As explained in our NewsBrief, EB5 Regional Center Program extended to Sep 2015 (22.Oct.2012), there were four immigration programs that were recently extended beyond their slated September 30, 2012 expiration. The three remaining programs extended through September 30, 2015 are: the "non-minister" Religious Worker Program...
The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) announced a new filing option for Canadian TN applicants. As of October 1, 2012, it became possible for employers to file the petition seeking TN classification for eligible Canadians who are outside of the United States (Form I-129)....
The U.S. Department of Labor (DOL), Office of Foreign Labor Certification (OFLC), released selected statistics for fiscal year 2012 (FY12). The statistics provide insights into trends for employment-based, permanent-resident sponsorship. The DOL revealed data regarding the number of PERM labor certifications received, denied, withdrawn, and...
The President has signed legislation extending the expiration or "sunset" dates of four important immigration programs. These programs are: the EB5 (investor) Regional Center Program; the E-Verify employment verification program; the EB-4 Religious Worker (non-minister) Program; and the Conrad State 30 physician J-1 waiver program....
As we approach the season when many individuals and families travel abroad, our readers are reminded of the U.S. Department of State (DOS) policy regarding visa applicants with histories that include drunk driving or other offenses involving alcohol. The DOS guidance clarifies how consular officers...
We at the Murthy Law Firm frequently receive queries from individuals transitioning from F-1, Optional Practical Training (OPT) to H1B. Some of the most difficult problems are faced by individuals who, after waiting for months, find that the H1B job promised to them is no...
It is vitally important for all foreign nationals, regardless of immigration status, to understand the immigration consequences of criminal violations and arrests. Indeed, even a seemingly minor criminal offense, with minimal penalties, can impact one's immigration status, as well as eligibility for future immigration benefits....
The Murthy Law Firm submitted extensive comments to the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) in early September 2012, setting forth our concerns regarding several proposed DOL changes to the labor condition application (LCA), Form 9035. The LCA is required for all H1B petitions as well...
There continue to be delays in processing H1B petitions. This issue involves both the California Service Center (CSC) as well as the Vermont Service Center (VSC). The matter is urgent for cap-subject cases as the H1B start date of October 1, 2012, which is requested...
The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) recently confirmed that the employment eligibility verification (I-9) form, available on the USCIS WebSite, remains valid despite its stated expiration date of August 31, 2012. The USCIS process for making changes to the I-9 and releasing a new...
