Thailand Call: 02-266 3698
USA Call: 1-(316)-974-0454
Integrity Legal
- Legal Blog
- Integrity Legal Home
- Thai Visa
- Company in Thailand
- Real Estate Thailand
- US Visa
- Contact Us
Archive for the ‘CR1 Visa’ Category
18th March 2011
It recently came to this blogger’s attention that the Cambodian government has changed some of the regulations regarding registration of marriage in that Kingdom. To quote directly from a recent posting on the blog United Khmer:
MALE foreigners over the age of 50 have been outlawed from marrying Cambodian women in the country under new rules designed to crack down on sham marriages and human trafficking, the government said today.
Human trafficking is a serious issue in many Asian nations including those comprising the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). The posting went on to further note:
Foreigners who earn less than $2,580 per month are also barred from wedding local women, foreign ministry spokesman Koy Kuong told AFP, but the restrictions do not apply to weddings taking place overseas.
It would seem as though the Cambodian government is also attempting to make rules in an attempt to ensure that those Cambodian women marrying foreign men are more likely to be materially provided for.
It is increasingly common for both men and women from the United States of America to travel to Southeast Asian nations such as Cambodia, Thailand, Indonesia, Vietnam, Myanmar (Burma), Laos, Malaysia, and Singapore for both business matters and pleasure. In some cases, American Citizens traveling abroad meet someone special and decide to bring their loved one back to the United States. Under such circumstances, it will likely be required that the foreign loved one obtain a United States visa.
Depending upon the unique facts of each given case couples may opt to apply for a US fiance visa (officially classified as a K-1 visa) or a spousal visa such as a CR-1 visa or, less commonly, a non-immigrant K-3 visa. Those couples who have been married for more than 2 years at the time of their admission to the United States are likely to see the prospective immigrant spouse admitted into the USA in IR-1 visa status.
The immigration process is a different experience for each couple and as the process evolves it also constantly changes. For this reason (likely amongst many others) some couples opt to retain the assistance of a professional to provide insight into the protocols associated with United States immigration. Under those circumstances, those seeking advice and counsel are well advised to ascertain the credentials of anyone claiming to be an American attorney as only a licensed attorney from the United States is permitted to practice United States Immigration law.
For related information please see: US tourist visa.
17th March 2011
How Would a Government Shutdown Impact The U.S. Immigration Process?
Posted by : admin
In recent months the likelihood of a government shutdown seems to be increasing as the politicians in the United States capital seem to be more polarized than ever. Meanwhile, some are arguing in favor of a shutdown (even going so far as to advocate for an extended period of governmental closure). At the same time, others argue against a shutdown. Regardless of one’s opinion either way, it seems possible that a shutdown may occur, and in the event that a shutdown does come to pass, those processing an immigration matter may be prudent to research the impact that a shutdown might have upon the immigration process.
The following was quoted directly from a recent posting on the website CaldwellTeaParty.org:
The next month will be marked by intense negotiations on the debt ceiling, and the GOP will then have to decide on a shutdown or a bipartisan budget deal with Kent Conrad and his allies.
The above citation most clearly and concisely sums up the current state of affairs regarding the possibility of a government shutdown. The administration encourages readers to click on the above links as this issue is quite complex. Those interested in understanding the ramifications of a government shutdown may be best informed by this administration quoting directly from Wikipedia:
A government shutdown occurs when a government discontinues providing services that are not considered “essential.” Typically, services that continue in spite of a shutdown include police, fire fighting, armed forces, utilities, air traffic management and corrections.
A shutdown can occur when a legislative body (including the legislative power of veto by the executive) cannot agree on a budget financing its government programs for a pending fiscal year. In the absence of appropriated funds, the government discontinues providing non-essential services at the beginning of the affected fiscal year. Government employees who provide essential services, often referred to as “essential employees”, are required to continue working.
Although the above citation clears up the issue of what constitutes a government shutdown, the question likely on the mind of those with foreign loved ones processing through the immigration system is: how would a government shutdown impact the processing of my loved one’s visa? The answer: a Federal government shutdown would result in a sort of “freeze” of most of the immigration apparatus as this falls within the bailiwick of the Federal government. Therefore, a Federal shutdown would likely result in little, if any, action being taken with regard to adjudication of visa applications at each US Embassy or US Consulate abroad. For further insight it may be best to quote directly from a recent posting on the Diplopundit blog:
In 1995, all visa applications are walk-in. Today, a good number of consular sections have online appointment systems. Which means, visa appointments will have to be canceled and rescheduled if there is a shutdown. Consular sections may only be open for life and death emergencies. That means lost passport applications, reports of births abroad, adoption cases, notarials, etc. will all have to wait until the Federal government reopens.
The administration of this blog highly encourages readers to click on the above hyperlinks as the quotation above was found in a very interesting and detailed posting dealing with these issues.
Clearly, the ramifications of a government shutdown will be severe for those awaiting processing of a visa application. Meanwhile, it would appear as though USCIS will continue to operate as normal despite a possible shutdown. To quote directly from the website Martindale.com:
USCIS has announced that, because it is funded by filing fees, it should remain open during a government shutdown. The operations of the four Service Centers should remain largely unaffected. Local USCIS District Offices should also remain open.
Again, this blogger highly encourages readers to click on the hyperlinks above to learn more.
Notice that the above quotation uses the word should. This blogger only points this out as it goes to show how difficult it is to foretell what the impact of a government shutdown would be on the United States Citizenship and Immigration Service (USCIS) since that agency has attempted to remain self-funded through application fees. That said, the overall issue of government shutdown has yet to fully manifest itself, but that should not be construed to mean that it will not. In fact, those seeking American visas are likely to see an overall slowdown in the overall processing of cases as a result of a shutdown (should one actually occur, which remains to be seen).
21st January 2011
Those who read this web log with any frequency may have noticed that the administration routinely posts the estimated processing times of the United States Citizenship and Immigration Service (USCIS) as both a courtesy to our clients and the public-at-large. The following estimated processing times were quoted directly from the official website of the United States Citizenship and Immigration Service (USCIS):
| Form | Title | Classification or Basis for Filing: | Processing Timeframe: |
|---|---|---|---|
| I-102 | Application for Replacement/Initial Nonimmigrant Arrival/Departure Record | Initial issuance or replacement of a Form I-94 | 2.5 Months |
| I-129 | Petition for A Nonimmigrant Worker | Blanket L | 2 Months |
| I-129 | Petition for A Nonimmigrant Worker | E – Treaty traders and investors | 2 Months |
| I-129 | Petition for A Nonimmigrant Worker | H-1B – Specialty occupation – Visa to be issued abroad | 2 Months |
| I-129 | Petition for A Nonimmigrant Worker | H-1B – Specialty occupation – Change of status in the U.S. | 2 Months |
| I-129 | Petition for A Nonimmigrant Worker | H-1B – Specialty occupation – Extension of stay in the U.S. | 2 Months |
| I-129 | Petition for A Nonimmigrant Worker | H-2A – Temporary workers | 1 Months |
| I-129 | Petition for A Nonimmigrant Worker | H-2B – Other temporary workers | 1 Months |
| I-129 | Petition for A Nonimmigrant Worker | H-3 – Temporary trainees | 2 Months |
| I-129 | Petition for A Nonimmigrant Worker | L – Intracompany transfers | 1 Months |
| I-129 | Petition for A Nonimmigrant Worker | O – Extraordinary ability | 2 Weeks |
| I-129 | Petition for A Nonimmigrant Worker | P – Athletes, artists, and entertainers | 2 Weeks |
| I-129 | Petition for A Nonimmigrant Worker | Q – Cultural exchange visitors and exchange visitors participating in the Irish Peace process | 2 Months |
| I-129 | Petition for A Nonimmigrant Worker | R – Religious occupation | August 28, 2010 |
| I-129 | Petition for A Nonimmigrant Worker | TN – North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) professional | 2 Months |
| I-129F | Petition for Alien Fiance(e) | K-1/K-2 – Not yet married – fiance and/or dependent child | 5 Months |
| I-129F | Petition for Alien Fiance(e) | K-3/K-4 – Already married – spouse and/or dependent child | 5 Months |
| I-130 | Petition for Alien Relative | Permanent resident filling for a spouse or child under 21 | 5 Months |
| I-130 | Petition for Alien Relative | U.S. citizen filing for a spouse, parent, or child under 21 | 5 Months |
| I-130 | Petition for Alien Relative | U.S. citizen filing for an unmarried son or daughter over 21 | February 8, 2007 |
| I-130 | Petition for Alien Relative | Permanent resident filling for an unmarried son or daughter over 21 | May 7, 2010 |
| I-130 | Petition for Alien Relative | U.S. citizen filing for a married son or daughter over 21 | June 1, 2010 |
| I-130 | Petition for Alien Relative | U.S. citizen filing for a brother or sister | September 1, 2006 |
| I-131 | Application for Travel Document | All other applicants for advance parole | 3 Months |
| I-360 | Petition for Amerasian, Widow(er), or Special Immigrant | All other special immigrants | 5 Months |
| I-360 | Petition for Amerasian, Widow(er), or Special Immigrant | Religious workers | 5 Months |
| I-485 | Application to Register Permanent Residence or to Adjust Status | Employment-based adjustment applications | July 16, 2010 |
| I-526 | Immigrant Petition By Alien Entrepreneur | For use by an entrepreneur who wishes to immigrate to the United States | 5 Months |
| I-539 | Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status | Change status to the F or M academic or vocational student categories | 2.5 Months |
| I-539 | Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status | Change of status to H or L dependents | 2.5 Months |
| I-539 | Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status | Change Status to the J exchange visitor category | 2.5 Months |
| I-539 | Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status | All other change of status applications | 2.5 Months |
| I-539 | Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status | Extension of Stay for F or M academic or vocational students | 2.5 Months |
| I-539 | Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status | Extension of stay for H and L dependents | 2.5 Months |
| I-539 | Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status | Extension of Stay for J exchange visitors | 2.5 Months |
| I-539 | Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status | All other extension applications | 2.5 Months |
| I-612 | Application for Waiver of the Foreign Residence Requirement | Application for a waiver of the 2-year foreign residence requirement based on exceptional hardship or persecution | 4 Months |
| I-751 | Petition to Remove the Conditions on Residence | Removal of lawful permanent resident conditions (spouses of U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents | 6 Months |
| I-765 | Application for Employment Authorization | Based on an approved asylum application [(a)(5)] | 3 Months |
| I-765 | Application for Employment Authorization | Based on a request by a qualified F-1 academic student. [(c)(3)] | 3 Months |
| I-765 | Application for Employment Authorization | Based on a pending asylum application [(c)(8)] | 3 Weeks |
| I-765 | Application for Employment Authorization | Based on a pending I-485 adjustment application [(c)(9)] | 3 Months |
| I-765 | Application for Employment Authorization | Based on TPS for El Salvador [(c)(19)(a)(12)] | 3 Months |
| I-765 | Application for Employment Authorization | Based on TPS for Honduras/Nicaragua [(c)(19), (a)(12)] | 3 Months |
| I-765 | Application for Employment Authorization | All other applications for employment authorization | 3 Months |
| I-817 | Application for Family Unity Benefits | Voluntary departure under the family unity program | 6 Months |
| I-821 | Application for Temporary Protected Status | El Salvador extension | July 16, 2010 |
| I-821 | Application for Temporary Protected Status | El Salvador initial or late filing | July 16, 2010 |
| I-821 | Application for Temporary Protected Status | Honduras and Nicaragua extension | July 16, 2010 |
| I-821 | Application for Temporary Protected Status | Honduras and Nicaragua initial or late filing | July 16, 2010 |
| I-824 | Application for Action on an Approved Application or Petition | To request further action on an approved application or petition | 3 Months |
| I-829 | Petition by Entrepreneur to Remove Conditions | Removal of lawful permanent resident conditions (immigrant investors) | 6 Months |
| I-829 | Petition by Entrepreneur to Remove Conditions | Removal of lawful permanent resident conditions (immigrant investors) based on PL107-273 | September 12, 1997 |
| Form | Title | Classification or Basis for Filing: | Processing Timeframe: |
|---|---|---|---|
| I-102 | Application for Replacement/Initial Nonimmigrant Arrival/Departure Record | Initial issuance or replacement of a Form I-94 | 2.5 Months |
| I-130 | Petition for Alien Relative | Permanent resident filling for a spouse or child under 21 | 5 Months |
| I-130 | Petition for Alien Relative | U.S. citizen filing for an unmarried son or daughter over 21 | 5 Months |
| I-130 | Petition for Alien Relative | Permanent resident filling for an unmarried son or daughter over 21 | 5 Months |
| I-130 | Petition for Alien Relative | U.S. citizen filing for a married son or daughter over 21 | 5 Months |
| I-130 | Petition for Alien Relative | U.S. citizen filing for a brother or sister | March 31, 2005 |
| I-131 | Application for Travel Document | Refugee or asylee applying for a refugee travel document | 3 Months |
| I-131 | Application for Travel Document | Permanent resident applying for a re-entry permit | 3 Months |
| I-131 | Application for Travel Document | Haitian Refugee Immigrant Fairness Act (HRIFA) dependent applying for advance parole | 3 Months |
| I-131 | Application for Travel Document | Haitian Refugee Immigrant Fairness Act (HRIFA) principal applying for advance parole | 3 Months |
| I-131 | Application for Travel Document | All other applicants for advance parole | 3 Months |
| I-140 | Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker | Extraordinary ability | 4 Months |
| I-140 | Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker | Outstanding professor or researcher | 4 Months |
| I-140 | Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker | Multinational executive or manager | 4 Months |
| I-140 | Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker | Advanced degree or exceptional ability | 4 Months |
| I-140 | Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker | Skilled worker or professional | 4 Months |
| I-140 | Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker | Unskilled worker | 4 Months |
| I-140 | Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker | Advanced degree or exceptional ability requesting a National Interest Waiver | 4 Months |
| I-140 | Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker | Schedule A Nurses | 4 Months |
| I-212 | Application for Permission to Reapply for Admission into the U.S. After Deportation or Removal | Readmission after deportation or removal | November 10, 2008 |
| I-360 | Petition for Amerasian, Widow(er), or Special Immigrant | All other special immigrants | 5 Months |
| I-360 | Petition for Amerasian, Widow(er), or Special Immigrant | Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) | November 10, 2008 |
| I-360 | Petition for Amerasian, Widow(er), or Special Immigrant | Religious workers | 5 Months |
| I-485 | Application to Register Permanent Residence or to Adjust Status | Employment-based adjustment applications | 4 Months |
| I-485 | Application to Register Permanent Residence or to Adjust Status | Based on grant of asylum more than 1 year ago | 4 Months |
| I-485 | Application to Register Permanent Residence or to Adjust Status | Based on refugee admission more than 1 year ago | 4 Months |
| I-526 | Immigrant Petition By Alien Entrepreneur | For use by an entrepreneur who wishes to immigrate to the United States | 5 Months |
| I-539 | Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status | Change status to the F or M academic or vocational student categories | 2.5 Months |
| I-539 | Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status | Change of status to H or L dependents | 2.5 Months |
| I-539 | Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status | Change Status to the J exchange visitor category | 2.5 Months |
| I-539 | Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status | All other change of status applications | 2.5 Months |
| I-539 | Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status | Extension of Stay for F or M academic or vocational students | 2.5 Months |
| I-539 | Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status | Extension of stay for H and L dependents | 2.5 Months |
| I-539 | Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status | Extension of Stay for J exchange visitors | 2.5 Months |
| I-539 | Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status | All other extension applications | 2.5 Months |
| I-612 | Application for Waiver of the Foreign Residence Requirement | Application for a waiver of the 2-year foreign residence requirement based on exceptional hardship or persecution | 4 Months |
| I-730 | Refugee/Asylee Relative Petition | Petition for accompanying family members of a refugee or an asylee | 5 Months |
| I-765 | Application for Employment Authorization | Based on an approved asylum application [(a)(5)] | 3 Months |
| I-765 | Application for Employment Authorization | Based on a request by a qualified F-1 academic student. [(c)(3)] | 3 Months |
| I-765 | Application for Employment Authorization | Based on a pending asylum application [(c)(8)] | 3 Weeks |
| I-765 | Application for Employment Authorization | Based on a pending I-485 adjustment application [(c)(9)] | 3 Months |
| I-765 | Application for Employment Authorization | Based on TPS for El Salvador [(c)(19)(a)(12)] | 3 Months |
| I-765 | Application for Employment Authorization | Based on TPS for Honduras/Nicaragua [(c)(19), (a)(12)] | 3 Months |
| I-765 | Application for Employment Authorization | All other applications for employment authorization | 3 Months |
| I-817 | Application for Family Unity Benefits | Voluntary departure under the family unity program | 6 Months |
| I-824 | Application for Action on an Approved Application or Petition | To request further action on an approved application or petition | 3 Months |
| I-829 | Petition by Entrepreneur to Remove Conditions | Removal of lawful permanent resident conditions (immigrant investors) | 6 Months |
| I-829 | Petition by Entrepreneur to Remove Conditions | Removal of lawful permanent resident conditions (immigrant investors) based on PL107-273 | 6 Months |
| I-90 | Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card | Initial issuance or replacement | 3.5 Months |
| I-90 | Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card | 10-year renewal | 3.5 Months |
| I-90A | Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card | Initial issuance or replacement for Special Agricultral Workers (SAW) | 3.5 Months |
| N-565 | Application for Replacement Naturalization/Citizenship Document | U.S. citizen applying for a replacement of naturalization or citizenship certificate | 6 Months |
| N-600 | Application for Certification of Citizenship | Application for recognition of U.S. citizenship | 5 Months |
| N-643 | Application for Certification of Citizenship on Behalf of an Adopted Child | Application for recognition of U.S. citizenship on behalf of an adopted child | 5 Months |
| Form | Title | Classification or Basis for Filing: | Processing Timeframe: |
|---|---|---|---|
| I-102 | Application for Replacement/Initial Nonimmigrant Arrival/Departure Record | Initial issuance or replacement of a Form I-94 | September 3, 2010 |
| I-129F | Petition for Alien Fiance(e) | K-1/K-2 – Not yet married – fiance and/or dependent child | 5 Months |
| I-129F | Petition for Alien Fiance(e) | K-3/K-4 – Already married – spouse and/or dependent child | 5 Months |
| I-130 | Petition for Alien Relative | Permanent resident filling for a spouse or child under 21 | 5 Months |
| I-130 | Petition for Alien Relative | U.S. citizen filing for a spouse, parent, or child under 21 | 5 Months |
| I-130 | Petition for Alien Relative | U.S. citizen filing for an unmarried son or daughter over 21 | 5 Months |
| I-130 | Petition for Alien Relative | Permanent resident filling for an unmarried son or daughter over 21 | 5 Months |
| I-130 | Petition for Alien Relative | U.S. citizen filing for a married son or daughter over 21 | 5 Months |
| I-130 | Petition for Alien Relative | U.S. citizen filing for a brother or sister | 5 Months |
| I-131 | Application for Travel Document | Refugee or asylee applying for a refugee travel document | 3 Months |
| I-131 | Application for Travel Document | Permanent resident applying for a re-entry permit | 3 Months |
| I-131 | Application for Travel Document | Haitian Refugee Immigrant Fairness Act (HRIFA) dependent applying for advance parole | 3 Months |
| I-131 | Application for Travel Document | Haitian Refugee Immigrant Fairness Act (HRIFA) principal applying for advance parole | 3 Months |
| I-131 | Application for Travel Document | All other applicants for advance parole | 3 Months |
| I-140 | Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker | Extraordinary ability | July 7, 2010 |
| I-140 | Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker | Outstanding professor or researcher | July 7, 2010 |
| I-140 | Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker | Multinational executive or manager | July 7, 2010 |
| I-140 | Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker | Advanced degree or exceptional ability | July 7, 2010 |
| I-140 | Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker | Skilled worker or professional | July 7, 2010 |
| I-140 | Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker | Unskilled worker | July 7, 2010 |
| I-140 | Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker | Advanced degree or exceptional ability requesting a National Interest Waiver | July 7, 2010 |
| I-140 | Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker | Schedule A Nurses | July 7, 2010 |
| I-212 | Application for Permission to Reapply for Admission into the U.S. After Deportation or Removal | Readmission after deportation or removal | May 2, 2009 |
| I-360 | Petition for Amerasian, Widow(er), or Special Immigrant | All other special immigrants | 5 Months |
| I-360 | Petition for Amerasian, Widow(er), or Special Immigrant | Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) | May 2, 2009 |
| I-360 | Petition for Amerasian, Widow(er), or Special Immigrant | Religious workers | 5 Months |
| I-485 | Application to Register Permanent Residence or to Adjust Status | Employment-based adjustment applications | June 26, 2010 |
| I-485 | Application to Register Permanent Residence or to Adjust Status | Under the Haitian Refugee Immigrant Fairness Act (HRIFA) | 4 Months |
| I-485 | Application to Register Permanent Residence or to Adjust Status | Under the Indochinese Adjustment Act | 4 Months |
| I-485 | Application to Register Permanent Residence or to Adjust Status | Under the Nicaraguan and Central American Relief Act (NACARA) | 4 Months |
| I-485 | Application to Register Permanent Residence or to Adjust Status | Based on grant of asylum more than 1 year ago | July 24, 2010 |
| I-485 | Application to Register Permanent Residence or to Adjust Status | Based on refugee admission more than 1 year ago | 4 Months |
| I-526 | Immigrant Petition By Alien Entrepreneur | For use by an entrepreneur who wishes to immigrate to the United States | September 30, 2008 |
| I-612 | Application for Waiver of the Foreign Residence Requirement | Application for a waiver of the 2-year foreign residence requirement based on exceptional hardship or persecution | 4 Months |
| I-730 | Refugee/Asylee Relative Petition | Petition for accompanying family members of a refugee or an asylee | 5 Months |
| I-765 | Application for Employment Authorization | Based on an approved asylum application [(a)(5)] | 3 Months |
| I-765 | Application for Employment Authorization | Based on a request by a qualified F-1 academic student. [(c)(3)] | 3 Months |
| I-765 | Application for Employment Authorization | Based on a pending asylum application [(c)(8)] | 3 Weeks |
| I-765 | Application for Employment Authorization | Based on a pending I-485 adjustment application [(c)(9)] | 3 Months |
| I-765 | Application for Employment Authorization | Based on TPS for El Salvador [(c)(19)(a)(12)] | 3 Months |
| I-765 | Application for Employment Authorization | Based on TPS for Honduras/Nicaragua [(c)(19), (a)(12)] | 3 Months |
| I-765 | Application for Employment Authorization | All other applications for employment authorization | 3 Months |
| I-817 | Application for Family Unity Benefits | Voluntary departure under the family unity program | 6 Months |
| I-821 | Application for Temporary Protected Status | El Salvador extension | 3 Months |
| I-821 | Application for Temporary Protected Status | El Salvador initial or late filing | 3 Months |
| I-821 | Application for Temporary Protected Status | Honduras and Nicaragua extension | 3 Months |
| I-821 | Application for Temporary Protected Status | Honduras and Nicaragua initial or late filing | 3 Months |
| I-824 | Application for Action on an Approved Application or Petition | To request further action on an approved application or petition | May 14, 2010 |
| I-90 | Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card | Initial issuance or replacement | December 31, 2009 |
| I-90 | Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card | 10-year renewal | October 2, 2007 |
| N-565 | Application for Replacement Naturalization/Citizenship Document | U.S. citizen applying for a replacement of naturalization or citizenship certificate | 6 Months |
| N-600 | Application for Certification of Citizenship | Application for recognition of U.S. citizenship | 5 Months |
| Form | Title | Classification or Basis for Filing: | Processing Timeframe: |
|---|---|---|---|
| I-102 | Application for Replacement/Initial Nonimmigrant Arrival/Departure Record | Initial issuance or replacement of a Form I-94 | 2.5 Months |
| I-129 | Petition for A Nonimmigrant Worker | Blanket L | 2 Months |
| I-129 | Petition for A Nonimmigrant Worker | E – Treaty traders and investors | 2 Months |
| I-129 | Petition for A Nonimmigrant Worker | H-1B – Specialty occupation – Visa to be issued abroad | 2 Months |
| I-129 | Petition for A Nonimmigrant Worker | H-1B – Specialty occupation – Change of status in the U.S. | 2 Months |
| I-129 | Petition for A Nonimmigrant Worker | H-1B – Specialty occupation – Extension of stay in the U.S. | July 17, 2010 |
| I-129 | Petition for A Nonimmigrant Worker | H-1C – Nurses | 2 Months |
| I-129 | Petition for A Nonimmigrant Worker | H-2A – Temporary workers | 1 Months |
| I-129 | Petition for A Nonimmigrant Worker | H-2B – Other temporary workers | 1 Months |
| I-129 | Petition for A Nonimmigrant Worker | H-3 – Temporary trainees | 2 Months |
| I-129 | Petition for A Nonimmigrant Worker | L – Intracompany transfers | 1 Months |
| I-129 | Petition for A Nonimmigrant Worker | O – Extraordinary ability | 2 Weeks |
| I-129 | Petition for A Nonimmigrant Worker | P – Athletes, artists, and entertainers | 2 Weeks |
| I-129 | Petition for A Nonimmigrant Worker | Q – Cultural exchange visitors and exchange visitors participating in the Irish Peace process | 2 Months |
| I-129 | Petition for A Nonimmigrant Worker | R – Religious occupation | 2 Months |
| I-129 | Petition for A Nonimmigrant Worker | TN – North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) professional | 2 Months |
| I-129F | Petition for Alien Fiance(e) | K-1/K-2 – Not yet married – fiance and/or dependent child | 5 Months |
| I-129F | Petition for Alien Fiance(e) | K-3/K-4 – Already married – spouse and/or dependent child | 5 Months |
| I-130 | Petition for Alien Relative | Permanent resident filling for a spouse or child under 21 | 5 Months |
| I-130 | Petition for Alien Relative | U.S. citizen filing for a spouse, parent, or child under 21 | 5 Months |
| I-130 | Petition for Alien Relative | U.S. citizen filing for an unmarried son or daughter over 21 | 5 Months |
| I-130 | Petition for Alien Relative | Permanent resident filling for an unmarried son or daughter over 21 | 5 Months |
| I-130 | Petition for Alien Relative | U.S. citizen filing for a married son or daughter over 21 | 5 Months |
| I-130 | Petition for Alien Relative | U.S. citizen filing for a brother or sister | June 26, 2010 |
| I-131 | Application for Travel Document | Refugee or asylee applying for a refugee travel document | 3 Months |
| I-131 | Application for Travel Document | Permanent resident applying for a re-entry permit | 3 Months |
| I-131 | Application for Travel Document | Haitian Refugee Immigrant Fairness Act (HRIFA) dependent applying for advance parole | 3 Months |
| I-131 | Application for Travel Document | Haitian Refugee Immigrant Fairness Act (HRIFA) principal applying for advance parole | 3 Months |
| I-131 | Application for Travel Document | All other applicants for advance parole | 3 Months |
| I-140 | Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker | Extraordinary ability | November 1, 2007 |
| I-140 | Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker | Outstanding professor or researcher | November 1, 2007 |
| I-140 | Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker | Multinational executive or manager | November 1, 2007 |
| I-140 | Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker | Advanced degree or exceptional ability | November 1, 2007 |
| I-140 | Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker | Skilled worker or professional | November 1, 2007 |
| I-140 | Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker | Unskilled worker | November 1, 2007 |
| I-140 | Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker | Advanced degree or exceptional ability requesting a National Interest Waiver | November 1, 2007 |
| I-140 | Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker | Schedule A Nurses | November 1, 2007 |
| I-212 | Application for Permission to Reapply for Admission into the U.S. After Deportation or Removal | Readmission after deportation or removal | 4 Months |
| I-360 | Petition for Amerasian, Widow(er), or Special Immigrant | All other special immigrants | 5 Months |
| I-360 | Petition for Amerasian, Widow(er), or Special Immigrant | Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) | 5 Months |
| I-360 | Petition for Amerasian, Widow(er), or Special Immigrant | Religious workers | 5 Months |
| I-485 | Application to Register Permanent Residence or to Adjust Status | Employment-based adjustment applications | July 24, 2010 |
| I-485 | Application to Register Permanent Residence or to Adjust Status | Under the Haitian Refugee Immigrant Fairness Act (HRIFA) | 4 Months |
| I-485 | Application to Register Permanent Residence or to Adjust Status | Under the Indochinese Adjustment Act | 4 Months |
| I-485 | Application to Register Permanent Residence or to Adjust Status | Under the Nicaraguan and Central American Relief Act (NACARA) | 4 Months |
| I-485 | Application to Register Permanent Residence or to Adjust Status | Based on grant of asylum more than 1 year ago | 4 Months |
| I-485 | Application to Register Permanent Residence or to Adjust Status | Based on refugee admission more than 1 year ago | 4 Months |
| I-526 | Immigrant Petition By Alien Entrepreneur | For use by an entrepreneur who wishes to immigrate to the United States | 5 Months |
| I-539 | Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status | Change status to the F or M academic or vocational student categories | August 2, 2010 |
| I-539 | Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status | Change of status to H or L dependents | August 2, 2010 |
| I-539 | Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status | Change Status to the J exchange visitor category | August 2, 2010 |
| I-539 | Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status | All other change of status applications | August 2, 2010 |
| I-539 | Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status | Extension of Stay for F or M academic or vocational students | August 2, 2010 |
| I-539 | Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status | Extension of stay for H and L dependents | August 2, 2010 |
| I-539 | Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status | Extension of Stay for J exchange visitors | August 2, 2010 |
| I-539 | Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status | All other extension applications | August 2, 2010 |
| I-612 | Application for Waiver of the Foreign Residence Requirement | Application for a waiver of the 2-year foreign residence requirement based on exceptional hardship or persecution | 4 Months |
| I-730 | Refugee/Asylee Relative Petition | Petition for accompanying family members of a refugee or an asylee | 5 Months |
| I-751 | Petition to Remove the Conditions on Residence | Removal of lawful permanent resident conditions (spouses of U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents | 6 Months |
| I-765 | Application for Employment Authorization | Based on an approved asylum application [(a)(5)] | 3 Months |
| I-765 | Application for Employment Authorization | Based on a request by a qualified F-1 academic student. [(c)(3)] | 3 Months |
| I-765 | Application for Employment Authorization | Based on a pending asylum application [(c)(8)] | November 6, 2010 |
| I-765 | Application for Employment Authorization | Based on a pending I-485 adjustment application [(c)(9)] | 3 Months |
| I-765 | Application for Employment Authorization | Based on TPS for El Salvador [(c)(19)(a)(12)] | 3 Months |
| I-765 | Application for Employment Authorization | Based on TPS for Honduras/Nicaragua [(c)(19), (a)(12)] | 3 Months |
| I-765 | Application for Employment Authorization | All other applications for employment authorization | 3 Months |
| I-817 | Application for Family Unity Benefits | Voluntary departure under the family unity program | 6 Months |
| I-821 | Application for Temporary Protected Status | El Salvador extension | 3 Months |
| I-821 | Application for Temporary Protected Status | El Salvador initial or late filing | 3 Months |
| I-821 | Application for Temporary Protected Status | Honduras and Nicaragua extension | 3 Months |
| I-821 | Application for Temporary Protected Status | Honduras and Nicaragua initial or late filing | 3 Months |
| I-824 | Application for Action on an Approved Application or Petition | To request further action on an approved application or petition | 3 Months |
| I-829 | Petition by Entrepreneur to Remove Conditions | Removal of lawful permanent resident conditions (immigrant investors) | 6 Months |
| I-829 | Petition by Entrepreneur to Remove Conditions | Removal of lawful permanent resident conditions (immigrant investors) based on PL107-273 | 6 Months |
| I-90 | Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card | Initial issuance or replacement | 3.5 Months |
| I-90 | Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card | 10-year renewal | April 1, 2009 |
| N-565 | Application for Replacement Naturalization/Citizenship Document | U.S. citizen applying for a replacement of naturalization or citizenship certificate | 6 Months |
| N-600 | Application for Certification of Citizenship | Application for recognition of U.S. citizenship | 5 Months |
| N-643 | Application for Certification of Citizenship on Behalf of an Adopted Child | Application for recognition of U.S. citizenship on behalf of an adopted child | June 16, 2010 |
Those pondering the prospect of petitioning for Immigration benefits should note that the above estimated processing times only account for USCIS processing and do not take into account possible processing at the United States National Visa Center (NVC) as well as Consular Processing times at a US Embassy, US Consulate, American Institute, or US Mission abroad.
For related information please see: US fiance visa.
6th January 2011
American Institute Taiwan: Holiday Closing Schedule 2011
Posted by : admin
For those American Citizens or United States Lawful Permanent Residents who frequently travel abroad, it may sometimes prove necessary to obtain services or assistance from an American Mission abroad. In an effort to forestall fruitless trips by the public to US Posts abroad the administration of this blog routinely posts the holiday closing schedules of various US Missions in Asia. This blogger has personally found that arriving at a US Embassy only to find it closed due to observance of an American or foreign holiday can be frustrating. The following was quoted directly from the official website of the American Institute in Taiwan:
January 2011
- Monday, January 3: Consular Section In-Service Day (AIT/Taipei)
- Monday, January 17: Birthday of Martin Luther King, Jr. (US Holiday)
February 2011
- Tuesday, February 1: Consular Section In-Service Day (AIT/Taipei)
- Wednesday, February 2 to Monday, February 7: Chinese Lunar New Year Holidays (Local)
- Monday, February 21: Washington’s Birthday (US Holiday)
- Monday, February 28: Peace Memorial Day (Local)
March 2011
- Tuesday, March 1: Consular Section In-Service Day (AIT/Taipei)
April 2011
- Friday, April 1: Consular Section In-Service Day (AIT/Taipei)
- Monday, April 4: Children’s day (Local)
- Tuesday, April 5: Tomb Sweeping Day (Local)
May 2011
- Monday, May 30: Memorial Day (US Holiday)
June 2011
- Monday, June 6: Dragon Boat Festival (Local)
July 2011
- Monday, July 4: Independence Day (US Holiday)
September 2011
- Thursday, September 1: Consular Section In-Service Day (AIT/Taipei)
- Monday, September 5: Labor Day (US Holiday)
- Monday, September 12: Mid-Autumn Festival (Local)
October 2011
- Monday, October 3: Consular Section In-Service Day (AIT/Taipei)
- Monday, October 10: National Holiday (Local) also Columbus Day (US Holiday)
November 2011
- Tuesday, November 1: Consular Section In-Service Day (AIT/Taipei)
- Friday, November 11: Veterans Day (US Holiday)
- Thursday, November 24: Thanksgiving Day (US Holiday)
December 2011
- Thursday, December 1: Consular Section In-Service Day (AIT/Taipei)
- Monday, December 26: Christmas Day (Observed US Holiday)
Those seeking services such as issuance of a Consular Report of Birth Abroad, US Passport, or additional visa pages are well advised to contact and American Citizen Services Section of the nearest US Mission with jurisdiction over the area in which one is physically present.
For the homepage of the official website of the American Institute in Taiwan please click HERE
Those seeking US non-immigrant visas such as the B-2 visa for tourists, the B-1 visa for short term business travelers, the F-1 visa for students, or the J-1 visa for exchange visitors are likely to have their visa application adjudicated by a non-immigrant visa unit of a US Mission abroad. Those seeking immigrant visas for Taiwanese loved ones are likely to process their application through an Immigrant Visa Unit. It should be noted that for purposes of visa application processing the K-1 visa, although technically a non-immigrant US fiance visa, is generally treated as if it were an immigrant visa.
Those seeking Business or Investment visas such as the E-2 visa for Traders, the L-1 visa for intra-company transferees, or an EB-5 visa for immigrant investors should note that an approved immigration petition may be required before a US Mission abroad will process a visa application.
Those seeking advice and/or counsel regarding a pending US immigration matter are well advised to contact a licensed American lawyer in order to gain insight into the practical application of US Immigration law upon the unique facts in a given case.
For related information please see: CR1 Visa.
3rd January 2011
US Embassy Vietnam Holiday Closing Schedule for 2011
Posted by : admin
The administration of this blog routinely posts the holiday closing schedules of various United States Missions in Asia in an effort to share this information with those Americans or foreign nationals traveling outside of the United States who need to obtain services which can only be provided by an American Post abroad. The following is the holiday closing schedule of the US Embassy in Hanoi, Vietnam as quoted from the US Embassy’s official website:
The following list of official holidays for 2011 has been approved consistent with the provisions of 3 FAM 2336 (American holidays) and the revised Article 73 of the Vietnamese Labor Code. The U.S. Embassy will be closed on these days.
| Holiday | Date | Day | Type |
| New Year’s Day | January 03 | Monday | A&V |
| Martin Luther King’s Birthday | January 17 | Monday | A |
| Lunar New Year Festival | February 02-07 | Wed-Mon | V |
| President’s Day | February 21 | Monday | A |
| National Anniversary of Hung Kings | April 12 | Tuesday | V |
| Victory Day (observed) | May 02 | Tuesday | V |
| International Labor Day (observed) | May 03 | Wednesday | V |
| Memorial Day | May 30 | Monday | A |
| Independence Day | July 04 | Monday | A |
| Vietnamese National Day | September 02 | Friday | V |
| Labor Day | September 05 | Monday | A |
| Columbus Day | October 10 | Monday | A |
| Veterans Day | November 11 | Friday | A |
| Thanksgiving Day | November 24 | Thursday | A |
| Christmas Day (observed) | Dec 26 | Monday | A |
V = Vietnamese Holidays
A – American Holidays
Those seeking services such as issuance of a Consular Report of Birth Abroad, US Passport, or addition of visa pages to an already issued US Passport are well advised to contact the American Citizen Services Section of the nearest US Embassy, US Consulate, American Institute, or US Mission with appropriate Consular jurisdiction.
Those seeking the homepage of the official website of the US Embassy in Hanoi, Vietnam should click HERE.
Those seeking information regarding matters pertaining to United States Immigration are well-advised to contact a licensed American lawyer in order to receive advice and counsel regarding the practical implications of the application of relevant American Immigration law.
Those seeking Non-immigrant visas such as the B-2 visa for tourists, the B-1 visa for business travelers, the J-1 visa for cultural exchange visitors, or the F-1 visa for students are likely to have their visa application processed through the Non-immigrant Visa Unit of the nearest American Mission.
Generally, those seeking US family based visas are required to process their application through an Immigrant Visa Unit of a US Mission abroad. For purposes of visa application processing the non-immigrant US fiance visa (the K-1 visa category) is treated in essentially the same manner as the Immigrant spouse visas such as the CR1 Visa or the IR1 Visa.
Those seeking business and/or investment based visas such as the EB-5 visa or the L-1 visa are generally required to process an Immigration petition at the Department of Homeland Security‘s United States Citizenship and Immigration Service (USCIS) prior to Consular Processing of the visa application.
For related information please see: US Visa Vietnam or K-1 Visa Vietnam.
2nd January 2011
US Consulate Hong Kong & Macau: Holiday Closing Schedule for 2011
Posted by : admin
Those who may have seen this blog previously might have taken notice of the fact that the administration routinely posts the holiday closing schedules of US Missions in the Asia-Pacific regions in an effort to provide a courtesy to those with business at an American Mission abroad. The following is quoted directly from the official website of the US Consulate in Hong Kong (Special Autonomous Region of the Peoples’ Republic of China) with American Consular jurisdiction over the Special Autonomous Region of Macau:
The following list includes all official holidays (both U.S. and Hong Kong) for 2011.
| Saturday, January 1 (observed Friday, December 31) |
New Year’s Day | A |
| Monday, January 17 | Martin Luther King’s Birthday | A |
| Thursday, February 3 | Lunar New Year’s Day | L |
| Friday, February 4 | Second day of the Lunar New Year | L |
| Monday, February 21 | President’s Day | A |
| Tuesday, April 5 | Ching Ming Festival | L |
| Friday, April 22 | Good Friday | L |
| Monday, April 25 | Easter Monday | L |
| Monday, May 2 | The day following Labor Day | L |
| Monday, May 30 | Memorial Day | A |
| Monday, June 6 | Tuen Ng Festival | L |
| Friday, July 1 | Hong Kong SAR Establishment Day | L |
| Monday, July 4 | Independence Day | A |
| Monday, September 5 | Labor Day | A |
| Tuesday, September 13 | The day following Chinese Mid-Autumn Festival | L |
| Wednesday, October 5 | Chung Yeung Festival | L |
| Monday, October 10 | Columbus Day | A |
| Friday, November 11 | Veterans Day | A |
| Thursday, November 24 | Thanksgiving Day | A |
| Sunday, December 25 (observed Monday, December 26) |
Christmas Day | A/L |
| Tuesday, December 27 | Second Week-Day after Christmas Day | L |
A – American Holiday/L – Local Holiday
Notes: Three local holidays falling on Saturdays are not included in the 2011 holiday schedule (the third day of the Lunar New Year, February 5, the day following Good Friday, April 23 and National Day, October 1)
Those seeking services such as the issuance of a Consular Report of Birth Abroad, US Passport, or addition of new visa pages to a previously issued US passport are well advised to contact the American Citizen Services Section of the nearest US Embassy, Consulate, American Institute, or Mission with Consular jurisdiction over the geographical area in which one is located.
Those seeking the homepage of the official website of the United States Consulate: Hong Kong & Macau please click HERE.
Those interested in retaining advice and counsel regarding United States Immigration matters are well advised to contact a licensed American Attorney in order to be apprised of the practical implications of the application of relevant United States immigration law.
Those seeking family based visas typically process their visa application through an Immigrant Visa Unit of a US Mission abroad, for purposes of visa application processing US fiance visa applications (the K-1 visa category) are treated in essentially the same manner as Immigrant visa categories like the CR-1 visa and the IR-1 visa categories.
Business and Investment visa applications for visa categories such as the L-1 visa and the EB-5 visa are typically processed after the adjudication of an initial immigration petition at the American Department of Homeland Security‘s United States Citizenship and Immigration Service (USCIS).
Those seeking non-immigrant visas to the USA under visa categories such as the B-2 (US Tourist Visa), B-1 (US Business Visa), F-1 (US Student Visa), J-1 (US Cultural Exchange Visitor) categories are generally required to process their visa application through a Non-immigrant Visa Unit of a US Mission in their jurisdiction.
For related information please see: US Visa China.
17th December 2010
Routinely, the administration of this blog posts the estimated processing times of the United States Citizenship and Immigration Service (USCIS) Centers in an effort to provide clarity and information to those interested in the US Immigration process. It should be noted that for visa petitioners seeking a K-1 visa or an Immigrant visa such as a CR-1 visa, these estimated processing times do not take into account the need to process many visa applications through the National Visa Center (NVC) and possibly a US Embassy or US Consulate abroad. Below are the estimated processing times for the Texas Service Center, the Nebraska Service Center, the Vermont Service Center and the California Service Center as quoted from the official website of USCIS:
| Form | Title | Classification or Basis for Filing: | Processing Timeframe: |
|---|---|---|---|
| I-102 | Application for Replacement/Initial Nonimmigrant Arrival/Departure Record | Initial issuance or replacement of a Form I-94 | 2.5 Months |
| I-129 | Petition for A Nonimmigrant Worker | Blanket L | 2 Months |
| I-129 | Petition for A Nonimmigrant Worker | E – Treaty traders and investors | 2 Months |
| I-129 | Petition for A Nonimmigrant Worker | H-1B – Specialty occupation – Visa to be issued abroad | 2 Months |
| I-129 | Petition for A Nonimmigrant Worker | H-1B – Specialty occupation – Change of status in the U.S. | 2 Months |
| I-129 | Petition for A Nonimmigrant Worker | H-1B – Specialty occupation – Extension of stay in the U.S. | 2 Months |
| I-129 | Petition for A Nonimmigrant Worker | H-2A – Temporary workers | 1 Months |
| I-129 | Petition for A Nonimmigrant Worker | H-2B – Other temporary workers | 1 Months |
| I-129 | Petition for A Nonimmigrant Worker | H-3 – Temporary trainees | 2 Months |
| I-129 | Petition for A Nonimmigrant Worker | L – Intracompany transfers | 1 Months |
| I-129 | Petition for A Nonimmigrant Worker | O – Extraordinary ability | 2 Weeks |
| I-129 | Petition for A Nonimmigrant Worker | P – Athletes, artists, and entertainers | 2 Weeks |
| I-129 | Petition for A Nonimmigrant Worker | Q – Cultural exchange visitors and exchange visitors participating in the Irish Peace process | 2 Months |
| I-129 | Petition for A Nonimmigrant Worker | R – Religious occupation | August 28, 2010 |
| I-129 | Petition for A Nonimmigrant Worker | TN – North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) professional | 2 Months |
| I-129F | Petition for Alien Fiance(e) | K-1/K-2 – Not yet married – fiance and/or dependent child | 5 Months |
| I-129F | Petition for Alien Fiance(e) | K-3/K-4 – Already married – spouse and/or dependent child | 5 Months |
| I-130 | Petition for Alien Relative | Permanent resident filling for a spouse or child under 21 | 5 Months |
| I-130 | Petition for Alien Relative | U.S. citizen filing for a spouse, parent, or child under 21 | 5 Months |
| I-130 | Petition for Alien Relative | U.S. citizen filing for an unmarried son or daughter over 21 | February 8, 2007 |
| I-130 | Petition for Alien Relative | Permanent resident filling for an unmarried son or daughter over 21 | May 7, 2010 |
| I-130 | Petition for Alien Relative | U.S. citizen filing for a married son or daughter over 21 | June 1, 2010 |
| I-130 | Petition for Alien Relative | U.S. citizen filing for a brother or sister | September 1, 2006 |
| I-131 | Application for Travel Document | All other applicants for advance parole | 3 Months |
| I-360 | Petition for Amerasian, Widow(er), or Special Immigrant | All other special immigrants | 5 Months |
| I-360 | Petition for Amerasian, Widow(er), or Special Immigrant | Religious workers | 5 Months |
| I-485 | Application to Register Permanent Residence or to Adjust Status | Employment-based adjustment applications | 4 Months |
| I-526 | Immigrant Petition By Alien Entrepreneur | For use by an entrepreneur who wishes to immigrate to the United States | 5 Months |
| I-539 | Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status | Change status to the F or M academic or vocational student categories | 2.5 Months |
| I-539 | Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status | Change of status to H or L dependents | 2.5 Months |
| I-539 | Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status | Change Status to the J exchange visitor category | 2.5 Months |
| I-539 | Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status | All other change of status applications | 2.5 Months |
| I-539 | Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status | Extension of Stay for F or M academic or vocational students | 2.5 Months |
| I-539 | Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status | Extension of stay for H and L dependents | 2.5 Months |
| I-539 | Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status | Extension of Stay for J exchange visitors | 2.5 Months |
| I-539 | Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status | All other extension applications | 2.5 Months |
| I-612 | Application for Waiver of the Foreign Residence Requirement | Application for a waiver of the 2-year foreign residence requirement based on exceptional hardship or persecution | 4 Months |
| I-751 | Petition to Remove the Conditions on Residence | Removal of lawful permanent resident conditions (spouses of U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents | 6 Months |
| I-765 | Application for Employment Authorization | Based on an approved asylum application [(a)(5)] | 3 Months |
| I-765 | Application for Employment Authorization | Based on a request by a qualified F-1 academic student. [(c)(3)] | 3 Months |
| I-765 | Application for Employment Authorization | Based on a pending asylum application [(c)(8)] | 3 Weeks |
| I-765 | Application for Employment Authorization | Based on a pending I-485 adjustment application [(c)(9)] | 3 Months |
| I-765 | Application for Employment Authorization | Based on TPS for El Salvador [(c)(19)(a)(12)] | 3 Months |
| I-765 | Application for Employment Authorization | Based on TPS for Honduras/Nicaragua [(c)(19), (a)(12)] | 3 Months |
| I-765 | Application for Employment Authorization | All other applications for employment authorization | 3 Months |
| I-817 | Application for Family Unity Benefits | Voluntary departure under the family unity program | 6 Months |
| I-821 | Application for Temporary Protected Status | El Salvador extension | June 16, 2010 |
| I-821 | Application for Temporary Protected Status | El Salvador initial or late filing | June 16, 2010 |
| I-821 | Application for Temporary Protected Status | Honduras and Nicaragua extension | June 16, 2010 |
| I-821 | Application for Temporary Protected Status | Honduras and Nicaragua initial or late filing | June 16, 2010 |
| I-824 | Application for Action on an Approved Application or Petition | To request further action on an approved application or petition | 3 Months |
| I-829 | Petition by Entrepreneur to Remove Conditions | Removal of lawful permanent resident conditions (immigrant investors) | 6 Months |
| I-829 | Petition by Entrepreneur to Remove Conditions | Removal of lawful permanent resident conditions (immigrant investors) based on PL107-273 | September 12, 1997 |
blah
| Form | Title | Classification or Basis for Filing: | Processing Timeframe: |
|---|---|---|---|
| I-102 | Application for Replacement/Initial Nonimmigrant Arrival/Departure Record | Initial issuance or replacement of a Form I-94 | 2.5 Months |
| I-129 | Petition for A Nonimmigrant Worker | Blanket L | August 23, 2006 |
| I-129 | Petition for A Nonimmigrant Worker | E – Treaty traders and investors | 2 Months |
| I-129 | Petition for A Nonimmigrant Worker | H-1B – Specialty occupation – Visa to be issued abroad | August 23, 2006 |
| I-129 | Petition for A Nonimmigrant Worker | H-1B – Specialty occupation – Change of status in the U.S. | August 23, 2006 |
| I-129 | Petition for A Nonimmigrant Worker | H-1B – Specialty occupation – Extension of stay in the U.S. | August 23, 2006 |
| I-129 | Petition for A Nonimmigrant Worker | H-1C – Nurses | 2 Months |
| I-129 | Petition for A Nonimmigrant Worker | H-2A – Temporary workers | 1 Months |
| I-129 | Petition for A Nonimmigrant Worker | H-2B – Other temporary workers | 1 Months |
| I-129 | Petition for A Nonimmigrant Worker | H-3 – Temporary trainees | August 23, 2006 |
| I-129 | Petition for A Nonimmigrant Worker | L – Intracompany transfers | 1 Months |
| I-129 | Petition for A Nonimmigrant Worker | O – Extraordinary ability | August 23, 2006 |
| I-129 | Petition for A Nonimmigrant Worker | P – Athletes, artists, and entertainers | August 23, 2006 |
| I-129 | Petition for A Nonimmigrant Worker | Q – Cultural exchange visitors and exchange visitors participating in the Irish Peace process | August 23, 2006 |
| I-129 | Petition for A Nonimmigrant Worker | R – Religious occupation | August 23, 2006 |
| I-129 | Petition for A Nonimmigrant Worker | TN – North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) professional | August 23, 2006 |
| I-129F | Petition for Alien Fiance(e) | K-1/K-2 – Not yet married – fiance and/or dependent child | June 2, 2006 |
| I-129F | Petition for Alien Fiance(e) | K-3/K-4 – Already married – spouse and/or dependent child | June 2, 2006 |
| I-130 | Petition for Alien Relative | Permanent resident filling for a spouse or child under 21 | 5 Months |
| I-130 | Petition for Alien Relative | U.S. citizen filing for a spouse, parent, or child under 21 | 5 Months |
| I-130 | Petition for Alien Relative | U.S. citizen filing for an unmarried son or daughter over 21 | 5 Months |
| I-130 | Petition for Alien Relative | Permanent resident filling for an unmarried son or daughter over 21 | 5 Months |
| I-130 | Petition for Alien Relative | U.S. citizen filing for a married son or daughter over 21 | 5 Months |
| I-130 | Petition for Alien Relative | U.S. citizen filing for a brother or sister | March 16, 2005 |
| I-131 | Application for Travel Document | Refugee or asylee applying for a refugee travel document | 3 Months |
| I-131 | Application for Travel Document | Permanent resident applying for a re-entry permit | 3 Months |
| I-131 | Application for Travel Document | Haitian Refugee Immigrant Fairness Act (HRIFA) dependent applying for advance parole | 3 Months |
| I-131 | Application for Travel Document | Haitian Refugee Immigrant Fairness Act (HRIFA) principal applying for advance parole | 3 Months |
| I-131 | Application for Travel Document | All other applicants for advance parole | 3 Months |
| I-140 | Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker | Extraordinary ability | 4 Months |
| I-140 | Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker | Outstanding professor or researcher | 4 Months |
| I-140 | Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker | Multinational executive or manager | 4 Months |
| I-140 | Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker | Advanced degree or exceptional ability | 4 Months |
| I-140 | Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker | Skilled worker or professional | 4 Months |
| I-140 | Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker | Unskilled worker | 4 Months |
| I-140 | Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker | Advanced degree or exceptional ability requesting a National Interest Waiver | 4 Months |
| I-140 | Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker | Schedule A Nurses | 4 Months |
| I-212 | Application for Permission to Reapply for Admission into the U.S. After Deportation or Removal | Readmission after deportation or removal | November 11, 2008 |
| I-360 | Petition for Amerasian, Widow(er), or Special Immigrant | All other special immigrants | 5 Months |
| I-360 | Petition for Amerasian, Widow(er), or Special Immigrant | Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) | November 11, 2008 |
| I-360 | Petition for Amerasian, Widow(er), or Special Immigrant | Religious workers | 5 Months |
| I-485 | Application to Register Permanent Residence or to Adjust Status | Employment-based adjustment applications | 4 Months |
| I-485 | Application to Register Permanent Residence or to Adjust Status | Based on grant of asylum more than 1 year ago | 4 Months |
| I-485 | Application to Register Permanent Residence or to Adjust Status | Based on refugee admission more than 1 year ago | 4 Months |
| I-526 | Immigrant Petition By Alien Entrepreneur | For use by an entrepreneur who wishes to immigrate to the United States | 5 Months |
| I-539 | Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status | Change status to the F or M academic or vocational student categories | 2.5 Months |
| I-539 | Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status | Change of status to H or L dependents | 2.5 Months |
| I-539 | Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status | Change Status to the J exchange visitor category | 2.5 Months |
| I-539 | Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status | All other change of status applications | 2.5 Months |
| I-539 | Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status | Extension of Stay for F or M academic or vocational students | 2.5 Months |
| I-539 | Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status | Extension of stay for H and L dependents | 2.5 Months |
| I-539 | Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status | Extension of Stay for J exchange visitors | 2.5 Months |
| I-539 | Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status | All other extension applications | 2.5 Months |
| I-612 | Application for Waiver of the Foreign Residence Requirement | Application for a waiver of the 2-year foreign residence requirement based on exceptional hardship or persecution | 4 Months |
| I-730 | Refugee/Asylee Relative Petition | Petition for accompanying family members of a refugee or an asylee | 5 Months |
| I-765 | Application for Employment Authorization | Based on an approved asylum application [(a)(5)] | 3 Months |
| I-765 | Application for Employment Authorization | Based on a request by a qualified F-1 academic student. [(c)(3)] | 3 Months |
| I-765 | Application for Employment Authorization | Based on a pending asylum application [(c)(8)] | 3 Weeks |
| I-765 | Application for Employment Authorization | Based on a pending I-485 adjustment application [(c)(9)] | 3 Months |
| I-765 | Application for Employment Authorization | Based on TPS for El Salvador [(c)(19)(a)(12)] | 3 Months |
| I-765 | Application for Employment Authorization | Based on TPS for Honduras/Nicaragua [(c)(19), (a)(12)] | 3 Months |
| I-765 | Application for Employment Authorization | All other applications for employment authorization | 3 Months |
| I-817 | Application for Family Unity Benefits | Voluntary departure under the family unity program | 6 Months |
| I-821 | Application for Temporary Protected Status | El Salvador extension | 3 Months |
| I-821 | Application for Temporary Protected Status | El Salvador initial or late filing | 3 Months |
| I-821 | Application for Temporary Protected Status | Honduras and Nicaragua extension | 3 Months |
| I-821 | Application for Temporary Protected Status | Honduras and Nicaragua initial or late filing | 3 Months |
| I-824 | Application for Action on an Approved Application or Petition | To request further action on an approved application or petition | 3 Months |
| I-829 | Petition by Entrepreneur to Remove Conditions | Removal of lawful permanent resident conditions (immigrant investors) | 6 Months |
| I-829 | Petition by Entrepreneur to Remove Conditions | Removal of lawful permanent resident conditions (immigrant investors) based on PL107-273 | 6 Months |
| I-90 | Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card | Initial issuance or replacement | 3.5 Months |
| I-90 | Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card | 10-year renewal | 3.5 Months |
| I-90A | Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card | Initial issuance or replacement for Special Agricultral Workers (SAW) | 3.5 Months |
| N-565 | Application for Replacement Naturalization/Citizenship Document | U.S. citizen applying for a replacement of naturalization or citizenship certificate | 6 Months |
| N-600 | Application for Certification of Citizenship | Application for recognition of U.S. citizenship | 5 Months |
| N-643 | Application for Certification of Citizenship on Behalf of an Adopted Child | Application for recognition of U.S. citizenship on behalf of an adopted child | 5 Months |
blah
| Form | Title | Classification or Basis for Filing: | Processing Timeframe: |
|---|---|---|---|
| I-102 | Application for Replacement/Initial Nonimmigrant Arrival/Departure Record | Initial issuance or replacement of a Form I-94 | August 9, 2010 |
| I-129F | Petition for Alien Fiance(e) | K-1/K-2 – Not yet married – fiance and/or dependent child | 5 Months |
| I-129F | Petition for Alien Fiance(e) | K-3/K-4 – Already married – spouse and/or dependent child | 5 Months |
| I-130 | Petition for Alien Relative | Permanent resident filling for a spouse or child under 21 | 5 Months |
| I-130 | Petition for Alien Relative | U.S. citizen filing for a spouse, parent, or child under 21 | 5 Months |
| I-130 | Petition for Alien Relative | U.S. citizen filing for an unmarried son or daughter over 21 | 5 Months |
| I-130 | Petition for Alien Relative | Permanent resident filling for an unmarried son or daughter over 21 | 5 Months |
| I-130 | Petition for Alien Relative | U.S. citizen filing for a married son or daughter over 21 | 5 Months |
| I-130 | Petition for Alien Relative | U.S. citizen filing for a brother or sister | 5 Months |
| I-131 | Application for Travel Document | Refugee or asylee applying for a refugee travel document | 3 Months |
| I-131 | Application for Travel Document | Permanent resident applying for a re-entry permit | 3 Months |
| I-131 | Application for Travel Document | Haitian Refugee Immigrant Fairness Act (HRIFA) dependent applying for advance parole | 3 Months |
| I-131 | Application for Travel Document | Haitian Refugee Immigrant Fairness Act (HRIFA) principal applying for advance parole | 3 Months |
| I-131 | Application for Travel Document | All other applicants for advance parole | 3 Months |
| I-140 | Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker | Extraordinary ability | 4 Months |
| I-140 | Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker | Outstanding professor or researcher | 4 Months |
| I-140 | Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker | Multinational executive or manager | 4 Months |
| I-140 | Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker | Advanced degree or exceptional ability | 4 Months |
| I-140 | Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker | Skilled worker or professional | 4 Months |
| I-140 | Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker | Unskilled worker | 4 Months |
| I-140 | Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker | Advanced degree or exceptional ability requesting a National Interest Waiver | 4 Months |
| I-140 | Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker | Schedule A Nurses | 4 Months |
| I-212 | Application for Permission to Reapply for Admission into the U.S. After Deportation or Removal | Readmission after deportation or removal | April 17, 2009 |
| I-360 | Petition for Amerasian, Widow(er), or Special Immigrant | All other special immigrants | 5 Months |
| I-360 | Petition for Amerasian, Widow(er), or Special Immigrant | Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) | April 17, 2009 |
| I-360 | Petition for Amerasian, Widow(er), or Special Immigrant | Religious workers | 5 Months |
| I-485 | Application to Register Permanent Residence or to Adjust Status | Employment-based adjustment applications | June 5, 2010 |
| I-485 | Application to Register Permanent Residence or to Adjust Status | Under the Haitian Refugee Immigrant Fairness Act (HRIFA) | 4 Months |
| I-485 | Application to Register Permanent Residence or to Adjust Status | Under the Indochinese Adjustment Act | 4 Months |
| I-485 | Application to Register Permanent Residence or to Adjust Status | Under the Nicaraguan and Central American Relief Act (NACARA) | 4 Months |
| I-485 | Application to Register Permanent Residence or to Adjust Status | Based on grant of asylum more than 1 year ago | May 18, 2010 |
| I-485 | Application to Register Permanent Residence or to Adjust Status | Based on refugee admission more than 1 year ago | 4 Months |
| I-526 | Immigrant Petition By Alien Entrepreneur | For use by an entrepreneur who wishes to immigrate to the United States | October 1, 2008 |
| I-612 | Application for Waiver of the Foreign Residence Requirement | Application for a waiver of the 2-year foreign residence requirement based on exceptional hardship or persecution | 4 Months |
| I-730 | Refugee/Asylee Relative Petition | Petition for accompanying family members of a refugee or an asylee | 5 Months |
| I-765 | Application for Employment Authorization | Based on an approved asylum application [(a)(5)] | 3 Months |
| I-765 | Application for Employment Authorization | Based on a request by a qualified F-1 academic student. [(c)(3)] | 3 Months |
| I-765 | Application for Employment Authorization | Based on a pending asylum application [(c)(8)] | 3 Weeks |
| I-765 | Application for Employment Authorization | Based on a pending I-485 adjustment application [(c)(9)] | 3 Months |
| I-765 | Application for Employment Authorization | Based on TPS for El Salvador [(c)(19)(a)(12)] | 3 Months |
| I-765 | Application for Employment Authorization | Based on TPS for Honduras/Nicaragua [(c)(19), (a)(12)] | 3 Months |
| I-765 | Application for Employment Authorization | All other applications for employment authorization | 3 Months |
| I-817 | Application for Family Unity Benefits | Voluntary departure under the family unity program | 6 Months |
| I-821 | Application for Temporary Protected Status | El Salvador extension | December 1, 2009 |
| I-821 | Application for Temporary Protected Status | El Salvador initial or late filing | December 1, 2009 |
| I-821 | Application for Temporary Protected Status | Honduras and Nicaragua extension | December 1, 2009 |
| I-821 | Application for Temporary Protected Status | Honduras and Nicaragua initial or late filing | December 1, 2009 |
| I-824 | Application for Action on an Approved Application or Petition | To request further action on an approved application or petition | July 1, 2010 |
| I-90 | Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card | Initial issuance or replacement | December 31, 2009 |
| I-90 | Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card | 10-year renewal | 3.5 Months |
| N-565 | Application for Replacement Naturalization/Citizenship Document | U.S. citizen applying for a replacement of naturalization or citizenship certificate | 6 Months |
| N-600 | Application for Certification of Citizenship | Application for recognition of U.S. citizenship | 5 Months |
blah
| Form | Title | Classification or Basis for Filing: | Processing Timeframe: |
|---|---|---|---|
| I-102 | Application for Replacement/Initial Nonimmigrant Arrival/Departure Record | Initial issuance or replacement of a Form I-94 | 2.5 Months |
| I-129 | Petition for A Nonimmigrant Worker | Blanket L | 2 Months |
| I-129 | Petition for A Nonimmigrant Worker | E – Treaty traders and investors | 2 Months |
| I-129 | Petition for A Nonimmigrant Worker | H-1B – Specialty occupation – Visa to be issued abroad | 2 Months |
| I-129 | Petition for A Nonimmigrant Worker | H-1B – Specialty occupation – Change of status in the U.S. | 2 Months |
| I-129 | Petition for A Nonimmigrant Worker | H-1B – Specialty occupation – Extension of stay in the U.S. | June 26, 2010 |
| I-129 | Petition for A Nonimmigrant Worker | H-1C – Nurses | 2 Months |
| I-129 | Petition for A Nonimmigrant Worker | H-2A – Temporary workers | 1 Months |
| I-129 | Petition for A Nonimmigrant Worker | H-2B – Other temporary workers | 1 Months |
| I-129 | Petition for A Nonimmigrant Worker | H-3 – Temporary trainees | 2 Months |
| I-129 | Petition for A Nonimmigrant Worker | L – Intracompany transfers | 1 Months |
| I-129 | Petition for A Nonimmigrant Worker | O – Extraordinary ability | 2 Weeks |
| I-129 | Petition for A Nonimmigrant Worker | P – Athletes, artists, and entertainers | 2 Weeks |
| I-129 | Petition for A Nonimmigrant Worker | Q – Cultural exchange visitors and exchange visitors participating in the Irish Peace process | 2 Months |
| I-129 | Petition for A Nonimmigrant Worker | R – Religious occupation | 2 Months |
| I-129 | Petition for A Nonimmigrant Worker | TN – North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) professional | 2 Months |
| I-129F | Petition for Alien Fiance(e) | K-1/K-2 – Not yet married – fiance and/or dependent child | 5 Months |
| I-129F | Petition for Alien Fiance(e) | K-3/K-4 – Already married – spouse and/or dependent child | 5 Months |
| I-130 | Petition for Alien Relative | Permanent resident filling for a spouse or child under 21 | 5 Months |
| I-130 | Petition for Alien Relative | U.S. citizen filing for a spouse, parent, or child under 21 | 5 Months |
| I-130 | Petition for Alien Relative | U.S. citizen filing for an unmarried son or daughter over 21 | 5 Months |
| I-130 | Petition for Alien Relative | Permanent resident filling for an unmarried son or daughter over 21 | 5 Months |
| I-130 | Petition for Alien Relative | U.S. citizen filing for a married son or daughter over 21 | 5 Months |
| I-130 | Petition for Alien Relative | U.S. citizen filing for a brother or sister | 5 Months |
| I-131 | Application for Travel Document | Refugee or asylee applying for a refugee travel document | 3 Months |
| I-131 | Application for Travel Document | Permanent resident applying for a re-entry permit | 3 Months |
| I-131 | Application for Travel Document | Haitian Refugee Immigrant Fairness Act (HRIFA) dependent applying for advance parole | 3 Months |
| I-131 | Application for Travel Document | Haitian Refugee Immigrant Fairness Act (HRIFA) principal applying for advance parole | 3 Months |
| I-131 | Application for Travel Document | All other applicants for advance parole | 3 Months |
| I-140 | Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker | Extraordinary ability | November 2, 2007 |
| I-140 | Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker | Outstanding professor or researcher | November 2, 2007 |
| I-140 | Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker | Multinational executive or manager | November 2, 2007 |
| I-140 | Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker | Advanced degree or exceptional ability | November 2, 2007 |
| I-140 | Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker | Skilled worker or professional | November 2, 2007 |
| I-140 | Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker | Unskilled worker | November 2, 2007 |
| I-140 | Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker | Advanced degree or exceptional ability requesting a National Interest Waiver | November 2, 2007 |
| I-140 | Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker | Schedule A Nurses | November 2, 2007 |
| I-212 | Application for Permission to Reapply for Admission into the U.S. After Deportation or Removal | Readmission after deportation or removal | 4 Months |
| I-360 | Petition for Amerasian, Widow(er), or Special Immigrant | All other special immigrants | 5 Months |
| I-360 | Petition for Amerasian, Widow(er), or Special Immigrant | Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) | 5 Months |
| I-360 | Petition for Amerasian, Widow(er), or Special Immigrant | Religious workers | 5 Months |
| I-485 | Application to Register Permanent Residence or to Adjust Status | Employment-based adjustment applications | June 26, 2010 |
| I-485 | Application to Register Permanent Residence or to Adjust Status | Under the Haitian Refugee Immigrant Fairness Act (HRIFA) | 4 Months |
| I-485 | Application to Register Permanent Residence or to Adjust Status | Under the Indochinese Adjustment Act | 4 Months |
| I-485 | Application to Register Permanent Residence or to Adjust Status | Under the Nicaraguan and Central American Relief Act (NACARA) | 4 Months |
| I-485 | Application to Register Permanent Residence or to Adjust Status | Based on grant of asylum more than 1 year ago | 4 Months |
| I-485 | Application to Register Permanent Residence or to Adjust Status | Based on refugee admission more than 1 year ago | 4 Months |
| I-526 | Immigrant Petition By Alien Entrepreneur | For use by an entrepreneur who wishes to immigrate to the United States | 5 Months |
| I-539 | Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status | Change status to the F or M academic or vocational student categories | June 26, 2010 |
| I-539 | Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status | Change of status to H or L dependents | June 26, 2010 |
| I-539 | Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status | Change Status to the J exchange visitor category | June 26, 2010 |
| I-539 | Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status | All other change of status applications | June 26, 2010 |
| I-539 | Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status | Extension of Stay for F or M academic or vocational students | June 26, 2010 |
| I-539 | Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status | Extension of stay for H and L dependents | June 26, 2010 |
| I-539 | Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status | Extension of Stay for J exchange visitors | June 26, 2010 |
| I-539 | Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status | All other extension applications | June 26, 2010 |
| I-612 | Application for Waiver of the Foreign Residence Requirement | Application for a waiver of the 2-year foreign residence requirement based on exceptional hardship or persecution | 4 Months |
| I-730 | Refugee/Asylee Relative Petition | Petition for accompanying family members of a refugee or an asylee | 5 Months |
| I-751 | Petition to Remove the Conditions on Residence | Removal of lawful permanent resident conditions (spouses of U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents | 6 Months |
| I-765 | Application for Employment Authorization | Based on an approved asylum application [(a)(5)] | 3 Months |
| I-765 | Application for Employment Authorization | Based on a request by a qualified F-1 academic student. [(c)(3)] | 3 Months |
| I-765 | Application for Employment Authorization | Based on a pending asylum application [(c)(8)] | 3 Weeks |
| I-765 | Application for Employment Authorization | Based on a pending I-485 adjustment application [(c)(9)] | 3 Months |
| I-765 | Application for Employment Authorization | Based on TPS for El Salvador [(c)(19)(a)(12)] | July 10, 2010 |
| I-765 | Application for Employment Authorization | Based on TPS for Honduras/Nicaragua [(c)(19), (a)(12)] | July 7, 2010 |
| I-765 | Application for Employment Authorization | All other applications for employment authorization | 3 Months |
| I-817 | Application for Family Unity Benefits | Voluntary departure under the family unity program | 6 Months |
| I-821 | Application for Temporary Protected Status | El Salvador extension | July 7, 2010 |
| I-821 | Application for Temporary Protected Status | El Salvador initial or late filing | July 7, 2010 |
| I-821 | Application for Temporary Protected Status | Honduras and Nicaragua extension | July 7, 2010 |
| I-821 | Application for Temporary Protected Status | Honduras and Nicaragua initial or late filing | July 7, 2010 |
| I-824 | Application for Action on an Approved Application or Petition | To request further action on an approved application or petition | 3 Months |
| I-829 | Petition by Entrepreneur to Remove Conditions | Removal of lawful permanent resident conditions (immigrant investors) | 6 Months |
| I-829 | Petition by Entrepreneur to Remove Conditions | Removal of lawful permanent resident conditions (immigrant investors) based on PL107-273 | 6 Months |
| I-90 | Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card | Initial issuance or replacement | 3.5 Months |
| I-90 | Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card | 10-year renewal | April 2, 2009 |
| N-565 | Application for Replacement Naturalization/Citizenship Document | U.S. citizen applying for a replacement of naturalization or citizenship certificate | 6 Months |
| N-600 | Application for Certification of Citizenship | Application for recognition of U.S. citizenship | 5 Months |
| N-643 | Application for Certification of Citizenship on Behalf of an Adopted Child | Application for recognition of U.S. citizenship on behalf of an adopted child | May 27, 2010 |
The above estimates are simply that: estimates. However, these time frames do represent a realistic assessment of the probable time it would take to process a visa petition at USCIS. Again, most visa cases require further processing by the Department of State so the above estimates do not reflect the full duration of the US visa process in most cases.
For related information please see: K-1 Visa Thailand or K-3 Visa Thailand.
11th December 2010
Man Loses United States Citizenship and Sentenced for Marriage Fraud
Posted by : admin
The issue of immigration fraud is a serious one. Authorities of the United States government within the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), the Department of State (DOS), the United States Citizenship and Immigration Service (USCIS), the United States Customs and Border Protection Service (USCBP), and the United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement Service (USICE) are all tasked with the responsibility of screening and investigating matters pertaining to visa and immigration fraud. It recently came to this blogger’s attention that the Immigration and Customs Enforcement Service, colloquially referred to as ICE, apprehended a Nigerian man in connection with US visa fraud. To quote directly from the ICE.gov website:
HOUSTON – A Nigerian man on Monday was stripped of his U.S. citizenship at his sentencing hearing for conspiracy to commit marriage fraud, marriage fraud, naturalization fraud, and making a false statement to a federal agency. The sentence was announced by U.S. Attorney José Angel Moreno, southern District of Texas. The investigation was conducted by the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) Office of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI). Ibraheem Adeneye, 33, who is originally from Nigeria and became a naturalized U.S. citizen, was convicted of the charges May 7 by a jury. He has been in federal custody on these charges for about six months. U.S. District Judge Kenneth Hoyt sentenced Adeneye to the time he has already served in prison. The judge also granted the government’s motion to strip Adeneye of his U.S. citizenship. Adeneye is now subject to deportation.
Denaturalization is the process by which a person is stripped of United States Citizenship and returned to foreign national status. Regarding the issue of sham marriage and the United States Immigration process, the report went on to note:
The ICE HSI investigation was initiated in 2008. Adeneye indicated that he was engaged in brokering sham marriages between Nigerian nationals and U.S. citizens so that the Nigerians could obtain immigration benefits, ultimately leading to U.S. citizenship. In return, the U.S. citizen “spouses” received cash payments to assist the Nigerians in the deception.
Incorporating a sham marriage into an effort to obtain United States visa benefits is a serious crime as can be seen from the above cited report. Those thinking of filing for American Immigration benefits should note that it is NEVER a wise course of action to lie to immigration authorities or attempt to deceive the United States government or its officers. Even if one becomes a United States Citizen, then previous fraudulent activity during the visa process could result in possible de-naturalization and criminal charges.
It should further be noted that those seeking American visa benefits should consult a licensed attorney in an effort to gain insight into the immigration process as only an American attorney licensed and in good standing in at least one US state is entitled to provide advice, counsel, and/or possible representation before the United States Department of Homeland Security and the Department of State.
For related information please see: K1 visa Thailand or K1 Visa Singapore.
8th December 2010
For those who frequently read this web log will undoubtedly note that a frequent topic discussed within these pages is Comprehensive Immigration Reform. In a recent document promulgated by the Congressional Research Service and distributed by the American Immigration Lawyers Association (AILA), the matter of legal inadmissibility was discussed in the context of Comprehensive Immigration Reform. The following is a direct quotation from the document published by the Congressional Research Service (CRS) and distributed by AILA:
Legislation aimed at comprehensive immigration reform may take a fresh look at the grounds for excluding foreign nationals that were enacted in the 1990s. All foreign nationals seeking visas must undergo admissibility reviews performed by U.S. Department of State (DOS) consular officers abroad. These reviews are intended to ensure that they are not ineligible for visas or admission under the grounds for inadmissibility spelled out in the INA. These criteria are: health related grounds; criminal history; security and terrorist concerns; public charge (e.g., indigence); seeking to work without proper labor certification; illegal entrants and immigration law violations; ineligible for citizenship; and, aliens previously removed. Over the past year, Congress incrementally revised the grounds for inadmissibility. Two laws enacted in the 110th Congress altered longstanding policies on exclusion of aliens due to membership in organizations deemed terrorist.
Terrorism has been a key concern for American government officials across the entire spectrum of agencies associated with Immigration and travel to the United States. Public health and safety are also significant issues for American Immigration and Consular Officers. To quote the aforementioned publication further:
The 110th Congress also revisited the health-related grounds of inadmissibility for those who were diagnosed with HIV/AIDS. More recently, the “H1N1 swine flu” outbreak focused the spotlight on inadmissibility screenings at the border. Questions about the public charge ground of inadmissibility arose in the context of Medicaid and the state Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) in the 111th Congress.
Influenza has been concerning to many health officials in recent years. However, for many the removal of HIV/AIDS from the list of diseases which can result in a finding of inadmissibility was a relief as many individuals who were previously inadmissible to the USA may have immediately become admissible after HIV/AIDS was no longer a legal grounds for finding someone inadmissible to the USA. This issue was especially acute in the LGBT community as HIV and AIDS issues seem to have a disproportionate impact upon individuals and couples within that community. The report went on to note that issues pertaining to legal inadmissibility are likely to be discussed in the context of proposed Comprehensive Immigration Reform legislation:
While advocacy of sweeping changes to the grounds for inadmissibility has not emerged, proponents of comprehensive immigration reform might seek to ease a few of these provisions as part of the legislative proposals. The provision that makes an alien who is unlawfully present in the United States for longer than 180 days inadmissible, for example, might be waived as part of a legislative package that includes legalization provisions. Tightening up the grounds for inadmissibility, conversely, might be part of the legislative agenda among those who support more restrictive immigration reform policies.
Many people are found inadmissible to the United States every year. Among those found inadmissible are those who are unable to seek a remedy in the form of either an I-601 waiver or an I-212 waiver application for advance permission to reenter the USA. Individuals who have been found inadmissible and cannot seek a waiver are colloquially referred to as being unwaivably excluded from the United States. Bearing this in mind, many findings of legal inadmissibility can be remedied through use of a waiver. That said, the waiver process and the standard of proof for obtaining a waiver can be difficult to overcome. For this reason, many bi-national couples opt to utilize the services of an American immigration attorney to assist in matters related to United States Immigration. It is always prudent to ask for the credentials of anyone claiming expertise in United States Immigration law as only a licensed American attorney is permitted to provide advice, counsel, and representation in pending matters before the United States Citizenship and Immigration Service (USCIS), the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), and the American State Department.
For related information please see: US Visa Denial.
6th December 2010
In an interesting recent decision by the United States Circuit Court of Appeals for the 8th Circuit the Court found that they indeed have the prerogative to review and rescind an I-130 denial. The following is a direct quotation from the Court’s opinion which was distributed by the American Immigration Lawyers Association (AILA):
In addition, interpreting the statutory language as the government advocates would force this court to classify every decision involving fact-finding by the Attorney General as discretionary and would remove all such decisions from judicial review. That is not a reasonable interpretation in light of the provisions of the Immigration and Nationality Act itself setting forth our standard of review for factual determinations in removal proceedings.
As one could likely gather from the above cited quote, the United States government’s position regarding denial of I-130 petitions basically could have created a situation in which Courts would not be able to review the decisions made by adjudicators at the United States Citizenship and Immigration Service (USCIS). It was interesting that the Court was not persuaded by this argument and reviewed the decision notwithstanding government objection.
For those who are unaccustomed to the US visa process, the I-130 petition is generally the first step in bringing an alien immediate relative to the USA. This petition is often utilized by those wishing to bring a foreign spouse to the United States. In cases where the I-130 petition is approved, the case file is usually forwarded on to the United States National Visa Center (NVC) which is an agency under the jurisdiction of the American State Department. The NVC acts as a sort of clearinghouse for visa applications. Therefore a Vietnamese spouse will likely process his or her visa application at the United States Consulate in Ho Chi Minh City via the NVC. Meanwhile, a Thai spouse will likely process his or her visa application through the US Embassy in Bangkok by way of the National Visa Center. Chinese spouses may process through one of the many US Consulates in China or the US Embassy in Beijing. The same can be said for India as the US Missions in both countries have dramatically changes Consular Processing procedures to provide more convenient options to American visa seekers after NVC processing.
The issue of judicial review in matters pertaining to United States immigration is a complicated one. Therefore, differing aspects of the US visa process may be subject to varying levels of judicial review depending upon the circumstances of a given case. For this reason some bi-national couples opt to retain attorney assistance in processing visa petitions and applications as a licensed professional can provide significant insight into overall processing procedures and provide strategies for streamlining the visa process.
Fore related information please see: K1 Visa Thailand, IR1 Visa Thailand, or CR1 Visa Thailand.
Pages
Archives
- June 2023
- April 2023
- February 2023
- January 2023
- November 2022
- October 2022
- September 2022
- August 2022
- July 2022
- June 2022
- May 2022
- April 2022
- March 2022
- February 2022
- January 2022
- December 2021
- November 2021
- October 2021
- September 2021
- August 2021
- July 2021
- June 2021
- May 2021
- April 2021
- March 2021
- February 2021
- January 2021
- December 2020
- November 2020
- October 2020
- September 2020
- August 2020
- July 2020
- June 2020
- May 2020
- April 2020
- March 2020
- February 2020
- January 2020
- December 2019
- November 2019
- September 2019
- August 2019
- July 2019
- June 2019
- May 2019
- April 2019
- March 2019
- February 2019
- January 2019
- December 2018
- November 2018
- October 2018
- September 2018
- August 2018
- July 2018
- June 2018
- May 2018
- April 2018
- March 2018
- February 2018
- December 2017
- November 2017
- October 2017
- September 2017
- July 2017
- June 2017
- May 2017
- April 2017
- March 2017
- February 2017
- January 2017
- December 2016
- November 2016
- October 2016
- September 2016
- August 2016
- July 2016
- June 2016
- May 2016
- April 2016
- March 2016
- February 2016
- January 2016
- December 2015
- November 2015
- October 2015
- September 2015
- August 2015
- July 2015
- June 2015
- March 2015
- January 2015
- November 2014
- September 2014
- August 2014
- July 2014
- June 2014
- May 2014
- April 2014
- February 2014
- January 2014
- December 2013
- November 2013
- October 2013
- September 2013
- August 2013
- July 2013
- June 2013
- October 2012
- September 2012
- April 2012
- February 2012
- January 2012
- October 2011
- August 2011
- July 2011
- June 2011
- May 2011
- April 2011
- March 2011
- February 2011
- January 2011
- December 2010
- November 2010
- October 2010
- September 2010
- August 2010
- July 2010
- June 2010
- May 2010
- April 2010
- March 2010
- February 2010
- January 2010
- December 2009
- November 2009
- October 2009
- September 2009
- August 2009
- July 2009
- June 2009
- May 2009
- April 2009
- March 2009
Categories
- Adjustment of Status (51)
- American Business (27)
- American Institute Taiwan (33)
- arrest warrant (2)
- ASEAN Business (84)
- ASEAN Visa (22)
- Australian Migration (1)
- Brazil Business (2)
- Cambodia Business (26)
- China Business (51)
- Comprehensive Immigration Reform (16)
- CR1 Visa (147)
- Department of Homeland Security (99)
- Transportation Security Administration (TSA) (10)
- USCBP (39)
- USICE (23)
- E1 visa (13)
- E2 Visa (17)
- EB-1 Visa (7)
- EB-2 Visa (7)
- EB-3 Visa (7)
- EB-4 Visa (7)
- EB5 Visa (34)
- Ecommerce (6)
- Editorial (24)
- Election 2012 (6)
- F1 Visa Thailand (25)
- Fiance Visa Thailand (178)
- Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (FCPA) (3)
- Gaming Law (7)
- General Legal Information (115)
- I-601 Waiver (24)
- India Business (7)
- Indonesia Business (6)
- IR1 Visa (114)
- J1 visa (15)
- J1 Visa Thailand (29)
- K-3 Visa Thailand (160)
- K1 Visa (195)
- K2 Visa (104)
- K1 Visa Thailand (212)
- K2 Visa Thailand (77)
- K3 Visa (158)
- L1 Visa (36)
- Laos Business (22)
- Legal News (19)
- Thailand Legal News (12)
- Legal Opinion (107)
- Legal Process Outsourcing (5)
- lgbt immigration (97)
- same sex visa (95)
- Malaysia Business (14)
- Miscellaneous (107)
- Myanmar (Burma) Business (19)
- National Visa Center (47)
- News (86)
- Online Gaming (7)
- Opinion (29)
- prenuptial agreement (3)
- Russia Business (6)
- South Africa Business (3)
- T Visa (1)
- Thai Family Law (24)
- Thailand Business (158)
- Thailand company (35)
- Amity Treaty (20)
- Thailand Condo (11)
- Thailand Customs (1)
- Thailand Embassy (20)
- Thailand Marriage Registration (22)
- Thailand Notary (3)
- Thailand Property (39)
- Thailand Real Estate (39)
- Thailand Visa (153)
- Thailand Work Permit (16)
- Upcoming Legislation (61)
- US Business (27)
- US Company Registration (13)
- US LLC (9)
- US Citizenship (27)
- US Constitution (22)
- States' Rights (16)
- US Consulate HCMC (70)
- US Emassy Mongolia (10)
- US Embassy Afghanistan (4)
- US Embassy Kabul (4)
- US Embassy Australia (35)
- us embassy bangkok (178)
- US Embassy Bangladesh (51)
- US Embassy Dhaka (51)
- US Embassy Brunei Darussalam (10)
- US Embassy Burma (90)
- US Embassy Myanmar (86)
- US Embassy Rangoon (84)
- US Embassy Yangon (84)
- US Embassy Cambodia (85)
- US Embassy China (64)
- US Consulate ChengDu (52)
- US Consulate Guangzhou (53)
- US Consulate Hong Kong (28)
- US Consulate Macau (28)
- US Consulate Shanghai (53)
- US Consulate Shenyang (53)
- US Consulate Wuhan (52)
- US Embassy Beijing (51)
- US Embassy Fiji (39)
- US Embassy Kiribati (38)
- US Embassy Nauru (38)
- US Embassy Suva (38)
- US Embassy Tonga (38)
- US Embassy Tuvalu (37)
- US Embassy India (81)
- US Consulate Chennai (49)
- US Consulate Hyderabad (48)
- US Consulate Kolkata (48)
- US Consulate Mumbai (47)
- US Embassy New Dehli (71)
- US Embassy Indonesia (72)
- US Embassy Jakarta (71)
- US Embassy Iraq (23)
- US Embassy Japan (52)
- US Embassy Kyrgyz Republic (Kyrgyzstan) (9)
- US Embassy Laos (51)
- US Embassy Malaysia (74)
- US Embassy Maldives (44)
- US Embassy Mauritius (33)
- US Embassy Mongolia (33)
- US Embassy Nepal (71)
- US Embassy Kathmandu (69)
- US Embassy New Zealand (35)
- US Embassy Pakistan (28)
- US Embassy Islamabad (27)
- US Embassy Papua New Guinea (42)
- US Embassy Philippines (45)
- US Embassy Manila (44)
- US Embassy Russia (13)
- US Embassy Singapore (69)
- US Embassy South Korea (44)
- US Embassy Sri Lanka (45)
- US Embassy Tokyo (49)
- US Embassy Turkmenistan (8)
- US Embassy Uzbekistan (8)
- US Embassy Vietnam (78)
- US Consulate HCMC (1)
- US Embassy Hanoi (75)
- US State Department (64)
- US Mission ASEAN (9)
- US Taxes (7)
- US Tourist Visa (69)
- US Visa (97)
- US Visa and Immigration (414)
- US Embassy Thailand (187)
- US Consulate Chiang Mai (120)
- US Embassy Thailand (187)
- US Visa Thailand (299)
- US Warrants (20)
- Extradition (13)
- USCIS (184)
- Vietnam Business (11)
- Visa Waiver (39)
- Weird Law (8)
- ข่าวกฎหมาย (1)
- ข่าวในพม่า (2)
- ธุรกิจในนพม่า (2)
- ตลาดหลักทรัพย์กัมพูชา (1)
- ธุรกิจกัมพูชา (1)
- ธุรกิจในกัมพูชา (1)
- ธุรกิจในประเทศจีน (6)
- ธุรกิจในประเทศลาว (2)
- ธุรกิจในอาเซียน (1)
- ธูรกิจในประเทศไทย (6)
- บริการทางกฎหมายจีน (2)
- บริษัทอเมริกัน (5)
- ธุรกิจในอเมริกา (2)
- ภาษีอเมริกัน (1)
- วีซ่าคู่เพศเดียวกัน (3)
- วีซ่าไทย (1)
- โนตารี (1)
- ้วีซ่าอเมริกาจากประเทศไทย (59)
-
RSS Feeds
The hiring of a lawyer is an important decision that should not be based solely on advertisement. Before you decide, ask us to send you free written information about our qualifications and experience. The information presented on this site should not be construed to be formal legal advice nor the formation of a lawyer/client relationship.