blog-hdr.gif

Integrity Legal

17th Dec
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:

Field Office Processing Dates for California Service Center as of: October 31, 2010
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

Field Office Processing Dates for Nebraska Service Center as of: October 31, 2010
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

Field Office Processing Dates for Texas Service Center as of: October 31, 2010
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

Field Office Processing Dates for Vermont Service Center as of: October 31, 2010
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.


16th Dec
2010

Those who read this blog may likely have noticed that the issue of Thai immigration is a frequent topic of discussion. Recently, this author came upon an interesting announcement regarding the issuance of Thai reentry permits at the Suvarnabhumi International Airport in Bangkok, Thailand. The following is quoted directly from the official website of Suvarnabhumi International Airport:

The Re-Entry Application Procedures and Requirements At Suvarnabhumi Airport
Date : 07 – 12 – 10
1. Aliens must submit the applicatoin by themselves.
2. The date of submitting application must be the date of departure.
3. Gather the required documents as below
- Passport or travel document (1 original plus 1 copy)
- One recent photograph (4X6 CM.)
- Fees – Single 1,000 Baht
- Multiple 3,800 Baht
4. Submit the application and required documents at Immigration Departure Division (East Zone), Suvarnabhumi Airport.
5. The service open daily from now on

In a previous posting on this blog, the administration pondered the prospect of Thai reentry permits and whether they would ever again be available at the airport as opposed to the Royal Thai Immigration Headquarters at Chaeng Wattana. It would appear that from this point onwards, Thai reentry permits will be available to departing foreign nationals at the airport.

For those who are unfamiliar with the protocols and rules associated with Thai immigration, anyone present in the Kingdom of Thailand on a Thai visa must obtain a reentry permit prior to leaving the Kingdom of Thailand. Those who fail to obtain a Thai reentry permit prior to departing Thailand may lose their Thai visa status upon departure. For this reason, reentry permits should be obtained by anyone in Thai visa status who wishes to return to Thailand. A frequently asked question in this vein is: do I need a reentry permit if I am present in the Kingdom on a visa exemption? The short answer: no. Those who enter the country on a Thailand visa exemption cannot obtain a reentry permit as they are not technically in possession of a valid Thai visa. Those present in the Kingdom of Thailand on a Thai visa extension are required to obtain a Thai reentry permit prior to departure lest the foreign national fall out of status entirely upon departing Thailand. The same can be said for those who are present in Thailand with lawful permanent residence. A Permanent Resident in Thailand must receive authorization to leave the country whilst simultaneously maintaining lawful status in the Kingdom or else face the prospect of falling entirely out of status upon departure.

Those who are present in the Kingdom of Thailand on a multiple entry one year Thai visa should not need to obtain a Thai reentry permit when departing the Kingdom, but those with a multiple entry visa are generally required to depart the Kingdom at least every 90 days in order to maintain lawful status.

Fore related information please see: Thailand business visa or Thai Work Permit.


16th Dec
2010

This blogger recently cam across an interesting report from the Department of Homeland Security. As discussed in previous postings on this blog, the Southwestern border of the USA has been the scene of increasing efforts by American State, Federal, and local authorities to stem the flow of undocumented immigrants to the USA. To quote directly from the report:

Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary Janet Napolitano today held a quarterly conference call with sheriffs and police chiefs from 30 jurisdictions along the Southwest border to discuss the Department’s ongoing support for state and local law enforcement in their efforts to keep their communities safe from violence and other threats.

It would appear the the Department of Homeland Security is working more closely with local authorities in order to increase security along the United States-Mexican border. The aforementioned report went on to further note:

Since January 2009, DHS has committed unprecedented resources along the Southwest border. The Border Patrol is better staffed today than at any time in its 86-year history, having doubled the number of agents from approximately 10,000 in 2004 to more than 20,500 today. In addition, Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has doubled the number of personnel assigned to Border Enforcement Security Task Forces; increased the number of intelligence analysts working along the U.S.-Mexico border; quintupled deployments of Border Liaison Officers; and begun screening 100 percent of southbound rail shipments for illegal weapons, drugs, and cash—for the first time ever.

Secretary Napolitano also highlighted critical programs that assist state and local law enforcement in making their communities safer. In July, DHS announced more than $47 million in fiscal year 2010 Operation Stonegarden grants for Southwest border states. Based on risk, cross-border traffic and border-related threat intelligence, 82 percent of 2009 and 2010 Operation Stonegarden funds went to Southwest border states—up from 59 percent in 2008.

DHS has also expanded the Secure Communities initiative—which uses biometric information and services to identify and remove criminal aliens in state prisons and local jails—from 14 jurisdictions in 2008 to more than 800 today, including all jurisdictions along the Southwest border.

The Department of Homeland Security’s role has increased dramatically along the Southern border of the USA. In a previous blog post this author noted that the Department of Homeland Security’s United States Customs and Border Protection Service (USCBP) has been using sophisticated technology such as iris scanners in an effort to bio-metrically monitor travelers crossing the border between the USA and Mexico. Pursuant to legislation passed in the 1990s Customs and Border Protection has the authority to place foreign individuals into expedited removal proceedings which can result in a bar to admission for the foreign national for 5 years after the proceedings have concluded.

The situation along the Southern US border may become more tense as inflows of undocumented immigrants are likely to continue necessitating further action by authorities such as USCBP and local law enforcement. It is hoped that this problem can be dealt with in such a way that it does the least amount of harm to all concerned.

Fore related information please see: I-601 waiver or US Visa Denial.


15th Dec
2010

Those who read this blog may have taken note of previous postings which discussed recent events occurring in the realm of American online gaming regulation. Recently, this administrator read a posting on casinogamblingweb.com by Terry Goodwin. To quote directly from the posting:

[Senator Harry] Reid shocked many in the gaming industry late last week when he revealed that he was supporting a bill that would regulate online poker in the US. Each state would be able to opt out of the legislation, but clearly the goal for Reid was to help Nevada gaming companies with existing casinos.

Senator Reid’s support could prove to be essential to passage of online gaming regulation legislation. However, not all seem enthusiastic about Mr. Ried’s proposed legislation:

As the details of the bill have emerged, online players have become more weary of Reid’s motives. One of the more interesting stipulations surrounds the possibility that all online poker operators seeking a license would have to halt their services to US customers for a period of fifteen consecutive months once the legislation is finalized and passed.

The issue of gaming in general can be controversial in the United States and around the globe, but the issues surrounding online gaming bring to light all sorts of legal and policy issues as Larry Rutherford noted in his article also on casinogamblingweb.com:

University of Illinois Business Professor and longtime opponent of online gambling regulations in the US John Kindt has again made statements about the issue of late…

Apparently this professor advocates strongly against online gaming. Many opponents to gaming legislation cite the problems which can arise as a result of the spread of gaming. That said, Rutherford’s posting pointed out that online gaming is becoming increasingly prevalent:

Senator Harry Reid and Representative Barney Frank are both pursuing online gambling legislation that would regulate the industry. The lawmakers take the opposite position of Kindt, understanding that Internet gambling is already a big part of society in the US….

One facet of the online gaming debate that many feel is often overlooked in the overall discussion of the various aspects of the issue is the economic argument in favor of online gaming. As Rutherford’s piece went on to note further:

Online gambling would only help the economy recover with the thousands of jobs regulations would create. Millions of dollars in tax revenue that is currently going out of the US would also stay within the borders. Instead of paying companies in other countries, the millions of online gamblers would be pumping money into US-based companies that pay taxes and spend money in the country.

In addition to the revenue and jobs, online gambling regulations would also place spending limits on Internet gamblers, something that currently does not exist in full regulation. Problem gambling is addressed in Representative Frank’s online gambling bill, and almost certainly would be included in any legislation proposal by Senator Reid passed as an amendment to the tax cuts bill.

Although no one can foresee what the overall impact of this legislation could be. There are many who feel that properly regulated online gaming in the United States would be a significant benefit to the American economy as jobs would be created to deal with what appears to be substantial demand for services both directly and indirectly related to gaming.


14th Dec
2010

Since recent economic developments have caused turmoil in the American economy, it is this blogger’s opinion that few are willing to look at the positive aspects of the United States economy. As a business platform the United States of America is still one of the best countries to host businesses conducting trade, providing services, or conducting manufacturing. To quote directly from another website, locationusa.com, which discusses issues surrounding the United States economy at length:

U.S. affiliates of foreign companies employ more than five million U.S. workers and support millions more indirectly. There is no question that investing in the United States brings with it many advantages. With a population of more than 300 million and the largest economy in the world, the United States is the most important market for any global company. The American work force ranks as one of the best educated, most productive, and most innovative in the world. As a place to do business, the United States offers a predictable and transparent legal system, outstanding infrastructure, and access to the world’s most lucrative consumer market.

Although it may seem counter-intuitive at first blush, legal immigration has a tremendous positive impact upon local economies. This is especially true where immigrants are investing in the United States economy or setting up a business in the USA. One of the primary ways in which immigrants can be beneficial to the USA is through foreign direct investment. Any money invested in the United States could be viewed as a net positive if one were looking at global competition for foreign direct investment as a “zero sum” game. Furthermore, investment in the USA creates jobs. As stated above, the United States labor market is one of the most sophisticated and efficient on the planet. This is one of the many reasons why foreign companies set up offices in the United States as American Citizens and Lawful Permanent Residents are some of the best educated and best equipped to handle complex and difficult tasks. Also, the infrastructure of the United States is ranked high compared to other nations around the globe. In short, the United States of America is an optimal location to engage in business activity aimed at attracting customers from both the USA, which has a very dynamic consumer market, and the world at large.

The EB-5 Immigrant Investor visa is a very useful travel document for those who wish to both invest and work in the United States. This visa is a highly sought after travel document since it provides the bearer with lawful permanent residence upon lawful admission to the USA at a Port of Entry. Those interested in obtaining an EB-5 Visa should conduct research and take note of the fact that Immigrant Investors wishing to enjoy an EB5 visa should be willing to invest a minimum of five hundred thousand (500,000) United States dollars. Those seeking to invest in an “un-targeted” EB-5 program should note that such an investment must generally be at least one million (1,000,000) US dollars.

Those who wish to invest in a small business in the United States may find the the US E-2 visa beneficial as this travel document may be used to travel to the USA to oversee an enterprise located stateside. It should be noted that the E-2 is a non-immigrant visa and therefore, those wishing to immigrate to the USA to reside may not be well served by an E-2 visa.

For related information please see: EB-5 Visa China or EB-5 Visa Thailand.


13th Dec
2010

ประเด็นเรื่องการฉ้อโกงในการเข้าเมืองเป็นเรื่องที่ร้ายแรงเรื่องหนึ่ง เจ้าหน้าที่รัฐของสหรัฐอเมริกาในกระทรวงความมั่นคงแห่งมาตุภูมิ (USCIS) กระทรวงของรัฐ (DOS) หน่วยบริการคนเข้าเมืองและพลเมืองสหรัฐอเมริกา (USCBP) และหน่วยบังคับการคนเข้าเมืองและศุลกากร(USICE)ทั้งหมดนี้อยู่ในความรับผิดชอบที่จะต้องตรวจสอบและสอบสวนเกี่ยวกับการฉ้อฉลเรื่องวีซ่าและการเข้าเมือง ผู้เขียนคิดว่ามีความน่าสนใจในเรื่องการบริการคนเข้าเมืองและการพิธีการทางศุลกากร ได้มีการอ้างอย่างเป็นทางการในฐานะ ICEถึงการจับกุมชาวไนจีเรียที่มีส่วนพัวพันกับการปลอมแปลงวีซ่าสหรัฐอเมริกา อ้างโดยตรงจากเว็บไซต์ ICE.gov

ฮูสตั้น- เมื่อวันจันทร์มีการถอนสัญชาติอเมริกันของชายชาวไนจีเรียที่ถูกตัดสินว่า สมรู้ร่วมคิดในการฉ้อฉลการแต่งงาน ฉ้อฉลเรื่องแปลงสัญชาติ และปลอมแปลงข้อความต่างๆต่อตัวแทนของรัฐ คำตัดสินนี้ได้มมีการแถลงโดยทนายสหรัฐอเมริกาโจส์ แองเจิ้ล โมเรโน ทางใต้ของรัฐเท็กซัส การสอบสวนได้ดำเนินการโดยการบังคับการทางศุลกากรและคนเข้าเมืองสหรัฐอเมริกา (ICE) สำนักงานการสอบสวนความมั่นคงแห่งมาตุภูมิ (HSI) อิบบราฮิม อดีนีน อายุ 33 ปีผู้ซึ่งมีถิ่นกำเนิดที่ไนจีเรียและได้รับการแปลงสัญชาติเป็นพลเมืองสหรัฐอเมริกาถูกตัดสินโดยคณะลูกขุน เมื่อวันที่ 7 พฤษภาคม เขาอยู่ในความควบคุมขอองส่วนกลางเป็นเวลา 6 เดือน ผู้พิพากษาเขตในสหรัฐอเมริกาเคนเนท ฮอทพิพากษาให้อดีนีนจำคุกในเรือนจำ ผู้พิพากษายังได้รับคำภร้องจากรัฐบาลให้ถอนสัญชาติสหรัฐอเมริกา อดีนีนยังถูกเนรเทศออกนอกประเทศด้วย

การทำให้ขาดสิทธิจากการเป็นพลเมืองเป็นกระบวนการที่บุคคลนั้นถูกถอนสัญชาติสหรัฐอเมริกาและกลับไปถือสัญชาติอื่น ในประเด็นของการปลอมแปลงการแต่งงานและกระบวนการเข้าเมมืองสหรัฐอเมริกา มีรายงานว่า

การสอบสวน ICE HIS เริ่มต้นเมื่อปี 2008 อดีนีนนั้นเกี่ยวพันกับการเป็นนายหน้าระหว่างคนสัญชาติไนจีเรียและพลเมืองสหรัฐอเมริกาเพื่อที่ว่าคนสัญชาติไนจีเรียจะได้รับสิทธิประโยชน์ทางการเข้าเมือง ทั้งหมดนี้เพื่อนำไปสู่การเป็นพลเมืองสหรัฐอเมริกา “คู่หมั้น”ชาวอเมริกันนั้นได้รับค่าตอบแทนในการหลอกลวงเป็นเงินสด

การร่วมมือกันฉ้อฉลเรื่องการแต่งงานในการที่จะได้รับสิทธิประโยชน์จากวีซ่าสหรัฐอเมริกานั้นเป็นอาชญากรรมที่ร้ายแรงซึ่งเห็นได้จากรายงานที่กล่าวมาแล้วข้างบน ผู้ที่ประสงค์จะได้รับสิทธิประโยชน์ทางการเข้าเมืองอเมริกันนั้นพึงระลึกไว้เสมอว่า การที่จะหลอกเจ้าหน้าที่การเข้าเมืองหรือพยายามที่จะหลอกลวงรัฐบาลสหรัฐอเมริกาหรือเจ้าหน้าที่ต่างๆนั้น ไม่ใช่วิธีที่ชาญฉลาด แม้ว่าจะกลายเป็นพลเมืองสหรัฐอเมริกาแล้ว แต่การกระทำที่หลอกลวงในขั้นตอนการทำวีซ่านั้นอาจจะทำให้ถูกถอนสัญชาติและมีความผิดทางอาญา

เพื่อผลประโยชน์ทางวีซ่า ควรที่จะปรึกษาทนายอเมริกันที่มีใบอนุญาตเพื่อที่จะดำเนินการในเรื่องกระบวนการคนเข้าเมืองเพราะทนจายอเมริกันที่ได้รับอนุญาตและมีความเข้าใจอย่างถูกต้องอย่างน้อยในหนึ่งรัฐนั้นก็มีสิทธิที่จะให้คำแนะนำ คำปรึกษา หรือการดำเนินการแทน

To view this posting in English please see: Denaturalization.


12th Dec
2010

It recently came to this blogger’s attention that the American Immigration Lawyers Association (AILA) has created a new website in an effort to combat the unlicensed practice of United States Immigration law. The following is a direct quotation from the new website:

Only a licensed lawyer or accredited representative is authorized and qualified to assist you with your immigration case or green card application. Unlike consultants, immigration lawyers have completed extensive education and training before being licensed to represent clients. You can check whether an immigration lawyer is in good standing and licensed by contacting your state bar or state Supreme Court. You can also check to see if the immigration lawyer has been suspended or expelled from practice before the immigration court, the Board of Immigration Appeals (BIA), or the immigration service (USCIS).

For those who are unaware of the current problem in the United States and abroad, there are those who prey upon unsuspecting individuals claiming to have expertise in American immigration matters. In the State of New York, Attorney General Cuomo, now Governor-Elect, has taken measures to counter this problem. Specifically, the Attorney General’s office has pursued companies which may have engaged in crimes involving immigrants and the unlicensed practice of law. To quote directly from a page on the New York Attorney General’s Office website:

The Attorney General began an investigation and issued subpoenas to these companies after receiving information that they were engaged in fraudulent and illegal business practices. The illegal conduct included, among other things, misrepresenting their authorization to submit documents on behalf of immigrants to the government and giving legal advice to immigrants. Further, some of these companies involved attorneys who aided others in the unauthorized practice of the law and simply lent their name to provide legitimacy to the business. Collectively, these companies abused hundreds of immigrants.

In a previous posting on this web log it was noted that a man in the United States was stripped of his US Citizenship and charged with marriage fraud after an investigation by the United States Customs Enforcement Service (USICE). Clearly, it is evident that authorities in the US States and the Federal government are more serious about enforcing US immigration laws. Hopefully, the creation of the new website noted above, in combination with efforts by law enforcement agencies, will result in leass fraud perpetrated upon the United States government, the American immigrant community, and the public at large.

For related information please see: US visa fraud.


11th Dec
2010

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.


10th Dec
2010

Those who read this blog with any frequency may have taken note of the fact that the administration has recently been posting some information regarding legal and corporate issues arising in locations such as the Peoples’ Republic of China and also Taiwan. Recently, it came to the attention of this author through the periodical of Cenlaw that Mainland Chinese officials are taking measures to regulate investment by Mainland enterprises in Taiwan. To quote directly from the periodical of Cenlaw:

Chinese Authorities Regulate Investment In Taiwan By Mainland Enterprises

The Ministry of Commerce, the National Development and Reform Commission and the Taiwan Affairs Office have jointly issued the “Measures for the Administration of Investment in Taiwan by Mainland Enterprises’. Pursuant to the Measures, a mainland subject intending to invest in Taiwan shall meet the following conditions: 1. it should be a corporate legal person legally registered and operated in the mainland; and 2. it should have an industrial background, capital, technology and management capacity. In addition, to invest in projects in Taiwan, a mainland local enterprise shall file an application with the provincial development and reform commission where it is located. The application shall be reviewed first by the provincial development and reform commission and then be submitted to the National Development and Reform Commission for approval. For a mainland enterprise under the control of the central government, it may directly apply to the National Development and Reform Commission for approval for its investment in Taiwan. In order for a mainland business to set up a corporate or non-corporate entity in Taiwan for investment ,it must have received approval from the Ministry of Commerce.

It is interesting to note this policy as many in Asia are finding investment opportunities in multiple markets and jurisdictions. Meanwhile, government officials in different jurisdictions are adopting differing strategies when attempting to execute policy.

Mainland China and Taiwan have evolved differently when one looks at the history of these locations. That said, it would appear that market forces and economic factors are the most pivotal issues which will have an impact upon the future of these locations. Furthermore, it would appear that as multi-jurisdictional trade increases so too does the need for a regulatory framework to deal with business matters arising in the context of Mainland China and also Taiwan. Hopefully, through cooperation and thoughtful foresight economic relations between the Mainland and Taiwan will result in economic benefits for everyone concerned during the present and for future generations.


9th Dec
2010

สำหรับผู้ที่ติดตามบล็อกอย่างต่อเนื่องคงไม่มีข้อสงสัยในเรื่องที่มีการถกเถียงกันเมื่อเร็วๆนี้เกี่ยวกับเรื่องการปฏิรูปการเข้าเมือง หน่วยบริการการวิจัยของสภานิติบัญญัติและสมาคมทนายความคนเข้าเมืองอเมริกันได้เผยแพร่เอกสารเกี่ยวกับการไม่อนุญาตให้เข้าเมืองตามกฎหมายซึ่งเป็นที่ถกเถียงกันในประเด็นของการปฏิรูปคนเข้าเมือง เอกสารอ้างอิงจากการตีพิมพ์โดยหน่วยบริการการวิจัยของสภานิติบัญญัติและสมาคมทนายความคนเข้าเมืองอเมริกัน

ตัวบทกฎหมายนี้มีวัตถุประสงค์ในการที่จะปฏิรูปการเข้าเมืองในมุมมองที่นอกเหนือจากชาวต่างชาติซึ่งมีการบัญญัติเมื่อปี 1990 ชาวต่างชาติที่ประสงค์จะขอวีซ่าต้องเผชิญกับการตรวจสอบการเข้าเมืองโดยเจ้าหน้าที่กงสุลของสหรัฐในต่างประเทศ กระบวนการนี้มีจุดมุ่งหมายเพื่อตรวจสอบผู้ที่ขาดคุณสมบัติในการขอวีซ่าหรือการเข้าเมืองซึ่งมูลเหตุที่ไม่สามารถเข้าเมืองได้เป็นไปตามพระราชบัญญัติว่าด้วยสัญชาติคนเข้าเมือง (INA)หลักเกณฑ์ต่างๆได้แก่ ข้อมูลด้านสุขภาพ ประวัติอาชญากรรม ประวัติที่เกี่ยวกับความมั่นคง การก่อการร้าย ความสงบสุขของประเทศ เช่น ความขัดสน การหางานโดยไม่ได้รับใบอนุญาตแรงงาน การเข้าเมืองโดยผิดกฎหมายและการละเมิดกฎหมายคนเข้าเมือง การขาดคุณสมบัติในการถือสัญชาติ และคนต่างด้าวที่ถูกเนรเทศออกไป หลายปีที่ผ่านมา สภานิติบัญญัติยังคงยึดหลักการเดิมในการที่จะไม่อนุญาตให้เข้าเมือง กฎหมายสองฉบับที่บังคับใช้เป็นปีที่ 110 สภานิติบัญญัติยังคงยึดนโยบายเดิมในการกีดกันคนต่างด้าวที่เป็นสมาชิกของการก่อการร้าย

การก่อการร้ายเป็นปัจจัยสำคัญที่เจ้าหน้าที่รัฐของอเมริกาได้เชื่อมโยงถึงองค์กรต่างๆที่เกี่ยวกับการเข้าเมืองและการเดินทางมายังสหรัฐอเมริกา ความสงบเรียบร้อยและความปลอดภัยของประเทศเป็นประเด็นสำคัญสำหรับเจ้าหน้าที่กงสุลและคนเข้าเมืองอเมริกัน อ้างถึงการเผยแพร่ข้อความที่กล่าวถึงแล้ว ดังนี้

ปีที่ 110ของสภานิติบัญญัตินั้นมีประเด็นของการไม่ให้เข้าเมืองของประเด็นเรื่องของสุขภาพกลับมาอีกครั้งคือเรื่องของผู้ที่ติดเชื้อเอชไอวี หรือเอดส์ เมื่อเร็วๆนี้มีประเด็นในเรื่องการแพร่ระบาดของเชื้อไวรัสสายพันธุ์เอช 5 เอ็น 1 ซึ่งก็กลายเป็นประเด็นหนึ่งที่คัดกรองในด่านคนเข้าเมือง มีคำถามมากมายเกี่ยวกับความรับผิดชอบต่อสังคมในเรื่องการเข้าเมืองที่เกี่ยวกับบริบททางด้านสุขภาพและแผนการประกันสุขภาพของเยาวชนในปีที่ 111ของสภานิติบัญญัติ

ไข้หวัดใหญ่เป็นประเด็นทางด้านสุขภาพที่มีการตระหนักถึงเมื่อไม่กี่ปีที่ผ่านมานี้ แต่อย่างไรก็ตาม สำหรับการเพิกถอน โรคเอดส์ออกจากรายชื่อโรคที่ไม่สามารถเข้าเมืองได้ให้กลายเป็นสามารถเข้าเมืองได้หลังจากที่ผู้ที่ติดเชื้อเอดส์ไม่สามารถที่จะเข้าสหรัฐอเมริกาได้อย่างถูกต้องตามกฎหมาย ประเด็นนี้เป็นเรื่องที่ร้ายแรงในหมู่ของเพศที่สาม เลสเบี้ยน เกย์ ไบเซ็กชวล (LGBT) ในฐานะที่เชื้อเอชไอวีและเชื้อเอดส์ดูเหมือนว่าจะเป็นประเด็นที่มีผลกระทบต่อกลุ่มคนหรือคู่ในหมู่รักร่วมเพศ รายงานนี้เป็นประเด็นที่เกี่ยวเนื่องกับการอภิปรายเรื่องการร่างกฎหมายเพื่อการปฏิรูปการเข้าเมือง

ในขณะที่การเปลี่ยนแปลงเหตุที่จะไม่สามารถเข้าเมืองได้นั้นไม่เป็นที่ปรากฎ ผู้ที่สนับสนุนการปฏิรูปการเข้าเมืองอาจจะมองหาทางที่จะยกเลิกบทบัญญัติบางมาตราในฐานะที่เป็นส่วนหนึ่งของข้อเสนอในการร่างกฎหมายเพื่อการปฏิรูปการเข้าเมือง บทบัญญัติที่ให้ชาวต่างด้าวผู้ที่ไม่สามารถเข้าเมืองสหรัฐอเมริกาอย่างถูกต้องตามกฎหมาย ตัวอย่างเช่น อาจจะได้รับการระงับไว้ชั่วคราวในส่วนหนึ่งของการร่างกฎหมาย ต้องมีเหตุผลที่หนักแน่นสำหรับการไม่สามารถเข้าเมืองได้ ในทางกลับกันอาจจะเป็นส่วนหนึ่งของแผนงานการร่างกฎหมายในหมู่ของผู้ที่สนับสนุนนโยบายการปฏิรูปการเข้าเมืองที่เข้มงวด

ทุกๆปีนั้นจะมีผู้คนจำนวนมากที่ไม่สามารถเดินทางเข้าประเทศสหรัฐอเมริกาได้ ท่ามกลางการที่ไม่สามารถเข้าเมืองได้นั้นผู้ที่ไม่สามารถเข้าเมืองได้จะหาทางแก้ไขในการเลือกที่จะขอยกเว้นสิทธิผ่านทาง I-601 หรือ I-212โดยการขออนุญาตล่วงหน้าที่จะเดินทางเข้าไปยังสหรัฐอเมริกาอีกครั้งหนึ่ง สำหรับผู้ที่ไม่สามารถเข้าเมืองได้และไม่สามารถที่จะขอยกเว้นสิทธิได้อย่างไม่เป็นทางการซึ่งถูกกีดกันจากสหรัฐอเมริกา สิ่งที่พึงระลึกไว้คือ การที่ไม่สามารถเข้าเมืองได้อย่างถูกต้องตามกฎหมายนั้นยังคงมีทางแก้ไขคือ การขอยกเว้นสิทธิ อาจกล่าวได้ว่า ขั้นตอนการยกเว้นสิทธิและมาตรฐานในการตรวจสอบการได้รับการยกเว้นสิทธินั้นค่อนข้างที่จะยุ่งยาก ด้วยเหตุผลดังกล่าว คู่สองสัญชาติหลายๆคู่เลือกที่จะใช้บริการทนายความคนเข้าเมืองอเมริกันเพื่อที่จะช่วยดำเนินการในเรื่องเกี่ยวกับการเข้าเมืองอเมริกัน สิ่งที่ควรกระทำคือการตรวจสอบความน่าเชื่อถือในการเป็นผู้เชี่ยวชาญทางด้านกฎหมายคนเข้าเมืองอเมริกา เนื่องจากว่าทนายความอเมริกันที่ได้รับอนุญาตเท่านั้นที่มีสิทธิที่จะให้คำแนะนำ คำปรึกษาและเป็นตัวแทนในการจัดการเรื่องก่อนที่จะเข้าไปสู่ขั้นตอนของหน่วยบริการคนเข้าเมืองและพลเมืองสหรัฐอเมริกา (USCIS) กระทรวงความมั่นคงแห่งมาตุภูมิ และหน่วยงานของสหรัฐอเมริกา

To view this information in English please refer to the previous posting on this blog.


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.