27
Aug
2012
H1B Workers and Layoffs
This MurthyDotCom NewsBrief has been updated. Find the newer article here....
24
Aug
2012
Religious Accommodations for Photographs and Fingerprints
The USCIS issued a policy memorandum on July 23, 2012 detailing current policies regarding available accommodations for religious beliefs as it relates to immigration photographs and fingerprinting requirements. The memo makes it clear that, while some accommodations are available, the USCIS will not waive photograph...
21
Aug
2012
E-Verify Self-Assessment Guides for Employers
The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) recently released E-Verify Self-Assessment Guides. These guides are intended to assist participating employers in their use of the E-Verify program and related compliance with requirements for the I-9. Form I-9 audits and compliance have become a hot topic...
19
Aug
2012
DHS Update on Deferred Action – August 2012
In a recent conference call, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) released additional information regarding the new deferred action process for certain individuals who arrived in the United States as children. Following is a summary of the most recent information available regarding this new program. Background: June...
17
Aug
2012
September Visa Bulletin: End of Fiscal Year 2012
The U.S. Department of State (DOS) Visa Bulletin for September 2012 is the final visa bulletin of fiscal year 2012 (FY12). This visa bulletin is far less eventful than those from earlier in the year. The contents, however, reflect prior events with ongoing unavailability in...
13
Aug
2012
Travel Tip: Time to Schedule a Visa Appointment?
There are many variables that can impact the length of time it can take for an individual to obtain a visa for travel to the United States. This is particularly important to foreign nationals living abroad who want temporary U.S. entry, as well as to...
10
Aug
2012
Murthy Takes Action: Consular Help Available in October 2012
Attorney Sheela Murthy travels to India periodically to meet with U.S. consular officials on behalf of the Murthy Law Firm and our clients. Her next visit is in October 2012. Ms. Murthy currently has availability during this trip for representation of a limited group of...
07
Aug
2012
NewsFlash! USCIS Expands Hours for NCSC
The USCIS announced today that the agency is expanding National Customer Service Center (NCSC) hours to include Saturdays. Customer service representatives will now be available Monday-Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., and Saturday, 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. in each time zone. The NCSC can...
06
Aug
2012
AAO on Culturally Unique Standard for P-3 Petitions
The United States provides many performance and teaching opportunities for musicians and other entertainers. The P-3 category is appropriate for artists and entertainers seeking to enter the U.S. for purposes related to culturally unique performances or presentations. The Administrative Appeals Office (AAO) recently handed down...
03
Aug
2012
NewsFlash! Herguan University SEVP Certification in Jeopardy
Herguan University in Sunnyvale, CA is at risk for losing its ability to participate in the F-1 student visa program. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) issued a notice of intent to withdraw Herguan University's Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) certification on August 2, 2012....