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US Visa News

US Plans To Impose Fees For Extension Of H-1B And L-1 Visas

July 1, 2024 No Comments

Key Takeaways:

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) intends to introduce a $4,000 fee for extending H-1B visas and $4,500 for L-1 visa extensions.
The new rule is open for public comment until July 8, 2024.
The fees aim to fund US entry and exit programs, prevent visa fraud, and enhance national security.

To strengthen security measures, the United States Department of Homeland Security (DHS) intends to implement new fees: $4,000 for extending an H-1B visa and $4,500 for extending an L-1 visa.

This new regulation will be published and open for public comment on July 8. It aims to fund US entry and exit programs, prevent visa fraud, and enhance national security, according to PlanetWirePR

The 9-11 Response and Biometric Entry-Exit Fee (9-11 Biometric Fee) applies exclusively to petitioners filing an H-1B or L-1 petition. This fee is required if the petitioner employs 50 or more employees in the US, and more than 50% of those employees hold H-1B or L-1 visas.

The fee is $4,000 for H-1B petitions and $4,500 for L-1 petitions.

Ongoing Attempts To Fund US Biometric Entry & Exit Systems

Under the proposed changes, these fees would now apply to visa extension petitions as well, requiring employers to pay $4,000 and $4,500 not only for initial petitions or changes of the employer but also for extending the employment period of H-1B and L-1 visa holders. However, the DHS has clarified that any changes to fee requirements would not take effect until a final regulation is issued.

The US H-1B temporary work visa allows US employers to hire qualified foreign workers for speciality jobs when such employees cannot be found in the US. Similarly, the L-1 visa is a temporary work visa that allows individuals to transfer from a company in their home country to a US branch, affiliate, subsidiary, or parent company.

This visa enables companies of all sizes, from large corporations to medium and small businesses, to transfer employees to the United States, provided there is a related company in the US. The 9-11 Response and Biometric Entry-Exit Fee (9-11 Biometric Fee) was introduced on December 18, 2015, for specific H-1B and L-1 petitions.

Congress has consistently sought to fund biometric entry and exit programs to enhance security, combat visa and travel document fraud, and protect the US from terrorism. The 9-11 Response and Biometric Entry-Exit Fee applies when a visa is issued and extensions are granted due to a change in employer. A US company must pay the fee if it hires a foreign employee and wants to extend their stay.

You may have questions regarding a US Immigration regulation. You can contact The Law Offices of Prashanthi Reddy for detailed guidance and assistance for the h1B Visa and l1 Visa Rules. Their team will provide the most accurate and up-to-date information to make your immigration process smoother and less stressful. The immigration lawyers at The Law Offices of Prashanthi Reddy have decades of experience helping people work and live in New York, United States. Attorney Provided Immigration Services to other U.S. states, such as New York, Florida, New Jersey, Texas, and California. Contact them today to assess your legal situation.

America

Domestic Renewal Of H-1B Nonimmigrant Visas For Certain Applicants

June 21, 2024 No Comments

Important Announcement

The Department of State has shut down the Domestic Visa Pilot Program application window and is no longer accepting any new applications. If you need to renew an H-1B visa, you must now do so at a U.S. embassy or consulate abroad. If you have already submitted an application through this program and have any questions, please email DomesticVisaRenewals@state.gov.

Overview

The Department of State has announced a new pilot program to resume domestic visa renewals for qualified H-1B nonimmigrant applicants who meet specific criteria.

Applications for the pilot program will be accepted from January 29, 2024, until April 1, 2024, or until all available slots are filled, whichever comes first.
Participation in this program is entirely voluntary.
If you do not meet the eligibility criteria or prefer not to participate, you can still apply for visa renewal at a U.S. embassy or consulate abroad.

There are several steps to apply for this pilot program:

Please select the country where your most recent H-1B visa was issued. (Note: this initial pilot program is currently limited to renewals of visas issued in India and Canada.) After that, use the online navigator tool to determine if you qualify for participation in the pilot.
If you qualify to participate, please follow the instructions on the portal to complete and submit the Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application (form DS-160).
Please use the online portal to pay the required $205.00 fee to process your Machine-Readable Visa (MRV) application. This fee is non-refundable and non-transferable.
Please follow the instructions on the portal to send your passport and the other necessary documents for processing.

The Department will offer up to 20,000 application slots during this limited pilot program. Around 2,000 slots will be available each week for applicants whose most recent H-1B visa was issued by the U.S. Mission in Canada between January 1, 2020, and April 1, 2023. Additionally, another 2,000 slots per week will be allocated for applicants whose most recent H-1B visa was issued by the U.S. Mission in India between February 1, 2021, and September 30, 2021. Application slots will be released on the following entry period dates:

January 29, 2024
February 5, 2024
February 12, 2024
February 19, 2024
February 26, 2024

You can only apply through the portal linked below during the dates specified above. Applications will be processed in the order they are received until the weekly limit is reached. If you cannot apply on one date, you can try again on any remaining dates within the entry period. The application period will end once all slots are filled or on April 1, 2024, whichever comes first. Original Source: Domestic Renewal of H-1B Nonimmigrant Visas for Certain Applicants. Get comprehensive guidance and expert consultation on the H-1B nonimmigrant visa from the best H1B attorney. They provide in-depth assistance through every step of the H-1B application process, ensuring you understand all requirements, complete the necessary paperwork accurately, and maximize your chances of a successful application. Contact The Law Offices of Prashanthi Reddy, PLLC, to navigate the complexities of the H-1B visa, offering personalized support tailored to your unique situation.

America

US Family-Based Green Cards: Updated USCIS Guidance and Changes for Petitioners

June 21, 2024 No Comments

Understanding the distinction between immigrant and non-immigrant forms of US visas is crucial. The former, often called a US green card, is for those seeking permanent residency without citizenship. The latter, a visa for temporary visits, is intended for specific work with a clear intention to return once the visit concludes.

I am now coming to one of the most popular green Card categories, the family-based. Getting one can be daunting, but as a green card category, this is for US citizens or green card holders who want their family members to live permanently with them. In legal terms, this is called sponsoring family members…

If you want to explore the family-based green card category more. In that case, we should be aware that, from the regulatory standpoint, one can apply for family-based green cards under two headings: Immediate relatives and family preference.

The new USCIS guidance:

USCIS recently updated its guidance in the USCIS policy manual on family-based green card petitions, which came into force on 22 May 2024. The new guidance speaks about family-based petitions, which include Form I-130 for “Alien relatives and its limited situations” and family-based Form I-360, Petition for Amerasian, Widow(er), or Special Immigrant), including explaining how USCIS handles correcting approval notice errors, requests for consular processing or adjustment of status on the beneficiary’s behalf, and routing procedures for approved petitions.

How is the new guidance going to affect green card petitioners?

Before the guidance came into force, USCIS generally kept approved petitions that did not indicate whether the beneficiary wanted an adjustment of status or consular processing. Now, under the new rule, if you are the petitioner submitting Form I-130 for an alien relative, you need to first inform USCIS of the beneficiary’s current address and whether they want consular processing with the Department of National Visa Center or adjustment of status in the United States if they fall under the eligibility criteria. USCIS puts the point with this guidance that the petitioner, by giving this additional information, helps them define the clear direction for the petition. If the information is not there, there is a chance of delay in processing. For example, suppose USCIS keep a petition because the petitioner provided inaccurate information. In that case, USCIS must generally file Form I-824, Application for Action on an Approved Application or Petition, with the appropriate fee to transfer the petition to the NVC. The newly updated guidance also explains how the petitioner can contact USCIS to correct the error or update a pending or approved Form I-130. The new process also allows the petitioner to update the beneficiary’s location and indicate whether they want consular processing or adjustment of status. From a green card standpoint, this new guidance is a welcome step by the USCIS as there is an unbearable delay in the employment-based category, especially for Indian and Chinese nationals. As we approach the end of the financial year, we can also expect dates to be retrogressed in the upcoming visa bulletin released by USCIS.

Key Points of the Update

Beneficiary’s Address and Processing Preference:
- Petitioners must inform USCIS of the beneficiary’s current address and whether they prefer consular processing with the Department of State National Visa Center (NVC) or adjustment of status in the U.S.
- Accurate information ensures the approved petition is processed correctly, either kept for adjustment of status or sent to the NVC.
Handling Inaccurate Information:
- If accurate information is provided, the immigrant visa or adjustment of status process can be completed on time.
- In cases where USCIS retains a petition due to inaccurate information, petitioners may need to file Form I-824, Application for Action on an Approved Application or Petition, along with the appropriate fee, to transfer the petition to the NVC.
Clarified Procedures:
- The update clarifies procedures for more efficient processing when the beneficiary’s preference is unclear, has changed, or requires correction.
- USCIS will use discretion to decide whether to send the approved petition to the NVC or retain it for adjustment of status based on the beneficiary’s most recent location evidence, including the address on the petition.
Error Correction and Updates:
- Guidance on contacting USCIS to correct errors or update a pending or approved Form I-130 is provided. This includes updating the beneficiary’s location and indicating their processing preference.
Decision-Making on Petitions:
- General guidance on how USCIS approves or denies family-based immigrant petitions has also been updated, including relevant notices.

Importance of Accurate Information

To avoid delays in the processing of family-based immigrant visa petitions:

Ensure all provided information is accurate.
Indicate the beneficiary’s current address and processing preference.
Update USCIS promptly with any changes.

Consult With An Immigration lawyer You may have questions regarding a US Immigration regulation. You can contact The Law Offices of Prashanthi Reddy for detailed guidance and assistance. Their team will provide the most accurate and up-to-date information to make your immigration process smoother and less stressful. The immigration lawyers at The Law Offices of Prashanthi Reddy have decades of experience helping people work and live in New York, United States. Contact them today to assess your legal situation.

Read the Full Update Here

USCIS Updates Guidance for Family-Based Immigrant Visas

Travel Tips

Birmingham City Guide 2024-Travelling Around Birmingham

June 21, 2024 No Comments

Birmingham is the largest city of the West Midlands conurbation—one of England’s principal industrial & commercial areas—for which it acts as an administrative, recreational, & cultural centre. The city lies approximately 110 miles northwest of London. It is Also known as “Brum” by its residents, Birmingham seamlessly blends its rich industrial heritage with a vibrant, modern cultural scene. Located in the heart of England, this dynamic city is the second-largest in the UK, offering visitors a diverse array of experiences, from historical sites & world-class museums to bustling markets & renowned shopping districts. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or simply looking to explore a new urban landscape, Birmingham has something to captivate every traveller.

A Glimpse into History

Birmingham’s history is deeply intertwined with the Industrial Revolution. Often referred to as the “Workshop of the World,” the city played a pivotal role in manufacturing &innovation. The legacy of this era can be explored at the Birmingham Museum &Art Gallery, which houses an impressive collection of Pre-Raphaelite art &exhibits detailing the city’s industrial past. Another must-visit is the Thinktank Birmingham Science Museum, where interactive displays &historical facts illuminate Birmingham’s scientific &industrial achievements.

Architectural Marvels

Birmingham boasts an eclectic mix of architecture, from the Sarehole Mill’s medieval charm to the Selfridges Building’s modernist lines in the Bullring shopping centre. The Library of Birmingham, with its striking design &rooftop garden, symbolises the city’s commitment to blending the old with the new. The Aston Hall, a Jacobean mansion, offers a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of the 17th century. At the same time, the Ikon Gallery, housed in a neo-gothic building, showcases contemporary art worldwide.

Cultural Vibrancy

Birmingham’s cultural scene is as diverse as its population. The city is home to the Birmingham Royal Ballet &the City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra, both of which enjoy international acclaim. The Hippodrome Theatre hosts a variety of performances, from West End shows to cutting-edge contemporary dance. For a taste of the local music scene, head to the O2 Academy Birmingham or the Birmingham Arena, where you can catch performances by top-tier artists & emerging talents alike.

Culinary Delights

Food enthusiasts will find Birmingham a gastronomic paradise. The city’s culinary landscape reflects its multicultural population, offering many international cuisines. The Balti Triangle is famous for its delicious & affordable South Asian cuisine. At the same time, Digbeth Dining Club is a must-visit for street food lovers, offering an array of dishes from around the world. For a more upscale dining experience, try one of Birmingham’s Michelin-starred restaurants, such as Purnell’s or Adam’s, where you can indulge in innovative British cuisine.

Shopping Extravaganza

Birmingham is a shopper’s dream. The Bullring & Grand Central is one of the UK’s largest shopping centres, featuring many high-street & luxury brands. For a more unique shopping experience, explore the Custard Factory in Digbeth, a hub for independent shops, vintage boutiques, & creative businesses. The Jewellery Quarter is another highlight, home to over 500 jewellery businesses and offering beautifully crafted pieces that make perfect souvenirs.

Parks and Recreation

Despite its urban environment, Birmingham boasts a surprising number of green spaces. The Birmingham Botanical Gardens and Winterbourne House & Garden provide peaceful retreats with beautifully landscaped grounds. Cannon Hill Park offers a range of recreational activities, including boating, tennis, and a funfair. For a more adventurous outing, the Lickey Hills Country Park on the city’s outskirts offers hiking trails & panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.

Festivals and Events

Birmingham hosts many festivals & events annually, reflecting its vibrant cultural diversity. The Birmingham International Jazz Festival and the Birmingham Literature Festival attract visitors from around the globe. The city’s annual Christmas Market, modelled after traditional German markets, is one of the largest in the UK, offering festive food, drinks, & crafts. The Birmingham Pride Festival is a colourful celebration of the city’s LGBTQ+ community, featuring parades, performances, & parties.

Practical Tips for Visitors

Getting Around

Birmingham is well-connected by public transport. The West Midlands Metro tram system, buses, & extensive rail networks make navigating the city and its surroundings easy. The Birmingham Canal Navigations offer scenic walks & boat rides through the city’s historic waterways for those looking to explore more leisurely.

By Public Transport

Birmingham boasts an extensive & efficient public transport network, making traversing the city and its suburbs relatively easy. The West Midlands Network integrates buses, trains, & trams, providing seamless regional connectivity. The network’s intelligent ticketing system, including the Swift card, allows for convenient & cashless travel on multiple transport modes.

By Bus

Birmingham’s bus network is one of the most comprehensive in the UK, and it is operated mainly by National Express West Midlands. Birmingham Bus Hire are frequent and cover a vast area, making them an ideal choice for short and long journeys within the city. Key routes run through the city centre, connecting essential landmarks, shopping areas, and residential neighbourhoods. The buses are also equipped with modern amenities, including free Wi-Fi and accessibility features for passengers with disabilities.

Tips for Bus Travel:

· Peak Times: Buses can get crowded during rush hours (7-9 AM and 4-6 PM), so plan your trip accordingly. · Contactless Payment: Use a Swift card or contactless payment for quick boarding. · Live Updates: Check the West Midlands Network app or website for real-time bus arrival information.

By Train

Birmingham is well-connected by train, with Birmingham New Street as the central hub. It is the busiest interchange station outside London, linking the city to major destinations across the UK. Other significant stations include Birmingham Moor Street and Birmingham Snow Hill, which cater to local and regional travel.

Tips for Train Travel:

· Advance Tickets: Purchasing tickets in advance can save money, especially for long-distance travel. · Peak Travel: Unlike buses, trains are busiest during peak hours. · Railcards: Consider getting a railcard if you travel frequently, as they offer substantial discounts.

By Tram

The West Midlands Metro tram service provides a fast and reliable way to get around Birmingham and its surrounding areas. The tram line runs from Wolverhampton to Birmingham, with stops at key locations, including the Jewellery Quarter and the city centre.

Tips for Tram Travel:

· Frequent Service: Trams run every 6-8 minutes during peak times, making them a convenient option for commuting. · Accessibility: Trams are fully accessible, with low floors for easy boarding. · Integrated Tickets: Tickets can be used interchangeably with buses and trains on the same network.

By Car

Driving in Birmingham offers flexibility, especially for those travelling with family or carrying heavy loads. The city is well-served by a network of major roads and motorways, including the M6, M5, and M42, facilitating easy access to and from other parts of the country.

Tips for Driving:

· Parking: Numerous car parks are available throughout the city centre but can be expensive. Look for cheaper options slightly further out. · Congestion Charges: Be aware of potential congestion charges in certain areas. · Sat-Nav: Use a GPS or smartphone app to navigate complex one-way systems and road closures.

By Motorcycle

Motorcycling around Birmingham can be quicker than cars, especially during rush hour. The city offers several dedicated motorcycle parking areas and allows motorcycles to use bus lanes in some parts.

Tips for Motorcycling:

· Protective Gear: Always wear appropriate safety gear. · Secure Parking: Use designated motorcycle parking bays and secure your bike to deter theft. · Weather Conditions: Be prepared for variable weather, as Birmingham can be pretty rainy.

By Taxis & Private Hire :

Taxis and ride-sharing services like MiniCabRide LTD are plentiful in Birmingham, providing a convenient door-to-door service. Black cabs can be hailed on the street, while private hire vehicles must be booked in advance.

Tips for Taxi Travel:

· Licensed Vehicles: Always use licensed taxis and private hire vehicles for safety. · Cashless Payment: Most Birmingham taxis accept card payments, but having some cash for smaller trips is handy. · Fare Estimates: Use fare estimate features on ride-sharing apps to avoid surprises.

Where to Stay in Birmingham City ?

Here is a List of the top Hotels in Birmingham City :

1. The Grand Hotel Birmingham :The Grand Hotel, located in the heart of the city on Colmore Row, is an iconic and luxurious option for travellers seeking a mix of historic charm and modern comfort. This Grade II listed building offers elegantly furnished rooms, a high-end restaurant, and a stylish bar. Its central location means you’re just a short walk from Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery, the Bullring Shopping Centre, and various dining options.
2. Hotel du Vin Birmingham Nestled in the former eye hospital, Hotel du Vin is a boutique hotel known for its chic design and excellent service. The hotel features uniquely styled rooms, a French restaurant, and a well-stocked wine cellar. It’s an excellent choice for those who appreciate a blend of character and modern amenities. The location on Church Street is perfect for exploring the city’s financial district and the nearby Cathedral Square.
3. Malmaison Birmingham : Situated in the Mailbox shopping and lifestyle complex, Malmaison Birmingham offers contemporary accommodations with a touch of luxury. The rooms are stylishly decorated, and the hotel boasts a brasserie, a bar, and a fitness centre. Its prime location makes exploring the city’s vibrant nightlife and attractions like the Birmingham Hippodrome and the Symphony Hall easy.
4. Clayton Hotel Birmingham : Clayton Hotel on Albert Street is an excellent option for business travellers and those seeking modern comfort. The hotel offers spacious rooms, an international cuisine restaurant, and well-equipped meeting facilities. It’s conveniently located near Moor Street Station, making accessing the city’s business district and major attractions easy.
5. Staybridge Suites Birmingham: Staybridge Suites, located on Corporation Street, offers a home-away-from-home experience with its apartment-style accommodations. Each suite has a fully equipped kitchen, making it ideal for more extended stays or travellers who prefer self-catering options. The hotel also offers complimentary breakfast and a fitness centre, and it’s just a short walk from the Bullring Shopping Centre and New Street Station.
6. Edgbaston Boutique Hotel: For a unique and intimate stay, consider the Edgbaston Boutique Hotel. This hotel, set in a beautiful Victorian villa, offers luxurious rooms with period features and modern touches. The Edgbaston is renowned for its cocktail lounge and afternoon tea service. Located in the leafy suburb of Edgbaston, it’s a peaceful retreat close to the city centre.
7. pentahotel Birmingham : Pentahotel on Holloway Head offers a fun, relaxed atmosphere with stylish rooms and trendy communal areas. The hotel features a games room, a bar, and a restaurant, making it an excellent choice for younger travellers or those looking for a lively stay. It’s within walking distance of the Hippodrome and the O2 Academy, perfect for catching a show.
8. Birmingham Marriott Hotel: Located in the city’s heart, the Birmingham Marriott Hotel offers classic luxury and modern amenities. It features spacious rooms, an on-site restaurant, and a fitness centre. It’s ideally situated near the International Convention Centre (ICC) and the National Indoor Arena (NIA), making it a convenient choice for business and leisure travellers.
9. Travelodge Birmingham Central For budget-conscious travellers, Travelodge Birmingham Central offers affordable and comfortable accommodations. This hotel is located on Broad Street and puts you in Birmingham’s vibrant nightlife and dining scene. It’s also a short walk from major attractions like the Birmingham Museum, Art Gallery, and Sea Life Centre.
10. Premier Inn Birmingham City Centre (New Street) : Another excellent budget option is the Premier Inn on New Street. Known for its consistent quality and value, this hotel provides clean, comfortable rooms and a convenient location near New Street Station. It’s an excellent base for exploring the city’s shopping districts, theatres, and restaurants.
Best Time to Visit Birmingham City : Birmingham can be enjoyed year-round, but the best times to visit are spring and summer (April to September) when the weather is mild and many outdoor events and festivals occur. Autumn (October to November) offers beautiful foliage and a cosy atmosphere, while winter (December to February) is perfect for enjoying the city’s festive activities.

US Visa News

New DHS Proposal Could Increase Costs for H-1B and L-1 Visa Extensions by Thousands for US Employers

June 21, 2024 No Comments

US employers must pay additional fees for H-1 and L-1 petition extensions if the Department of Homeland Security’s proposed new rule is approved.

In April 2024, foreign workers and investors experienced a substantial increase in US visa fees. Despite this, there are no forthcoming relaxations, as the Biden administration is considering implementing additional fees for work visa extensions.

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and US Customs and Border Protection have proposed a new rule to extend the 9/11 Response and Biometric Entry-Exit Fee to H-1B and L-1 visa extensions. Previously, this fee was applied only to initial visa petitions. According to the FederalRegister.gov website, Congress originally mandated the 9-11 Response and Biometric Entry-Exit Fee for “certain” H-1B and L-1 petitions. However, the new amendment proposal aims to change this wording to “all petitioners” in the relevant clauses for these two visa categories.

The mandate issued on June 6 indicates that U.S. employers must pay $4,000 for H-1B visa extensions and $4,500 for L-1 visa extensions. However, this proposed rule has not yet been approved. Currently, employers are only responsible for these fees for initial petitions and changes of employers.

What is the 9/11 Biometric Fee?

On December 18, 2015, Congress established the 9/11 Response and Biometric Entry-Exit fee to support national security initiatives. According to the Federal Register, this fee aims to fund mandated biometric entry and exit programs to enhance security, prevent visa and travel document fraud, and protect against terrorism. Additionally, it supports a system for tracking the entry and exit of foreign nationals. This fee is authorized by the Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2016.

According to the original statutes, this fee is imposed on U.S. employers with 50 or more employees, where over 50% of the workforce holds H-1B or L-1 visas.

The proposed changes will require employers to pay the fees ($4,000 for H-1B and $4,500 for L-1) not only when submitting initial petitions or changing employers but also when extending the employment period of existing H-1B or L-1 visa holders.

Why has the Department of Homeland Security proposed these changes?

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is committed to enhancing the biometric entry-exit system, and the additional funding will significantly strengthen its foundational capabilities. Further improvements and maintenance of this system will depend on adequate funding.

Additionally, the proposed criteria will ensure that all employers play a role in contributing to national security.

As financial responsibilities increase for U.S. employers, companies may alter their hiring strategies if the proposal is implemented. Currently, the DHS is soliciting public feedback on the proposed changes. The window for public comments will close on July 8, 2024. Check out more details on how to submit comments and more here: https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2024/06/06/2024-12396/9-11-response-and-biometric-entry-exit-fee-for-h-1b-and-l-1-visas

You may have questions regarding a US Immigration regulation. You can contact The Law Offices of Prashanthi Reddy for detailed guidance and assistance. Their team will provide the most accurate and up-to-date information to make your immigration process smoother and less stressful. The immigration lawyers at The Law Offices of Prashanthi Reddy have decades of experience helping people work and live in New York, United States. Attorney Provided Immigration Services to other U.S. states, such as New York, Florida, New Jersey, Texas, and California. Contact them today to assess your legal situation.

Europe

July 2024 US Visa Bulletin: Unexpected advancement in key Indian Green Card category; retrogression across EB-3

June 21, 2024 No Comments

India has made significant progress in the EB-1 and EB-2 categories, while the EB-3 preference for other countries has experienced retrogression.

After months of little movement in employment-based Green Card categories, the July Visa Bulletin shows significant progress across several fronts. Although the EB-3 preference has retrogressed for other countries, India has surged ahead by 11 months in the EB-1 category. Additionally, Indian applicants in the EB-2 category have seen a two-month advancement.

While Indian applicants celebrate their unexpected advancement, other categories experience either regression or only slight progress.

Key Takeaways of US Visa Bulletin for July 2024

The July bulletin from the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) once more uses technical language to differentiate between ‘dates for filing’ and ‘final action dates.’

The ‘dates for filing’ establish when an application becomes eligible for further steps in the application process. To proceed with subsequent stages, your priority date must meet or precede the cut-off date specified for your country’s visa category. In contrast, ‘final action dates’ indicate the projected timeframe for the approval of your application.

Employment-Based preferences :

1st: Priority Workers – 28.6% of global employment-based preference level, plus additional numbers from the fourth and fifth preferences.

2nd: Individuals with Advanced Degrees or Exceptional Ability in their respective fields, comprising 28.6% of the total worldwide employment-based preference level, plus any numbers not used by the first preference category.

3rd: Skilled Workers, Professionals, and Other Workers account for 28.6% of the global level, plus any remaining numbers from first and second preferences, with an allocation of 10,000 visas designated for ‘Other Workers’.

4th: Certain Special Immigrants make up 7.1% of the global quota, with 32% explicitly allocated as follows: 20% for qualified immigrants investing in rural areas, 10% for those investing in high unemployment areas, and 2% for those involved in infrastructure projects. The remaining 68% is unreserved and available to all eligible immigrants.

5th: Employment Creation – 7.1% of the worldwide level.

Final Action Dates for Employment-based cases:

Employment- based	All Chargeability Areas Except Those Listed	CHINA- mainland born	INDIA	MEXICO	PHILIPPINES
1st	C	01NOV22	01FEB22	C	C
2nd	15 MAR 23	01MAR20	15JUN12	15MAR23	15MAR23
3rd	01 DEC2 1	01SEP20	22SEP12	01DEC21	01DEC21
Other Workers	01JAN21	01JAN17	22SEP12	01JAN21	01MAY20
4th	01JAN21	01JAN21	01JAN21	01JAN21	01JAN21
Certain Religious Workers	01JAN21	01JAN21	01JAN21	01JAN21	01JAN21
5th Unreserved (including C5, T5, I5, R5)	C	15DEC15	01DEC20	C	C
5th Set Aside: Rural (20%)	C	C	C	C	C
5th Set Aside: High Unemployment (10%)	C	C	C	C	C
5th Set Aside: Infrastructure (2%)	C	C	C	C	C

Dates for filing Employment-based visa applications:

Employment- based	All Chargeability Areas Except Those Listed	CHINA- mainland born	INDIA	MEXICO	PHILIPPINES
1st	C	01JAN23	08FEB22	C	C
2nd	22MAR23	01JUN20	22JUN12	22MAR23	22MAR23
3rd	01FEB23	01JUL21	01OCT12	01FEB23	01JAN23
Other Workers	08JAN21	01JUN17	01OCT12	08JAN21	15MAY20
4th	01FEB21	01FEB21	01FEB21	01FEB21	01FEB21
Certain Religious Workers	01FEB21	01FEB21	01FEB21	01FEB21	01FEB21
5th Unreserved (including C5, T5, I5, R5)	C	01JAN17	01APR22	C	C
5th Set Aside: (Rural – 20%)	C	C	C	C	C
5th Set Aside: (High Unemployment – 10%)	C	C	C	C	C
5th Set Aside: (Infrastructure – 2%)	C	C	C	C	C

Family-based Applications:

1st: Unmarried sons and daughters of US citizens (23,400 plus remaining numbers under the fourth preference).

2nd: Spouses, children, and unmarried sons and daughters of permanent residents.

F2A: Spouses and children of permanent residents constitute 77% of the total allocation for the second preference category, with 75% being exempt from per-country limits.

F2B: Adult children (21 years or older) of permanent residents who are unmarried comprise 23% of the total allocation for the second preference category.

F3: Married sons and daughters of US citizens – 23,400, plus remaining numbers from first and second preference categories.

F4: Adult siblings of U.S. citizens – 65,000 visas plus any extra numbers from the first three preference categories.

Final Action Dates for family-sponsored applications:

Family-sponsored	All Chargeability Areas Except Those Listed	CHINA- mainland born	INDIA	MEXICO	PHILIPPINES
F1	22OCT15	22OCT15	22OCT15	08MAY02	01MAR12
F2A	15NOV21	15NOV21	15NOV21	01FEB21	15NOV21
F2B	01MAY16	01MAY16	01MAY16	08JUL04	22OCT11
F3	01APR10	01APR10	01APR10	01MAR00	08SEP02
F4	01AUG07	01AUG07	22JAN06	08FEB01	01FEB04

Dates for filing family-based visa applications:

Family-sponsored	All Chargeability Areas Except Those Listed	CHINA- mainland born	INDIA	MEXICO	PHILIPPINES
F1	01SEP17	01SEP17	01SEP17	01APR05	22APR15
F2A	01NOV23	01NOV23	01NOV23	01NOV23	01NOV23
F2B	01JAN17	01JAN17	01JAN17	01MAY05	01OCT13
F3	01OCT10	01OCT10	01OCT10	15JUN01	08NOV03
F4	01MAR08	01MAR08	15JUN06	28APR01	01APR06

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