H1B Visa Lawyer Blog

Question #1 – Temporary Work Visas – H-1B & L1A/L1B Nonimmigrant Visas
I am a U.S. small business employer. I have read different articles about the new public law and its applicability to nonimmigrant visas, but I am somewhat confused based on what I have read. Does the new public law fee apply to me and my company?

Answer #1
Under Public law 111-230, Employers with 50 or more employees in the U.S., for which more than 50% of their workforce utilize H and L visas are subject to the new fee. Employers to which the Public law is applies will have to pay an additional fee of $2,000.00 for each H-1B filed, in addition to normal USCIS filing fees associated with the H-1B visa. Additionally, Employers are required to pay an additional fee of $2,250.00 for each L1 petition filed in addition to the USCIS filing fees already required. If your company employs less than 50 employees, you are not subject to the new fee. If you are a larger company and have 50 or more employees and have less than 50% of those employees on H1B/L1 visas, then you are not subject to the new fee.

Question #2 – Temporary Work Visas – OPT/F1 to H-1B Nonimmigrant Visa
I am currently on OPT and my 12 months of OPT expired yesterday and I essentially wanted to apply for my H1B before that. When I spoke earlier to my hr manager, she stated that once my labor certification for H1B petition was cleared, I would not have to worry about the dates or me going out of status.

Answer #2
Most importantly, if you have not filed for your H-1B petition at this point, you must STOP working, as you do not have authorization from the USCIS to work. You have a grace period after your OPT expires to either leave the country or file a petition to change status. If your employer is interested in filing for your H-1B nonimmigrant visa, I would recommend that they do so immediately as H-1B visas are still available under the FY2011 Cap. Regardless of whether or not you have a labor certification cleared, you cannot continue working and must immediately make plans to either depart the U.S. or file for a change of status.

Question #3 – Student Visa – F1
I am a Chinese citizen and I would like for my nephew to obtain a college education in the United States. Please let me know what I need to do? Thank you.

Answer #3
Please visit the following website as it will provide the steps for how your nephew can get his F1 visa to come to the U.S. for school. The first step for a prospective nonimmigrant student is being accepted for enrollment in an established school which is SEVP certified. There is a list of SEVP certified schools on the website listed above. Therefore, as his first step, your nephew must first apply for enrollment at a college of his choice which is listed on the SEVP certified list. Once he has been accepted by that SEVP certified school, he will then need to apply for his F1 student visa. All of the steps for obtaining such status are available on the website listed above, and additional information can be found on this
website .

Question #4 – Temporary Work Visas – H-1B Nonimmigrant Visa
Do non-profits come under the same category as far as H1B is concerned?

Answer #4
If you are the beneficiary of an H-1B nonimmigrant visa for a company that is a not-for-profit, and they have sufficient proof of their non-profit status, then any new H-1B nonimmigrant petition filed by that company is not subject to the annual H-1B nonimmigrant visa CAP. An H-1B petition for new employment can be filed at any time.

Question #5 – Family Based Immigration – Green Card – Marriage Based (K1)
What happens if my wife and I do not file to remove the conditions on her permanent residency?

Answer #5
If you do not apply to remove the conditions near the expiration of her two-year conditional period then the permanent residency automatically expires and she is subject to deportation and removal. To avoid this, within 90 days of the expiration of the conditional period, she must file Form I-751, Petition to Remove Conditions on Residence.

Question #6 –Temporary Work Visas – H-1B Nonimmigrant Visa
I have vacation plans to go to Indonesia in the first week of October 2010. Can I file my H-1B extension petition prior to my departure from the U.S.?

Answer #6
You may file your H-1B extension prior to your departure; however, unless you upgrade your case to Premium Processing, your vacation plans will need to be delayed. When you have a case pending with the USCIS, you CANNOT leave the United States, as they will interpret it as abandonment of your pending case.

Question #7 – Naturalization/Citizenship
I’d like to become a U.S. Citizen, I have been a Green Card holder for the past 7 years, have no criminal background, but am worried about what is to be expected out of me during the citizenship test and interview. Can you provide me with some resources for help to ease my concerns?

Answer #7
As part of the Naturalization Test and Citizenship Awareness, Education, and Outreach Initiative, USCIS will host a Naturalization Information Session at George Washington, Law School - Lerner Hall, 2000 H Street NW, Rooms LL101-LL102 in Washington, DC, 20052 on September 10, 2010 from 6:00pm to 8:00pm to provide accurate information on eligibility requirements and steps to become a U.S. citizen. This event is part of the agency’s ongoing efforts to demystify the naturalization process for immigrants and is just one out of several USCIS hosted information sessions throughout the country. The sessions provide an overview of the naturalization process and detail the contents of the naturalization test, and raise awareness of free USCIS educational resources available for immigrants interested in pursuing U.S. citizenship.

Question #8 – Temporary Work Visas – H-1B Nonimmigrant Visa
What triggers H-1B employer site visits?

Answer #8
There are three ways in which H-1B employer site visits are triggered: (1) site visits conducted as part of a fraud inquiry; (2) site visits conducted as part of a Benefit Fraud Compliance Assessment; and (3) site visits conducted as part of an ASVVP Compliance Review.

Question #9 – Employment Based Immigration – Green Card (AC-21)
I have an approved I-140 filed by my previous company and they also submitted my I-485 back in 2007. I have since moved onto employment with another company on my EAD and do not wish to go back to work for my former employer. What happens if my former employer cancels my approved I-140? Can I file an AC-21 Portability letter?

Answer #9
To answer your first question, if your former employer cancels your approved I-140, then you will have to start the Employment based green card process over from the beginning, unless you have another employment based preference category immigrant petition pending/approved or you filed an AC-21 portability request prior to the cancellation of the approved I-140.

You may be eligible to file an AC21 106(c) Portability Request if the new position/duties are the same or substantially similar to the position/duties listed in your Labor application certified by the DOL and your former employer hasn’t canceled your approved I-140.

Question #10 – Temporary Work Visa – H-1B Nonimmigrant Visa
Can I still file for an H-1B nonimmigrant visa, to begin work in the U.S. on October 1, 2010?

Answer #10
As of August 27, 2010, there were 30,100 H-1B Regular CAP subject nonimmigrant visas remaining and 7,000 H-1B Masters Exemption nonimmigrant visas remaining. USCIS will continue to accept both cap-subject petitions and advanced degree petitions until a sufficient number of H-1B petitions have been received to reach the statutory limits, taking into account the fact that some of these petitions may be denied, revoked, or withdrawn. For continuous FY2011 H-1B Cap updates, please refer to our website.

MVP Law Group would like to thank everyone who contributed a question or comment. We hope the information provided is helpful.

Our next “Immigration Q & A Forum” is scheduled for Friday, September 17, 2010! Please remember to submit your questions/comments on our h1bvisalawyerblog.

MVP Law Group, P.A. makes available the information and materials in this forum for informational purposes only. The information is general in nature and does not constitute legal advice or any contractual obligations. Further, the use of this site, and the sending or receipt of this information, does not create an attorney-client relationship between us. And, therefore, your communication with us through this forum will not be considered as privileged or confidential.

MVP "Q & A Forum" - This Friday, September 3, 2010

We wanted to find a new way to engage our reader base. Every other Friday, we will post the ten (10) best/most frequently asked questions received during the week from our h1bvisalawyerblog, Facebook, and Twitter readers. We will answer those questions and provide the Q&A on our H-1B Visa Lawyer Blog.

If you have a burning question, are seeking assistance with a difficult immigration related case, wish to discuss your views on Comprehensive Immigration Reform, AZ SB1070, or the debate focused on Ending Birthright Citizenship, please contact us by submitting your question/comment/viewpoint in our comment box provided on our H-1B Visa Lawyer Blog.

Our next “Q & A Forum” will take place this Friday, September 3, 2010. Act now and submit your questions!

THANK YOU!

The United States Citizenship and Immigration Service (USCIS) has updated the count of H-1B petitions received and counted towards the 65,000 cap.

As of August 20, 2010, 33,900 H-1B Regular CAP subject non-immigrant visa petitions have been filed with the USCIS towards the 65,000 cap.

As of August 20, 2010, 12,600 H-1B Masters Degree CAP subject non-immigrant visa petitions have been filed with the USCIS towards the 20,000 cap.

USCIS will continue to accept both cap-subject petitions and advanced degree petitions until a sufficient number of H-1B petitions have been received to reach the statutory limits, taking into account the fact that some of these petitions may be denied, revoked, or withdrawn.

Stay posted to MVP Law Group for future FY2011 H-1B Cap updates!

Question #1 – Temporary Work Visa – H-1B Nonimmigrant Visa
Can more than one (1) employer file a temporary (part-time) H1B visa application on my behalf at the same time? For a part time H1B worker, what is the minimum number of hours per week and days per week of work required to be eligible for maintaining the part-time H1B visa status?

Answer #1
Simply put, yes more than one employer can file a temporary part-time H-1B visa application for you during the same time period, as long as a certified LCA covering the jurisdiction of employment is obtained and the I-129 petition and additional supporting documentation reflects this part-time period. 40 hours per week would be considered a full time employee, therefore, anything less than 40 hours per week would be considered part-time.

Question #2 – Employment Based Immigration – Green Card
We have traveled to India about 2 months back (in June). My husband got a job transfer to India, and I resigned my job in the US to move here with my family. Since we are not there in the US, do you know if the green cards will go back to the USCIS? Or to my forwarding address in the US?

Answer #2
If you do intend to come back to the U.S. in the near future - they will not send your permanent resident cards to India, therefore, you will need to contact the USCIS and provide your new U.S. mailing address so that they will be sent there. The USCIS DOES NOT forward mail, so if you have your mail being forwarded, your cards will be returned to the USCIS and the USCIS case status will indicate that your cards have been returned as undeliverable until you can provide the USCIS with an updated U.S. mailing address for them to be re-sent.

Question #3 – Temporary Work Visa – H-1B Nonimmigrant Visa
What is the minimum time period for which an H1B visa can be issued? Can it be less than 3 years? If yes, what is the minimum number of years for which my employer can sponsor me for an H1B visa?

Answer #3
The maximum time period that an H-1B visa can be issued for is three (3) years. Therefore, if your position does not require your placement for the entire three year period, your employer can request any time period from six (6) months to three (3) years.

Question #4 – Employment Based Immigration – Green Card
I just received my Green Card, what do I do now?

Answer #4
USCIS maintains a useful web page on the topic “Now That You Are A Permanent Resident.” It can be found at http://uscis.gov this is the USCIS home page, click on After a Green Card is Granted under the Green Card (Permanent Residence) heading. Then look to the right side and under More Information you will find valuable information on, among other topics, how not to lose your status as a permanent resident. Additionally, if you look to the left side under After a Green Card is Granted you will find numerous resources on different topics relating to your status as a Permanent Resident.

Question #5 – General – Social Security Card
How and when can I get a Social Security Card?

Answer #5
Generally, you may obtain a Social Security Card once you are legally authorized to work in the United States. Such authorization may be evidenced by receipt of an employment authorization card, an Alien Registration Card (Green Card), or receipt of temporary evidence of Green Card status (as established by presentation of an I-551 stamp in your passport). You will need to file an application for a Social Security Number in person at the Social Security Office. When filing this application at the Social Security Office, you should bring the following documents with you: your original birth certificate, passport, and employment authorization document, stamped passport or Green Card. Call 1-800-772-1213 for further information including the address of your local Social Security office, or visit their website at www.ssa.gov.

Question #6 – Employment Based Immigration - Green Card
My co-worker, a U.S. citizen worker showed me a brochure he receives from the SSA. It provides the credits he receives each year for the work he does. Does this apply to me, should I be receiving the brochure? Please advise what I need to do…

Answer #6
If you have a Social Security number, you should check to make sure you received credits under Social Security for any taxable work you did before you got your Green Card. Sometimes the Social Security Administration misplaces the records if you did not have a valid card, and this is the time to unscramble the records. Request a form SSA-7004, Request for Earnings and Benefit Estimate Statement, from Social Security to check these records. In fact, you should check your earnings statement every three to four years because errors more than four years old usually cannot be corrected.

Question #7 – Employment Based Immigration – Labor Certification
What is the difference between the old process for obtaining labor certification and the new PERM process?

Answer #7
In 2005, the Department of Labor (DOL) drastically changed the way it processes labor certification cases. The primary difference between the new process (referred to as “PERM”) and the old process is how recruitment-related documentation is handled. Previously, supporting documentation such as newspaper ads and other recruitment efforts, justification of the job requirements, prevailing wage determinations, etc., were submitted when the labor certification application was filed. Under PERM, while the same documentation must be prepared or assembled, it is kept by the employer and only submitted if and when requested by the DOL. The employer is required to retain this documentation for a period of five years. Under the previous regulations, there were two types of labor certifications: Reduction in Recruitment (RIR) (also known as “fast-track,” since these types of cases were given priority handling), and traditional or non–Reduction in Recruitment (non–RIR) cases. These two classifications have been done away with. However, occupations are now classified as “professional” or “nonprofessional” and each classification has different recruitment requirements.

Question #8 – Employment Based Immigration - Green Card
The Social Security card I have states that it is not valid for employment, but I just received my Green Card in the mail…can I continue to use my Social Security card or can they re-issue me a card without the restriction on it?

Answer #8
If you already have your Social Security card, but it is annotated indicating that it is not valid for employment without a USCIS employment authorization document, you should contact Social Security with your evidence of permanent resident status to have the restrictions removed.

Question #9 – Employment Based Immigration – Green Card
My priority date is current. How long do I have to wait, we’ve already waited 5 years for our green cards. Do you suggest I call USCIS and make a service request to make sure they have everything and to speed up the issuance of my card??

Answer #9
Normally when priority dates become current according to the Visa Bulletin, it takes anywhere from 30-90 days to complete the processing of the I-485 before issuing the Green Card to the primary applicant and his/her derivatives, unless issues arise during the process.

Question #10 – Temporary Work Visa – H-1B Nonimmigrant Visa
How many H1 nonimmigrant visas are left?

Answer #10
As of August 13, 2010, there were 35,300 H-1B Regular CAP subject nonimmigrant visas remaining and 7,700 H-1B Masters Exemption nonimmigrant visas remaining. USCIS will continue to accept both cap-subject petitions and advanced degree petitions until a sufficient number of H-1B petitions have been received to reach the statutory limits, taking into account the fact that some of these petitions may be denied, revoked, or withdrawn. For continuous FY2011 H-1B Cap updates, please refer to our website.

MVP Law Group would like to thank everyone who contributed a question or comment. We hope the information provided is helpful.

Our next “Immigration Q & A Forum” is scheduled for Friday, September 3, 2010! Please remember to submit your questions/comments on our h1bvisalawyerblog.

MVP Law Group, P.A. makes available the information and materials in this forum for informational purposes only. The information is general in nature and does not constitute legal advice or any contractual obligations. Further, the use of this site, and the sending or receipt of this information, does not create an attorney-client relationship between us. And, therefore, your communication with us through this forum will not be considered as privileged or confidential.

Processing Time reports for all of the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Service (USCIS) Service Centers were released on August 18, 2010 with processing dates as of June 30, 2010.

If you filed a petition with one of the Service Centers, please review the links below to determine the applicable processing time associated with your particular case.

California Service Center
National Benefits Center
Nebraska Service Center
Texas Service Center
Vermont Service Center

If your petition is out-side of the normal range listed, contact USCIS. (1-800-375-5283)

If you are a client of the MVP Law Group and would like our assistance please contact our office.

The United States Citizenship and Immigration Service (USCIS) has updated the count of H-1B petitions received and counted towards the 65,000 cap.

As of August 13, 2010, 29,700 H-1B Regular CAP subject non-immigrant visa petitions have been filed with the USCIS towards the 65,000 cap.

As of August 13, 2010, 12,300 H-1B Masters Degree CAP subject non-immigrant visa petitions have been filed with the USCIS towards the 20,000 cap.

USCIS will continue to accept both cap-subject petitions and advanced degree petitions until a sufficient number of H-1B petitions have been received to reach the statutory limits, taking into account the fact that some of these petitions may be denied, revoked, or withdrawn.

Stay posted to MVP Law Group for future FY2011 H-1B Cap updates!

MVP "Q & A Forum" - This Friday, August 20, 2010

We wanted to find a new way to engage our reader base. Every other Friday, we will post the ten (10) best/most frequently asked questions received during the week from our h1bvisalawyerblog, Facebook, and Twitter readers. We will answer those questions and provide the Q&A on our H-1B Visa Lawyer Blog.

If you have a burning question, are seeking assistance with a difficult immigration related case, wish to discuss your views on Comprehensive Immigration Reform, AZ SB1070, or the debate focused on Ending Birthright Citizenship, please contact us by submitting your question/comment/viewpoint in our comment box provided on our H-1B Visa Lawyer Blog.

Our next “Q & A Forum” will take place this Friday, August 20, 2010. Act now and submit your questions!

THANK YOU!

Question #1 – Temporary Work Visa – H-1B Nonimmigrant Visa
My H1b visa got approved in 2009 which was filed by my previous employer.I did not get chance to travel to USA and even my visa is not stampted. Now I am with other employer.
Can I transfer my H1b?

Answer #1
The safest option to utilize at this point given the facts as you have provided is to file a new H-1B petition. Transfers and Extensions do not apply in this scenario because you have never entered the U.S as an H-1B nonimmigrant. Once the petition is filed and approval received, you would need to attend the Consulate interview and if all goes well, you would be able to then travel to the US and after speaking with CBP, enter as an H-1B nonimmigrant visa holder.

Question #2 – Employment Based Immigration – Green Card: Biometrics
I think the fingerprints that the USCIS has on file for my GC are set to expire soon. Should I take Info pass appointment to give them a new set of fingerprints?

Answer #2
As written on the I-797C, Notice of Action, in some types of cases USCIS requires biometrics. In such cases, USCIS will send you an appointment notice with a specific date, time and place for you to go to a USCIS Application Support Center (ASC) for biometrics processing. You must WAIT for that appointment notice and take it to your ASC appointment along with your photo identification.

Question #3 – Temporary Work Visa – H-1B Nonimmigrant Visa: Traveling
I am planning on traveling out of the US for a vacation; however, I heard from friends that I may not be able to obtain a new visa stamp for my recently approved I-129 and come back. Please advise.

Answer #3
If you MUST travel on H-1B status, we recommend that you have the following: at least two month’s worth of pay stubs, a copy of the approved H-1B petition, an original employment verification letter, the original approval notice, and any other documentation that would demonstrate compliance with the laws governing the H-1B program and the establishment of a bona fide job opportunity.

Question #4 – Employment Based Immigration – Green Card
My child has received his Green Card and his birth date is wrong on the card. Do I need to fix this? How do I fix this?

Answer #4
You will need to file Form I-90, Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card. If you believe this was an administrative error on the part of the USCIS, you will need to check box d in Part 2, number 2 of the application. Along with the Form I-90 and accompanying filing fee of $290.00 plus $80.00 for biometrics, please attach the incorrect card and evidence of the correct information (original birth certificate; passport; previous approval notices, etc). You will need to submit the USCIS filing fees (made payable to the “U.S. Department of Homeland Security”) even though you believe it was an administrative error. If you send the form with accompanying documentation without the filing fees, the case will be returned until you provide those fees. If the USCIS agrees that the error was administrative in nature, they will issue a new card and return the filing fees.

Question #5 – Employment Based Immigration – Green Card
My spouse and child have received their Green Cards but I have not. I filed for our GCs through my employer. What do I need to do? Is there a problem with the processing of my case? Could my GC be denied? Please advise.

Answer #5
Based on the small amount of information provided, it seems like there may just be an issue with the issuance/mailing of your Green Card. Your husband and child would not have received their Green Card if there was a pending issue with your case. From the information you provided, you are the primary applicant and your spouse and child are your derivatives. Therefore, the USCIS would not approve the I-485 Application to Adjust status for the derivatives without first approving it for the primary applicant. Follow up with the USCIS after 30 days from the date your spouse and child received their Green Cards by calling 1-800-375-5283.

Question #6 - Employment Based Immigration – Green Card - EAD Renewal
I filed for my EAD renewal back in May 2010 with the NSC and it is still pending. My current EAD expires next week. What are my options moving forward - can I expedite the EAD renewal process since my card is expiring next week, can I continue to work with the receipt notice?

Answer #6
To my knowledge you normally cannot expedite an EAD renewal request; however, I have heard from my colleagues that after an EAD renewal has been pending for 75+ days at the NSC an Attorney may contact the Service Center directly to notify them of the situation. If you do not receive your EAD approval by the time your current EAD expires, you MUST WAIT and NOT WORK until your EAD is approved. You MAY NOT continue to work using the EAD receipt notice as the receipt is not evidence of an approval.

You may file an EAD renewal request up to 120 days in advance of the expiration of your current EAD and should be aware of the Service Center processing times well in advance of filing so that you can obtain an approval of the EAD to continue working.

Question #7 – Temporary Work Visa – H-1B Nonimmigrant Visa
What document determines how long I can stay in the United States: my visa, my I-94 card or the expiration of my current passport?

Answer #7
Short answer: The visa stamp issued by the U.S. State Department displayed in your passport allows you to enter the U.S. at a port of entry. The I-94 card issued by an Immigration Inspector at the port of entry is your admission ticket and displays the time period you are authorized to stay in the United States. If your I-94 card expires and you did not obtain an extension, and you remain in the U.S. without taking further action, this inaction will result in you accruing unlawful presence in the U.S.

Question #8 – Family Based Immigration: Marriage – K1 Fiancé Visa
My son is U.S. Citizen and would like to marry his Pakistani fiancé. Both boy and girl know each other over three years and have been engaged for 8 months already. Can my son file a petition for his fiancé? How long is it taking?

Answer #8
U.S. Citizens who are engaged to be married to a foreign national may petition the USCIS on behalf of their fiancé by way of the K-1 visa. To be eligible for this visa: (1) you must be legally able to marry; (2) the marriage must be a bona fide marriage with good intent; (3) you must be willing to marry within 90 days of the fiancé entering the United States; and (4) you must have met within two years of filing for the visa. The K-1 visa is valid for only one entry into the United States. Therefore, reentering with it is not possible. You also cannot renew a K-1 fiancé visa. Your son should first file a Petition for Alien Fiancé (Form I-130) with the USCIS. Once the petition is approved, the USCIS will forward the approved petition to the appropriate American consulate to interview the beneficiary. Once the beneficiary attends the consular interview and is approved for the visa, she may travel to the United States to marry your son. A petition for K-1 status is valid for four months from the date of USCIS action, and may only be revalidated by the consular officer. Currently, it is taking approximately 5 months to obtain approval for the Petition for Alien Fiancé.

Question #9 – Temporary Work Visa – H-1B Nonimmigrant Visa
I was on H-1B status from 2006-2009 and now currently utilize my EAD. My sponsoring H-1B employer did not pay me what was listed in my LCA. Can I do anything now about this?

Answer #9
If your employer has not paid you in accordance with the certified LCA, then they are most likely in violation of the The Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA), The FLSA prescribes standards for the basic minimum wage and overtime pay which affects most private and public employment. It requires employers to pay covered employees who are not otherwise exempt at least the federal minimum wage and overtime pay of one-and-one-half-times the regular rate of pay. The Act is administered by the Employment Standards Administration's Wage and Hour Division within the U.S. Department of Labor.

You may wish to check out the following link regarding how to move forward when attempting to file suit to obtain any back payment of wages, etc.


Question #10 – Temporary Work Visa – H-1B Nonimmigrant Visa
Can you let me know how many visas remain under the H-1B Cap?

Answer #10
As of July 30, 2010, there were 37,700 H-1B Regular CAP subject nonimmigrant visas remaining and 8,400 H-1B Masters Exemption nonimmigrant visas remaining. USCIS will continue to accept both cap-subject petitions and advanced degree petitions until a sufficient number of H-1B petitions have been received to reach the statutory limits, taking into account the fact that some of these petitions may be denied, revoked, or withdrawn. For continuous FY2011 H-1B Cap updates, please refer to our website.

MVP Law Group would like to thank everyone who contributed a question or comment. We hope the information provided is helpful.

Our next “Immigration Q & A Forum” is scheduled for Friday, August 20, 2010! Please remember to submit your questions/comments on our h1bvisalawyerblog.

MVP Law Group, P.A. makes available the information and materials in this forum for informational purposes only. The information is general in nature and does not constitute legal advice or any contractual obligations. Further, the use of this site, and the sending or receipt of this information, does not create an attorney-client relationship between us. And, therefore, your communication with us through this forum will not be considered as privileged or confidential.

The United States Citizenship and Immigration Service (USCIS) has updated the count of H-1B petitions received and counted towards the 65,000 cap.

As of July 30, 2010, 27,300 H-1B Regular CAP subject non-immigrant visa petitions have been filed with the USCIS towards the 65,000 cap.

As of July 30, 2010, 11,600 H-1B Masters Degree CAP subject non-immigrant visa petitions have been filed with the USCIS towards the 20,000 cap.

USCIS will continue to accept both cap-subject petitions and advanced degree petitions until a sufficient number of H-1B petitions have been received to reach the statutory limits, taking into account the fact that some of these petitions may be denied, revoked, or withdrawn.

Stay posted to MVP Law Group for future FY2011 H-1B Cap updates!

MVP "Q & A Forum" - This Friday, August 6, 2010

We wanted to find a new way to engage our reader base. Every other Friday, we will post the ten (10) best/most frequently asked questions received during the week from our h1bvisalawyerblog, Facebook, and Twitter readers. We will answer those questions and provide the Q&A on our H-1B Visa Lawyer Blog.

If you have a burning question, are seeking assistance with a difficult immigration related case, wish to discuss your views on Comprehensive Immigration Reform, AZ SB1070, or the debate focused on Ending Birthright Citizenship, please contact us by submitting your question/comment/viewpoint in our comment box provided on our H-1B Visa Lawyer Blog.

Our next “Q & A Forum” will take place this Friday, August 6, 2010. Act now and submit your questions!

THANK YOU!

The United States Citizenship and Immigration Service (USCIS) has updated the count of H-1B petitions received and counted towards the 65,000 cap.

As of July 23, 2010, 26,000 H-1B Regular CAP subject non-immigrant visa petitions have been filed with the USCIS towards the 65,000 cap.

As of July 23, 2010, 11,300 H-1B Masters Degree CAP subject non-immigrant visa petitions have been filed with the USCIS towards the 20,000 cap.

USCIS will continue to accept both cap-subject petitions and advanced degree petitions until a sufficient number of H-1B petitions have been received to reach the statutory limits, taking into account the fact that some of these petitions may be denied, revoked, or withdrawn.

Stay posted to MVP Law Group for future FY2011 H-1B Cap updates!

Question #1 – Temporary Work Visa – H-1B Nonimmigrant Visa
Can your firm sponsor my H-1B or find a company to sponsor me? I am ready to come to the U.S. and work, I have a BS in Computer Science and three years experience in computer programming. What is the process?

Answer #1
We are a law firm that will help you prepare the paperwork (Forms and documents) for your H-1B non-immigrant petition once you find an employer willing to sponsor you for employment; however, we cannot find you H-1B sponsorship. In summary, once you have secured an H-1B sponsor (U.S. employer), we can then help you out.

The normal process for H-1B sponsorship starts when you or your employer contacts our office to initiate the process. You or your employer would contact our office, sign a legal agreement detailing the legal fees associated with the preparation and filing of the H-1B visa petition, you would then complete the H-1B questionnaire, and send all requested background documents to our office to begin the process. Once the legal payment, the completed questionnaire and background docs have been received in our office, we would be able to begin preparing your case. Once your forms have been prepared and thoroughly reviewed, we email the final documents to your sponsoring employer for their review and signatures. These forms must then be returned to our office with the requisite USCIS filing fees, and will be filed on your behalf with the USCIS. Upon receipt of the H-1B petition, the USCIS will issue a receipt notice containing a specific number which will allow you to monitor your case while it is being processed.

Question #2 - Temporary Work Visa – H-1B Nonimmigrant Visa
I have exhausted my 6 years on H-1B visa and returned to my country. I have been here ninety (90) days; can I now apply for a new H-1B visa under the current cap to return to U.S.? Please let me know so we can move forward.

Answer #2
According to the regulations, once you have exhausted the 6 year limit on H-1B, you must return to your home country for one (1) year before you can petition again for an H-1B nonimmigrant visa.

Question #3 – Employment Based Immigration – Green Card - EAD/AP Renewal
I Have Applied my EAD (765) and AP (131) for renewal through paper. USCIS have returned the EAD and AP Documents stating that I have provided incorrect amount on the check or has not been provided. I have provided an amount of $340 for EAD and separate check of $385 for AP. The check was paid to “U.S. Department of Homeland Security” on June 2nd. My EAD expires in the Middle of August 2010. Also my I-485 is current now as per the processing time. I have applied 3 times before for EAD and AP personally and never had this problem. Granted the last renewal I have applied through e-file. I have applied through paper this time to Dallas lockbox. What could have been the mistake I have made in my submission?

Answer #3
It sounds like they rejected both cases due to the mix up with the payment for the AP filing. To be on the safe side, I suggest that you send three checks, one in the amount of $340.00 for the EAD renewal, the second in the amount of $305.00 for the AP renewal, and the third in the amount of $80.00 for biometrics. If they need to process your biometrics, they will, if they don't, they will return the check. There is no way of returning the biometrics fee on a check for $385.00 if biometrics are not needed. You will need to enclose the rejection notice on the top of all of your forms and supporting documentation. Paper clipped to the notice, you will need to place the new checks and your pictures.

Question #4 – Employment Based Immigration – Green Card - EAD Renewal
I just filed my EAD renewal last week. Can I expedite the EAD renewal process since my EAD expires in Mid August?

Answer #4
You cannot expedite an EAD renewal request. You can only expedite an AP renewal request and only under specific circumstances. You can file an EAD renewal request up to 120 days in advance of the expiration of your current EAD. You should be aware of the Service Center processing times well in advance of filing so that you can obtain an approval of the EAD, so that you can continue working. If you do not receive your EAD renewal request by mid August when your current EAD expires, you must wait and not work until your EAD is approved.

Question #5 – Employment Based Immigration – Temporary Work Visa – H-1B Nonimmigrant Visa
USCIS received my H1B/H4 petitions on 07/14/2010, we filed for premium processing. What is timeframe for normal processing? My driving license expires on 9/19/2010. If they process under normal process do they return $1000 which is extra we paid to process under premium processing?

Answer #5
According to the information you provided, your case is still within the normal processing times for a case filed under Premium Processing. The normal processing time for a case filed under Premium Processing is 15 calendar days from the date of submission. Today is July 23, the case was accepted for processing on July 14, and only ten (10) days have passed since the acceptance of your case. If you do not receive an update within the remaining 5 days, your employer/attorney will need to contact the USCIS National Customer Service Center or the appropriate Service Center to ensure that the case is processed according to the timeframes provided for premium processing.

Question #6 - Employment Based Immigration – Green Card - General
We recently bought a new house expected to move on July 25th, 2010. How to notify and update to USICS for I-485 and EAD that is under processing?

Answer #6
The link provided at the bottom of this response will direct you to the online portal for submission of your address change request (however, you will still need to submit Form AR-11 to USCIS within 10 days after your move). According to the USCIS website:

Non-U.S. Citizens
If you have moved, you need to follow two different steps:
• Step 1: File a Form AR-11 (This changes your address in our master database.);
• Step 2: If you have a pending case, you must also file a Change of Address online or call our National Customer Service Center at (800) 375-5283. (This changes your address for the specific application you have submitted.)
**Please note that if you are a non-U.S. citizen and you have a pending case, you must complete both steps to make sure that you comply with the regulations and so we can reach you at your correct address.

The Process
If you want to change your address online and/or file a Form AR-11 using our Online Change of Address Notification tool, you will need to have certain information available. Please have the following information available before you begin:
• Your receipt notice or other notice we sent you showing your receipt number (if you have a pending case with USCIS);
• Your new address;
• Your old address;
• If you have filed a petition for a family member, the names and biographical information for that person.
If you are a non-U.S. citizen, please also have:
• The date when you last entered the United States (If you cannot remember, please fill in an approximate date.);
• The location where you last entered the United States (the port of entry where you entered – whether by land, sea, or air).

Change of Address Request

Question #7 – Employment Based Immigration – Temporary Work Visa – H-1B Nonimmigrant Visa
I have a BA and I am a former judge, how can I qualify for an H1visa?

Answer #7
Simply stated, in order to be eligible for an H-1B nonimmigrant visa, the applicant (you) must possess at least a U.S. Bachelor's degree or its foreign equivalent and the job position must require at least a Bachelor's degree or its foreign equivalent and you must possess experience in the particular field. You must have a sponsoring employer to sponsor your H-1B visa petition; you cannot file for an H1 visa on your own.

Question #8 – Employment Based Immigration – Temporary Work Visa – H-1B Nonimmigrant Visa
Does State of California or federal government give any preference to applicants with Infrastructure background especially for construction projects that have been approved by California voters?

Answer #8
No, the State of California and the Federal government do not give any special preference to applicants with Infrastructure background. Cases are determined and decided on a case-by-case basis, no special preference is suppose to be given to any type of individual or any individual in a specific type of work.

Question #9 – Employment Based Immigration – Temporary Work Visa - H-2B Nonimmigrant Visa
I’ve heard of this H-2B temporary visa. What is it?

Answer #9
The H2B working visa is a nonimmigrant visa which allows foreign nationals to enter into the U.S. temporarily and engage in nonagricultural employment which is seasonal, intermittent, a peak load need, or a one-time occurrence. To qualify for an H-2B visa, you must have a valid job offer from a U.S. employer to perform temporary or seasonal nonagricultural work and proof of an intent to return to your home country on expiration of the visa.

The limitations of the H-2B visa are that the job must be temporary in nature and the need must be for one year or less, the employer's need may not be ongoing or continuous. The employer has the burden of establishing the facts necessary to support a finding that the need is a one-time occurrence, seasonal, peak load or intermittent need. H-2b time counts whether you are in the U.S. or abroad, and H-2b dependents may not work in the U.S.

Question #10 – Student Visa – F1
I want my younger sister to come to USA to go to school. What do we need to do?

Answer #10
Please visit the following website as it will provide the steps for how your sister can get her F1 visa to come to the U.S. for school.

The first step for a prospective nonimmigrant student is being accepted for enrollment in an established school which is SEVP certified. There is a list of SEVP certified schools on the website listed above. Therefore, as her first step, your sister must first apply for enrollment at a college of her choice which is listed on the SEVP certified list. Once she has been accepted by that SEVP certified school, she will then need to apply for her F1 student visa. All of the steps for obtaining such status are available on the website listed above, and additional information can be found on this website .

MVP Law Group would like to thank everyone who contributed a question or comment. We hope the information provided is helpful.

Our next “Immigration Q & A Forum” is scheduled for Friday, August 6, 2010! Please remember to submit your questions/comments on our h1bvisalawyerblog.

MVP Law Group, P.A. makes available the information and materials in this forum for informational purposes only. The information is general in nature and does not constitute legal advice or any contractual obligations. Further, the use of this site, and the sending or receipt of this information, does not create an attorney-client relationship between us. And, therefore, your communication with us through this forum will not be considered as privileged or confidential.

The United States Citizenship and Immigration Service (USCIS) has updated the count of H-1B petitions received and counted towards the 65,000 cap.

As of July 16, 2010, 25,300 H-1B Regular CAP subject non-immigrant visa petitions have been filed with the USCIS towards the 65,000 cap.

As of July 16, 2010, 11,000 H-1B Masters Degree CAP subject non-immigrant visa petitions have been filed with the USCIS towards the 20,000 cap.

USCIS will continue to accept both cap-subject petitions and advanced degree petitions until a sufficient number of H-1B petitions have been received to reach the statutory limits, taking into account the fact that some of these petitions may be denied, revoked, or withdrawn.

Stay posted to MVP Law Group for future FY2011 H-1B Cap updates!

MVP "Q & A Forum" - This Friday, July 23, 2010

We wanted to find a new way to engage our reader base. Every other Friday, we will post the ten (10) best/most frequently asked questions received during the week from our h1bvisalawyerblog, Facebook, and Twitter readers. We will answer those questions and provide the Q&A on our H-1B Visa Lawyer Blog.

If you have a burning question, are seeking assistance with a difficult immigration related case, wish to discuss your views on Comprehensive Immigration Reform, AZ SB1070, or the new debate focused on Ending Birthright Citizenship, please contact us by submitting your question/comment/viewpoint in our comment box provided on our H-1B Visa Lawyer Blog.

Our next “Q & A Forum” will take place this Friday, July 23, 2010. Act now and submit your questions!

THANK YOU!

The United States Citizenship and Immigration Service (USCIS) has updated the count of H-1B petitions received and counted towards the 65,000 cap.

As of July 9, 2010, 24,800 H-1B Regular CAP subject non-immigrant visa petitions have been filed with the USCIS towards the 65,000 cap.

As of July 9, 2010, 10,600 H-1B Masters Degree CAP subject non-immigrant visa petitions have been filed with the USCIS towards the 20,000 cap.

USCIS will continue to accept both cap-subject petitions and advanced degree petitions until a sufficient number of H-1B petitions have been received to reach the statutory limits, taking into account the fact that some of these petitions may be denied, revoked, or withdrawn.

Stay posted to MVP Law Group for future FY2011 H-1B Cap updates!

Question #1 – Marriage Based Immigration – Conditional Permanent Resident
I would like to know the procedure for “removing conditions.” When can I file? I’m married to a U.S. Citizen and my conditional green card is set to expire in May of 2011.

Answer #1
You can file to remove the conditions 90 days prior to the expiration of your second anniversary as a conditional resident. It is very important that you file Form I-751 (Petition to Remove the Conditions on Residence) within the 90 day window of time. If you file too early, the USCIS will send your application back. You may file at any time during the 90 day window, but it is suggested that you file fairly early in the window. If you fail to properly file Form I-751 within the 90 day period, your conditional resident status will automatically be terminated and the USCIS will order removal proceedings against you and a hearing will be conducted where you will be given the opportunity to rebut the government’s allegations against you.

The items involved in filing the application to “remove conditions” include: a completed Form I-751; USCIS filing fee of $545.00; certified copy of front and back of permanent resident card; evidence of a bona fide relationship; and a detailed cover sheet indicating the contents of the package.

Question #2 - Employment Based Immigration – Green Card
I’m confused. My priority date is current and I want to file my I-485 application. Do I have to pay for both Employment Authorization and Advance Parole; I’ve seen conflicting information on various immigration forums.

Answer #2
Taken verbatim from the USCIS website - If you file Form I-485 to adjust your status as a permanent resident on or after July 30, 2007, no additional fee is required to also file an application for employment authorization (EAD) on Form I-765 and/or advance parole (AP) on Form I-131. If you choose to file the I-765 and/or I-131 separately after July 30, 2007, you must also submit a copy of your I-797C, Notice of Action receipt as evidence of the filing of an I-485.

Accordingly, for a total of $1,010.00 you may submit Form I-485; Form I-765 and Form I-131 to the USCIS for processing. The filing fees are less for applicants 79+, and for children under the age of 14.

If you would like to renew your EAD and/or AP document, you will be required to pay the associated fees of $340.00 for EAD renewal and/or $305.00 for AP renewal.

Question #3 – General
I am not sure what is going on with my pending I-140 application. I heard that I can contact USCIS and make a service request for them to look further into my case and why it is taking so long. Is this true? How do I do it? Does my employer need to contact them?

Answer #3
The USCIS National Customer Service Center, which can be reached at 1-800-375-5283, will initiate a service request when a petition is outside of the normal processing time if the request is made by the sponsoring Petitioner, the Applicant/Beneficiary, or an Authorized Representative or an Attorney for the Petitioner/Applicant.

If making a service request to the Customer Service Center, please have the following information handy so that the Officer/Agent will be better able to assist you: your full name, your complete mailing address, your date of birth, your receipt number for the pending application/petition, the filing date of your pending application/petition, your priority date, your preference category, and possibly, the position indicated on your certified labor. If your case is outside of the normal processing time, the Officer/Agent will initiate a service request and will provide you with a timeframe for a response and a referral number in case you have to call back because no correspondence was issued within the timeframe suggested.

Question #4 – Employment Based Immigration – Temporary Work Visas – H-1B Nonimmigrant Visa
My immigration details are as follows:

Visa type : F1
Visa Issue Date : 20 June 2007
Visa Expiration Date : 18 June 2012

Course : M.S. in Computer Engineering
Status : Completed
Course Completion Date : 30 May 2010
Course Duration : Fall 2007 - Spring 2010

Initial I-20 issued on : 08/17/2007
New I-20 issued on : 01/19/2010

The problem that I am currently facing is that I was issued a new I-20 for the period 01/19/2010 to 05/30/2010 with a different Sevis number. I was required to pay the Sevis fees once again. Due to the same, I have one semester of study reflecting on my current Sevis. To apply for an OPT, one needs at least two semesters of study. Hence, I am not able to apply for an OPT. I am therefore looking for a job in a company that can process my H1B. Do I qualify to file an H-1B if I can find a willing sponsor?

Answer #4
Given the circumstances of your current situation, I do not foresee any issues in you applying for an H-1B visa under the Master’s CAP exemption. If the sponsoring employer has a position for you that normally requires at a minimum the attainment of a Bachelors degree in a field related to your specific degree, then you should qualify given the details you have provided. However, you will need to speak with an Experienced Immigration Lawyer to better evaluate the situation once you have secured an employer to sponsor your visa.

Question #5 - Employment Based Immigration – Temporary Work Visas – H-1B Nonimmigrant Visa
Are H-1B visas for FY2011 still available? What do the numbers look like? Is there still time to file?

Answer #5
The H-1B 2011 CAP opened on April 1, 2010 and is still OPEN. The H-1B FY2011 runs from October 1, 2010 until September 30, 2011. As of July 2, 2010, 40,800 H-1B regular CAP visas are still available for FY2011 out of 65,000. There are approximately 9,600 H-1B Master’s exemption visas still available for FY2011 out of 20,000.

Question #6 - Employment Based Immigration – Temporary Work Visas – H-1B Nonimmigrant Visa
My company has filed several H-1B visas for Physical Therapists, only two are in the US, working as of now. One of them wants to leave my company and go to another employer. This is something against our interests, as to date we have spent a lot of time and effort in bringing them to the US. Is there anything we can do about it? At any time during the transfer
of the candidate's H1B visa – is our consent or concurrence required at all?

Answer #6
No. If your employment contract with the beneficiary was “at-will” the beneficiary may leave your employ at any time provided he/she gives the required notice as indicated in the employment agreement. Additionally, at no time during the transfer is your consent or concurrence required.

Question #7 – Employment Based Immigration – Temporary Work Visas – H-1B Nonimmigrant Visa
If we sponsor an employee and pay the associated legal fees and USCIS filing fees, can we consider those payments in their employment review/raise evaluation in subsequent years? I am trying to treat all employees fairly, and it seems odd that the company is required to pay legal fees for one employee, but not another who may have legal fees associated with divorce, child custody, or other legal matters which would also affect their ability to work.

Answer #7
I understand your frustrations; however, the H-1B nonimmigrant program is a program designed to allow foreign professional workers to work temporarily in the United States to help boost the economy and keep U.S. businesses at the top in terms of work productivity, developing new products, etc. When you speak of using the associated legal fees when determining employment reviews/raise evaluations, it is not fair to the H-1B worker who has been sponsored by you for the sole purpose of working for your company to then take those fees and hold them against them. To my knowledge, it is unlawful and the Department of Labor (DOL) would not look favorably over this issue. It may seem odd that you are required to pay for the foreign worker's legal fees and associated filing fees, but that is just an aspect of the United States Citizenship and Immigration Service (USCIS) and DOL’s partnership in the H-1B nonimmigrant program.

The other employees you are referring to in regards to divorce, child custody issues, those are personal in nature. Although they may affect an individual's ability to work, an employer has no legal obligation to pay those fees as those personal related issues and fees should not play into your employment reviews/raise evaluations. A job is a job and when performance reviews/raise evaluations are conducted, they should be based entirely on the ability/productivity and experience of the worker.

Question #8 – Employment Based Immigration – Temporary Work Visas – H-1B Nonimmigrant Visa
No new H1B application will be approved, as per the new guidelines provided USCIS on Jan 08, 2010 memorandum – for 3rd Party Consulting company. No new H1B extension/stamping will be approved, as per the new guidelines provided USCIS on Jan 08, 2010 memorandum – for 3rd Party Consulting company. If an employee has H1B approved or extension approved, and if he/she comes back to US from a vacation or from an emergency, he/she would be deported back to his/her home country from the Port of Entry (PoE) – for 3rd Party Consulting company. How is my company to remain in business?

Answer #8
Yes, the memo has made it more difficult to petition for 3rd party consultants; however, it is not impossible. We cannot generalize and say that no case will be approved; no extension will be approved; because you cannot generalize with the USCIS, you must look at each case and the evidence presented on a case-by-case basis. You are not required to put forth all of the evidence listed in the memo, but a majority of it to illustrate that there is a valid employer-employee relationship, and that you maintain CONTROL over the beneficiary, not actual control, but the RIGHT TO CONTROL.

The USCIS adjudicators are to take the memo as guidance, and are to adjudicate the petition based on a totality of the circumstances, not narrowly like you have mentioned. They are to take all of the evidence presented and determine whether a valid employer-employee relationship exists, and based on that determination, either approve or deny the non-immigrant visa petition.

When traveling, there is not much that we can do, as the Officers of Customs and Border Protection (CBP) have developed their own interpretation of the memo released on January 8, 2010. If a 3rd party consultant MUST travel, we would recommend that they have the following: at least two month’s worth of paystubs, a copy of the approved H-1B petition, an employment verification letter, approval notice, and any other documentation that would demonstrate compliance with the laws governing the H-1B program and the establishment of a bona fide job opportunity.

Question #9 – Employment Based Immigration – Temporary Work Visas – H-1B Nonimmigrant Visa
I recently got a new project in Washington DC. I will be working at a client in DC downtown and staying in northern Virginia. I have Pennsylvania labor filed on my H1B petition. Do I need to file a new labor in DC? If so can you guide me and my employer in filing labor in a new state?

Answer #9
According to the regulations governing the H-1B program, when you move to a new location outside of the geographical location listed on the original certified LCA, a new LCA as well as an amended petition must be filed with the USCIS. In summary, since your location change would be considered a "material change" in your previously approved employment, you would need to file a new LCA as well as the amended petition to stay within the regulations.

Question #10 – Employment Based Immigration – Green Card – LABOR/PERM
It seems like it’s taking a lot longer to conduct recruitment prior to filing the Labor application, what’s the issue?

Answer #10
As of January 1, 2010 the Department of Labor (DOL) federalized the process for obtaining Prevailing wage requests, which is the first step in the Labor process before recruitment can be conducted. We normally could obtain a prevailing wage request directly from the specific state workforce agency within a few days to a week. In addition to federalizing the process, the DOL made the process for obtaining the prevailing wages by electronic means as well as by requesting a prevailing wage through the U.S .mail. At this time, it is taking approximately 45-60 days to obtain a prevailing wage determination from the DOL. The determinations are issued on a first come, first serve basis.

MVP Law Group would like to thank everyone who contributed a question or comment. We hope the information provided is helpful.

Our next “Immigration Q & A Forum” is scheduled for Friday, July 23, 2010! Please remember to submit your questions/comments on our h1bvisalawyerblog.

MVP Law Group, P.A. makes available the information and materials in this forum for informational purposes only. The information is general in nature and does not constitute legal advice or any contractual obligations. Further, the use of this site, and the sending or receipt of this information, does not create an attorney-client relationship between us. And, therefore, your communication with us through this forum will not be considered as privileged or confidential.

The United States Citizenship and Immigration Service (USCIS) has updated the count of H-1B petitions received and counted towards the 65,000 cap.

As of July 2, 2010, 24,200 H-1B Regular CAP subject non-immigrant visa petitions have been filed with the USCIS towards the 65,000 cap.

As of July 2, 2010, 10,400 H-1B Masters Degree CAP subject non-immigrant visa petitions have been filed with the USCIS towards the 20,000 cap.

USCIS will continue to accept both cap-subject petitions and advanced degree petitions until a sufficient number of H-1B petitions have been received to reach the statutory limits, taking into account the fact that some of these petitions may be denied, revoked, or withdrawn.

Stay posted to MVP Law Group for future FY2011 H-1B Cap updates!

MVP Law Group's first "Question & Answer" Forum was launched on Friday, June 25, 2010. Please click here to review the questions received and answers provided.

We wanted to find a new way to engage our reader base. Every other Friday, we will post the ten (10) best/most frequently asked questions received during the week from our h1bvisalawyerblog, Facebook, and Twitter readers. We will answer those questions and provide the Q&A on our H-1B Visa Lawyer Blog.

If you have a burning question, are seeking assistance with a difficult immigration related case, wish to discuss your views on Comprehensive Immigration Reform, AZ SB1070, or the new debate focused on Ending Birthright Citizenship, please do not hesitate to contact us by submitting your question/comment/viewpoint in our comment box provided on our H-1B Visa Lawyer Blog.

Our next “Q & A Forum” will take place this Friday, July 9, 2010. Act now and submit your questions!

THANK YOU!

The United States Citizenship and Immigration Service (USCIS) has updated the count of H-1B petitions received and counted towards the 65,000 cap.

As of June 25, 2010, 23,500 H-1B Regular CAP subject non-immigrant visa petitions have been filed with the USCIS towards the 65,000 cap.

As of June 25, 2010, 10,000 H-1B Masters Degree CAP subject non-immigrant visa petitions have been filed with the USCIS towards the 20,000 cap.

USCIS will continue to accept both cap-subject petitions and advanced degree petitions until a sufficient number of H-1B petitions have been received to reach the statutory limits, taking into account the fact that some of these petitions may be denied, revoked, or withdrawn.

Stay posted to MVP Law Group for future FY2011 H-1B Cap updates!

The United States Citizenship and Immigration Service (USCIS) has updated the count of H-1B petitions received and counted towards the 65,000 cap.

As of June 18, 2010, 22,900 H-1B Regular CAP subject non-immigrant visa petitions have been filed with the USCIS towards the 65,000 cap.

As of June 18, 2010, 9,700 H-1B Masters Degree CAP subject non-immigrant visa petitions have been filed with the USCIS towards the 20,000 cap.

USCIS will continue to accept both cap-subject petitions and advanced degree petitions until a sufficient number of H-1B petitions have been received to reach the statutory limits, taking into account the fact that some of these petitions may be denied, revoked, or withdrawn.

Stay posted to MVP Law Group for future FY2011 H-1B Cap updates!

The United States Citizenship and Immigration Service (USCIS) has updated the count of H-1B petitions received and counted towards the 65,000 cap.

As of June 11, 2010, 22,200 H-1B Regular CAP subject non-immigrant visa petitions have been filed with the USCIS towards the 65,000 cap.

As of June 11, 2010, 9,400 H-1B Masters Degree CAP subject non-immigrant visa petitions have been filed with the USCIS towards the 20,000 cap.

USCIS will continue to accept both cap-subject petitions and advanced degree petitions until a sufficient number of H-1B petitions have been received to reach the statutory limits, taking into account the fact that some of these petitions may be denied, revoked, or withdrawn.

Stay posted to MVP Law Group for future FY2011 H-1B Cap updates!

The United States Citizenship and Immigration Service (USCIS) has updated the count of H-1B petitions received and counted towards the 65,000 cap.

As of May 28, 2010, 20,800 H-1B Regular CAP subject non-immigrant visa petitions have been filed with the USCIS towards the 65,000 cap.

As of May 28, 2010, 8,700 H-1B Masters Degree CAP subject non-immigrant visa petitions have been filed with the USCIS towards the 20,000 cap.

USCIS will continue to accept both cap-subject petitions and advanced degree petitions until a sufficient number of H-1B petitions have been received to reach the statutory limits, taking into account the fact that some of these petitions may be denied, revoked, or withdrawn.

Stay posted to MVP Law Group for future FY2011 H-1B Cap updates!

The United States Citizenship and Immigration Service (USCIS) has updated the count of H-1B petitions received and counted towards the 65,000 cap.

As of May 14, 2010, 19,000 H-1B Regular CAP subject non-immigrant visa petitions have been filed with the USCIS towards the 65,000 cap.

As of May 14, 2010, 8,100 H-1B Masters Degree CAP subject non-immigrant visa petitions have been filed with the USCIS towards the 20,000 cap.

USCIS will continue to accept both cap-subject petitions and advanced degree petitions until a sufficient number of H-1B petitions have been received to reach the statutory limits, taking into account the fact that some of these petitions may be denied, revoked, or withdrawn.

Stay posted to MVP Law Group for future FY2011 H-1B Cap updates!

The United States Citizenship and Immigration Service (USCIS) has updated the count of H-1B petitions received and counted towards the 65,000 cap.

As of May 6, 2010, 18,000 H-1B Regular CAP subject non-immigrant visa petitions have been filed with the USCIS towards the 65,000 cap.

As of May 6, 2010, 7,600 H-1B Masters Degree CAP subject non-immigrant visa petitions have been filed with the USCIS towards the 20,000 cap.

USCIS will continue to accept both cap-subject petitions and advanced degree petitions until a sufficient number of H-1B petitions have been received to reach the statutory limits, taking into account the fact that some of these petitions may be denied, revoked, or withdrawn.

Stay posted to MVP Law Group for future FY2011 H-1B Cap updates!

The United States Citizenship and Immigration Service (USCIS) has updated the count of H-1B petitions received and counted towards the 65,000 cap.

As of April 27, 2010, 16,500 H-1B Regular CAP subject non-immigrant visa petitions have been filed with the USCIS towards the 65,000 cap.

As of April 27, 2010, 6,900 H-1B Masters Degree CAP subject non-immigrant visa petitions have been filed with the USCIS towards the 20,000 cap.

USCIS will continue to accept both cap-subject petitions and advanced degree petitions until a sufficient number of H-1B petitions have been received to reach the statutory limits, taking into account the fact that some of these petitions may be denied, revoked, or withdrawn.

Stay posted to MVP Law Group for future FY2011 H-1B Cap updates!

The United States Citizenship and Immigration Service (USCIS) has updated the count of H-1B petitions received and counted towards the 65,000 cap.

As of April 22, 2010, 16,025 H-1B Regular CAP subject non-immigrant visa petitions have been filed with the USCIS towards the 65,000 cap.

As of April 22, 2010, 6,739 H-1B Masters Degree CAP subject non-immigrant visa petitions have been filed with the USCIS towards the 20,000 cap.

USCIS will continue to accept both cap-subject petitions and advanced degree petitions until a sufficient number of H-1B petitions have been received to reach the statutory limits, taking into account the fact that some of these petitions may be denied, revoked, or withdrawn.

Stay posted to MVP Law Group for future FY2011 H-1B Cap updates!

The United States Citizenship and Immigration Service (USCIS) has updated the count of H-1B petitions received and counted towards the 65,000 cap.

As of April 15, 2010, 13,600 H-1B Regular CAP subject non-immigrant visa petitions have been filed with the USCIS towards the 65,000 cap.

As of April 15, 2010, 5,800 H-1B Masters Degree CAP subject non-immigrant visa petitions have been filed with the USCIS towards the 20,000 cap.

USCIS will continue to accept both cap-subject petitions and advanced degree petitions until a sufficient number of H-1B petitions have been received to reach the statutory limits, taking into account the fact that some of these petitions may be denied, revoked, or withdrawn.

Stay posted to MVP Law Group for future FY2011 H-1B Cap updates!

The Administrative Appeals Office (AAO) Processing Times were released on April 15, 2010 with processing dates as of April 1, 2010.

If you filed an appeal, please review the links below to determine the applicable processing time associated with your particular case.

Administrative Appeals Office

The current processing time for an I-129 H-1B Appeal is 14 months. The current processing time for an I-140 EB2 Appeal for an Advanced Degree Professional is 24 months; for an I-140EB3 Appeal for a Skilled or Professional Worker is 24 months.

Most other cases are within USCIS's processing time goal of 6 months or less.

The United States Citizenship and Immigration Service (USCIS) has updated the count of H-1B petitions received and counted towards the 65,000 cap.

As of April 8, 2010, 13,500 H-1B Regular CAP subject non-immigrant visa petitions have been filed with the USCIS towards the 65,000 cap.

As of April 8, 2010, 5,600 H-1B Masters Degree CAP subject non-immigrant visa petitions have been filed with the USCIS towards the 20,000 cap.

USCIS will continue to accept both cap-subject petitions and advanced degree petitions until a sufficient number of H-1B petitions have been received to reach the statutory limits, taking into account the fact that some of these petitions may be denied, revoked, or withdrawn.

Stay posted to MVP Law Group for future FY2011 H-1B Cap updates!

H-1B Nonimmigrant Visa Petitions should be filed on April 1, 2010 for Fiscal Year 2011, which begins on October 1, 2010 and ends September 30, 2011. The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) will begin accepting new H-1B visa petitions for professionals that count against the FY2010 cap on April 1, 2010. These professionals will be eligible to begin H-1B employment on October 1, 2010. In past years, the H-1B cap has been exceeded on the first day, April 1st.

If your company is interested in a consultation about this process, CONTACT OUR OFFICE IMMEDIATELY!

H-1B nonimmigrant visas are for professional foreign workers with a U.S. bachelor’s degree or its foreign equivalent. Congress allows 65,000 visas to be issued annually to qualifying foreign workers. An additional 20,000 H-1Bs are reserved for professional foreign workers who receive U.S. Master’s degrees. Employers petition the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) on behalf of the professional foreign worker beginning six months prior to the beginning of the upcoming fiscal year. Frequently, employers interested in utilizing the H-1B visa program contact an experienced Immigration Business Lawyer for a consultation about the process, determine eligibility, discuss applicable lawyer’s fees and filing fees, and so forth.

Employers looking to hire new H-1B professionals are urged to begin the H-1B petition process now.

Employers should review their employment needs and determine whether any foreign national employees will be requiring H-1B visas. This is extremely important where employers are planning to hire foreign nationals who will soon graduate from U.S. universities. While many of these individuals may already have an employment authorization card, you may still have to file an H-1B petition for them. For instance, if you plan to hire an individual that will graduate in May 2010, that individual’s employment authorization card will be valid through the end of May 2011. After May 2011, this individual will no longer be able to work for you unless you have already filed an H-1B petition for them on April 1, 2010 asking the USCIS to change their status to H-1B from October 1, 2010. H-1B status grants such an individual up to three years of employment authorization from October 1, 2010.

The H-1B cap does not apply to foreign nationals who already hold H-1B status and are seeking to change/transfer their H-1B employer and/or extend their H-1B stay in the United States.

DON'T DELAY...Contact MVP Law Group to begin the process TODAY!

H-1B Nonimmigrant Visa Petitions should be filed on April 1, 2010 for Fiscal Year 2011, which begins on October 1, 2010 and ends September 30, 2011. The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) will begin accepting new H-1B visa petitions for professionals that count against the FY2010 cap on April 1, 2010. These professionals will be eligible to begin H-1B employment on October 1, 2010. In past years, the H-1B cap has been exceeded on the first day, April 1st.

H-1B nonimmigrant visas are for professional foreign workers with a U.S. bachelor’s degree or its foreign equivalent. Congress allows 65,000 visas to be issued annually to qualifying foreign workers. An additional 20,000 H-1Bs are reserved for professional foreign workers who receive U.S. Master’s degrees. Employers petition the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) on behalf of the professional foreign worker beginning six months prior to the beginning of the upcoming fiscal year. Frequently, employers interested in utilizing the H-1B visa program contact an experienced Immigration Business Lawyer for a consultation about the process, determine eligibility, discuss applicable lawyer’s fees and filing fees, and so forth.

If your company is interested in a consultation about this process, CONTACT OUR OFFICE IMMEDIATELY!

Employers looking to hire new H-1B professionals are urged to begin the H-1B petition process now.

Employers should review their employment needs and determine whether any foreign national employees will be requiring H-1B visas. This is extremely important where employers are planning to hire foreign nationals who will soon graduate from U.S. universities. While many of these individuals may already have an employment authorization card, you may still have to file an H-1B petition for them. For instance, if you plan to hire an individual that will graduate in May 2010, that individual’s employment authorization card will be valid through the end of May 2011. After May 2011, this individual will no longer be able to work for you unless you have already filed an H-1B petition for them on April 1, 2010 asking the USCIS to change their status to H-1B from October 1, 2010. H-1B status grants such an individual up to three years of employment authorization from October 1, 2010.

The H-1B cap does not apply to foreign nationals who already hold H-1B status and are seeking to change their H-1B employer and/or extend their H-1B stay in the United States.

Contact MVP Law Group to begin the process now!

The Administrative Appeals Office (AAO) Processing Times were released on March 2, 2010 with processing dates as of March 1, 2010.

If you filed an appeal, please review the links below to determine the applicable processing time associated with your particular case.

Administrative Appeals Office

The current processing time for an I-129 H-1B Appeal is 13 months. The current processing time for an I-140 EB2 Appeal for an Advanced Degree Professional is 24 months; for an I-140EB3 Appeal for a Skilled or Professional Worker is 24 months. Most other cases are within USCIS's processing time goal of 6 months or less.

Effective January 21, 2010, the Department of Labor's iCERT online system was updated to allow the submission of electronic prevailing wage determination requests. This electronic process was intended to allow Employers and/or their Designated Representatives to submit and obtain prevailing wage determinations (PWD) for use in the H-1B, H-1B1 (Chile/Singapore), H-1C, H-2B, E-3 (Australia), and permanent labor certification programs through the iCERT portal. However, at this time, this federalized electronic process has caused delays in the issuance of prevailing wage determinations.

Prior to January 1, 2010, the date of enactment of the Federalized Process, employers and/or their designated representative were able to obtain PWDs from their State Workforce Agencies (SWAs), which normally took between two (2) to fourteen (14) days or even a months time. Currently, requestors are waiting between thirty (30) to sixty (60) days to obtain a response from the DOL further delaying the commencement of a new PERM case, or the filing of an AC-21 Portability Case.

Requestors who have submitted PWD requests to the NPWHC by U.S. Mail between January 1, 2010 and January 21, 2010, the launch date of the iCERT PWD System have received a response in regards to their PWD requests. However, at this time, there appear to be delays in the issuance of PWDs through the national DOL office with both hard copy and electronically submitted requests since January 21, 2010.

According to many interactive blog posts by various Immigration Law Firms, the DOL has reportedly not acted on any requests submitted online. The DOL has been advised of this situation and the effect that it has upon the Employment Based Green Card (PERM) and H-1B programs, as obtaining a PWD is the starting point in the PERM process for most foreign workers. Although the DOL is aware of the situation, no guidance, alternative route or explanation has been made available, as it is now March 4, 2010 and the delays continue.

You may still submit hard copy PWD requests to the address listed below:
U.S. Department of Labor-ETA, National Prevailing Wage and Helpdesk Center,
Attn: PWD Request:
1341 G Street, NW
Suite 201
Washington, DC 20005-3142

Or, you may submit electronic PWD requests through the iCERT portal.

Please be aware of the current delays and plan accordingly!

MVP Law Group will continue to monitor the situation and will provide you with any information that becomes available.

The United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has issued information collection for Form I-129, Petition for Nonimmigrant Worker until April 9, 2010.

During this period, USCIS will be evaluating whether to revise Form I-129.

The purpose of this form is for employers to petition for an alien to come to the United States temporarily to perform services or labor, or to receive training, as an H-1B, H-1C, H-2A, H-2B, H-3, L-1, O-1, O-2, P-1, P-1S, P-2, P-2S, P-3, P-3S, Q-1 or R-1 nonimmigrant worker. Employers may also use this form to request an extension of stay or change of status for an alien as an E-1, E-2, or TN nonimmigrant.

Members of the public are encouraged to submit comments and/or suggestions to USCIS, especially comments regarding the estimated public burden and associated response time.

Written comments and suggestions from the public and affected agencies should address one or more of the following four points:

(1) Evaluate whether the proposed collection of information is necessary for the proper performance of the functions of the agency, including whether the information will have practical utility;

(2) Evaluate the accuracy of the agency's estimate of the burden of the proposed collection of information, including the validity of the methodology and assumptions used;

(3) Enhance the quality, utility, and clarity of the information to be collected; and

(4) Minimize the burden of the collection of information on those who are to respond, including through the use of appropriate automated, electronic, mechanical, or other technological collection techniques or other forms of information technology, e.g., permitting electronic submission of responses.

Comments may be submitted to:
Department of Homeland Security (DHS), USCIS,
Chief, Regulatory Products Division, Clearance Office,
111 Massachusetts Avenue, NW, Suite 3008
Washington, DC 20529-2210.

Comments may also be submitted to DHS via facsimile to 202-272-8352 or via e-mail at rfs.regs@dhs.gov.

**When submitting comments by e-mail, please make sure to add OMB Control No. 1615-0009 in the subject box.

The Administrative Appeals Office (AAO) Processing Times were released on February 17, 2010 with processing dates as of February 1, 2010.

If you filed an appeal, please review the links below to determine the applicable processing time associated with your particular case.

Administrative Appeals Office

The current processing time for an I-129 H-1B Appeal is 14 months. The current processing time for an I-140 EB2 Appeal for an Advanced Degree Professional is 25 months; for an I-140EB3 Appeal for a Skilled or Professional Worker is 23 months. Most other cases are within USCIS's processing time goal of 6 months or less.

The American Immigration Lawyers Association (AILA) U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Liaison Committee received reports from AILA members that CBP inspectors at the Newark, New Jersey airport port of entry were apparently assisting in an investigation involving certain H-1B nonimmigrants from India and certain H-1B petitioner companies.

The CBP inspector’s questions focused on (1) who the individuals worked for, (2) how their pay was computed, (3) who paid their salary, (4) their job duties, and (5) what they were paid. According to the reports, some individuals were subjected to expedited removal and visa cancellation.

After inquiring with CBP headquarters about these alleged incidents, the CBP Liaison Committee was advised that many of the cases involved in the allegations involved companies currently under investigation by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and/or U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) for ongoing fraud. The CBP provided that upon an inadmissibility finding, the determination to either allow the applicant to withdraw his or her application for admission or to subject the applicant to expedited removal was based on “the totality of the circumstances” and was reviewed on a “case-by-case” basis. The CBP also confirmed that they screen ALL employment-based visa holders to determine admissibility and ensure compliance with entry requirements.

AILA was provided with additional news regarding a new policy instituted at Newark Airport dealing with random checks of returning H-1B, L-1 and other employment-based visa holders. Based upon the initial check, if the person’s admissibility is questionable, then he or she will be sent to secondary inspection for further review, and if questions still surround the person’s admissibility they may possibly be asked to withdraw his/her application for admission to the U.S. or be subject to expedited removal.

The Newark Airport port of entry has another policy regarding Lawful Permanent Residents (LPRs). The Airport has a mandatory detention policy for returning LPRs who have a post-1998 conviction. There are several exceptions to detainment for humanitarian reasons, and if the CBP cannot get a copy of the conviction record within 24 hours, the person may be released.

Moving Forward:
Employment Based Immigration applicants - If you must travel outside of the U.S., you should thoroughly prepare for your return trip to the U.S. by reviewing all pertinent documents, as well as carrying certain evidence to support assertions made in the petition. Certain evidence may include but is not limited to the following: pay stubs, employment verification letter, income tax returns, W-2 Forms, Employment offer letter, Employment Agreement.

Petitioning Employers – You must be prepared for inquiries from CBP officers to confirm the assertions made in any nonimmigrant petition. Additionally, you should keep and maintain adequate employee personnel and inspection files, and keep public information as accurate and current as possible.

Additionally, please note that the USCIS has revised I-797 Approval notices to include the following fraud related language:

NOTICE – Although this application/petition has been approved, DHS reserves the right to verify the information submitted in this application, petition, and/or supporting documentation to ensure conformity with applicable laws, rules, regulations, and other authorities. Methods used for verifying information may include, but are not limited to, the review of public information and records, contact by correspondence, the Internet, or telephone, and site inspections of businesses and residences. Information obtained during the course of verification will be used to determine whether revocation, rescission, and/or removal proceedings are appropriate. Applicants, petitioners and representatives of record will be provided an opportunity to address derogatory information before any formal proceeding is initiated.

Source: AILA InfoNet Doc. No. 10020237 (Posted 2/2/2010)

Due to the passage of the Employ American Worker Act (EAWA), the USCIS is required to collect Troubled Assets Relief Program (TARP) information on each H-1B petitioning employer. Under the EAWA legislation, any company that has received TARP funding and seeks to hire new H-1B workers is considered an “H-1B dependent employer.” An H-1B dependent employer must make additional statements to the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) regarding the recruitment and non-displacement of U.S. workers when filing a Labor Condition Application (LCA).

After enactment of EAWA, USCIS revised its Form I-129, Petition for Non-immigrant Worker, to include a question asking whether the employer has received TARP funding.

It has come to the attention of the USCIS that some businesses who have received TARP funds may have repaid their obligations and may not know how to proceed with completing Form I-129 when filing for new H-1B hires.

• If you received TARP funds and have repaid your obligations, then answer “NO” to the question regarding TARP funding on Form I-129. If you wish to provide further information on the repayment of your obligations, you may do so and include that information with the H-1B petition.
• If you received TARP funds and have not repaid your obligations, then you must answer “YES” to the question regarding TARP funding, and must provide the additional statements regarding recruitment and non-displacement of U.S. workers on the LCA.
• If you submitted an LCA which includes the additional statements, but answer “NO” to the TARP funding question on Form I-129, you may explain the circumstances of the inconsistency of your answers. For instance, you received TARP funding at the time of filing the LCA but repaid the obligation before filing Form I-129.

Please be aware that if you indicate on the petition that you are subject to TARP funding, but the LCA does not contain the proper additional statements relating to H-1B dependent employers, USCIS has advised that they will deny the H-1B petition.

As immigration law is already complex is nature, it is important to have an attorney experienced in the field, who is ready and willing to advise when changes occur. Contact MVP Law Group if you have any further questions regarding EAWA, and its effect on your company.

The Director of the United States Citizenship and Immigration Service (USCIS), Alejandro Mayorkas has recently issued a response to the recommendations of the Citizenship and Immigration Services Ombudsman regarding the temporary acceptance of Labor Condition Applications (LCAs) for certain H-1B filings.

Until March 9, 2010, the USCIS Service Centers will continue to accept H-1B petitions filed without certified LCAs. However, the only H-1B petitions that will be accepted are those that have been filed at least seven (7) calendar days after the LCAs were filed with the Department of Labor (DOL). The only acceptable proof of the submission of the LCA for certification with the DOL is a copy of the DOL’s email giving notice of receipt of the LCA.

Those that do take advantage of the temporary acceptance of these certain H-1B filings must wait until they receive a Request for Evidence (RFE) before submitting the certified LCA to USCIS. The LCA submitted in response to receiving an RFE must be the same LCA filed with the original petition and it must be submitted within 30 calendar days of receipt of the RFE requesting such documentation.

Additionally, Director Mayorkas has indicated that the USCIS will continue to excuse late filings whereby the delay in filing the petition was related to LCA issuance delays beyond the control of the petitioner and/or denials by DOL due to Federal Employer Identification Number (FEIN) check issues.

Those that would like for the USCIS to consider a late filing should be prepared to submit evidence showing that the filing delay was through no fault of their own along with the H-1B petition.

The Administrative Appeals Office (AAO) Processing Times were released on January 28, 2010 with processing dates as of January 4, 2010.

If you filed an appeal, please review the links below to determine the applicable processing time associated with your particular case.

Administrative Appeals Office

The current processing time for an I-129 H-1B Appeal is 13 months. The current processing time for an I-140 EB2 Appeal for an Advanced Degree Professional is 24 months; for an I-140EB3 Appeal for a Skilled or Professional Worker is 23 months. Most other cases are within USCIS's processing time goal of 6 months or less.

In support of an H-1B petition, a petitioner must not only establish that the beneficiary is coming to the United States temporarily to work in a specialty occupation but the petitioner must also satisfy the requirement of being a U.S. employer by establishing that a valid employer-employee relationship exists between the U.S. employer and the beneficiary throughout the requested H-1B validity period. The Petitioner must also file an LCA specific to EACH location where the beneficiary will be working.

“United States employer,” is defined at C.F.R. 214.2(h)(4)(ii) as follows:
United States employer means a person, firm, corporation, contractor, or other association, or organization in the United States which:

(1) Engages a person to work in the United States;
(2) Has an employer-employee relationship with respect to employees under this part, as indicated by the fact that it may hire, pay, fire, supervise, or otherwise control the work of any such employee; and
(3) Has an Internal Revenue Service Tax identification number.

In considering whether or not there is a valid “employer-employee relationship” for purposes of H-1B petition adjudication, USCIS must determine if the employer has a sufficient level of control over the employee. Level of control meaning right to control, which is different from actual control. An employer may have the right to control the beneficiary’s job related duties and yet not exercise actual control over each function performed by that beneficiary. The employer-employee relationship hinges on the RIGHT to control the beneficiary.

Evidence which helps to establish the employer-employee relationship between Petitioner and Beneficiary:

INITIAL PETITION
• A complete itinerary of services or engagements that specifies the dates of each service or engagement, the name and addresses of the actual employer, and the names and addresses of the establishment, venues, or locations where the services will be performed for the period of time requested;
• Copy of signed employment agreement between the petitioner and beneficiary detailing the terms and conditions of employment;
• Copy of an employment offer letter that clearly describes the nature of the employer-employee relationship and the services to be performed by the beneficiary;
• Copy of relevant portions of valid contracts between the petitioner and a client (in which the petitioner has entered into a business agreement for which the petitioner’s employees will be utilized) that establishes that while the petitioner’s employees are place at the third party worksite, the petitioner will continue to have the right to control its employees;
• Copies of signed contractual agreements, statements of work, work orders, service agreements, and letters between the petitioner and the authorized officials of the ultimate end-client companies where the work will actually be performed by the beneficiary, which provide information such as a detailed description of the duties the beneficiary will perform, the qualifications that are required to perform the job duties, salary, or wages paid, hours worked, benefits, a brief description of who will supervise the beneficiary and their duties, and any other related evidence;
• Copy of position description or any other documentation that describes the skills required to perform the job offered, the scours of the instrumentalities and tools needed to perform the job, the product to be developed or the service to be provided, the location where the beneficiary will perform the duties, the duration of the relationship between the petitioner and beneficiary, whether the petitioner has the right to assign additional duties, the extent of petitioner’s discretion over when and how long the beneficiary will work, the method of payment, the petitioner’s role in paying and hiring assistants to be utilized by the beneficiary, whether the work to be performed is part of the regular business of the petitioner, the provision of employees benefits, and the tax treatment of the beneficiary in relation to the petitioner;
• Description of the performance review process; and or
• Copy of petitioner’s organizational chart, demonstrating beneficiary’s supervisory chain

EXTENSION PETITIONS
• Copies of the beneficiary’s pay records (leave and earnings statements, and pay stubs, etc) for the period of the previously approved H-1B status;
• Copies of the beneficiary’s payroll summaries and/or Form W-2s, evidencing wages paid to the beneficiary during the period of previously approved H-1B status;
• Copy of time sheets during the period of previously approved H-1B status;
• Copy of prior years’ work schedules;
• Documentary examples of work product created or produced by the beneficiary for the past H-1B validity period ( copies of: business plans, reports, presentations, evaluations, recommendations, critical reviews, promotional materials, designs, blueprints, newspaper articles, web-site text, news copy, photographs of prototypes, etc) NOTE: the materials must clearly substantiate the author and date created;
• copy of dated performance review(s); and/or
• copy of any employment history records, including but not limited to, documentation showing date of hire, dates of job changes, (e.g. , the petitioner is able to demonstrate that it did not meet all the terms and conditions through no fault of its own). Such a limited exception will be made solely on a case-by-case basis.

Request for Evidence (RFE)
If Requests for Evidence (RFE) are made, such RFEs, must specifically state (1) what is at issue (e.g., the petitioner has failed to establish through evidence that a valid employer-employee relationship exists) and (2) be tailored to request specific types of evidence from the petitioner that go directly to what USCIS deems as deficient. The RFE should neither require that a specific type of evidence be provided, unless provided for by regulations (e.g., an itinerary of service dates and locations), nor should it request information that has already been provided in the petition. Officers should state what element the petitioner has failed to establish and provide examples of documentation that could be provided to establish H-1B eligibility.

WHAT IS ULTIMATELY REQUIRED?
Compliance with 8 C.F.R. 214.2(h)(2)(i)(B) assists USCIS in determining that the petitioner has concrete plans in place for a particular beneficiary, that the beneficiary is performing duties in a specialty occupation, and that the beneficiary is not being “benched” without pay between assignments.

Source: AILA InfoNet Doc. No. 10011363 (Posted 1/13/2010)

If you have any questions relating to the information summarized above, please do not hesitate to contact our office to schedule a consultation.

Effective January 21, 2010, the Department of Labor's iCERT online system will be updated to allow the submission of electronic prevailing wage determination requests. This electronic process will allow Employers and/or their Designated Representatives to submit and obtain prevailing wage determinations (PWD) for use in the H-1B, H-1B1 (Chile/Singapore), H-1C, H-2B, E-3 (Australia), and permanent labor certification programs through the iCERT portal.

Until January 21, 2010, all prevailing wage determination requests must continue to be submitted by U.S. Mail or comparable physical delivery service to the Washington, D.C. address listed below.

BACKGROUND - On December 19, 2008, the Department published a Final Rule addressing the Labor Certification Process and Enforcement for Temporary Employment in Occupations Other Than Agriculture or Registered Nursing in the United States (H-2B Workers), and Other Technical Changes. The Final Rule implemented a federalized process for obtaining PWD requests for use in the H-2B temporary nonagricultural labor certification program directly from the Employment and Training Administration's (ETA) appropriate National Processing Center (NPC)--which was designated as the Chicago NPC.

Furthermore, effective as of January 1, 2010, the Final Rule also federalized PWD for use in the H-1B, H-1B1 (Chile/Singapore), H-1C, E-3 (Australia), and the permanent labor certification programs.

Requestors must submit PWD requests using the Application for Prevailing Wage Determination, Form ETA-9141.

Requestors must submit PWD requests to the NPWHC by U.S. Mail or comparable physical delivery service at the following address until January 21, 2010 when electronic means are available:
U.S. Department of Labor-ETA, National Prevailing Wage and Helpdesk Center,
Attn: PWD Request:
1341 G Street, NW
Suite 201
Washington, DC 20005-3142

In summary, State Workforce Agencies (SWAs) and the Chicago NPC no longer accept and process PWD requests received on and after January 1, 2010. All PWD Requests submitted on and after 1/1/2010 must be centralized and processed at the DOL Washington, D.C. office until electronic means are available on January 21, 2010.

The Administrative Appeals Office (AAO) Processing Times were released on December 31, 2009 with processing dates as of December 2, 2009

If you filed an appeal, please review the links below to determine the applicable processing time associated with your particular case.

Administrative Appeals Office

The current processing time for an I-129 H-1B Appeal is 12 months. The current processing time for an I-140 EB2 Appeal for an Advanced Degree Professional is 26 months. Most other cases are within USCIS's processing time goal of 6 months or less.

The United States Citizenship and Immigration Service (USCIS) has updated the count of H-1B petitions received and counted towards the 65,000 cap.

As of December 15, 2009, 64,200 H-1B cap subject non-immigrant visa petitions have been filed with the USCIS.

USCIS will continue to accept both cap-subject petitions and advanced degree petitions until a sufficient number of H-1B petitions have been received to reach the statutory limits, taking into account the fact that some of these petitions may be denied, revoked, or withdrawn.

Stay posted for future FY2010 H-1B Cap updates AND H-1B filing specials for H-1B FY2011 CAP!

The United States Citizenship and Immigration Service (USCIS) has updated the count of H-1B petitions received and counted towards the 65,000 cap.

As of December 10, 2009, 62,500 H-1B cap subject non-immigrant visa petitions have been filed with the USCIS.

USCIS will continue to accept both cap-subject petitions and advanced degree petitions until a sufficient number of H-1B petitions have been received to reach the statutory limits, taking into account the fact that some of these petitions may be denied, revoked, or withdrawn.

Stay posted for future FY2010 H-1B Cap updates AND H-1B filing specials for H-1B FY2011 CAP!

The United States Citizenship and Immigration Service (USCIS) has updated the count of H-1B petitions received and counted towards the 65,000 cap.

As of December 8, 2009, 61,500 H-1B cap subject nonimmigrant visa petitions have been filed with the USCIS.

USCIS will continue to accept both cap-subject petitions and advanced degree petitions until a sufficient number of H-1B petitions have been received to reach the statutory limits, taking into account the fact that some of these petitions may be denied, revoked, or withdrawn.

Stay posted for future FY2010 H-1B Cap updates!

Effective January 1, 2010, the Office of Foreign Labor Certification (OFLC) National Prevailing Wage and Helpdesk Center (NPWHC) in Washington, DC, will receive and process prevailing wage determination (PWD) requests for use in the H-1B, H-1B1 (Chile/Singapore), H-1C, H-2B, E-3 (Australia), and permanent labor certification programs.

On December 19, 2008, the Department published a Final Rule addressing the Labor Certification Process and Enforcement for Temporary Employment in Occupations Other Than Agriculture or Registered Nursing in the United States (H-2B Workers), and Other Technical Changes. The Final Rule implemented a federalized process for obtaining PWD requests for use in the H-2B temporary nonagricultural labor certification program directly from the Employment and Training Administration's (ETA) appropriate National Processing Center (NPC)--which was designated as the Chicago NPC.

Furthermore, beginning on January 1, 2010, the Final Rule also federalized PWD for use in the H-1B, H-1B1 (Chile/Singapore), H-1C, E-3 (Australia), and the permanent labor certification programs.

Requestors must submit PWD requests using the Application for Prevailing Wage Determination, Form ETA-9141.

Requestors must submit PWD requests to the NPWHC by U.S. Mail or comparable physical delivery service at the following address:
U.S. Department of Labor-ETA, National Prevailing Wage and Helpdesk Center,
Attn: PWD Request:
1341 G Street, NW
Suite 201
Washington, DC 20005-3142
*The DOL is in the process of developing an electronic means for the submission of PWD requests. Until this process is completed, all PWD requests made on and after 1/1/2010 must be submitted via hard copy to the address provided above.

In summary, State Workforce Agencies (SWAs) and the Chicago NPC are to Cease Processing PWD Requests Received on and After January 1, 2010. All PWD Requests on and after 1/1/2010 will be centralized and processed at the DOL Washington, D.C. office.

The one exception to this is PWD requests for the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana
Islands (CNMI); the NPWHC will begin receiving and processing those effective November 28, 2009.

74 FR 63796 (12/4/09)

The United States Citizenship and Immigration Service (USCIS) has updated the count of H-1B petitions received and counted towards the 65,000 cap.

As of November 27, 2009, 58,900 H-1B cap subject nonimmigrant visa petitions have been filed with the USCIS. The Service has advised that they will continue to accept petitions until the cap is reached.

Qualifying applicants are still able to petition for an H-1B nonimmigrant visa under the general cap.

If you or your company need assistance in filing for an H-1B nonimmigrant visa, contact our office today at 1-800-447-0796.

The United States Citizenship and Immigration Service (USCIS) has updated the count of H-1B petitions received and counted towards the 65,000 cap.

As of November 13, 2009, 55,600 H-1B cap subject nonimmigrant visa petitions have been filed with the USCIS. The Service has advised that they will continue to accept petitions until the cap is reached.

Additionally, the Service has reported that they received 20,000 advanced degree H-1B petitions. Although the limit on advanced degree petitions is 20,000, past experience has tended to show that not all petitions received are approvable.

Accordingly, qualifying applicants are still able to petition for an H-1B nonimmigrant visa under the general cap.

If you or your company need assistance in filing for an H-1B nonimmigrant visa, contact our office today at 1-800-447-0796.

Processing Time reports for all of the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Service (USCIS) Centers were released on November 16, 2009 with processing dates as of September 30, 2009.

If you filed a petition with one of the Service Centers, please review the links below to determine the applicable processing time associated with your particular case.

California Service Center
National Benefits Center
Nebraska Service Center
Texas Service Center
Vermont Service Center

If your petition is out-side of the normal range listed, contact USCIS. (1-800-375-5283)
If you are a client of the MVP Law Groupand would like our assistance, please contact our office.

On November 3, 2009, the United States Citizenship and Immigration Service (USCIS) updated the count of H-1B petitions received and counted towards the 65,000 cap.

As of October 30, 2009, 53,800 H-1B cap subject nonimmigrant visa petitions have been filed with the USCIS. The Service has advised that they will continue to accept petitions until the cap is reached.

Additionally, the Service has reported that they received 20,000 advanced degree H-1B petitions. Although the limit on advanced degree petitions is 20,000, past experience has tended to show that not all petitions received are approvable.

Accordingly, qualifying applicants are still able to petition for an H-1B nonimmigrant visa under the general cap.

If you are interested in applying for an H-1B nonimmigrant visa, please contact our office.

The Administrative Appeals Office (AAO) Processing Times were released on November 4, 2009 with processing dates as of November 1, 2009

If you filed an appeal, please review the links below to determine the applicable processing time associated with your particular case.

Administrative Appeals Office

The current processing time for an I-129 H-1B Appeal is 13 months. The current processing time for an I-140 EB2 Appeal for an Advanced Degree Professional is 27 months. Most other cases are within USCIS's processing time goal of 6 months or less.

On October 1, 2009, the United States Citizenship and Immigration Service (USCIS) updated the count of H-1B petitions received and counted towards the 65,000 cap.

As of September 25, 2009, 46,700 H-1B cap subject nonimmigrant visa petitions have been accepted by USCIS. The Service has advised that they will continue to accept petitions until the cap is reached.

Additionally, the Service has reported that they received 20,000 advanced degree H-1B petitions. Although the limit on advanced degree petitions is 20,000, past experience has tended to show that not all petitions received are approvable.

Accordingly, qualifying applicants are still able to petition for an H-1B nonimmigrant visa either under the general cap, or as an applicant with an advanced degree. (i.e., U.S. Master’s degree)

If you are interested in applying for an H-1B nonimmigrant visa, please contact our office.

In an effort to detect, deter and combat immigration benefit fraud and strengthen efforts in ensuring benefits are not granted to those who threaten national security or public safety, the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services’ (USCIS) Office of Fraud Detection and National Security (FDNS) have commenced an assessment of the H-1B nonimmigrant visa program. As part of the assessment program, FDNS officers collect information during site visits to verify information pertaining to petitions that are pending and already approved.

The FDNS consists of approximately 650 individuals, including Immigration Officers, Intelligence Research Specialists, and Analysts located in field offices throughout the United States. FDNS has also contracted with multiple private investigation firms to conduct site visits on behalf of FDNS.

These visits by FDNS officers are unannounced and may take place at the employer’s principal place of business and/or the H-1B non-immigrant’s work location (end client site). FDNS Officers do not need a subpoena for the site visit because the regulations governing the filing of immigration petitions allow the government to take testimony and conduct broad investigations relating to the petitions. However, USCIS will provide an opportunity for an Employer to address any adverse or derogatory information that may result from these types of site visits. An employer may request that counsel be present; however FDNS will not reschedule the visit just for counsel, therefore, if requested, counsel can be present via telephone for the site visit.

During a site visit, the FDNS Officer will ask questions to verify information contained in a specific immigration petition. They will have a copy of the petition, ask to speak with the employer’s representative (the one who signs immigration forms), and will ask questions regarding the employer’s business, locations, number of employees, and the number of H-1B petitions previously filed. They may also request to review company’s tax returns, quarterly wage reports, among other documents to verify that the Employer is a bona fide business entity. Additionally, the Officer may ask questions regarding the H-1B non-immigrant’s title, job duties, work location and salary; and may ask to review the non-immigrant’s most recent pay stub and Form W-2. FDNS Officers may also inquire about the Employer’s Immigration Counsel.

After interviewing the employer’s representative, the FDNS Officer may request a tour of the facility, take photographs, and may even request to interview the H-1B beneficiary. The Officer will then ask the beneficiary similar questions to the ones asked of the Employer’s representative: the beneficiary’s job title, job duties, responsibilities, employment dates, position location, requirements for the position, academic background, previous employment experience, current address, and information about family members (husband/wife and/or children). Additionally, the Officer may ask a colleague of the beneficiary similar questions about the beneficiary.

Typically, these H-1B site visits last for less than an hour after the walk thru, documentation gathering and interviews are complete.

Continue reading "USCIS Office of Fraud Detection & National Security Commence H-1B Assessment Program: Site Visits" »

On September 24, 2009, the United States Citizenship and Immigration Service (USCIS) updated the count of H-1B petitions received and counted towards the 65,000 cap.

As of September 18, 2009, 46,000 H-1B cap subject nonimmigrant visa petitions have been accepted by USCIS. The Service has advised that they will continue to accept petitions until the cap is reached.

Additionally, the Service has reported that they received 20,000 advanced degree H-1B petitions. Although the limit on advanced degree petitions is 20,000, past experience has tended to show that not all petitions received are approvable.

Accordingly, qualifying applicants are still able to petition for an H-1B nonimmigrant visa either under the general cap, or as an applicant with an advanced degree. (i.e., U.S. Master’s degree)

If you are interested in applying for an H-1B nonimmigrant visa, please contact our office.

Processing Time reports for all of the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Service (USCIS) Centers were released on September 14, 2009 with processing dates as of July 31, 2009.

If you filed a petition with one of the Service Centers, please review the links below to determine the applicable processing time associated with your particular case.

California Service Center
National Benefits Center
Nebraska Service Center
Texas Service Center
Vermont Service Center

If your petition is out-side of the normal range listed, contact USCIS. (1-800-375-5283)
If you would like our assistance, feel free to contact our office.

On September 4, 2009, the United States Citizenship and Immigration Service (USCIS) updated the count of H-1B petitions received and counted towards the 65,000 cap.

As of August 28, 2009, 45,100 H-1B cap subject nonimmigrant visa petitions have been accepted by USCIS. The Service has advised that they will continue to accept petitions until the cap is reached.

Additionally, the Service has reported that they received 20,000 advanced degree H-1B petitions. Although the limit on advanced degree petitions is 20,000, past experience has tended to show that not all petitions received are approvable.

Accordingly, qualifying applicants are still able to petition for an H-1B nonimmigrant visa either under the general cap, or as an applicant with an advanced degree. (i.e., U.S. Master’s degree)

If you are interested in applying for an H-1B nonimmigrant visa, please contact our office.

The Department of Labor (DOL) Wage and Hour Division has recently issued an H-1B Employee Questionnaire that covers issues dealing with H-1B employment such as wages and deductions, working conditions, termination, and more...

This questionnaire has been sent via email by the DOL to an H-1B Employee, and provides that its purpose is to determine whether the particular company is being compliant with the H-1B rules and regulations.

It also provides that receipt of the questionnaire does not imply that the particular company has violated any law. H-1B employees who receive the questionnaire via email are strongly encourage to promptly respond.

Processing Time reports for all of the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Service (USCIS) Centers were released on August 14, 2009 with processing dates as of June 30, 2009.

If you filed a petition with one of the Service Centers, please review the links below to determine the applicable processing time associated with your particular case.

California Service Center
National Benefits Center
Nebraska Service Center
Texas Service Center
Vermont Service Center

If your petition is out-side of the normal range listed, contact USCIS. (1-800-375-5283)
If you would like our assistance, feel free to contact our office.

On July 31, 2009, the United States Citizenship and Immigration Service (USCIS) updated the count of H-1B petitions received and counted towards the 65,000 cap.

As of July 24th, 2009, 44,900 H-1B cap subject nonimmigrant visa petitions have been filed. USCIS has advised that they will continue to accept petitions until the cap is reached. Additionally, USCIS reported that they received 20,000 advanced degree H-1B petitions. Although the limit on advanced degree petitions is 20,000, past experience has tended to show that not all petitions received are approvable.

Accordingly, qualifying applicants are still able to petition for an H-1B nonimmigrant visa either under the general cap, or as an applicant with an advanced degree. (i.e., U.S. Master’s degree)

If you have any questions surrounding the H-1B nonimmigrant visa program, please contact our office.

The Foreign Credentialing Commission on Physical Therapy (FCCPT) issued a letter clarifying its educational equivalency for foreign educated Physical Therapists in February of 2009. Recently, there has been much confusion over the issue.

The FCCPT is the only entity authorized by the United States Citizenship and Immigration Service (USCIS) to issue such certificates, which verify that a foreign applicant has acquired an education substantially equivalent to the US standard in education of physical therapists.

In summary, the letter provides that when the FCCPT issues a Type 1 Comprehensive Credentials Review Certificate, it is asserting that the applicant has acquired at least a Master’s degree or higher in Physical Therapy, as required under the regulations.

On June 30, 2009, the United States Citizenship and Immigration Service (USCIS) updated the count of H-1B petitions received and counted towards the 65,000 cap.

As of June 26, 2009, 44,800 H-1B cap subject nonimmigrant visa petitions have been filed. USCIS has advised that they will continue to accept petitions until the cap is reached. Additionally, USCIS reported that they received 20,000 advanced degree H-1B petitions. Although the limit on advanced degree petitions is 20,000, past experience has tended to show that not all petitions received are approvable.

Accordingly, qualifying applicants are still able to petition for an H-1B nonimmigrant visa either under the general cap, or as an applicant with an advanced degree. (i.e., U.S. Master’s degree)

If you have any questions surrounding the H-1B nonimmigrant visa program, please contact our office.

Effective July 1, 2009, all users of the Old LCA system must begin using the new iCert system located on the U.S. Department of Labor Employment & Training Administration website to file LCAs.

On June 24, 2009, the United States Citizenship and Immigration Service (USCIS) updated the count of H-1B petitions received and counted towards the 65,000 cap. As of June 19, 2009, 44,500 H-1B cap subject nonimmigrant visa petitions have been filed. USCIS has advised that they will continue to accept petitions until the cap is reached. Additionally, USCIS reported that they received 20,000 advanced degree H-1B petitions. Although the limit on advanced degree petitions is 20,000, past experience has tended to show that not all petitions received are approvable.

Accordingly, qualifying applicants are still able to petition for an H-1B nonimmigrant visa either under the general cap, or as an applicant with an advanced degree. (i.e., U.S. Master’s degree)

If you have any questions surrounding the H-1B nonimmigrant visa program, please contact our office.

On June 11, 2009, the United States Citizenship and Immigration Service (USCIS) updated the count of H-1B petitions received and counted towards the 65,000 cap. As of June 5, 2009, 44,400 H-1B cap subject nonimmigrant visa petitions have been filed. USCIS has advised that they will continue to accept petitions until the cap is reached. Additionally, USCIS reported that they received 20,000 advanced degree H-1B petitions. Although the limit on advanced degree petitions is 20,000, past experience has tended to show that not all petitions received are approvable.

Accordingly, qualifying applicants are still able to petition for an H-1B nonimmigrant visa either under the general cap, or as an applicant with an advanced degree. (i.e., U.S. Master’s degree)

If you have any questions surrounding the H-1B nonimmigrant visa program, please contact our office.

The Department of Labor (DOL) has informed a liaison of the American Immigration Lawyers Association (AILA) that they will continue to keep the old Labor Condition Application (LCA) system operable for a specified time.

The reasons behind allowing the old LCA system to remain operational through June 30, 2009 are two-fold. First, the DOL wanted time to continue to evaluate issues of concern regarding the LCA system. The DOL has received numerous complaints and issues from users of the system. Secondly, the DOL wanted to give users more time to become familiar with the new LCA system.

If you have any questions about the new LCA system, please feel free to contact our office.

On Thursday, April 23, 2009, Assistant Senate Majority Leader Dick Durbin and Senator Chuck Grassley introduced the H-1B and L-1 Visa Reform Act. This bipartisan legislation would reform the current H-1B and L-1 guest worker programs to prevent abuse and fraud, and to protect American workers.

This legislation calls for a “good faith attempt” to solicit qualified American workers before hiring an H-1B guest worker. Accordingly, Employers would be prohibited from using H-1B visa holders to displace qualified American workers. Additionally, the bill calls for a prohibition against the blatantly discriminatory practice of “H-1B only” ads and would prohibit Employers from hiring additional guest workers if more than 50% of their workforce consisted of H-1B and L-1 visa holders.

To address the issues of fraud and abuse, the bill would allow the Department of Labor (DOL) to initiate investigations without a complaint and without the personal authorization of the DOL Secretary. In addition, the bill would allow the DOL to conduct random audits of companies that utilize the H-1B nonimmigrant visa program. Specifically, the bill calls for annual audits by the DOL for employers who employ a large number of guest-workers.

Senators Durbin and Grassley introduced similar legislation last Congress.

On April 20, 2009, the United States Citizenship and Immigration Service (USCIS) updated the count of H-1B petitions received and counted towards the 65,000 cap. USCIS has received 44,000 H-1B nonimmigrant visa petitions. USCIS has advised that they will continue to accept petitions until the cap is reached. Additionally, USCIS reported that they received 20,000 advanced degree H-1B petitions. Although the limit on advanced degree petitions is 20,000, past experience has tended to show that not all petitions received are approvable. Accordingly, qualifying applicants are still able to petition for an H-1B nonimmigrant visa either under the general cap, or as an applicant with an advanced degree. (i.e., U.S. Master’s degree)

If you have any questions surrounding the H-1B nonimmigrant visa program, please contact our office.

According to the American Immigration Lawyers Association (AILA), several United States Citizenship and Immigration Service (USCIS) service centers have begun to issue Requests for Additional Evidence (RFEs) for all H-1B petitioning employers who did not include the TARP recipient funding page of Form I-129, Data Collection with their H-1B FY 2010 petitions.

Due to the passage of the Employ American Worker Act (EAWA), the USCIS is required to collect Troubled Assets Relief Program (TARP) information on each H-1B petitioning employer. Due to the fact that Form I-129 was not re-designed and accessible to reflect this change in the visa program until a few days before the H-1B FY 2010 cap opened, submission of the newly designed Form I-129, Data Collection was not mandatory. The USCIS has indicated that if H-1B petitions were submitted without the TARP information, they would not be rejected. In conclusion, the USCIS has determined that in order to collect the required TARP information, they will need to issue RFEs. So far, practitioners who have received RFE’s requesting TARP information have reported that the USCIS has only requested the single page of Form I-129, Data Collection (page 13) which indicates whether the petitioner has received TARP funding or not.

As immigration law is already complex is nature, it is important to have an attorney experienced in the field, who is ready and willing to advise when changes occur. Contact the MVP Law Group if you have any further questions regarding EAWA and its effect on your company.

On April 10, 2009, the Department of Labor (DOL) released new information and materials on the New iCert System which covers the H-1B, H-1B1, and E-3 visa programs. The New iCert system will be implemented beginning April 15, 2009. According to the American Immigration Lawyers Association (AILA) the New iCert system is a one stop visa shop for employers and their representatives. The new system allows for employers and/or their representatives’ to easily access online employment based visa application services as well as other pertinent information.

The DOL has created a factsheet on the new system which provides a detailed implementation schedule and helpful contact information for employers and/or their representatives.

The DOL also released its user manual which provides detailed steps for easy employer and/or representative registration.

Additionally, the DOL has released its user guide for preparing, saving and submitting new ETA Form 9035E, Labor Condition Applications.

If you have any questions relating to the New iCert system, please contact our office.

Regular Petitions Subject to Cap
As of April 9, 2009, the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) have received approximately 42, 000 H-1B nonimmigrant petitions counting toward the congressionally mandated 65,000 cap. The USCIS has indicated that they will continue to accept H-1B petitions subject to the cap.

Advanced Degree Petitions
In regards to foreign applicants with U.S. Advanced degrees, the USCIS has indicated that they have received 20,000 petitions; however, they will continue to accept petitions. The reason for accepting more U.S. Advanced degree petitions is because experience has shown that not all petitions initially accepted are approvable. The USCIS also indicated that they will provide updates.

Premium Processing
For those who have selected to utilize the Premium Processing option, the USCIS has advised that the 15 calendar day started on April 7, 2009. Utilizing the Premium Processing option allows an H-1B recipient to obtain an approval within 15 days of submitting the petition for an additional cost of $1,000. In other words, for those applicants who have submitted their H-1B petitions under Premium Processing, they should have an approval or denial within 15 days of April 7, 2009.

Receipt Issuance
The USCIS has also indicated that H-1B receipts are being issued as of April 8, 2009. If you have filed an H-1B petition, please be patient to receive your receipt before inquiring whether or not your case has been received and/or accepted by the USCIS.

H-1B Lottery
Once the USCIS determines that sufficient petitions have been received to meet the H-1B congressionally mandated cap, the USCIS will then conduct a random selection lottery from the petitions received on that day.

If you have any questions about the H-1B nonimmigrant visa program, the regulations surrounding the program or the H-1B visa in general, please contact our office to schedule a consultation.

The Commission on Graduates of Foreign Nursing Schools (CGFNS) International is an internationally recognized authority on credentials evaluations and verification pertaining to the education, registration, and licensure of nurses and health care professionals worldwide. CGFNS International is a leader in the industry with extensive knowledge of the profession and over 30 years experience reviewing foreign education credentials. CGFNS was asked to provide guidance on its view of the educational requirements for applicants intending to fulfill the position of Physical Therapist (PT). However, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has stated that this guidance given by CGFNS International is not binding.

As a credentialing organization, CGFNS must first make an assessment of whether an alien’s education, training, licenses and experience are comparable with that required for an American health care worker of the same type. Secondly, the organization must determine whether a particular alien’s education, training, license and experience meet all applicable statutory and regulatory requirements for admission into the United States.

Analysis of Degree Requirements
Applicants for Permanent Residence
Foreign PTs seeking permanent resident alien status must satisfy the applicable Department of Labor (DOL) regulatory requirements. These regulations include the definition of “physical therapist,” which states in part that these individuals are “persons who will be employed as physical therapists, and who possess all the qualifications necessary to take the physical therapist licensing examination in the state in which they propose to practice physical therapy. According to these regulations, it is the education requirement of the state of intended employment that controls whether the degree requirement is a master’s degree or bachelor’s degree. The applicable regulations do not provide further guidance on the issue.

Applicants for H-1B status
Foreign PTs seeking H-1B visa status must satisfy the USCIS regulations at 8 C.F.R. 214.2 (h). Among these requirements is the requirement that PT beneficiaries of H-1B petitions “hold a U.S. baccalaureate or higher degree required by the specialty occupation…” or a foreign degree equivalent, and hold an unrestricted State license to fully practice the specialty occupation or have progressive work experience comparable to a U.S. baccalaureate or higher degree. The regulations do not define the professional degree required as long as it is at least a bachelor’s degree or higher. Due to the state licensing requirement, the education standards for the state of intended employment continue to control if the PT indeed already has such a license. No further guidance was provided on the issue.

Applicants for TN status
Foreign applicants seeking TN status must satisfy the standards at 8 C.F.R. 214.6. For the position of “Physiotherapist/Physical Therapist,” the United States Citizenship and Immigration Service (USCIS) regulations provide that a baccalaureate or licenciatura degree, or a state/provincial license is required.

The comparable U.S. entity is the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education, (CAPTE) and they describe the educational requirement for this position as simply “post baccaulureate.” Accordingly, there is no requirement that a foreign beneficiary must possess a Master’s degree to seek admission into the United States as a Physical Therapist. Accordingly, the DOL Occupational Outlook Handbook (OOH) is incorrect on the issue.

Many employers have been questioning whether the regulation governing the “lottery” system will apply to this year’s H-1B cap. The United States Citizenship and Immigration Service (USCIS) has provided that the lottery will apply this year. In accordance with the regulation, the USCIS randomly selects the number of petition’s necessary to reach the cap from petitions received on the final receipt date. This year, it has been confirmed that if USCIS determines that they have received a sufficient number of cases in the first five business days of April to reach the cap, then the "lottery" will be based on petitions received all five days. USCIS will not begin to issue receipts, however, until a determination is made that sufficient H-1B petitions have been received within the first five business days of April, ending April 7, 2009. After the "lottery" is conducted, the USCIS will then issue receipts for those cases which are selected, and the receipts will likely all have the same receipt date, April 8, 2009. All petitions received between April 1, 2009, and April 7, 2009, will have the same receipt date.

If you have any further questions regarding the H-1B lottery system or the H-1B nonimmigrant visa in general, please contact our office.

The United States Citizenship and Immigration Service (USCIS) recently released some guidance regarding the Stimulus Bill, which contains the “Employ American Worker Act” (EAWA) and its effect upon the H-1B visa petition.

If the company was a recipient of the funds distributed through the Trouble Asset Relief Program (TARP), EAWA prevents an employer from displacing qualified U.S. workers when participating in the H-1B visa program. Under EAWA a company is considered an “H-1B dependent employer” and must make additional attestations to the Department of Labor (DOL) when filing the Labor Condition Application (LCA).

According to the guidance distributed by the USCIS, employers must attest to the following additional requirements on the LCA:
• It has taken good faith steps to recruit U.S. workers (defined as U.S. citizens or nationals, lawful permanent resident aliens, refugees, asylees, or other immigrants authorized to be employed in the United States (i.e., workers other than nonimmigrant aliens) using industry-wide standards and offering compensation that is at least as great as those offered to the H-1B nonimmigrant;
• It has offered the job to any U.S. worker who applies and is equally or better qualified for the job that is intended for the H-1B nonimmigrant;
• It has not “displaced” any U.S. worker employed within the period beginning 90 days prior to the filing of the H-1B petition and ending 90 days after its filing. A U.S. worker is displaced if the worker is laid off from a job that is essentially the equivalent of the job for which an H-1B nonimmigrant is sought; and
• It will not place an H-1B worker to work for another employer unless it has inquired whether the other employer has displaced or will displace a U.S. worker within 90 days before or after the placement of the H-1B worker.

The USCIS stated that companies who received TARP funds should know who they are and should act accordingly when filing an H-1B nonimmigrant visa petition. Meaning they should comply fully with the new limitations on hiring skilled foreign workers. USCIS is working with the Department of Treasury to identify all recipients of TARP funds.

EAWA applies to all H-1B petitions filed on or after February 17, 2009. EAWA does not apply to H-1B extensions of stay with the same employer or to those changing status from some other authorized work status to that of H-1B.

In response to EAWA, the USCIS has redesigned Form I-129, H-1B Data Collection Supplement, to include a section on EAWA attestation requirements. (page 13 of Form I-129) Although it is short notice to those employers who already have H-1B FY 2010 petitions packaged for filing, the USCIS stressed the importance of utilizing the updated form for filing H-1B visa petitions for FY 2010. They advised that if Form I-129 indicates that the petitioner is subject to EAWA and the LCA does not contain the requisite attestations, then the petition will be denied.

As immigration law is already complex is nature, it is important to have an attorney experienced in the field, who is ready and willing to help when changes occur. Contact the MVP Law Group if you have any further questions regarding EAWA and its effect on your company.

The H-1B nonimmigrant visa program is designed to allow alien beneficiaries to enter the country and begin working for a U.S. employer for a period of three years. The sponsoring employer or a new employer may renew the H-1B visa for another period of three years. In other words, the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA) regulations clearly allow for the recipient of an H-1B visa to be in H-1B status for a total initial period of six years. The alien beneficiary may then return to his/her home country, remain there for one year, and only then will they be eligible to apply for another H-1B nonimmigrant visa.

However, there are ways to extend H-1B visa status beyond the six year limit. The Vermont Service Center (VSC) Liaison Committee has provided the following guidance for extending H-1B status beyond the six year limitation. If the alien beneficiary has completed one of the following conditions, they are eligible for an extension beyond the sixth year as long as one of the listed conditions have been met prior to the alien’s requested start date:

(1) 365 days or more have passed since the filing of any application for labor certification; and the labor certification, if approved, has not been revoked, is unexpired, or has been timely filed with an EB petition within the labor certification’s validity period; or
(2) 365 or more days have passed since the filing of an EB immigrant petition that is still pending; or
(3) The alien is the beneficiary of an approved EB immigrant petition and is not able to file an adjustment of status application or, if such application has already been filed, is unable to adjust status due to the unavailability of an immigrant visa number.

Additionally, If an alien beneficiary has time remaining under the regulatory H-1B six-year limitation period, the employer may file an H-1B extension petition requesting to recapture the remaining amount of time, plus a one-year extension pursuant to AC21 § 106. The one-year extension will be granted provided that:

(1) A labor certification is unexpired at the time of filing the extension petition, and
(2) The labor certification or the I-140 petition was filed at least 365 days prior to the date the alien will exhaust 6 years of H-1B status pursuant to 8 CFR § 214(g)(4); and
(3) The extension petition is otherwise approvable

Additionally, alien beneficiaries are eligible for a three year H-1B extension beyond the sixth year limitation period pursuant to AC21 § 104 as long as the alien is the beneficiary of an APPROVED I-140 petition AND is INELIGIBLE for an immigrant visa abroad because no visa numbers are available at the time the H-1B extension petition is filed.

For more information on the H-1B nonimmigrant visa program or if you have any questions regarding extending H-1B status, please contact our office to schedule a consultation.

The Department of Labor will soon implement a new integrated online system – known as the iCert Portal – through which employers will submit applications for permanent labor certification, labor condition applications (LCAs) and other applications for immigration-related DOL programs. In addition, the agency will introduce new editions of Form ETA-9089, the PERM labor certification application, and Form ETA-9035, the labor condition application. When fully implemented, the new system will replace the existing LCA and labor certification application systems. DOL will implement the new LCA and PERM application systems with 30-day transitional periods, when both the existing system and the new online portal will be operational simultaneously.

The new iCert system will begin to accept LCAs as of April 15, 2009 – after the April 1 opening date of the H-1B filing period for employment in Fiscal Year 2010. The system will begin to accept PERM applications beginning July 1, 2009.

Continue reading "Labor Department To Implement New Online Application System" »

Tighter government oversight over the H-1B visa program and permanent employment-based immigration expected.

On October 8, 2008, the U.S. Citizenship & Immigration Service (USCIS) released a report that 13% of all H-1B petitions filed on behalf of U.S. employers are fraudulent. The same report also stated that another 7% of those petitions contain some sort of technical violation. The report’s conclusion states: “Given the significant vulnerability, USCIS is making procedural changes, which will be described in a forthcoming document.”

Continue reading "2009 – The Year of Immigration Compliance" »

An Administrative Law Judge (ALJ) of the Department of Labor (DOL) recently ordered the employer of an IT company to pay the alien beneficiary’s unpaid salary for the full term of the H-1B visa with interest, an amount for his monthly health, dental and vision insurance benefits, an amount for his unpaid annual 401(k) contributions with interest, his litigation travel expenses, and ordered the return of his work experience certificate and H-1B extension approval notice.

The Petitioner filed an H-1B nonimmigrant petition on behalf of a Chinese national to work in an IT specialty occupation. The filed H-1B petition contained a certified Labor Condition Application (LCA) which detailed the salary the alien beneficiary was to be paid and made several other attestations that the employer acknowledged. The H-1B program contains strong provisions to ensure that U.S. and foreign workers are protected. Employers must guarantee that U.S. workers will not be adversely affected upon the hiring of an H-1B professional. For instance, a U.S. employer using the program must also guarantee that (1)the foreign professional will not adversely affect the working conditions of U.S. workers; (2) the foreign professional will be paid the greater of the job’s actual wage rate or the prevailing wage rate throughout the entire period of authorized employment; (3) U.S. colleagues will be given notice of the foreign professional’s presence among them; (4) there is no strike or lockout at the worksite; and (5) the position requires a professional in a specialty occupation and the intended employee has the required qualifications.

The problem arose when the alien beneficiary received no work and no pay. The alien beneficiary came to the United States to seek work in a specialty occupation; however, the investigation conducted by the DOL illustrated that the petitioning company never really had any work for the alien worker. The evidence indicates that the petitioning company brought the H-1B worker to the U.S. intending to contract his labor out to other entities, rather than to use the worker’s labor directly in the business. With this plan, the petitioning employer was more of an employment broker than a traditional employer, and would not pay the worker until it collected the money from the entities that actually utilized the worker’s professional skills. This practice is often referred to as “benching.” Benching is a violation of the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA) and accordingly forbidden by the H-1B nonimmigrant visa program. The alien worker was in the U.S., not working and not receiving any type of salary, health insurance or other benefits that were guaranteed by his employment contract and by his signed and certified LCA. The record shows that the alien worker kept in contact with several of his employer’s staff and was never told that his work was inadequate or that the employer intended to terminate his employment.

After much confusion and frustration, the alien worker contacted the DOL and submitted a complaint about his employer not paying his salary. The alien worker was advised to wait a while to see if he would be placed on a job; however, that never happened. The DOL then went forward with their investigation and uncovered a lot of information that indicated that the employer was not following or obeying the various regulations involved with the H-1B program. As a result of the alien worker filing the complaint with the DOL, the employer attempted to retaliate and revoke/terminate the alien worker’s H-1B visa. In order to terminate H-1B employment, which would absolve the company from its liability to pay the worker, there must be a meeting of the minds between the employer and the alien worker that employment has ended, and notice to the United States Citizenship and Immigration Service (USCIS) of the termination, and if appropriate, money for the alien worker to return home. None of these actions occurred in this case. The employer alleged that they had already terminated the alien worker before the complaint was filed, and alleged that they purchased a ticket back to China for the worker, but after investigation, these allegations were proven false.

As a result of the investigation, the Administrative Judge ordered the employer to pay the alien worker his salary for the authorized period of his H-1B visa with interest, an amount for his health, dental and vision benefits for the same period, an amount for his 401(K) annual contributions, an amount for his litigation travel expenses, and among other things, the return of the alien worker’s H-1B extension approval notice, so that he may seek work with another H-1B sponsoring employer.

Employers who are filing H-1B cap exempt visa petitions including extension petitions must file those petitions with the California Service Center (CSC). Additionally, please note that any H-1B cap exempt and extension petitions mistakenly sent to the Vermont Service Center (VSC) will be REJECTED.

H-1B “Cap EXEMPT” petitions include petitions filed by:
• Institutions of higher education, as defined in section 101(a) of the Higher Education Act of 1965, 20 U.S.C. 1001(a);
• Nonprofit organizations or entities related to or affiliated with institutions of higher education; and
• Nonprofit research organizations or governmental research organizations, as defined in 8 CFR 214.2(h)(19)(iii)(C).

Please see below the correct mailing address for the California Service Center:

For Direct Mail:
U. S. Citizenship and Immigration Services
California Service Center
ATTN: CAP EXEMPT H-1B Processing Unit
P.O. BOX 30040
Laguna Niguel, CA 92607-3004

For non-United States Postal Service (USPS) deliveries (e.g. private couriers):
U. S. Citizenship and Immigration Services
California Service Center
ATTN: CAP EXEMPT H-1B Processing Unit
24000 Avila Road, Room 2312
Laguna Niguel, CA 92677

In addition, the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Service (USCIS) has advised Employers filing H-1B Cap EXEMPT petitions to clearly mark the envelope and top margin of Form I-129 “EXEMPT” to ensure quick identification of the H-1B filing at the CSC.

If you have any questions regarding the H-1B visa petition , please do not hesitate to contact our office .

The California Service Center (CSC) has issued a statement regarding what type of documentation is sufficient proof that an H-1B beneficiary has completed the requisite degree requirements for the specialty occupation. The documentation that may be submitted to satisfy the degree requirements includes: (1) a final transcript; (2) a letter from the Registrar; or (3) a letter executed by the person in charge of the records of the educational institution where the degree was awarded. Additionally, if option three is utilized, proof must be provided that the person is authorized to issue such letters.

It is recommended that these documents are provided in the initial H-1B visa filing in order to avoid an RFE or possible outright denial.

If you have any questions regarding the H-1B visa process, please contact our office.

The Department of Labor (DOL) determined that the Department of Veteran’s Affairs (VA) failed to pay the prevailing wage to eleven alien physicians employed by VA hospitals pursuant to the H-1B visa program.

The H-1B is an employment based nonimmigrant visa that enables United States employers to seek highly skilled foreigner workers from around the world to increase productivity and develop new innovations within their fields. The system was designed to protect both U.S. and foreign workers by: (1) including labor certifications and attestations; (2) implementing costly filing fees; (3) requiring extensive background documentation/proof; and (4) conducting on-site employer investigations and continuous oversight by several federal agencies. Specifically, the program requires that a U.S. employer using the program guarantee that the alien will be paid the prevailing wage or higher for the specialty occupation, and that the foreign professional will not adversely affect the working conditions of U.S. workers.

Unfortunately in this case, several of the alien physicians filed administrative complaints asserting that the hospitals had failed to pay them the prevailing wage for their occupation. The DOL Administrative Review Board ruled in favor of the complainants’ and ordered the VA to pay approximately $230,000 in back wages.

However, the Supreme Court has recognized that absent a waiver, sovereign immunity shields the Federal Government and its agencies from suit. The Executive Branch has no power to waive immunity that power rests solely with Congress. Congress did not expressly address the federal Government’s sovereign immunity anywhere in the H-1B program. The Supreme Court has demanded a clear statement of waiver so as to ensure that Congress directly considers the consequences of exposing the federal Government to suit and potential financial liability. No statement of waiver was included in the H-1B program .

Accordingly, the Deputy Assistant Attorney General concluded that the statute authorizing the H-1B program did not waive the federal Government’s sovereign immunity. Consequently, the administrative award of $230,000 to the eleven alien workers was barred by sovereign immunity. However, the DOL and VA reached an agreement that will allow the VA to continue participation in the H-1B program if they follow proper procedures for all future alien workers, yet this arrangement does nothing to help the eleven alien physicians rightly owed their back pay.

The U.S. immigration system is constantly changing. At a recent stakeholders meeting, the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) announced several upcoming changes to the Labor Certification and Labor Condition Application process.

Expect More PERM Audits
The DOL announced that with Backlog Elimination Centers (BECs) closing, the DOL will now be now focusing its resources on parts of the PERM regulations that were not focused on earlier, including audits and supervised recruitment. Since April 2007, Immigration attorneys have seen a spike in PERM audits by the DOL. It looks like Audits are going to be commonplace from now on. DOL announced that both targeted and random PERM audits will continue. The DOL stated that the 60 to 90 day timeframe discussed in the preamble to the PERM regulation is not binding and is irrelevant if there is an audit. Therefore, once a case has gone into audit, it will most likely not be adjudicated within the 60 to 90 timeframe.

As of July 15th, the DOL was working on cases that have not been audited with a priority date of April 2008. Currently, there is only one Audit queue. The DOL does not maintain separate queues for random and targeted audits. As of Mid July, DOL was working on audited cases with Priority dates of March 2007.

H-1B LCAs will be scrutinized more closely
The DOL also stated that Labor Condition Applications (LCAs) associated with the H-1B filing process will be scrutinized more closely beginning this fall. Currently LCAs are approved within a matter of seconds once they are applied for through the DOL’s online application system. The DOL expects such applications to take up to 7 days to be reviewed and certified by the DOL. If alternate wage surveys are submitted with the LCAs, the certification times would be even longer. Therefore, the days of starting a new H-1B petition in a couple of days pursuant to a change in employer will soon come to an end.