applicants and petitioners filing at the Phoenix lockbox will see a new filing location for courier delivery services such as UPS, FedEx, and DHL. Fri, 17 Mar 23 10:44:14 -0400 USCIS a05e9ee5-80ac-4619-970f-8ccaf773f657 https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/uscis-announces-additional-mail-delivery-process-for-receiving-adit-stamp Lawful permanent residents may receive temporary evidence of their lawful permanent resident status by mail rather than physically visiting a field office to receive an Alien Documentation, Identification and Telecommunication (ADIT) stamp (also known as an I-551 stamp). Thu, 16 Mar 23 14:56:50 -0400 USCIS b9892b05-501d-42d0-8549-49366f348f40 https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/uscis-removes-biometrics-requirement-for-form-i-526e-petitioners Beginning on March 15, 2023, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services is removing the biometrics submission requirement and $85 fee requirement for petitioners filing Form I-526E, Immigrant Petition by Regional Center Investor. Wed, 15 Mar 23 15:15:35 -0400 USCIS 404cac00-8847-4043-baa2-4206b0cfceb2 https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/uscis-extends-rule-providing-interpreters-at-affirmative-asylum-interviews U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services announced today a fourth extension to a temporary final rule (TFR) requiring use of a USCIS interpreter at certain affirmative asylum interviews. Wed, 15 Mar 23 12:13:19 -0400 USCIS a795f656-2501-4c4c-817f-38b0105d76eb https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/uscis-issues-guidance-on-analyzing-employers-ability-to-pay-wages U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services today issued policy guidance on how we analyze an employer’s ability to pay the proffered wage for immigrant petitions in certain first, second, and third preference employment-based immigrant visa classifications. Wed, 15 Mar 23 09:43:07 -0400 USCIS 5efb9dd2-bb3e-4796-baa3-9481e5e1a02b https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/uscis-processing-times-for-orphan-and-hague-adoption-cases On Nov. 2, 2022 USCIS announced a change in our method for calculating orphan and Hague adoption case processing times. Mon, 13 Mar 23 09:34:35 -0400 USCIS 3b4b8dd2-d685-4a8b-96e5-d4fe611f2c4f https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/uscis-provides-guidance-on-program-for-international-entrepreneurs U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services has issued comprehensive guidance on parole for international entrepreneurs. Fri, 10 Mar 23 08:23:38 -0500 USCIS e9e143d0-80c9-4618-9b1b-0b0da11ab5c5 https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/new-entrepreneur-resources-available-on-uscis-website U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services has published additional online resources on uscis.gov to provide an overview of some of the temporary and permanent pathways for noncitizen entrepreneurs to work in the United States. Thu, 09 Mar 23 14:51:32 -0500 USCIS bcbf6bb9-c556-4594-a9d7-609e055180ee https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/uscis-updates-policy-guidance-on-mobile-biometrics-services We are issuing policy guidance in the USCIS Policy Manual to address how we provide mobile biometrics services. Tue, 07 Mar 23 09:38:15 -0500 USCIS 790396ed-e6b2-434f-8bef-17f8a38e9846 https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/uscis-issues-clarifying-guidance-on-eligibility-for-the-o-1b-visa-classification U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services today issued policy guidance clarifying how it evaluates evidence to determine eligibility for O-1B nonimmigrants of extraordinary ability in the arts and nonimmigrants of extraordinary achievement in the motion picture or television industry. Fri, 03 Mar 23 10:36:21 -0500 USCIS 017305ab-bbe1-467f-9fbe-45ceca92a955 https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/uscis-reaches-h-2b-cap-for-second-half-of-fy-2023-and-announces-filing-dates-for-the-second-half-of U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has received enough petitions to meet the H-2B cap for the second half of fiscal year (FY) 2023 and is announcing the filing dates for supplemental H-2B visas for the reminder of FY 2023 made available under the FY 2023 H-2B supplemental visa temporary final rule. Thu, 02 Mar 23 09:25:47 -0500 USCIS b799deb5-88cf-4498-9eee-b96119b9918f https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/uscis-to-start-collecting-fee-for-eb-5-integrity-fund Today, the Department of Homeland Security posted a Federal Register notice providing information related to the EB-5 Integrity Fund. Wed, 01 Mar 23 09:31:03 -0500 USCIS a6971411-466b-4758-88cb-93c3a2157e8d https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/uscis-issues-clarifying-guidance-for-individuals-authorized-to-work-under-special-student-relief U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services is issuing policy guidance in the USCIS Policy Manual to clarify the validity period of employment authorization for F-1 nonimmigrant students experiencing severe economic hardship due to emergent circumstances (also known as special student relief (SSR)) who are work authorized under the SSR provisions of 8 CFR. Wed, 22 Feb 23 09:37:09 -0500 USCIS c2ef501a-7f19-4dfc-b2af-9a91786387d2 https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/uscis-updates-child-status-protection-act-cspa-age-calculation-for-certain-adjustment-of-status WASHINGTON—U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services has issued guidance in the USCIS Policy Manual to update when an immigrant visa number “becomes available” for the purpose of calculating a noncitizen’s age in certain situations under the Child Status Protection Act (CSPA). Tue, 14 Feb 23 13:32:59 -0500 USCIS 2c9268a9-d1ff-455b-9340-715a80cf8902 https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/reminder-to-submit-all-required-initial-evidence-and-supporting-documentation-including-form-i-693 Save time by filing all required initial evidence and supporting documentation listed under the “Checklist of Required Initial Evidence” heading at the same time you file Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status. Fri, 10 Feb 23 13:30:44 -0500 USCIS d0c4a31f-f837-4090-a5db-5afdd44b3958 https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/update-to-filing-location-for-form-i-360-and-form-i-485-for-self-petitioning-abused-spouses-children Starting February 10, 2023, self-petitioning abused spouses, children, and parents must file Form I-360, Petition for Amerasian, Widow(er), or Special Immigrant, and Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status, at the Nebraska Service Center instead of the Vermont Service Center. Wed, 08 Feb 23 13:03:14 -0500 USCIS a9252dff-b909-4bf0-ae91-a9e39bbb82fc https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/uscis-clarifies-physical-presence-guidance-for-asylees-and-refugees-applying-for-adjustment-of Effective immediately, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has updated guidance in the USCIS Policy Manual to clarify that both asylees and refugees must have been physically present in the United States for one year when we adjudicate their Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status, rather than at the time they file their adjustment of status application. Thu, 02 Feb 23 13:17:11 -0500 USCIS 8900a758-f8e2-47b5-b428-d82145476835 https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/cap-reached-for-additional-returning-worker-h-2b-visas-for-the-first-half-of-fy-2023 U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services has received enough petitions to reach the cap for the additional 18,216 H-2B visas made available for returning workers for the first half of fiscal year (FY) 2023 with start dates on or before March 31, 2023, under the recently announced H-2B supplemental cap temporary final rule. Tue, 31 Jan 23 15:07:37 -0500 USCIS 71fcc031-c82b-4a0e-9979-d9312e985e04 https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/fy-2024-h-1b-cap-initial-registration-period-opens-on-march-1 Today, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services announced that the initial registration period for the fiscal year 2024 H-1B cap will open at noon Eastern on March 1 and run through noon Eastern on March 17, 2023. Fri, 27 Jan 23 13:56:43 -0500 USCIS a0e57a2a-b6c8-498a-9f5d-0bde9682ea26 https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/uscis-extends-covid-19-related-flexibilities-1 U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services is extending certain COVID-19-related flexibilities through March 23, 2023. Tue, 24 Jan 23 10:39:28 -0500 USCIS 74254089-9bee-48f8-ab69-b03de7112707 https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/uscis-extends-green-card-validity-for-conditional-permanent-residents-with-a-pending-form-i-751-or USCIS is extending the validity of Permanent Resident Cards (also known as Green Cards) for petitioners who properly file Form I-751, Petition to Remove Conditions on Residence, or Form I-829, Petition by Investor to Remove Conditions on Permanent Resident Status for 48 months beyond the card’s expiration date. Mon, 23 Jan 23 13:14:10 -0500 USCIS 7b72dab6-63d2-49cf-b14e-4c5a24daa779 https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/asylum-applicants-can-now-file-form-i-765-online U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services today announced that certain asylum applicants can now file Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization, online. Mon, 23 Jan 23 10:38:12 -0500 USCIS 27435d76-4dc8-4fe8-893b-7bf2fd920c1e https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/uscis-announces-final-phase-of-premium-processing-expansion-for-eb-1-and-eb-2-form-i-140-petitions U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services is implementing the final phase of the premium processing expansion for Form I-140, Immigrant Petition for Alien Workers, under the EB-1 and EB-2 classifications. Thu, 12 Jan 23 16:07:19 -0500 USCIS 97fd1910-d855-43ae-bc4f-f5cc5e4623df https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/dhs-implements-new-processes-for-cubans-haitians-and-nicaraguans-and-eliminates-cap-for-venezuelans On Jan. 5, 2023, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) announced a safe and lawful way for qualifying Cubans, Haitians, and Nicaraguans with U.S.-based supporters to travel by air to and temporarily reside in the United States. Fri, 06 Jan 23 09:18:48 -0500 USCIS 502d6756-59fd-498e-b61a-a2986dee4794 https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/filing-location-change-for-form-i-730-refugeeasylee-relative-petition U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services is changing the filing location for Form I-730, Refugee/Asylee Relative Petition, to streamline workloads in an ever-increasing electronic environment. Wed, 04 Jan 23 15:07:33 -0500 USCIS fff57d10-4552-446e-9548-7e4c70bad2fe https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/uscis-releases-new-immigrant-investor-form We have published Form I-956K, Registration for Direct and Third-Party Promoters. Wed, 04 Jan 23 12:49:37 -0500 USCIS b4919893-bf2c-4f86-997c-85764b8833a4 https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/options-for-nonimmigrant-workers-following-termination-of-employment U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is providing information for nonimmigrant workers whose employment has terminated, either voluntarily or involuntarily. Mon, 19 Dec 22 16:20:49 -0500 USCIS 8ac8a80b-dffe-4357-a41e-c421257e186d https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/dhss-public-charge-final-rule-goes-into-effect-on-dec-23 On Dec. 23, 2022, the Department of Homeland Security’s (DHS) Public Charge Ground of Inadmissibility final rule will go into effect. Mon, 19 Dec 22 10:42:24 -0500 USCIS 5e3bcfab-775d-44d6-b8d5-efb2961c4611 https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/uscis-updates-policy-to-automatically-extend-green-cards-for-naturalization-applicants Effective Dec. 12, 2022, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is updating the USCIS Policy Manual to allow USCIS to automatically extend the validity of Permanent Resident Cards (commonly called Green Cards) for lawful permanent residents who have applied for naturalization. Fri, 09 Dec 22 12:19:12 -0500 USCIS 17d34e0c-d618-4245-9fd0-62e181cdb75a https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/uscis-announces-important-filing-information-for-upcoming-fy-2023-h-2b-supplemental-cap-petitions U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is announcing important filing updates for petitioners who will be requesting additional H-2B workers for fiscal year 2023 under the upcoming temporary final rule. Thu, 08 Dec 22 09:32:31 -0500 USCIS d1aaa823-3243-4d47-b7e4-cde210734071 https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/uscis-extends-and-expands-fee-exemptions-and-expedited-processing-for-afghan-nationals Today, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services announced it is extending and expanding previously announced filing fee exemptions and expedited application processing for certain Afghan nationals. Tue, 22 Nov 22 13:03:21 -0500 USCIS c0ee2d10-e081-4827-82a7-8a590a323d5b https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/certain-afghan-and-ukrainian-parolees-are-employment-authorized-incident-to-parole Congress has recently passed laws relating to certain Afghan and Ukrainian parolees that have included language providing that parolees covered by the legislation “…shall be eligible for resettlement assistance, entitlement programs, and other benefits available to refugees admitted under section 207 of the Immigration and Nationality Act (8 U.S.C. 1157)....” Under DHS regulations, refugees are authorized employment incident to status, and under current USCIS policy and practice, refugees are not charged a fee by USCIS for their initial Form I-766, Employment Authorization Document (EAD). Mon, 21 Nov 22 15:13:12 -0500 USCIS 0c69617e-3d62-49df-80ee-33a6d8c81b0d https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/recommendations-for-paper-filings-to-avoid-scanning-delays As we move toward an increasing electronic environment, we now scan and upload many documents into electronic database systems. If you are filing your form with a USCIS service center, To avoid delays and improve scanning efficiency, we recommend that you do not: Wed, 16 Nov 22 11:18:32 -0500 USCIS 516dab61-5f99-435e-8afb-2d5d804baa58 https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/dhs-continues-temporary-protected-status-and-related-documentation-for-certain-beneficiaries-of-tps On Nov. 10, 2022, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) posted a Federal Register Notice announcing the continuation of Temporary Protected Status (TPS) and certain related documents for beneficiaries under the TPS designations that remain subject to the court orders in the Ramos et al. v. Nielsen and Bhattarai et al. v. Nielsen et al. lawsuits. Mon, 14 Nov 22 10:36:08 -0500 USCIS 2b47c3cc-0370-45ac-ab2e-f2f7177a46a4 https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/dhs-announces-countries-eligible-for-h-2a-and-h-2b-visa-programs-0 The Department of Homeland Security (DHS), in consultation with the Department of State (DOS), has announced the lists of countries whose nationals are eligible to participate in the H-2A and H-2B visa programs in the next year. Wed, 09 Nov 22 10:34:36 -0500 USCIS b7e2ca0b-4933-42e3-b6b7-34c5c2443cc0 https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/new-processing-time-method-for-orphan-and-hague-applications-and-petitions Starting in mid-November, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) will change how we calculate processing times for orphan and Hague cases. Wed, 02 Nov 22 09:49:50 -0400 USCIS 94181623-bb35-4ac2-b9dd-5e17a957d002 https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/acics-loss-of-recognition-may-affect-certain-students-applying-for-english-language-study-and-24 On Aug. 19, the U.S. Department of Education (ED) announced that it no longer recognizes the Accrediting Council for Independent Colleges and Schools (ACICS) as an accrediting agency. Tue, 01 Nov 22 11:43:29 -0400 USCIS aec74c2d-8841-48c6-845b-74d0553a9587 https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/uscis-will-only-consider-cw-1-petitions-approved-and-with-starting-validity-on-or-after-june-18-2020 U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services is clarifying its Aug. 25, 2020, policy on implementing the requirement that workers leave the United States for at least 30 days after two renewals of their CNMI-Only Transitional Worker (CW-1) visa classification. Thu, 27 Oct 22 12:00:36 -0400 USCIS b527d048-24c0-4204-902c-6514f1869858 https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/uscis-extends-covid-19-related-flexibilities-0 U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services is extending certain COVID-19-related flexibilities through Jan. 24, 2023, to assist applicants, petitioners, and requestors. Mon, 24 Oct 22 09:51:58 -0400 USCIS 174a3cc5-5521-409f-a92a-8e47d5da1208 https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/filing-guidance-for-cw-1-petitions-seeking-to-extend-status U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services will consider certain CW-1 petitions seeking an extension of status for temporary workers present in the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands (CNMI) to be filed on time, even if USCIS receives them after the worker’s current period of CW-1 petition validity expires. Tue, 18 Oct 22 14:27:29 -0400 USCIS 30e72f6a-8432-4049-a255-8dc507f4ea71 https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/uscis-implements-new-process-for-venezuelans On Oct. 12, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) announced a new process for Venezuelans. Tue, 18 Oct 22 10:59:40 -0400 USCIS a153ab12-2cac-4b29-9c6d-5ecc1eca2387 https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/uscis-issues-policy-guidance-on-the-eb-5-reform-and-integrity-act-of-2022-0 U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has issued policy guidance in the USCIS Policy Manual based on the vacatur of the EB-5 Modernization Rule and the EB-5 Reform and Integrity Act of 2022. Tue, 11 Oct 22 09:43:00 -0400 USCIS e77328aa-7b10-4f30-86b1-28ad3ceed080 https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/uscis-updates-military-naturalization-guidance-for-calixto-class-members U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services published updated guidance in the USCIS Policy Manual as a result of a settlement agreement in Calixto v. Department of the Army, Civ. A. No. 18-1551 (PLF) (D.D.C.), known as the Calixto Agreement. In the Calixto Agreement, effective Sept. 22, 2022, the U.S. Army agreed to certify Form N-426, Request for Certification of Military or Naval Service, for Calixto class members. Fri, 07 Oct 22 15:55:49 -0400 USCIS 6c5a0db2-fd1b-4f43-9173-3faa94c60585 https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/extension-of-temporary-waiver-of-60-day-rule-for-civil-surgeon-signatures-on-form-i-693 U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services is extending our temporary waiver of the requirement that civil surgeons must sign Form I-693, Report of Medical Examination and Vaccination Record, no more than 60 days before an individual applies for the underlying immigration benefit (including Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status). Thu, 29 Sep 22 09:38:37 -0400 USCIS d03f7d2f-458e-4740-8df7-9d7ab9d4360e https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/uscis-extends-green-card-validity-extension-to-24-months-for-green-card-renewals Effective Sept. 26, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is automatically extending the validity of Permanent Resident Cards (also known as Green Cards) to 24 months for lawful permanent residents who file Form I-90, Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card. Wed, 28 Sep 22 12:30:33 -0400 USCIS 1d8cfa03-9311-4b9b-b138-10f0a68d576a https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/uscis-stops-accepting-cw-1-petitions-under-the-disaster-recovery-workforce-act USCIS will no longer accept CW-1 petitions filed by employers in the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands (the CNMI) under the Disaster Recovery Workforce Act on or after Oct. 1, 2022. Wed, 28 Sep 22 11:00:02 -0400 USCIS 2f5c5d57-8bd5-4449-82be-a35b94d29b79 https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/uscis-reviewing-military-naturalization-policy-based-on-settlement-agreement-in-calixto-v-department On Sept. 22, 2022, USCIS was notified of a settlement agreement between the U.S. Army and class members of the civil action captioned Calixto v. Department of the Army, Civ. A. No. 18-1551 (PLF) (D.D.C.). Thu, 22 Sep 22 13:34:21 -0400 USCIS 9af748d1-1da8-4692-9c8f-3922104ed994 https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/immigration-help-available-to-those-affected-by-natural-disasters-and-other-unforeseen-circumstances-2 U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services reminds the public that we offer immigration services that may help people affected by unforeseen circumstances such as natural disasters in the United States and abroad. Wed, 21 Sep 22 16:53:27 -0400 USCIS e71405f2-0cd5-40ab-bce6-650461158403 https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/dhs-publishes-final-rule-to-restore-asylum-regulations-consistent-with-asylumworks-vacatur The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) today announced publication of a final rule consistent with the vacatur of the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia in Asylumworks et al. v. Mayorkas et al. This final rule is effective starting Feb. 7, 2022.  Wed, 21 Sep 22 09:24:43 -0400 USCIS a444b866-f51c-4a59-9b06-e86cb5be6f79 https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/uscis-to-implement-next-phase-of-premium-processing-for-certain-previously-filed-eb-1-and-eb-2-form U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services is implementing the next phase of the premium processing expansion for certain petitioners who have a pending Form I-140, Immigrant Petition for Alien Workers, under the EB-1 and EB-2 classifications. Thu, 15 Sep 22 13:37:42 -0400 USCIS c7c5690c-123e-44d1-9bda-9a0e86c2c182 https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/uscis-reaches-h-2b-cap-for-first-half-of-fy-2023 U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services has received enough petitions to reach the congressionally mandated cap on H-2B visas for temporary nonagricultural workers for the first half of fiscal year (FY) 2023. Wed, 14 Sep 22 12:34:07 -0400 USCIS b7af4166-bbc9-4373-bd24-8d2f9638758d https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/uscis-released-revised-editions-of-forms-i-589-and-i-765 U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services released revised editions of Form I-589, Application for Asylum and for Withholding of Removal, and Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization, dated 07/26/22. Wed, 07 Sep 22 14:23:31 -0400 USCIS 560e04b8-5d2e-45b2-881b-d09ca3d2ec88 https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/uscis-resumes-cuban-family-reunification-parole-program-operations U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is resuming operations under the Cuban Family Reunification Parole (CFRP) program, beginning with pending CFRP program applications. Thu, 01 Sep 22 10:00:56 -0400 USCIS f2daaba3-2dcf-4631-860f-8bdd66d60909 https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/uscis-updates-guidance-related-to-religious-workers U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is issuing policy guidance in the USCIS Policy Manual to reorganize and expand on existing guidance related to special immigrant and nonimmigrant religious workers. Tue, 30 Aug 22 13:34:46 -0400 USCIS 886798fd-529a-4ca8-b7d1-579fc8147d07 https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/uscis-reaches-fiscal-year-2023-h-1b-cap USCIS has received a sufficient number of petitions needed to reach the congressionally mandated 65,000 H-1B visa regular cap and the 20,000 H-1B visa U.S. advanced degree exemption, known as the master’s cap, for fiscal year (FY) 2023. Tue, 23 Aug 22 09:38:16 -0400 USCIS c092f8e5-398a-4fee-956b-d26400f714e9 https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/updated-covid-19-vaccination-requirements-for-uniting-for-ukraine-parolees The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has updated the COVID-19 vaccination requirements for beneficiaries paroled into the United States under Uniting for Ukraine. Wed, 10 Aug 22 12:16:49 -0400 USCIS e4c7b0ad-7370-449c-9f5b-c5b78f93462d https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/uscis-updates-interpretation-of-under-honorable-conditions-for-military-naturalization U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services is publishing an update to its Policy Manual to clarify that a current or former service member who received an uncharacterized discharge may be eligible for naturalization under sections 328 and 329 of the Immigration and Naturalization Act (INA). Tue, 02 Aug 22 13:23:41 -0400 USCIS 1e0163bf-6793-4431-bb42-8ca290b7ad0e https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/new-stem-resources-available-on-uscis-website U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services has published additional online resources on uscis.gov to provide an overview of some of the temporary and permanent pathways for noncitizens to work in the United States in the fields of science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM). This guide also highlights some of the most important considerations for STEM professionals who want to work in the United States. Thu, 28 Jul 22 17:27:48 -0400 USCIS feee536b-b97e-415e-a994-2069121c7614 https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/parolees-can-now-file-form-i-765-online U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services today announced that certain parolees can now file Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization, online. Thu, 28 Jul 22 13:24:51 -0400 USCIS cd3c63ac-5eb9-4200-846f-c8f337a0e885 https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/uscis-extends-covid-19-related-flexibilities U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services is extending certain COVID-19-related flexibilities through Oct. 23, 2022, to assist applicants, petitioners, and requestors. Mon, 25 Jul 22 15:20:14 -0400 USCIS d55f6d08-196e-4d17-8b57-936f92f56172 https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/uscis-updates-guidance-for-o-1-petitions-with-a-focus-on-stem-fields U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services today updated its Policy Manual to provide further guidance on evidence that can be used to support a petition for an O-1A nonimmigrant of extraordinary ability with a focus on science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields. Fri, 22 Jul 22 11:57:29 -0400 USCIS 773b8cdb-b9ef-456f-a952-c79fe52e3302 https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/uscis-updates-guidance-for-afghans-and-iraqis-seeking-special-immigrant-classification USCIS is updating guidance in the USCIS Policy Manual regarding Afghan and Iraqi nationals seeking special immigrant classification. Wed, 20 Jul 22 17:31:55 -0400 USCIS bce1ddc5-bb81-4a4c-8146-200000d485df https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/uscis-to-implement-second-phase-of-premium-processing-for-certain-previously-filed-eb-1-and-eb-2 U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is implementing the second phase of the premium processing expansion for certain petitioners who have a pending Form I-140, Immigrant Petition for Alien Workers, under the EB-1 and EB-2 classifications. Fri, 15 Jul 22 09:56:30 -0400 USCIS b451643b-9c25-4886-9ead-426505ea0bf0 https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/time-frame-extended-for-uniting-for-ukraine-parolees-to-comply-with-medical-screening-and The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has extended the time beneficiaries paroled into the United States under Uniting for Ukraine have to attest to their compliance with the medical screening for tuberculosis and additional vaccinations, if required. Effective immediately, beneficiaries paroled into the United States under Uniting for Ukraine must complete their medical attestation within 90 days of arrival in the United States. Previously, beneficiaries paroled into the United States under Uniting for Ukraine were required to complete the medical screening and attestation within 14 days of arrival to the United States. Wed, 13 Jul 22 15:38:58 -0400 USCIS c24ed521-d94d-402a-97ad-e84b3b286d28 https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/uscis-releases-new-forms-for-immigrant-investor-program-0 USCIS is revising Form I-526, Immigrant Petition by Alien Entrepreneur, to accommodate the EB-5 Reform and Integrity Act of 2022, which made significant changes to both the filing and eligibility requirements for investors under the EB-5 program. Tue, 12 Jul 22 15:13:24 -0400 USCIS e8f0e831-875d-46b0-bf91-c7ff75934146 https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/uscis-transfers-certain-h-1b-petitions-to-the-california-service-center U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services announced today that certain H-1B petitions and fiscal year (FY) 2023 H-1B cap petitions awaiting intake at the Vermont Service Center (VSC) are being transferred to the California Service Center (CSC) for data entry and adjudication. Thu, 16 Jun 22 15:00:03 -0400 USCIS 05819e21-86d2-4bb9-95f4-fd8382cb418c https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/parole-requests-in-response-to-the-shooting-in-uvalde-texas If you are seeking parole into the United States for yourself or someone else to attend a funeral or provide emergency assistance to a family member affected by the shooting at Robb Elementary School in Uvalde, Texas, submit a request for urgent humanitarian or significant public benefit parole by filing Form I-131, Application for Travel Document.  Wed, 08 Jun 22 17:37:33 -0400 USCIS b589e4be-3597-419b-ba90-6cadfc0a11c8 https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/uscis-updates-public-charge-resources-webpage-to-provide-information-on-the-public-charge-ground-of U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services has updated our public charge resources webpage with more information to help reduce undue fear and confusion among immigrants and their families, including U.S. citizens and their children, that may prevent them from obtaining access to critical government services available to them. Fri, 03 Jun 22 09:54:06 -0400 USCIS 2c2e79fe-0fbe-425f-86b4-6d3f7cdc578e https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/uscis-releases-new-forms-for-immigrant-investor-program U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services has released two new forms under the EB-5 Reform and Integrity Act of 2022, which revised INA 203(b)(5). Thu, 02 Jun 22 16:19:30 -0400 USCIS 081da55f-9254-4be8-8fff-6e803d981ed6 https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/cap-reached-for-additional-returning-worker-h-2b-visas-for-second-half-of-fy-2022 Under the recently announced H-2B supplemental cap temporary final rule increasing the cap by up to 35,000 additional H-2B nonimmigrant visas through the end of fiscal year (FY) 2022, USCIS has received enough petitions to reach the cap for the additional 23,500 visas made available for returning workers only. Tue, 31 May 22 10:52:31 -0400 USCIS 770b716e-167f-4c79-a84c-a55f2e9d1304 https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/all-news/immigration-help-available-to-those-affected-by-special-situations-including-the-shooting-in-uvalde U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services reminds the public that we offer immigration services that may help people affected by unforeseen circumstances, including the shooting in Uvalde, Texas. Fri, 27 May 22 17:56:42 -0400 USCIS 5ea8f7f0-50d9-455a-89e9-25a47b1affcf https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/uscis-to-implement-premium-processing-for-certain-previously-filed-eb-1-and-eb-2-form-i-140 U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services is implementing premium processing for certain petitioners who have a pending Form I-140, Immigrant Petition for Alien Workers, under the EB-1 and EB-2 classifications. Tue, 24 May 22 10:23:20 -0400 USCIS 659c3d48-8a66-4e78-a773-09f56d3c2b06 https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/two-new-forms-published-for-regional-center-designation U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services today published two new forms for regional center designation under the EB-5 Immigrant Investor Program: Form I-956, Application for Regional Center Designation, and Form I-956H, Bona Fides of Persons Involved with Regional Center Program. Both forms are available on the USCIS website. Fri, 13 May 22 13:54:14 -0400 USCIS bc9a1991-d3d7-497c-982e-fe3599cb52e8 https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/uscis-nadae-informaciyu-schodo-ednannya-zaradi-ukraini 21 квітня Сполучені Штати оголосили про започаткування програми «Єднання заради України», яка є ключовим кроком у виконанні зобов’язання президента Байдена вітати українців, які рятуються від вторгнення Росії в Україну. Fri, 06 May 22 16:45:49 -0400 USCIS 9da0f669-c3e7-43ff-9273-796e9b480386 https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/uscis-provides-information-on-uniting-for-ukraine On April 21, the United States announced Uniting for Ukraine, a key step towards fulfilling President Biden’s commitment to welcome Ukrainians fleeing Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. Uniting for Ukraine provides a pathway for displaced Ukrainian citizens and their immediate family members who are outside the United States to come to the United States and stay temporarily for a two-year period of parole. Mon, 25 Apr 22 16:08:53 -0400 USCIS aa8da124-4728-445f-afc4-3e5dcdb6a46a https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/uscis-service-center-expands-credit-card-payment-pilot-program-to-most-forms As part of our credit card payment pilot program, the USCIS service centers are now accepting credit card payments using Form G-1450, Authorization for Credit Card Transactions, for most forms. Wed, 30 Mar 22 11:14:42 -0400 USCIS 1e3c1543-943b-4ed0-a74a-4d088009825a https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/uscis-extends-flexibility-for-responding-to-agency-requests-1 In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services is extending certain flexibilities through July 25, 2022, to assist applicants, petitioners, and requestors. Wed, 30 Mar 22 09:35:47 -0400 USCIS 151a4054-e389-4efe-a8ce-3d339078ee44 https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/fy-2023-h-1b-cap-season-updates U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services has received enough electronic registrations during the initial registration period to reach the fiscal year (FY) 2023 H-1B numerical allocations (H-1B cap), including the advanced degree exemption (master’s cap). Tue, 29 Mar 22 13:27:56 -0400 USCIS 38b29c33-e102-4e51-a37d-ee33ec2243df https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/uscis-updates-guidance-on-employment-authorization-for-e-and-l-nonimmigrant-spouses U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services is updating guidance in the USCIS Policy Manual to address the documentation that certain E and L nonimmigrant spouses may use as evidence of employment authorization based on their nonimmigrant status. Fri, 18 Mar 22 09:39:01 -0400 USCIS 8357848f-302c-4309-9df7-ed4b44a6c5cf https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/uscis-urges-eligible-individuals-to-consider-applying-for-adjustment-of-status-in-the-eb-2-category In the recently published April Visa Bulletin, the Department of State advanced the Date for Filing (also known as the application date) applications for an immigrant visa or adjustment of status in the employment-based, second preference (EB-2) category for India from Sept. 1, 2013, to Sept. 1, 2014. Thu, 17 Mar 22 11:56:33 -0400 USCIS d39fa64e-40da-4ebe-ba81-e4a94202d273 https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/uscis-to-offer-deferred-action-for-special-immigrant-juveniles U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services today announced that it is updating the USCIS Policy Manual to consider deferred action and related employment authorization for noncitizens who have an approved Form I-360, Petition for Amerasian, Widow(er), or Special Immigrant, for Special Immigrant Juvenile (SIJ) classification but who cannot apply to adjust status to become a lawful permanent resident (LPR) because a visa number is not available. Mon, 07 Mar 22 09:03:18 -0500 USCIS a3b1822a-a441-4fda-9438-fd4678c0ad38 https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/immigration-help-available-to-those-affected-by-special-situations-including-the-invasion-of-ukraine U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services reminds the public that we offer immigration services that may help people affected by extreme situations, including the invasion of Ukraine. Fri, 04 Mar 22 16:41:27 -0500 USCIS 90eed762-6f2f-4281-9b56-e707ab6f66a2 https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/uscis-expands-credit-card-payment-pilot-program-to-all-service-centers As part of our credit card payment pilot program, the USCIS service centers are now accepting credit card payments using Form G-1450, Authorization for Credit Card Transactions, for all forms except Form I-129, Petition for a Nonimmigrant Worker, for H-1B and H-2A petitions. Wed, 02 Mar 22 15:44:17 -0500 USCIS 465c53b5-7acb-47bc-97ee-1bca5bba8ba3 https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/h-2b-cap-reached-for-second-half-of-fy-2022 U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services has received enough petitions to meet the congressionally mandated H-2B cap for the second half of fiscal year (FY) 2022. Tue, 01 Mar 22 14:33:28 -0500 USCIS fd3440a7-f8ac-4639-a461-8b6d7f0058b5 https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/uscis-reaches-fiscal-year-2022-h-1b-cap USCIS has received a sufficient number of petitions needed to reach the congressionally mandated 65,000 H-1B visa regular cap and the 20,000 H-1B visa U.S. advanced degree exemption, known as the master’s cap, for fiscal year (FY) 2022. Mon, 28 Feb 22 14:46:42 -0500 USCIS 7e7b1906-3bc2-4736-9214-f82db53dfac9 https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/uscis-launches-h-2a-employer-data-hub U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services has launched an H-2A Employer Data Hub to provide information to the public on employers or agents petitioning for H-2A workers. Fri, 25 Feb 22 14:45:09 -0500 USCIS 7854677c-08c2-4b83-83b7-6ecc6c75b8d5 https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/uscis-urges-eligible-applicants-to-switch-employment-based-categories U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services encourages eligible applicants to consider requesting to transfer the underlying basis of their adjustment of status application to the first (priority workers) or second (noncitizens in professions with advanced degrees or with exceptional ability) employment-based preference categories, because there is an exceptionally high number of employment-based immigrant visas available in these categories during this fiscal year (October 2021 through September 2022). Fri, 18 Feb 22 14:42:41 -0500 USCIS b34ea644-f7ee-4ea4-afe7-e024d21591b2 https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/uscis-opens-a-new-lockbox-facility As we announced in November 2021, we have opened a new lockbox facility in Elgin, Illinois. We are beginning to transition incoming work to the new location. Thu, 10 Feb 22 14:02:35 -0500 USCIS 98e632c3-8f83-4852-8ef1-83094731a644 https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/uscis-updates-policy-guidance-on-vawa-self-petitions U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services is publishing policy guidance in the USCIS Policy Manual on eligibility, filing, and adjudication requirements addressing Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) self-petitions to update practices and align USCIS policies with recent court decisions. Thu, 10 Feb 22 10:35:20 -0500 USCIS e2e70f17-7a1f-4f22-9fe0-befcd6c45c54 https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/uscis-issues-policy-guidance-regarding-exemptions-from-the-temporary-need-requirement-for-h-2b USCIS is issuing updated policy guidance in the USCIS Policy Manual to clarify how petitioners may demonstrate that they qualify for an exemption from the temporary need requirement for a nonimmigrant visa petition for a temporary nonagricultural H-2B worker on Guam and in the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands (CNMI) that falls under the Fiscal Year 2021 National Defense Authorization Act. Tue, 08 Feb 22 09:33:03 -0500 USCIS f16bf57a-d2a2-48ac-b03c-31c741748df0 https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/uscis-updates-guidelines-on-maximum-validity-periods-for-new-employment-authorization-documents-for U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services today published updated policy guidance to change the maximum validity period that may be granted for Employment Authorization Documents (EADs) issued to certain applicants, as well as to provide general guidance on adjudicating Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization. Mon, 07 Feb 22 11:48:12 -0500 USCIS 711b88cd-6ea2-4119-8b3c-a12fb0b6d5cc https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/uscis-statement-on-the-international-day-of-zero-tolerance-for-female-genital-mutilation On Feb. 6, the International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services joins other U.S. government agencies and the international community in calling for an end to the practice of female genital mutilation or cutting (FGM/C). Fri, 04 Feb 22 12:54:49 -0500 USCIS 29a19c26-3ce6-46c2-b2f7-8e057aa885bd https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/readout-of-director-ur-m-jaddous-virtual-briefing-with-stakeholders-to-mark-one-year-anniversary-of Yesterday, on the one-year anniversary of several executive orders (EOs) from the Biden-Harris administration aimed at restoring faith in our nation’s legal immigration system, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) Director Ur M. Jaddou briefed national stakeholders on the agency’s efforts to implement these EOs. Thu, 03 Feb 22 09:44:46 -0500 USCIS 39fef9bb-f969-49f2-8bfb-9c514233d66b https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/uscis-updates-medical-examination-guidance-for-afghan-parolees-arriving-under-operation-allies USCIS announced today that it is updating guidance in the USCIS Policy Manual regarding immigration medical examination requirements for certain Afghan nationals applying for adjustment of status after arriving in the United States under Operation Allies Welcome (OAW). Tue, 01 Feb 22 10:41:21 -0500 USCIS 2b336615-1a7c-43be-be78-d7689253d5b2 https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/fy-2023-h-1b-cap-initial-registration-period-opens-on-march-1 U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services today announced that the initial registration period for the fiscal year 2023 H-1B cap will open at noon Eastern on March 1 and run through noon Eastern on March 18, 2022. Fri, 28 Jan 22 12:47:00 -0500 USCIS 79665d65-1b8b-4cba-8d9a-a568d05ad614 https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/uscis-updates-guidance-on-expedite-requests U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services has updated the USCIS Policy Manual to reflect new guidance on how we determine whether a case warrants expedited treatment. Tue, 25 Jan 22 10:17:38 -0500 USCIS 4dda5316-bc73-46f0-954f-c38c691f6873 https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/uscis-provides-clarifying-guidance-for-o-1-petitions-with-a-focus-on-stem-fields U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services today issued policy guidance clarifying how it evaluates evidence to determine eligibility for O-1A nonimmigrants of extraordinary ability, with a focus on petitions filed for individuals in science, technology, engineering, or math (STEM) fields, as well as how USCIS determines whether an O-1 beneficiary’s prospective work is within their area of extraordinary ability or achievement. Fri, 21 Jan 22 10:16:01 -0500 USCIS e8353f26-2ec2-410c-9b2b-e4aa2f39fadb https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/uscis-provides-clarifying-guidance-on-o-1-nonimmigrants-in-arts-vs-motion-picture-and-television U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services today announced clarifying guidance on how we determine whether an O-1B beneficiary will be evaluated as a person of extraordinary ability in the arts or as a person of extraordinary achievement in the motion picture or television industry when a case has elements of both. Thu, 13 Jan 22 10:04:47 -0500 USCIS ea2d2f87-70c9-40df-b029-eada5d7ef67f https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/immigration-help-available-to-those-affected-by-natural-disasters-and-other-unforeseen-circumstances-0 USCIS is reminding the public that we offer immigration services that may help people affected by unforeseen circumstances such as natural disasters. Examples of unforeseen circumstances include, but are not limited to, the Marshall fire in Colorado.  Wed, 12 Jan 22 14:19:03 -0500 USCIS 6fa4e98a-5070-4d8c-8443-259365e72f4f https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/uscis-extends-flexibility-for-responding-to-agency-requests-0 In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services is extending the flexibilities it announced on March 30, 2020. Thu, 30 Dec 21 14:58:18 -0500 USCIS cb47d756-1bae-42e3-9cd1-c7521822310c https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/dhs-withdraws-h-1b-selection-final-rule The Department of Homeland Security has published a final rule that withdraws the Modification of Registration Requirement for Petitioners Seeking to File Cap-Subject H-1B Petitions final rule, also known as the H-1B Selection Final Rule, issued Jan. 8, 2021. Tue, 21 Dec 21 10:33:11 -0500 USCIS 4c52b11b-1cce-4093-a2df-f2f11c67e119 https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/immigration-help-available-to-those-affected-by-natural-disasters-and-other-unforeseen-circumstances USCIS is reminding the public that we offer immigration services that may help people affected by unforeseen circumstances such as natural disasters. Examples of unforeseen circumstances include, but are not limited to, the recent tornadoes in Kentucky and surrounding states. Mon, 13 Dec 21 17:22:51 -0500 USCIS 3ca8e4d6-576e-4bf6-8cdf-c83ff54a33de https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/uscis-reverts-to-previous-criteria-for-interviewing-petitioners-requesting-derivative-refugee-and USCIS is rescinding a November 2020 policy memorandum requiring interviews of all petitioners filing Form I-730, Refugee/Asylee Relative Petition. Effective immediately, USCIS will return to its prior long-standing practice of making case-by-case determinations on whether to interview Form I-730 petitioners. Fri, 10 Dec 21 10:30:05 -0500 USCIS 593fc11b-62a1-44f0-9b9c-3997728b69bc https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/uscis-temporarily-waiving-60-day-rule-for-civil-surgeon-signatures U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services is temporarily waiving the requirement that the civil surgeon sign Form I-693, Report of Medical Examination and Vaccination Record, no more than 60 days before an applicant files an application for the underlying immigration benefit (including Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status), until Sept. 30, 2022.   Thu, 09 Dec 21 09:40:28 -0500 USCIS 17b4c21c-6d91-4a9b-9069-49f4eb8bf0c5 https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/uscis-extends-transitional-parole-for-cnmi-long-term-resident-status-applicants USCIS announced today that it will automatically extend parole and employment authorization, if applicable, for parolees who timely applied for Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands (CNMI) long-term resident status.  Wed, 08 Dec 21 14:25:16 -0500 USCIS d81d583a-132a-4416-884c-78360b56c7e7 https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/all-temporary-protected-status-tps-applicants-may-now-file-forms-i-821-and-i-765-online As of Nov. 29, all applicants eligible to file for TPS under one of the current designations may file Form I-821, Application for Temporary Protected Status, and Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization, online. Mon, 29 Nov 21 13:59:28 -0500 USCIS fbc64516-c2ad-468d-8cca-cf00d6205040 https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/uscis-incorporates-general-adjudications-guidance-into-the-policy-manual We are incorporating existing guidance from the Adjudicator’s Field Manual (AFM) into the USCIS Policy Manual. Tue, 23 Nov 21 10:21:27 -0500 USCIS 1f262c77-7f84-4950-90f0-9f3323384995 https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/certain-petitioners-for-u-nonimmigrant-status-may-receive-a-refund-for-applications-for-employment USCIS mistakenly rejected certain applications for employment authorization (Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization) from petitioners for U nonimmigrant status that were filed without a fee (or request for fee waiver) from June 14 through Sept. 29, 2021. Mon, 22 Nov 21 09:33:12 -0500 USCIS 464cf7f4-0869-4954-b18b-ea35276d2139 https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/uscis-conducts-third-random-selection-from-previously-submitted-fy-2022-h-1b-cap-registrations We recently determined that we needed to select additional registrations to reach the fiscal year (FY) 2022 H-1B numerical allocations, including the advanced degree exemption. Fri, 19 Nov 21 14:28:47 -0500 USCIS 9c521a75-430c-421a-b6d2-793bf1aeb8ba https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/uscis-opening-a-new-lockbox-facility We are planning to open a new facility in Elgin, Illinois, next year to expand our lockbox capability. Fri, 12 Nov 21 13:21:54 -0500 USCIS 82542d27-b165-4e97-adde-6e3bccfd23e1 https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/dhs-announces-countries-eligible-for-h-2a-and-h-2b-visa-programs The Department of Homeland Security (DHS), in consultation with the Department of State (DOS), has announced the lists of countries whose nationals are eligible to participate in the H-2A and H-2B visa programs in the next year. Tue, 09 Nov 21 09:35:17 -0500 USCIS b6560ba9-b704-48a0-ae62-95e5f8e18d93 https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/uscis-expands-credit-card-payment-pilot-program-to-california-service-center As part of our credit card payment pilot program, the California Service Center is now accepting credit card payments using Form G-1450, Authorization for Credit Card Transactions, for petitioners filing Form I-129, Petition for a Nonimmigrant Worker, for O and P nonimmigrants. Fri, 05 Nov 21 11:41:15 -0400 USCIS acfc61e7-d0be-4de8-aeb0-751ff7662b8b https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/policy-update-liberian-refugee-immigration-fairness-lrif USCIS has expanded its guidance in the USCIS Policy Manual about Liberian Refugee Immigration Fairness (LRIF) to clarify steps applicants must take if they cannot submit primary evidence of Liberian nationality to support an LRIF-based application for adjustment of status. Fri, 29 Oct 21 11:31:13 -0400 USCIS b9b961aa-e45e-456f-b12f-cb9960278de8 https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/directions-for-class-members-filing-motions-to-reopen-pursuant-to-settlement-agreement-in-h-1b USCIS reached a settlement agreement [PDF] in the case of MadKudu Inc., et al. v. U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, et al., No. 20-cv-2653 (N.D. Cal.). On Oct. 19, 2021, the U.S. District Court, Northern District of California, San Jose Division, granted final approval of the settlement agreement. This agreement outlines new, overarching guidance for adjudicating pending or future H-1B petitions for market research analysts. Thu, 28 Oct 21 15:06:25 -0400 USCIS 8c9c5d71-e8cb-43e9-8858-8af83e9b6633 https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/uscis-expands-credit-card-payment-pilot-program-to-vermont-service-center As part of our credit card payment pilot program, the Vermont Service Center is now accepting credit card payments using Form G-1450, Authorization for Credit Card Transactions, for petitioners filing Form I-129, Petition for a Nonimmigrant Worker, for O and P nonimmigrants. Fri, 22 Oct 21 13:35:52 -0400 USCIS d294c885-de17-4ad8-a23c-8c1b25b83ebe https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/uscis-issues-updated-and-comprehensive-guidance-on-t-visa-adjudications U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services is issuing updated and comprehensive guidance in the USCIS Policy Manual on adjudicating applications for T nonimmigrant status (or T visas) submitted by victims of human trafficking, including clarifying how applicants establish eligibility. Wed, 20 Oct 21 13:10:00 -0400 USCIS 5b9d6eda-07f0-4f35-a127-5b93366950e7 https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/uscis-reaches-h-2b-cap-for-first-half-of-fy-2022 U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services has received enough petitions to reach the congressionally mandated cap on H-2B visas for temporary nonagricultural workers for the first half of fiscal year 2022. Tue, 12 Oct 21 16:05:26 -0400 USCIS e4480a85-0768-488a-b7ff-8bb11d2d787d