DHS Proposed Rule to Amend Its Regulations Related to Skilled Workers

DHS proposed rule to amend its regulations related to Skilled Workers (EB-1, EB-2, and EB-3 immigrant and non-immigrant) visa programs. Comments are due by 2/29/16. (80 FR 81900, 12/31/15)

Families are Taken Into Custody as Push to Deport Immigrants Denied Refuge Begins

The detentions of at least 11 families across the country marked the first day of an effort by the government to find and deport Central American immigrants who sought refuge in the U.S. and stayed illegally, immigrant advocates said Saturday.

New Questions About Visa Used by California Shooters

The use of a relatively obscure visa to enter the U.S. by the Pakistani woman involved in last week’s terror attack in California has raised new concerns about the country’s visa programs.

Visa Bulletin for January 2016

This VISA BULLETIN (issued by the Department of State) summarizes the availability of immigrant numbers as of JANUARY 2016 for: “Application Final Action Dates” (consistent with prior Visa Bulletins) and “Dates for Filing Applications,” indicating when immigrant visa applicants should be notified to assemble and submit required documentation to the National Visa Center.

USCIS Issues Draft Guidance On Use Of Interpreters

The Policy Memorandum provides guidance on the role and use of interpreters who appear before the USCIS.

Paris Attacks Reshape U.S. Debate on Immigration

U.S. lawmakers called on Tuesday for even tighter scrutiny of Syrian refugees fleeing to the United States as last week's deadly Paris attacks U.S. debate on immigration and national security, prompting a sharp rebuke from President Barack Obama, who said attempts to block entry were "offensive and contrary to American values".

 

EB-5 Debate Heats Up in Washington

Congressional debate on EB-5 immigration program which allows foreign nationals who invest in job-creating projects through Regional Centers to get green cards is heating up in Washington as program expiration date nears on December 11, 2015.

Visa Bulletin - December 2015

Immigrant Visa Numbers for December 2015 released by the Department of State in the Visa Bulletin

 

This visa bulletin summarizes the availability of immigrant numbers during DECEMBER 2015 for: “Application Final Action Dates” (consistent with prior Visa Bulletins) and “Dates for Filing Applications,” indicating when immigrant visa applicants should be notified to assemble and submit required documentation to the National Visa Center.

New Bi-Partisan Bill Push For H-1B, L-1 Visa Reforms

A new Bi-Partisan Bill introduced by Senators Grassley and Durbin is pushing for H-1B, L-1 Visa Reforms.

U.S. Senators Chuck Grassley, Chairman of the Senate Judiciary Committee, and Dick Durbin, Assistant Democratic Leader, today are introducing bipartisan legislation that would reform the H-1B visa program, consistent with Congress’s original intent, by ensuring that qualified American workers are given the first opportunity at high-skilled job opportunities.  The legislation makes reforms to increase enforcement, modify wage requirements and ensure protection for American workers as well as visa holders.  Grassley and Durbin first introduced this legislation in 2007 and have been long-time proponents of H-1B reform.