USCIS Announces Expansion of Premium Processing Service for Certain I-140 Immigrant Petitions

The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services announced today the first implementation phase of the previously announced premium processing expansion. This expansion applies to certain petitioners who have a pending Form I-140 Immigrant Petition for Alien Workers, under the EB-1 (E-13) multinational executive and manager classification or the EB-2 (E-21) National Interest Waiver (NIW) classification. This will NOT apply to new […]

May I apply online to extend or change my nonimmigrant status?

The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) allows for electronic filing of certain applications for immigration benefits, including certain Forms I-539, Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status.  The agency claims that this will get your application into their processing queue faster than mail delivery.  Given the significant case backlog, any changes that lead to faster processing […]

Automatic EAD Extension and New Work Authorization Policy for H-4, L-2, E Spouses

November 15, 2021 As a result of a settlement agreement in a federal lawsuit Shergill et al, v Mayorkas (21-cv-1296-RSM)., U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) will change its employment authorization (EAD) policies with respect to some H-4, L-2 nonimmigrants. The new USCIS policy guidance applies to applications for initial work authorization and renewal for holders […]

What is the importance of the timing of the filing of the required Form I-693, Medical Examination and Vaccination Report for Adjustment of Status, I-485 Applicants?

All green card applicants seeking adjustment of status in the U.S.  through the filing of Form I-485 are required to complete Form I-693, Medical Examination and Vaccination Record (“Medical Report), prepared by a USCIS authorized civil surgeon (https://my.uscis.gov/findadoctor).  The U.S. Citizenship and immigration Service (USCIS), however, does not require the Form I-693 medical report to […]