Immigration News
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Temporary Importation under Bond (TIB)
by U.S. Customs and Border Protection on June 1, 2023 at 5:23 pm
A Temporary Importation under Bond (TIB) is a temporary importation of goods under bond, not imported for sale or sale on approval, without payment of duty with the intent to export or destroy the goods within a certain period of time not to exceed…
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USCIS Changes Filing Location and Documentation Requirements for Certain Affirmative Asylum Applications Using Form I-589
by USCIS on May 31, 2023 at 2:51 pm
Effective today, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services has changed the filing location for certain affirmative asylum applications submitted by mail.
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EAPA Action: Notice of Initiation and Interim Measures in EAPA Cons Case 7796 and EAPA Case 7799 - Lightweight Thermal Paper
by U.S. Customs and Border Protection on May 30, 2023 at 5:51 pm
WASHINGTON— On May 9, 2023, CBP issued the notice of initiation of investigation and implemented interim measures for EAPA consolidated case 7796 and EAPA case 7799, filed by the Paper Receipts Converting Association against certain U.S. importers.…
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EAPA Action: Notice of Investigation and Interim Measures in EAPA Case 7794 - Xanthan Gum
by U.S. Customs and Border Protection on May 30, 2023 at 4:44 pm
WASHINGTON— On May 15, 2023, CBP issued the notice of initiation of investigation and implemented interim Measures for EAPA case 7794 filed by CP Kelco U.S., Inc., against U.S. importer, Colony Gums Inc. (Colony Gums) for evasion of the applicable…
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Tools Outage
by USCIS on May 30, 2023 at 2:41 pm
USCIS will conduct system maintenance to the Contact Relationship Interface System (CRIS) on Wednesday, May 31, 2023 at 11:50 p.m. through Thursday, June 1, 2023 at 2:00 a.m. Eastern.
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New Data Underscores Urgency of Lifting DACA Recipients’ Exclusion from Health Programs
by Emily Morris on May 26, 2023 at 4:37 pm
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE May 26, 2023 CONTACT Email: [email protected] Emily Morris, 213-457-7458 Madison Allman, 202-384-1279 As Biden administration weighs policy changes, data shows inequities persist WASHINGTON — A report published today by the National Immigration Law Center shows that recipients of Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA), who are currently excluded from the Affordable Care... Source
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EAPA Action: Notice of Determination as to Evasion in EAPA Case 7711 - Chassis and Subassemblies from China
by U.S. Customs and Border Protection on May 26, 2023 at 3:21 pm
WASHINGTON — On May 23, 2023, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) issued its determination as to evasion by Pitts Enterprises, Inc. (Pitts) in Enforce and Protect Act (EAPA) investigation 7711. Pitts was suspected of evading antidumping duty (…
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First Sale Declaration
by U.S. Customs and Border Protection on May 23, 2023 at 5:55 pm
The First Sale Declaration Requirement mandates importers to declare to CBP, at the time of entry when the transaction value of goods entered for consumption or withdrawn from warehouse was determined on the basis of the price paid by the buyer in a…
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Business Transformation and Innovation Division
by U.S. Customs and Border Protection on May 23, 2023 at 1:53 pm
CBP’s Business Transformation and Innovation Division’s (BTID) actively engages in providing strategic insight for the Office of Trade (OT). Testing in advance of a procurement or acquisition allows CBP to intelligently invest in future technologies…
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Leading with Global Interoperability Standards
by U.S. Customs and Border Protection on May 22, 2023 at 9:11 pm
CBP supports the creation and use of global interoperability standards, or standards that guide software development and enable different systems to connect and exchange data, bridging data silos that exist today among global supply chain…
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Envisioning ACE 2.0
by U.S. Customs and Border Protection on May 22, 2023 at 8:50 pm
CBP has started the acquisition process for ACE 2.0, the next generation platform that will ultimately replace the Automated Commercial Environment (ACE) as the U.S. Government’s single window for trade data, connecting CBP, the international…
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CBP Trade Summit Draws Record Attendance in Boston
by U.S. Customs and Border Protection on May 22, 2023 at 8:24 pm
By Marcy Mason It was just like old times during pre-pandemic days when a record crowd flocked to Boston, April 17-19, to attend U.S. Customs and Border Protection’s 2023 Trade Facilitation and Cargo Security Summit. The three-day conference, which…
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DHS University Programs on Blockchain
by U.S. Customs and Border Protection on May 22, 2023 at 8:00 pm
BTID partners with the DHS Center of Excellence to work with universities in developing cutting-edge trade projects to improve the flow of goods into the United States. BTID projects are focused on researching and developing solutions for CBP and…
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Exploring Distributed Ledger Technology
by U.S. Customs and Border Protection on May 22, 2023 at 6:45 pm
CBP is exploring the use of Distributed Ledger Technology (DLT) as a potential tool to enhance trade enforcement and facilitation. DLT provides a secure and permanent record of transactions. The aim of utilizing DLT for CBP is to improve the…
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DHS Silicon Valley Innovation Program
by U.S. Customs and Border Protection on May 22, 2023 at 6:38 pm
Working in collaboration with the DHS Science and Technology Directorate (S&T), CBP is taking steps to verify DLT feasibility with global interoperability standards through the DHS Silicon Valley Innovation Program (SVIP). Under this program…
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Additional Studies on Emerging Technologies
by U.S. Customs and Border Protection on May 22, 2023 at 6:18 pm
Blockchain Proofs of Concept BTID developed and completed blockchain proofs of concept (POC) with trade partners serving on the COAC. These were short assessments to demonstrate feasibility. At the completion of each POC, CBP completed a 360-…
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4 fake designer watches worth over $577,000 seized by Cincinnati CBP
by U.S. Customs and Border Protection on May 22, 2023 at 2:28 pm
CINCINNATI – U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers in Cincinnati seized a shipment containing multiple watches on May 3. The watches, which came from Hong Kong, would have had a Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price of $577,800 had they…
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USCIS Updates Review Process for the Processes for Cubans, Haitians, Nicaraguans, and Venezuelans
by USCIS on May 18, 2023 at 2:37 pm
The U.S. government is granting advance travel authorization for up to 30,000 noncitizens each month to come to the United States to seek parole on a case-by-case basis under the processes for Cubans, Haitians, Nicaraguans, and Venezuelans.
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NILC Urges President Biden to Veto Challenge to Public Charge Rule
by Emily Morris on May 17, 2023 at 10:09 pm
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE May 17, 2023 CONTACT Email: [email protected] Emily Morris, 213-457-7458 Madison Allman, 202-384-1279 WASHINGTON — Kica Matos, president of the National Immigration Law Center and the NILC Immigrant Justice Fund, issued the following statement in response to the Senate vote to repeal the Biden administration’s public charge rule: “For years, the National Immigration Law Center... Source
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Russia Column 2 Rates of Duty
by U.S. Customs and Border Protection on May 17, 2023 at 7:38 pm
On April 8, 2022, the President signed H.R. 7108, the Suspending Normal Trade Relations with Russia and Belarus Act. With this legislation, imports from the Russian Federation and the Republic of Belarus are subject to the rates of duty set forth in…
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Temporary Duty-Free Treatment of Infant Formula and Infant Formula Base Powder
by U.S. Customs and Border Protection on May 17, 2023 at 7:36 pm
In 2022, the President signed the Formula Act (H.R. 8351) and the Bulk Infant Formula to Retail Shelves Act (H.R. 8982). These acts provided for the temporary duty-free treatment of infant formula and infant formula base powder, respectively. Below…
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NILC Marks Expected End of Title 42 Amid New Asylum Restrictions
by Emily Morris on May 11, 2023 at 3:27 pm
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE May 11, 2023 CONTACT Email: [email protected] Emily Morris, 213-457-7458 Madison Allman, 202-384-1279 WASHINGTON — Kica Matos, incoming president of the National Immigration Law Center, issued the following statement in response to the expected end of Title 42 expulsions, and the new restrictions on the legal ability to seek asylum in the United States: “Today is an important... Source
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3 shipments containing 3,165 counterfeit items worth over $3.1M Seized by Louisville CBP in 1 night
by U.S. Customs and Border Protection on May 11, 2023 at 3:23 pm
LOUISVILLE, KY— May 8 was a busy night for U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers in Louisville. CBP officers in Louisville seized three shipments containing various luxury items. From handbags, to jewelry, to Rolex watches, all were…
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EAPA Action: Notice of Determination As To Evasion in EAPA Cons Case 7724 - Thermal Paper
by U.S. Customs and Border Protection on May 11, 2023 at 1:55 pm
WASHINGTON — On May 1, 2023, CBP issued the notice of determination as to evasion for EAPA consolidated case 7724 filed by the Paper Receipts Converting Association, against U.S. importer, WHP Associates LLC (WHP) for evasion of the applicable AD/…
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CBP Invites Public Comments for Discussion at Green Trade Innovation and Incentives Forum
by U.S. Customs and Border Protection on May 10, 2023 at 4:44 pm
WASHINGTON – U.S. Customs and Border Protection today issued a reminder for public comments in anticipation of the upcoming Green Trade Innovation and Incentives Forum; an event designed to solicit and share ideas related to green trade innovation…
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USCIS Celebrates Public Service Recognition Week
by USCIS on May 8, 2023 at 3:51 pm
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services is honoring its dedicated workforce during Public Service Recognition Week, May 7-13.
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What to Know About the Biden Administration’s Proposed Restoration of DACA Recipients’ Access to Affordable Care Act Programs
by Jasmin Gamez on May 5, 2023 at 4:22 pm
THE TORCH: CONTENTS By Gabrielle Lessard May 5, 2023 The senseless exclusion of immigrants with Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) from Affordable Care Act (ACA) coverage is finally ending. The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) has published a proposed rule that would modify the definition of “lawfully present” used to determine eligibility for ACA health plans and... Source
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USCIS Providing Documents After Notice of Immigration Judge and BIA Decisions About Immigration Status
by USCIS on May 4, 2023 at 2:34 pm
We now are affirmatively creating and providing documented evidence of their status to certain new asylees and lawful permanent residents upon our receiving notification that an immigration judge or the Board of Immigration Appeals (BIA) has granted status.
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Trade News Snapshot - Volume 5, Issue 3
by U.S. Customs and Border Protection on May 3, 2023 at 3:46 pm
EAC's Message Collaboration is at the top of my mind this month. In April, CBP led many engagements to share information with and receive input from private companies, partner government agencies and foreign governments. This will…
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USCIS Extends and Expands Employment Authorization for Hong Kong Residents Covered by DED
by USCIS on May 3, 2023 at 12:56 pm
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) today posted a Federal Register notice on the extension and expansion of eligibility for Deferred Enforced Departure (DED) for Hong Kong residents.
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As DACA Ruling Approaches, 2022 Survey of DACA Recipients Emphasizes DACAs Importance, Highlights End Would Hurt the American Economy and Harm Local Communities
by Emily Morris on April 27, 2023 at 7:11 pm
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE April 27, 2023 CONTACT Juan Gastelum, NILC, [email protected], 213-375-3149 José Alonso Muñoz, United We Dream, [email protected] Madia Coleman, the Center for American Progress, [email protected] WASHINGTON — A new survey published today by the U.S. Immigration Policy Center at the University of California, San Diego; United We Dream; the National Immigration Law... Source
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CBP Modifies Withhold Release Order in Response to Smart Glove’s Successful Actions to Address Forced Labor Supply Chain Issues
by U.S. Customs and Border Protection on April 26, 2023 at 7:39 pm
WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) modified import restrictions issued in a Withhold Release Order (WRO) against a group of companies jointly known as Smart Glove, in response to the companies’ successful demonstration that…
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NILC Urges Senate to Confirm Julie Su as Department of Labor Secretary
by Juan Gastelum on April 26, 2023 at 7:22 pm
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE April 26, 2023 CONTACT Email: [email protected] Madison Allman, 202-384-1279 Emily Morris, 213-457-7458 WASHINGTON — Kica Matos, incoming president of the National Immigration Law Center, issued the following statement in response to the Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee moving forward with the nomination of Julie Su for Secretary of Labor: “Deputy Secretary... Source
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Introducing CBP’s Green Trade Strategy
by U.S. Customs and Border Protection on April 26, 2023 at 4:06 pm
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National Immigrant Rights Leader Kica Matos to Serve as President of NILC and IJF
by Juan Gastelum on April 26, 2023 at 1:26 pm
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE April 26, 2023 CONTACT Email: [email protected] Emily Morris, 213-457-7458 Madison Allman, 202-384-1279 WASHINGTON — The Boards of Directors for the National Immigration Law Center (NILC) and NILC Immigrant Justice Fund (IJF) today announced the appointment of Kica Matos as the organizations’ president. Matos, who joined NILC and IJF as executive vice president of programs and... Source
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EOIR Announces Appointment of Sheila McNulty as Chief Immigration Judge
on April 26, 2023 at 4:00 am
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USCIS Clarifies Guidance on Citizenship and Naturalization for Adopted Children
by USCIS on April 21, 2023 at 2:09 pm
Effective immediately, we are updating Volumes 5 and 12 of the USCIS Policy Manual to clarify how U.S. citizenship and naturalization provisions apply to adopted children.
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USCIS Releases New Strategic Plan Aimed at Strengthening a Diverse Workforce
by USCIS on April 20, 2023 at 2:09 pm
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services today released its 2023-2026 Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Accessibility (DEIA) Strategic Plan, marking the agency’s first comprehensive strategy to incorporate a culture of DEIA principles as a foundational element of its daily work.
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USCIS Extends Temporary Suspension of Biometrics Submission for Certain Form I-539 Applicants
by USCIS on April 19, 2023 at 2:02 pm
USCIS has extended the temporary suspension of the biometrics submission requirement for certain applicants filing Form I-539, Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status, requesting an extension of stay in or change of status to H-4, L-2, or E nonimmigrant status.
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CBP Releases March 2023 Monthly Operational Update
by U.S. Customs and Border Protection on April 17, 2023 at 10:17 pm
WASHINGTON – U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) released operational statistics today for March 2023, which can be viewed online here. “CBP works around the clock to perform our vital missions including maintaining border security. Overall,…
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QB 23-313 2023 Specialty Sugar Period 4 Results
by U.S. Customs and Border Protection on April 17, 2023 at 1:19 pm
Commodity: Specialty Sugar The tariff rate quota for Specialty Sugar Period 4 opened on Friday, April 14, 2023 and over-subscribed at opening moment. The pro rata percentage of 27.47466 or .2747466 was calculated via ACE, a UC message was…
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NILC Statement on Expansion of Health Care Access for DACA Recipients
by Juan Gastelum on April 13, 2023 at 4:05 pm
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE April 13, 2023 CONTACT Juan Gastelum, [email protected], 213-375-3149 WASHINGTON — Kica Matos, executive vice president of programs and strategy at the National Immigration Law Center, issued the following statement in response to the Biden administration’s announcement that it will be issuing a proposed rule to lift Affordable Care Act restrictions and expand Medicaid... Source
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USCIS Updates Policy Guidance on Safe Mailing Address and Case Handling Procedures for Certain Protected Persons
by USCIS on April 11, 2023 at 6:47 pm
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is updating policy guidance in the USCIS Policy Manual to provide guidance on mailing address procedures for persons eligible for and recipients of victim-based immigration relief, specifically Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) self-petitioners as well as those who are seeking or currently hold T or U nonimmigrant status (protected persons).
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EAPA Action: Notice of Investigation and Interim Measures in EAPA Case 7783 – Quartz Surface Products
by U.S. Customs and Border Protection on April 11, 2023 at 4:46 pm
WASHINGTON—On February 2, 2023, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) issued its notification of initiation of investigation and interim measures against Superior Commercial Solutions LLC (Superior) in Enforce and Protect Act (EAPA) investigation…
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EAPA Action: Notice of Investigation and Interim Measures in EAPA Case 7743 – Quartz Surface Products
by U.S. Customs and Border Protection on April 11, 2023 at 4:24 pm
Washington - On February 13, 2023, CBP issued the notice of initiation of investigation and interim measures in the EAPA investigation 7743. CBP determined that there is reasonable suspicion to find LTT International Trading Co. (LTT) of evading…
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EAPA Action: Notice of Investigation and Interim Measures in EAPA Case 7740 - Quartz Surface Products
by U.S. Customs and Border Protection on April 11, 2023 at 3:51 pm
WASHINGTON— On December 20, 2022, CBP issued the Notice of Initiation of Investigation and implemented Interim Measures for EAPA case 7740 filed by Cambria Company LLC, against U.S. importer, LE North America JV, LLC. (LENA) for evasion of the…
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Witness the Growth and Mission of CBP 20 Years Later
by U.S. Customs and Border Protection on April 11, 2023 at 1:38 pm
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CBP Provides Guidance on Cybersecurity Best Practices to Increase Supply Chain Resiliency
by U.S. Customs and Border Protection on April 10, 2023 at 7:06 pm
WASHINGTON — U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) released Monday a new guidance document containing best practices for customs brokers on how to prepare for and respond to a cyber-attack. The new resource makes recommendations on how to…
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Employers May File H-2B Petitions for FY 2023 Late Second Half Returning Workers
by USCIS on April 10, 2023 at 4:40 pm
Starting April 13, 2023, USCIS will begin accepting petitions for workers for the late second half of fiscal year (FY) 2023, requesting employment start dates from May 15, 2023, to Sept. 30, 2023 under the H-2B supplemental cap temporary final rule.
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24 hours 2,400 pieces of counterfeit jewelry worth over $4.41M seized by Louisville CBP
by U.S. Customs and Border Protection on April 7, 2023 at 2:53 pm
LOUISVILLE, Ky–-In 24 hours, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers in Louisville seized three shipments of jewelry for bearing counterfeit designer trademarks while attempting importation into the United States. On April 3, two…
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USCIS Updates Guidance on Administrative Naturalization Ceremony Venues
by USCIS on April 4, 2023 at 1:41 pm
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services is issuing policy guidance in the USCIS Policy Manual to clarify the types of venues USCIS may use for administrative naturalization ceremonies.
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Cap Reached for Additional Returning Worker H-2B Visas for the Early Second Half of FY 2023
by USCIS on March 31, 2023 at 8:33 pm
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services has received enough petitions to reach the cap for the additional 16,500 H-2B visas made available for returning workers for the early second half of fiscal year (FY) 2023 with start dates from April 1, 2023 to May 14, 2023, under the FY 2023 H-2B supplemental visa temporary final rule.
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USCIS Updates Policy Guidance on Self-Selecting a Gender Marker on Forms and Documents
by USCIS on March 31, 2023 at 6:53 pm
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services is updating policy guidance in the USCIS Policy Manual to clarify that, effective immediately, USCIS will accept the self-identified gender marker for individuals requesting immigration benefits
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USCIS Removes 60-Day Rule for Civil Surgeon Signatures on Form I-693
by USCIS on March 31, 2023 at 1:12 pm
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services is removing the requirement that civil surgeons sign Form I-693, Report of Immigration Medical Examination and Vaccination Record, no more than 60 days before an individual applies for an underlying immigration benefit, including Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status.
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New Filing Address for Courier Delivery Services to USCIS Phoenix Lockbox
by USCIS on March 30, 2023 at 5:03 pm
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services has changed the filing location for courier delivery services to the Phoenix lockbox. The facility has moved to Tempe, Arizona, and the filing location for courier delivery services for UPS, FedEx, and DHL has also changed to Tempe. The filing location remains the same when using the U.S. Postal Service.
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Provision Allowing Special Immigrant Juveniles to File Form I-360 in Person Before Their 21st Birthday
by USCIS on March 30, 2023 at 3:22 pm
Petitioners for Special Immigrant Juvenile (SIJ) classification (or their representatives) may schedule an appointment within two weeks before their 21st birthday to file Form I-360, Petition for Amerasian, Widow(er), or Special Immigrant, in person.
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USCIS Updates Policy on Time Frames for Paper-Based Filings and Responses Ending on Saturdays, Sundays, or Federal Holidays
by USCIS on March 29, 2023 at 1:43 pm
We are updating the USCIS Policy Manual to address situations when the last day to file a benefit request or respond to a USCIS action falls on a Saturday, Sunday, or federal holiday.
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NILC Statement on the Reintroduction of The POWER Act
by Emily Morris on March 28, 2023 at 4:30 pm
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE March 28, 2023 CONTACT Email: [email protected] Madison Allman, 202-384-1279 Emily Morris, 213-457-7458 WASHINGTON — Kica Matos, executive vice president of programs and strategy at the National Immigration Law Center, issued the following statement in response to the reintroduction of the Protect Our Workers from Exploitation and Retaliation (POWER) Act: “All workers... Source
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FY 2024 H-1B Cap Season Updates
by USCIS on March 27, 2023 at 6:34 pm
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has received enough electronic registrations during the initial registration period to reach the fiscal year (FY) 2024 H-1B numerical allocations (H-1B cap), including the advanced degree exemption (master’s cap).
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USCIS Announces End of COVID-Related Flexibilities
by USCIS on March 23, 2023 at 1:43 pm
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services today announced that certain flexibilities it first announced in March 2020, to address the COVID-19 pandemic will end on March 23, 2023.
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USCIS Form and Policy Updates for Applying for Naturalization Based on Military Service
by USCIS on March 22, 2023 at 2:10 pm
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services today announced updated policy guidance in the USCIS Policy Manual to clarify and conform with the revision of Form N-426, Request for Certification of Military or Naval Service.
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Update to Filing Location for U Nonimmigrant-Based Form I-485
by USCIS on March 20, 2023 at 1:32 pm
U nonimmigrants applying to become lawful permanent residents must now file Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status, only at the Nebraska Service Center and not at the Vermont Service Center.
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USCIS Relocates Lockbox From Phoenix To Tempe, Arizona for Courier Delivery Services
by USCIS on March 17, 2023 at 2:44 pm
On March 31, applicants and petitioners filing at the Phoenix lockbox will see a new filing location for courier delivery services such as UPS, FedEx, and DHL.
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USCIS Announces Additional Mail Delivery Process for Receiving ADIT Stamp
by USCIS on March 16, 2023 at 6:56 pm
Lawful permanent residents may receive temporary evidence of their lawful permanent resident status by mail rather than physically visiting a field office to receive an Alien Documentation, Identification and Telecommunication (ADIT) stamp (also known as an I-551 stamp).
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USCIS Removes Biometrics Requirement for Form I-526E Petitioners
by USCIS on March 15, 2023 at 7:15 pm
Beginning on March 15, 2023, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services is removing the biometrics submission requirement and $85 fee requirement for petitioners filing Form I-526E, Immigrant Petition by Regional Center Investor.
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USCIS Extends Rule Providing Interpreters at Affirmative Asylum Interviews
by USCIS on March 15, 2023 at 4:13 pm
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services announced today a fourth extension to a temporary final rule (TFR) requiring use of a USCIS interpreter at certain affirmative asylum interviews.
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USCIS Issues Guidance on Analyzing Employers’ Ability to Pay Wages
by USCIS on March 15, 2023 at 1:43 pm
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services today issued policy guidance on how we analyze an employer’s ability to pay the proffered wage for immigrant petitions in certain first, second, and third preference employment-based immigrant visa classifications.
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USCIS Processing Times for Orphan and Hague Adoption Cases
by USCIS on March 13, 2023 at 1:34 pm
On Nov. 2, 2022 USCIS announced a change in our method for calculating orphan and Hague adoption case processing times.
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DHS Publishes Federal Register Notice Extending and Redesignating Somalia for Temporary Protected Status
by USCIS on March 10, 2023 at 2:39 pm
The Department of Homeland Security today published a Federal Register notice extending and redesignating Somalia for Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for 18 months, from March 18, 2023, through September 17, 2024.
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USCIS Provides Guidance on Program for International Entrepreneurs
by USCIS on March 10, 2023 at 1:23 pm
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services has issued comprehensive guidance on parole for international entrepreneurs.
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New Entrepreneur Resources Available on USCIS Website
by USCIS on March 9, 2023 at 7:51 pm
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services has published additional online resources on uscis.gov to provide an overview of some of the temporary and permanent pathways for noncitizen entrepreneurs to work in the United States.
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NILC Statement on Reports that the Biden Administration is Considering Restarting Family Detention
by Emily Morris on March 7, 2023 at 7:19 pm
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE March 7, 2023 CONTACT Email: [email protected] Emily Morris, 213-457-7458 WASHINGTON — Kica Matos, executive vice president of programs and strategy at the National Immigration Law Center, issued the following statement in response to reports that the Biden administration is considering detaining families apprehended at the border: “As an organization that previously sued to... Source
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USCIS Updates Policy Guidance on Mobile Biometrics Services
by USCIS on March 7, 2023 at 2:38 pm
We are issuing policy guidance in the USCIS Policy Manual to address how we provide mobile biometrics services.
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USCIS Announces Premium Processing; New Online-Filing Procedures for Certain F-1 Students Seeking OPT or STEM OPT Extensions
by USCIS on March 6, 2023 at 4:49 pm
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services announced today the expansion of premium processing for certain F-1 students seeking Optional Practical Training (OPT) and F-1 students seeking science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) OPT extensions who have a pending Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization, and wish to request a premium processing upgrade.
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USCIS Issues Clarifying Guidance on Eligibility for the O-1B Visa Classification
by USCIS on March 3, 2023 at 3:36 pm
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services today issued policy guidance clarifying how it evaluates evidence to determine eligibility for O-1B nonimmigrants of extraordinary ability in the arts and nonimmigrants of extraordinary achievement in the motion picture or television industry.
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USCIS Reaches H-2B Cap for Second Half of FY 2023 and Announces Filing Dates for the Second Half of FY 2023 Supplemental Visas
by USCIS on March 2, 2023 at 2:25 pm
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has received enough petitions to meet the H-2B cap for the second half of fiscal year (FY) 2023 and is announcing the filing dates for supplemental H-2B visas for the reminder of FY 2023 made available under the FY 2023 H-2B supplemental visa temporary final rule.
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USCIS to Start Collecting Fee for EB-5 Integrity Fund
by USCIS on March 1, 2023 at 2:31 pm
Today, the Department of Homeland Security posted a Federal Register notice providing information related to the EB-5 Integrity Fund.
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USCIS Issues Clarifying Guidance for Individuals Authorized to Work Under Special Student Relief Provisions
by USCIS on February 22, 2023 at 2:37 pm
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services is issuing policy guidance in the USCIS Policy Manual to clarify the validity period of employment authorization for F-1 nonimmigrant students experiencing severe economic hardship due to emergent circumstances (also known as special student relief (SSR)) who are work authorized under the SSR provisions of 8 CFR.
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USCIS Updates Child Status Protection Act (CSPA) Age Calculation for Certain Adjustment of Status Applicants
by USCIS on February 14, 2023 at 6:32 pm
WASHINGTON—U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services has issued guidance in the USCIS Policy Manual to update when an immigrant visa number “becomes available” for the purpose of calculating a noncitizen’s age in certain situations under the Child Status Protection Act (CSPA).
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Reminder to Submit All Required Initial Evidence and Supporting Documentation, including Form I-693, for Form I-485
by USCIS on February 10, 2023 at 6:30 pm
Save time by filing all required initial evidence and supporting documentation listed under the “Checklist of Required Initial Evidence” heading at the same time you file Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status.
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Update to Filing Location for Form I-360 and Form I-485 for Self-Petitioning Abused Spouses, Children, and Parents
by USCIS on February 8, 2023 at 6:03 pm
Starting February 10, 2023, self-petitioning abused spouses, children, and parents must file Form I-360, Petition for Amerasian, Widow(er), or Special Immigrant, and Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status, at the Nebraska Service Center instead of the Vermont Service Center.
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USCIS Clarifies Physical Presence Guidance for Asylees and Refugees Applying for Adjustment of Status
by USCIS on February 2, 2023 at 6:17 pm
Effective immediately, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has updated guidance in the USCIS Policy Manual to clarify that both asylees and refugees must have been physically present in the United States for one year when we adjudicate their Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status, rather than at the time they file their adjustment of status application.
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Cap Reached for Additional Returning Worker H-2B Visas for the First Half of FY 2023
by USCIS on January 31, 2023 at 8:07 pm
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services has received enough petitions to reach the cap for the additional 18,216 H-2B visas made available for returning workers for the first half of fiscal year (FY) 2023 with start dates on or before March 31, 2023, under the recently announced H-2B supplemental cap temporary final rule.
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USCIS Redesigns Green Card and Employment Authorization Document
by USCIS on January 30, 2023 at 4:41 pm
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) announced today new designs to improve security of Permanent Resident Cards (also known as Green Cards) and Employment Authorization Documents (EADs). USCIS will begin issuing the redesigned cards on Jan. 30, 2023.
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FY 2024 H-1B Cap Initial Registration Period Opens on March 1
by USCIS on January 27, 2023 at 6:56 pm
Today, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services announced that the initial registration period for the fiscal year 2024 H-1B cap will open at noon Eastern on March 1 and run through noon Eastern on March 17, 2023.
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USCIS Releases New Strategic Plan Highlighting Long-Term Goals
by USCIS on January 27, 2023 at 2:56 pm
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) today released its FY 2023-2026 Strategic Plan, which provides a roadmap for the agency’s workforce to better strengthen its capabilities and help the country reach its highest ideals.
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DHS Announces Registration Process for Temporary Protected Status for Haiti
by USCIS on January 25, 2023 at 3:02 pm
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) today posted a Federal Register notice on Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Haiti.
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USCIS Extends COVID-19-related Flexibilities
by USCIS on January 24, 2023 at 3:39 pm
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services is extending certain COVID-19-related flexibilities through March 23, 2023.
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USCIS Extends Green Card Validity for Conditional Permanent Residents with a Pending Form I-751 or Form I-829
by USCIS on January 23, 2023 at 6:14 pm
USCIS is extending the validity of Permanent Resident Cards (also known as Green Cards) for petitioners who properly file Form I-751, Petition to Remove Conditions on Residence, or Form I-829, Petition by Investor to Remove Conditions on Permanent Resident Status for 48 months beyond the card’s expiration date.
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Asylum Applicants Can Now File Form I-765 Online
by USCIS on January 23, 2023 at 3:38 pm
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services today announced that certain asylum applicants can now file Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization, online.
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DHS Announces Process Enhancements for Supporting Labor Enforcement Investigations
by USCIS on January 13, 2023 at 4:48 pm
The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has announced that noncitizen workers who are victims of, or witnesses to, the violation of labor rights, can now access a streamlined and expedite deferred action request process.
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USCIS Announces Final Phase of Premium Processing Expansion for EB-1 and EB-2 Form I-140 Petitions and Future Expansion for F-1 Students Seeking OPT and Certain Student and Exchange Visitors
by USCIS on January 12, 2023 at 9:07 pm
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services is implementing the final phase of the premium processing expansion for Form I-140, Immigrant Petition for Alien Workers, under the EB-1 and EB-2 classifications.
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Secretary Mayorkas Extends and Redesignates Somalia for Temporary Protected Status for 18 Months
by USCIS on January 12, 2023 at 8:05 pm
Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro N. Mayorkas today announced the extension of Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Somalia for an additional 18 months, from March 18, 2023, through September 17, 2024.
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DHS Implements New Processes for Cubans, Haitians, and Nicaraguans and Eliminates Cap for Venezuelans
by USCIS on January 6, 2023 at 2:18 pm
On Jan. 5, 2023, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) announced a safe and lawful way for qualifying Cubans, Haitians, and Nicaraguans with U.S.-based supporters to travel by air to and temporarily reside in the United States.
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Filing Location Change for Form I-730, Refugee/Asylee Relative Petition
by USCIS on January 4, 2023 at 8:07 pm
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services is changing the filing location for Form I-730, Refugee/Asylee Relative Petition, to streamline workloads in an ever-increasing electronic environment.
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USCIS Releases New Immigrant Investor Form
by USCIS on January 4, 2023 at 5:49 pm
We have published Form I-956K, Registration for Direct and Third-Party Promoters.
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USCIS Issues Proposed Rule to Adjust Certain Immigration and Naturalization Fees
by USCIS on January 3, 2023 at 4:16 pm
Today, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) published a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM) to adjust certain immigration and naturalization benefit request fees.
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Secretary Mayorkas Extends and Redesignates Temporary Protected Status for Yemen
by USCIS on December 30, 2022 at 2:53 pm
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) today announced an extension of Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Yemen for 18 months, from March 4, 2023, through Sept. 3, 2024, due to ongoing armed conflict and extraordinary and temporary conditions that prevent Yemeni nationals from safely returning to their country.
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Options for Nonimmigrant Workers Following Termination of Employment
by USCIS on December 19, 2022 at 9:20 pm
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is providing information for nonimmigrant workers whose employment has terminated, either voluntarily or involuntarily.
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DHS’s Public Charge Final Rule Goes into Effect on Dec. 23
by USCIS on December 19, 2022 at 3:42 pm
On Dec. 23, 2022, the Department of Homeland Security’s (DHS) Public Charge Ground of Inadmissibility final rule will go into effect.