I came to the U.S. in 2007, over 15 years ago. I knew before I even came that I wanted to stay indefinitely. My wife was initially sponsored for a J-1 and then quickly switched to an O-1, with myself trailing in the shadows. My wife was and still is a talented fashion designer. She...
EB-1, EB-2, National Interest Waivers, and EB-3
Our readers will be aware that back in April USCIS announced that they would expand premium processing to applications that do not currently qualify. This expansion will be applied in a phased approach as follows: As of June 1, 2022, USCIS will allow premium processing of EB-1C applications for managers/executives. This applies to applications received...
By now most people are familiar with the concept of filing a downgrade application from EB-2 to EB-3. However, last October so many applicants filed downgrades, that the demand for EB-3 green cards, has far exceeded the number available, resulting in severe retrogression, especially for EB-3 India. In November 2021, EB-3 India dates retrogressed by...
Last October saw thousands of people applying for downgrades due to the forward movement in the Employment-based EB-3 priority dates. By filing a downgrade, applicants were able to concurrently file an I-485, Application to adjust status and also apply for employment authorization and travel document. One client, working as a Physical Therapist had asked us...
USCIS has stated it will suspend the biometrics requirements for H-4, L-2, E-1, E-2 and E-3 applicants from May 17th, 2021 for a period of 2 years. The biometric requirement was introduced by the Trump administration and was particularly cumbersome for H-4 and L-2 applicants as it meant that their applications would no longer be...