papajon
06-19 10:06 AM
You will get your H1B extended pending appeal on PERM.
Thank you! So technically, there is nothing for me to worry at this time? Is this correct? I know I am losing time but my priority is not current...
Thank you! So technically, there is nothing for me to worry at this time? Is this correct? I know I am losing time but my priority is not current...
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ajay
06-06 10:44 AM
Which service center your case is in ?
It is in NSC.
It is in NSC.
karan2004m
07-29 01:38 AM
Did Anyone got 2 year EAD when I-140 pending? There is some stupid assumption posted on some immigration website that USCIS is issuing 2 yr EAD to approved 140 petitions only..
Just want to confirm that.
Just want to confirm that.
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aka
05-17 07:09 PM
Guys, I received THE magic email also this week. Card Production ordered on May 14th. HUGE Relief!!!
I just wanted to pass on a few tips. These steps may or not have expedited my processing but the timing sure was suspiciously fortuitous:
a) On May 7th, since the NSC I-485 processing date was more than 30 days past my RD, my lawyer sent an official email to NSC asking them for an update on my application. According to my lawyer, CIS is obligated to reply within 45 days and in most cases instead of them saying that this specific application falls outside their processing dates, they just approve the application. Of course, your case has to be approvable (PD has to be current etc)
b) On May 9th, I set up an Infopass appointment where the IO told me that my case was in transit from a different service center back to NSC! She also told me both our NCs were complete.
c) My lawyer was also getting ready to file another round of EAD/AP applications which, according to her, draws CIS's attention to the fact that this application is ready for processing and falling outside the average time range.
Maybe the combination of inquiry email and Infopass helped moved the case or maybe it did not. Probably does not hurt to try at least once and, of course, you don't want to overdo it and burden the system.
Just my $0.02. Hope it helps. Best of luck with your applications. I learned a ton from these forums and (if nothing else) out of sheer habit, will be coming back all the time. Will try my best to help out IV where I can. Cheers!
I just wanted to pass on a few tips. These steps may or not have expedited my processing but the timing sure was suspiciously fortuitous:
a) On May 7th, since the NSC I-485 processing date was more than 30 days past my RD, my lawyer sent an official email to NSC asking them for an update on my application. According to my lawyer, CIS is obligated to reply within 45 days and in most cases instead of them saying that this specific application falls outside their processing dates, they just approve the application. Of course, your case has to be approvable (PD has to be current etc)
b) On May 9th, I set up an Infopass appointment where the IO told me that my case was in transit from a different service center back to NSC! She also told me both our NCs were complete.
c) My lawyer was also getting ready to file another round of EAD/AP applications which, according to her, draws CIS's attention to the fact that this application is ready for processing and falling outside the average time range.
Maybe the combination of inquiry email and Infopass helped moved the case or maybe it did not. Probably does not hurt to try at least once and, of course, you don't want to overdo it and burden the system.
Just my $0.02. Hope it helps. Best of luck with your applications. I learned a ton from these forums and (if nothing else) out of sheer habit, will be coming back all the time. Will try my best to help out IV where I can. Cheers!
more...
EndlessWait
07-31 05:02 PM
This is just a letter sized paper. No pictures. Some people accept it. Some don't. Even in Florida. It didn't use to have a signature. But I guess now it does. Last time I asked them and they said it is valid and should be accepted anywhere in FL. But, try renting a car with it.
Its worse if you have to travel out of state, and rent a car. I had to travel on work and it was horrible. Every time you use your credit card they ask for photo ID.
There is another thing called ID card, different then license.
Its worse if you have to travel out of state, and rent a car. I had to travel on work and it was horrible. Every time you use your credit card they ask for photo ID.
There is another thing called ID card, different then license.
rexjamla
09-10 08:08 AM
Hi Friends,
I filed a complaint with senator Gregg's office(NH) after July Visa bulletin reversal. Senator's office send a query to DOS on my behalf. In mid-August I got a letter from senator's office in which he apologized for incapable to do anything regarding July-Visa_bulletin reversal.
However, I found a letter attached from DOS which states that "Due to significant number of visas returned from USCIS to DOS, DOS reinstate original July-Visa-Bulletin # 107".
I just wanted to sahre this information with you because what USCIS said about this matter is exactly opposite.
Check this link- http://www.uscis.gov/files/pressrelease/VisaBulletinUpdate17Jul07.pdf
Thanks!
Rex
I filed a complaint with senator Gregg's office(NH) after July Visa bulletin reversal. Senator's office send a query to DOS on my behalf. In mid-August I got a letter from senator's office in which he apologized for incapable to do anything regarding July-Visa_bulletin reversal.
However, I found a letter attached from DOS which states that "Due to significant number of visas returned from USCIS to DOS, DOS reinstate original July-Visa-Bulletin # 107".
I just wanted to sahre this information with you because what USCIS said about this matter is exactly opposite.
Check this link- http://www.uscis.gov/files/pressrelease/VisaBulletinUpdate17Jul07.pdf
Thanks!
Rex
more...
ajava
11-29 07:58 PM
Hey guys,
My MTR was approved almost 3 months ago and my attorney received the MTR approval notice.
The decision was that both mine and my wife's I-485's are reopened.
But its been almost 3 months and online status on USCIS website has not changed yet......
Does anyone noticed the same situtation with their MTR approval and no online status change?
- Prince
Hi Prince,
Would you please tell me if your status is updated yet? If yes, How long did it take from MTR approval to updated status?
I have an approved MTR but it says that they are going to review my I-140. I have no idea how long will it take. Is there any possibility that the deny I-140 after Approval of MTR(I290B)?
Thanks,
My MTR was approved almost 3 months ago and my attorney received the MTR approval notice.
The decision was that both mine and my wife's I-485's are reopened.
But its been almost 3 months and online status on USCIS website has not changed yet......
Does anyone noticed the same situtation with their MTR approval and no online status change?
- Prince
Hi Prince,
Would you please tell me if your status is updated yet? If yes, How long did it take from MTR approval to updated status?
I have an approved MTR but it says that they are going to review my I-140. I have no idea how long will it take. Is there any possibility that the deny I-140 after Approval of MTR(I290B)?
Thanks,
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sekharan
10-13 10:47 PM
My girlfriend is an Australian citizen and I am an Indian citizen.
Her uncle and cousins immigrated to the US years ago and she seems to have a Family-Based Immigrant VISA under category F4.
Her parents have greencards too.
She believes her greencard was filed for her by her uncle after he got his US Citizenship.
1. Can this be the case? ( Can an uncle file a green card for a niece? Or was it filed by the cousins? )
We were recently browsing the USCIS site and it seems she still has to maintain continious residence in the US for 3 more years to be eligible for naturalization.
2. Is it mandatory for green card holders to have 5 years in the US to be eligible for naturalization regardless from the country they are from?
I mean, a lot of immigrants come from India, China etc, but applications from Australia are a lot less.
Will she, being an Australian citizen, have to wait for 5 years just like immigrants from India, China etc have to? Or can she wait in the US for less time?
3. We would love to get married soon. I don't have any immigrant or dual intent VISAs for the US nor am I very much interested in going to the US either.
However, her uncle has told her that her greencard would be revoked if she got married to me before getting her US Citizenship.
Is this just empty an threat from her uncle or are there really restrictions on how person with a greencard can get married or not?
4. Are not all greencards created equal?
5. Is there any way by which we can verify, by ourselves, what is the category and type of greencard she has?
Any special serial numbers/markings/etc?
I would love to have contacts of good immigration attorneys either in Hyderabad, India or San Francisco, US in case this case is complicated.
Her uncle and cousins immigrated to the US years ago and she seems to have a Family-Based Immigrant VISA under category F4.
Her parents have greencards too.
She believes her greencard was filed for her by her uncle after he got his US Citizenship.
1. Can this be the case? ( Can an uncle file a green card for a niece? Or was it filed by the cousins? )
We were recently browsing the USCIS site and it seems she still has to maintain continious residence in the US for 3 more years to be eligible for naturalization.
2. Is it mandatory for green card holders to have 5 years in the US to be eligible for naturalization regardless from the country they are from?
I mean, a lot of immigrants come from India, China etc, but applications from Australia are a lot less.
Will she, being an Australian citizen, have to wait for 5 years just like immigrants from India, China etc have to? Or can she wait in the US for less time?
3. We would love to get married soon. I don't have any immigrant or dual intent VISAs for the US nor am I very much interested in going to the US either.
However, her uncle has told her that her greencard would be revoked if she got married to me before getting her US Citizenship.
Is this just empty an threat from her uncle or are there really restrictions on how person with a greencard can get married or not?
4. Are not all greencards created equal?
5. Is there any way by which we can verify, by ourselves, what is the category and type of greencard she has?
Any special serial numbers/markings/etc?
I would love to have contacts of good immigration attorneys either in Hyderabad, India or San Francisco, US in case this case is complicated.
more...
gc_in_30_yrs
11-29 01:53 PM
:rolleyes: i am there with you now. i dive into the pool to do whatever i can in my powers to help us out of this mess.:rolleyes:
i am in austin, pm me for my info.
i am in austin, pm me for my info.
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jnraajan
03-14 02:04 PM
Yes. You are in status. Filing for I-485 provides you legal status. If you are without project for too long, transferring H1b might not be an option. But you can work on EAD. You will not be out of status.
Good luck with your job hunt.
Good luck with your job hunt.
more...
good idea
03-13 12:43 PM
FBI Arrests DC Official (http://blogs.abcnews.com/politicalpunch/2009/03/fbi-arrests-dc.html)
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niklshah
01-06 10:27 AM
February visa bulletin will be out this week any day.
What is the opinion of gurus who analysed that latest USCS numbers about dates? what do you predict?
thanks for changing the title... now let the guess work begin....
What is the opinion of gurus who analysed that latest USCS numbers about dates? what do you predict?
thanks for changing the title... now let the guess work begin....
more...
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sircaustic
07-21 10:48 PM
Need some help here answering a question in form I-539 Part 4, Section 3, Item a, b and c as follows:
Answer the following questions. If you answer "Yes" to any question, describe the circumstances in detail and explain on a separate sheet of paper.
Are you, or any other person included on the application, an applicant for an immigrant visa?
Has an immigrant petition ever been filed for you or for any other person included in this application?
Has Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status, ever been filed by you or by any person included in this application?
I am confused regarding the answers and would really appreciate any help answering them. Please review below staus for family and I and advise. Your reasons supporting the answer would be extremely helpful and much appreciated.
Here's my status:
-Working in US since 2004 on a H1B so this is my 7th year extension.
-This would be the second instance of filing the extension working with the same company -I switched my H1B to back in 2006.
-I-140 was filed in March 2007 and approved in October the same year.
-I-485 for family and I was filed in July/August wave in 2007.
-LCA was filed last week and H1B renewal and extension of stay petition is expected to be filed next week. I have only 2 1/2 months remaining. Should that be a worry?
I had been using an attorney for all my previous filings for any kind of case but don't want to go back to him any more because of the quality of service, or lack thereof, I have been receiving from him lately. Not to mention the fee he has quoted is 50% more than last time. Even my office finds the amount to be very outrageous therefore they have decided to help me out and file the case themselves.
Answer the following questions. If you answer "Yes" to any question, describe the circumstances in detail and explain on a separate sheet of paper.
Are you, or any other person included on the application, an applicant for an immigrant visa?
Has an immigrant petition ever been filed for you or for any other person included in this application?
Has Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status, ever been filed by you or by any person included in this application?
I am confused regarding the answers and would really appreciate any help answering them. Please review below staus for family and I and advise. Your reasons supporting the answer would be extremely helpful and much appreciated.
Here's my status:
-Working in US since 2004 on a H1B so this is my 7th year extension.
-This would be the second instance of filing the extension working with the same company -I switched my H1B to back in 2006.
-I-140 was filed in March 2007 and approved in October the same year.
-I-485 for family and I was filed in July/August wave in 2007.
-LCA was filed last week and H1B renewal and extension of stay petition is expected to be filed next week. I have only 2 1/2 months remaining. Should that be a worry?
I had been using an attorney for all my previous filings for any kind of case but don't want to go back to him any more because of the quality of service, or lack thereof, I have been receiving from him lately. Not to mention the fee he has quoted is 50% more than last time. Even my office finds the amount to be very outrageous therefore they have decided to help me out and file the case themselves.
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sanjeev_2004
10-11 05:39 PM
If spouse uses EAD for employment, what I heard is that the H4 status is no more valid.
In this case for any reason, if the 485 is cancelled, spouse will be out of status.
Primary can transfer h1b (if possible) & still be legal, but spouse is illegal to stay any more. There is no legal provision that once on EAD, spouse can switch back to H4. Is this true? I am worried and don't know whats really true.
Gurus Please guide.:confused:
I asked similar question to my attorney regarding my wife. My attorney told me. After she use her EAD my wife will be in status until her I485 is pending. She doesn’t need H4 or any other status if she wants to sit in home after using her EAD once.
I didn’t asked with many ifs and buts but I guess once your wife uses EAD your wife will be in pending valid status until her I-485 is not canceled.
Usage for your EAD and usage of her EAD is totally independent. But if your I485 cancels her I485 will cancel automatically.
In this case for any reason, if the 485 is cancelled, spouse will be out of status.
Primary can transfer h1b (if possible) & still be legal, but spouse is illegal to stay any more. There is no legal provision that once on EAD, spouse can switch back to H4. Is this true? I am worried and don't know whats really true.
Gurus Please guide.:confused:
I asked similar question to my attorney regarding my wife. My attorney told me. After she use her EAD my wife will be in status until her I485 is pending. She doesn’t need H4 or any other status if she wants to sit in home after using her EAD once.
I didn’t asked with many ifs and buts but I guess once your wife uses EAD your wife will be in pending valid status until her I-485 is not canceled.
Usage for your EAD and usage of her EAD is totally independent. But if your I485 cancels her I485 will cancel automatically.
more...
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DDash
08-06 06:04 PM
Thanks for all your wishes. Appreciate your quick responses friends. Hope every member in this community will get their emails as well.
Good luck to you all.
PS: As promised I gave green dots to the responses :)
Good luck to you all.
PS: As promised I gave green dots to the responses :)
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bobby
05-17 07:33 PM
Contact the USCIS Ombudsman's office directly. http://www.dhs.gov/ximgtn/programs/editorial_0497.shtm
If you search online you should be able to find the telephone number for the main switchboard at DHS in Washington and then ask for the ombudsmna's office. You will probably need to submit your problem in writing with supporting documentation. Weve had a problem where USCIS made an error and have been dealing with the ombudsman's office for over a year. Patience is needed and followup on a regular basis. Eventually the problem will be escalated to senir USCIS staff in Washington for resolution. Be tenacious!
If you search online you should be able to find the telephone number for the main switchboard at DHS in Washington and then ask for the ombudsmna's office. You will probably need to submit your problem in writing with supporting documentation. Weve had a problem where USCIS made an error and have been dealing with the ombudsman's office for over a year. Patience is needed and followup on a regular basis. Eventually the problem will be escalated to senir USCIS staff in Washington for resolution. Be tenacious!
more...
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kroy1976
04-13 03:36 PM
Thanks a lot for the reply.
I have talked with lawyer regarding this.
She has the following to Say:
a) Ac21 is perfectly legal thing and many of her clients are traveling on AP under AC21 and do not have any issue.
b) CBP officers know about this and there is nothing to worry.
c) If the CBP officer is getting two suspicious they can't deport me. They have to parole me and then run a case or check on me. Where my lawyer can talk with them and make thenm understand that everything is OK
d) she assures me that there is nothing to worry and I can go and come back hassle free.
Do you people think all of these statements are correct?
Thanks a lot.
I have talked with lawyer regarding this.
She has the following to Say:
a) Ac21 is perfectly legal thing and many of her clients are traveling on AP under AC21 and do not have any issue.
b) CBP officers know about this and there is nothing to worry.
c) If the CBP officer is getting two suspicious they can't deport me. They have to parole me and then run a case or check on me. Where my lawyer can talk with them and make thenm understand that everything is OK
d) she assures me that there is nothing to worry and I can go and come back hassle free.
Do you people think all of these statements are correct?
Thanks a lot.
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Dhundhun
07-12 02:35 PM
The application was received on 7/10 and the checks were cashed today - How will you receive the resceipt number ? Would it come in the mail?
USCIS will sent you receipt. If you do internet banking and can see your check, on reverse side of check, they stamp with detailed infromation. If you can access that you can find it.
Yesterday I picked up receipt number for my son from check, who applied OPT/EAD in CSC.
Otherwise wait for few more days to get receipt.
USCIS will sent you receipt. If you do internet banking and can see your check, on reverse side of check, they stamp with detailed infromation. If you can access that you can find it.
Yesterday I picked up receipt number for my son from check, who applied OPT/EAD in CSC.
Otherwise wait for few more days to get receipt.
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hnordberg
October 25th, 2005, 04:24 PM
But I'm definitely open to planning something. I'll try to create a list of possible sites and post it here with in the next week or so for everyone to add to / subtract from. How's that sound?
I like Michael's ideas, but a list of choices would be nice.
I like Michael's ideas, but a list of choices would be nice.
Blog Feeds
10-15 06:30 PM
[Federal Register: October 6, 2009 (Volume 74, Number 192)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Page 51236-51237]
From the Federal Register Online via GPO Access [wais.access.gpo.gov]
[DOCID:fr06oc09-4]
---------------------------------------
DEPARTMENT OF STATE
22 CFR Part 41
[Public Notice: 6779]
Visas: Documentation of Nonimmigrants Under the Immigration and Nationality Act, as Amended; Requirements for Aliens in Religious Occupations
AGENCY: State Department.
ACTION: Final rule.
---------------------------------------
SUMMARY: To comply with the Department of Homeland Security regulation requiring sponsoring employers to file petitions for all aliens for whom R-1 nonimmigrant status is sought. This rule establishes the requirement that consular officers ensure that R-1 visa applicants have obtained an approved U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services Form I- 129 petition from the Department of Homeland Security before issuance of a visa.
DATES: This rule is effective October 6, 2009.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Lauren A. Prosnik, Legislation and Regulations Division, Visa Services, Department of State, 2401 E Street, NW., Room L-603D, Washington, DC 20520-0106, (202) 663-2951.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
Why is the Department promulgating this rule?
On November 26, 2008, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) promulgated regulations requiring sponsoring employers to file petitions for all aliens for whom R-1 nonimmigrant status is sought. 73 FR 72276. As a result, the requirements for an R-1 nonimmigrant visa now include establishing that the applicant is the beneficiary of an approved petition. U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has implemented the petition requirement for nonimmigrant religious workers as a way to determine the bona fides of a petitioning religious organization located in the United States and to determine that a religious worker will be admitted to the United States to work for a specific religious organization at the request of that religious organization. This rule amends the Department regulations to ensure consistency with the regulations set forth by DHS.
Regulatory Findings
Administrative Procedure Act
This regulation involves a foreign affairs function of the United States and, therefore, in accordance with 5 U.S.C. 553(a)(1), is not subject to the rule making procedures set forth at 5 U.S.C. 553.
Regulatory Flexibility Act/Executive Order 13272: Small Business
Because this final rule is exempt from notice and comment rulemaking under 5 U.S.C. 553, it is exempt from the regulatory flexibility analysis requirements set forth at sections 603 and 604 of the Regulatory Flexibility Act (5 U.S.C. 603 and 604). Nonetheless, consistent with section 605(b) of the Regulatory Flexibility Act (5 U.S.C. 605(b)), the Department certifies that this rule will not have a significant economic impact on a substantial number of small entities. This regulates individual aliens who seek consideration for R-1 nonimmigrant visas and does not affect any small entities, as defined in 5 U.S.C. 601(6).
The Unfunded Mandates Reform Act of 1995
Section 202 of the Unfunded Mandates Reform Act of 1995 (UFMA), Public Law 104-4, 109 Stat. 48, 2 U.S.C. 1532, generally requires agencies to prepare a statement before proposing any rule that may result in an annual expenditure of $100 million or more by State, local, or tribal governments, or by the private sector. This rule will not result in any such expenditure, nor will it significantly or uniquely affect small governments.
The Small Business Regulatory Enforcement Fairness Act of 1996
This rule is not a major rule as defined by 5 U.S.C. 804, for purposes of congressional review of agency rulemaking under the Small Business Regulatory Enforcement Fairness Act of 1996, Public Law 104- 121. This rule will not result in an annual effect on the economy of $100 million or more; a major increase in costs or prices; or adverse effects on competition, employment, investment, productivity, innovation, or the ability of United States-based companies to compete with foreign based companies in domestic and import markets.
Executive Order 12866
The Department of State has reviewed this proposed rule to ensure its consistency with the regulatory philosophy and principles set forth in Executive Order 12866 and has determined that the benefits of this final regulation justify its costs. The Department does not consider this final rule to be an economically significant action within the scope of section 3(f)(1) of the Executive Order since it is not likely to have an annual effect on the economy of $100 million or more or to adversely affect in a material way the economy, a sector of the economy, competition, jobs, the environment, public health or safety, or State, local or tribal governments or communities.
Executive Orders 12372 and 13132: Federalism
This regulation will not have substantial direct effects on the States, on the relationship between the national government and the States, or the distribution of power and responsibilities among the various levels of government. Nor will the rule have federalism implications warranting the application of Executive Orders No. 12372 and No. 13132.
Executive Order 12988: Civil Justice Reform
The Department has reviewed the regulations in light of sections 3(a) and 3(b)(2) of Executive Order No. 12988 to eliminate ambiguity, minimize litigation, establish clear legal standards, and reduce burden.
Paperwork Reduction Act
This rule does not impose information collection requirements under the provisions of the Paperwork Reduction Act, 44 U.S.C., Chapter 35.
[[Page 51237]]
List of Subjects in 22 CFR Part 41
Aliens, Foreign officials, Immigration, Nonimmigrants, Passports and Visas.
For the reasons stated in the preamble, the Department of State amends 22 CFR Part 41 as follows:
PART 41--[AMENDED]
1. The authority citation for part 41 continues to read as follows:
Authority: 8 U.S.C. 1104; Public Law 105-277, 112 Stat. 2681- 795 through 2681-801; 8 U.S.C.1185 note (section 7209 of Pub. L. 108-458, as amended by section 546 of Pub. L. 109-295).
2. Revise Sec. 41.58 to read as follows:
Sec. 41.58 Aliens in religious occupations.
(a) Requirements for ``R'' classification. An alien shall be classifiable under the provisions of INA 101(a)(15)(R) if:
(1) The consular officer is satisfied that the alien qualifies under the provisions of that section; and
(2) With respect to the principal alien, the consular officer has received official evidence of the approval by USCIS of a petition to accord such classification or the extension by USCIS of the period of authorized stay in such classification; or
(3) The alien is the spouse or child of an alien so classified and is accompanying or following to join the principal alien.
(b) Petition approval. The approval of a petition by USCIS does not establish that the alien is eligible to receive a nonimmigrant visa.
(c) Validity of visa. The period of validity of a visa issued on the basis of paragraph (a) to this section must not precede or exceed the period indicated in the petition, notification, or confirmation required in paragraph (a)(2) of this section.
(d) Aliens not entitled to classification under INA 101(a)(15)(R). The consular officer must suspend action on the alien's application and submit a report to the approving USCIS office if the consular officer knows or has reason to believe that an alien applying for a visa under INA 101(a)(15)(R) is not entitled to the classification as approved.
Dated: September 24, 2009.
Janice L. Jacobs,
Assistant Secretary for Consular Affairs, Department of State.
[FR Doc. E9-24089 Filed 10-5-09; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4710-06-P
More... (http://ashwinsharma.com/2009/10/07/dos-final-rule-on-amended-requirements-for-religious-workers.aspx?ref=rss)
[Rules and Regulations]
[Page 51236-51237]
From the Federal Register Online via GPO Access [wais.access.gpo.gov]
[DOCID:fr06oc09-4]
---------------------------------------
DEPARTMENT OF STATE
22 CFR Part 41
[Public Notice: 6779]
Visas: Documentation of Nonimmigrants Under the Immigration and Nationality Act, as Amended; Requirements for Aliens in Religious Occupations
AGENCY: State Department.
ACTION: Final rule.
---------------------------------------
SUMMARY: To comply with the Department of Homeland Security regulation requiring sponsoring employers to file petitions for all aliens for whom R-1 nonimmigrant status is sought. This rule establishes the requirement that consular officers ensure that R-1 visa applicants have obtained an approved U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services Form I- 129 petition from the Department of Homeland Security before issuance of a visa.
DATES: This rule is effective October 6, 2009.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Lauren A. Prosnik, Legislation and Regulations Division, Visa Services, Department of State, 2401 E Street, NW., Room L-603D, Washington, DC 20520-0106, (202) 663-2951.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
Why is the Department promulgating this rule?
On November 26, 2008, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) promulgated regulations requiring sponsoring employers to file petitions for all aliens for whom R-1 nonimmigrant status is sought. 73 FR 72276. As a result, the requirements for an R-1 nonimmigrant visa now include establishing that the applicant is the beneficiary of an approved petition. U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has implemented the petition requirement for nonimmigrant religious workers as a way to determine the bona fides of a petitioning religious organization located in the United States and to determine that a religious worker will be admitted to the United States to work for a specific religious organization at the request of that religious organization. This rule amends the Department regulations to ensure consistency with the regulations set forth by DHS.
Regulatory Findings
Administrative Procedure Act
This regulation involves a foreign affairs function of the United States and, therefore, in accordance with 5 U.S.C. 553(a)(1), is not subject to the rule making procedures set forth at 5 U.S.C. 553.
Regulatory Flexibility Act/Executive Order 13272: Small Business
Because this final rule is exempt from notice and comment rulemaking under 5 U.S.C. 553, it is exempt from the regulatory flexibility analysis requirements set forth at sections 603 and 604 of the Regulatory Flexibility Act (5 U.S.C. 603 and 604). Nonetheless, consistent with section 605(b) of the Regulatory Flexibility Act (5 U.S.C. 605(b)), the Department certifies that this rule will not have a significant economic impact on a substantial number of small entities. This regulates individual aliens who seek consideration for R-1 nonimmigrant visas and does not affect any small entities, as defined in 5 U.S.C. 601(6).
The Unfunded Mandates Reform Act of 1995
Section 202 of the Unfunded Mandates Reform Act of 1995 (UFMA), Public Law 104-4, 109 Stat. 48, 2 U.S.C. 1532, generally requires agencies to prepare a statement before proposing any rule that may result in an annual expenditure of $100 million or more by State, local, or tribal governments, or by the private sector. This rule will not result in any such expenditure, nor will it significantly or uniquely affect small governments.
The Small Business Regulatory Enforcement Fairness Act of 1996
This rule is not a major rule as defined by 5 U.S.C. 804, for purposes of congressional review of agency rulemaking under the Small Business Regulatory Enforcement Fairness Act of 1996, Public Law 104- 121. This rule will not result in an annual effect on the economy of $100 million or more; a major increase in costs or prices; or adverse effects on competition, employment, investment, productivity, innovation, or the ability of United States-based companies to compete with foreign based companies in domestic and import markets.
Executive Order 12866
The Department of State has reviewed this proposed rule to ensure its consistency with the regulatory philosophy and principles set forth in Executive Order 12866 and has determined that the benefits of this final regulation justify its costs. The Department does not consider this final rule to be an economically significant action within the scope of section 3(f)(1) of the Executive Order since it is not likely to have an annual effect on the economy of $100 million or more or to adversely affect in a material way the economy, a sector of the economy, competition, jobs, the environment, public health or safety, or State, local or tribal governments or communities.
Executive Orders 12372 and 13132: Federalism
This regulation will not have substantial direct effects on the States, on the relationship between the national government and the States, or the distribution of power and responsibilities among the various levels of government. Nor will the rule have federalism implications warranting the application of Executive Orders No. 12372 and No. 13132.
Executive Order 12988: Civil Justice Reform
The Department has reviewed the regulations in light of sections 3(a) and 3(b)(2) of Executive Order No. 12988 to eliminate ambiguity, minimize litigation, establish clear legal standards, and reduce burden.
Paperwork Reduction Act
This rule does not impose information collection requirements under the provisions of the Paperwork Reduction Act, 44 U.S.C., Chapter 35.
[[Page 51237]]
List of Subjects in 22 CFR Part 41
Aliens, Foreign officials, Immigration, Nonimmigrants, Passports and Visas.
For the reasons stated in the preamble, the Department of State amends 22 CFR Part 41 as follows:
PART 41--[AMENDED]
1. The authority citation for part 41 continues to read as follows:
Authority: 8 U.S.C. 1104; Public Law 105-277, 112 Stat. 2681- 795 through 2681-801; 8 U.S.C.1185 note (section 7209 of Pub. L. 108-458, as amended by section 546 of Pub. L. 109-295).
2. Revise Sec. 41.58 to read as follows:
Sec. 41.58 Aliens in religious occupations.
(a) Requirements for ``R'' classification. An alien shall be classifiable under the provisions of INA 101(a)(15)(R) if:
(1) The consular officer is satisfied that the alien qualifies under the provisions of that section; and
(2) With respect to the principal alien, the consular officer has received official evidence of the approval by USCIS of a petition to accord such classification or the extension by USCIS of the period of authorized stay in such classification; or
(3) The alien is the spouse or child of an alien so classified and is accompanying or following to join the principal alien.
(b) Petition approval. The approval of a petition by USCIS does not establish that the alien is eligible to receive a nonimmigrant visa.
(c) Validity of visa. The period of validity of a visa issued on the basis of paragraph (a) to this section must not precede or exceed the period indicated in the petition, notification, or confirmation required in paragraph (a)(2) of this section.
(d) Aliens not entitled to classification under INA 101(a)(15)(R). The consular officer must suspend action on the alien's application and submit a report to the approving USCIS office if the consular officer knows or has reason to believe that an alien applying for a visa under INA 101(a)(15)(R) is not entitled to the classification as approved.
Dated: September 24, 2009.
Janice L. Jacobs,
Assistant Secretary for Consular Affairs, Department of State.
[FR Doc. E9-24089 Filed 10-5-09; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4710-06-P
More... (http://ashwinsharma.com/2009/10/07/dos-final-rule-on-amended-requirements-for-religious-workers.aspx?ref=rss)
grupak
03-15 08:26 AM
This is my interpretation of Ron's post. These are not my predictions.
Personally, I'm Pessimistic... being in India-EB3, that's not a state of mind... it's a lifestyle.
Seems like a good interpretation to me.
Pessimism as a lifestyle is hilarious :)
Personally, I'm Pessimistic... being in India-EB3, that's not a state of mind... it's a lifestyle.
Seems like a good interpretation to me.
Pessimism as a lifestyle is hilarious :)
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