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Posts Tagged ‘Consular Processing’
27th July 2011
Those who follow this website with any frequency may be aware of the fact that the administration of this web log routinely posts the processing times for the various service centers of the United States Citizenship and Immigration Service (USCIS) as a courtesy to the public at large. To quote directly from the official website of USCIS, USCIS.gov:
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 | 5 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 | September 27, 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 | April 25, 2007 |
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 | 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 | 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 | March 16, 2011 |
I-129 | Petition for A Nonimmigrant Worker | Blanket L | July 2, 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 | July 2, 2006 |
I-129 | Petition for A Nonimmigrant Worker | H-1B – Specialty occupation – Change of status in the U.S. | July 2, 2006 |
I-129 | Petition for A Nonimmigrant Worker | H-1B – Specialty occupation – Extension of stay in the U.S. | July 2, 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 | July 2, 2006 |
I-129 | Petition for A Nonimmigrant Worker | L – Intracompany transfers | 1 Months |
I-129 | Petition for A Nonimmigrant Worker | O – Extraordinary ability | July 2, 2006 |
I-129 | Petition for A Nonimmigrant Worker | P – Athletes, artists, and entertainers | July 2, 2006 |
I-129 | Petition for A Nonimmigrant Worker | Q – Cultural exchange visitors and exchange visitors participating in the Irish Peace process | July 2, 2006 |
I-129 | Petition for A Nonimmigrant Worker | R – Religious occupation | July 2, 2006 |
I-129 | Petition for A Nonimmigrant Worker | TN – North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) professional | July 2, 2006 |
I-129F | Petition for Alien Fiance(e) | K-1/K-2 – Not yet married – fiance and/or dependent child | December 31, 2007 |
I-129F | Petition for Alien Fiance(e) | K-3/K-4 – Already married – spouse and/or dependent child | December 31, 2007 |
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 | May 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 | January 21, 2011 |
I-140 | Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker | Outstanding professor or researcher | January 21, 2011 |
I-140 | Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker | Multinational executive or manager | January 21, 2011 |
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 | January 16, 2011 |
I-140 | Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker | Advanced degree or exceptional ability requesting a National Interest Waiver | January 21, 2011 |
I-140 | Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker | Schedule A Nurses | January 21, 2011 |
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 | January 25, 2011 |
I-539 | Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status | Change of status to H or L dependents | January 25, 2011 |
I-539 | Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status | Change Status to the J exchange visitor category | January 25, 2011 |
I-539 | Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status | All other change of status applications | January 25, 2011 |
I-539 | Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status | Extension of Stay for F or M academic or vocational students | January 25, 2011 |
I-539 | Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status | Extension of stay for H and L dependents | January 25, 2011 |
I-539 | Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status | Extension of Stay for J exchange visitors | January 25, 2011 |
I-539 | Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status | All other extension applications | January 25, 2011 |
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)] | May 8, 2011 |
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-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 | January 15, 2011 |
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 | March 7, 2011 |
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 | September 18, 2010 |
I-140 | Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker | Outstanding professor or researcher | September 18, 2010 |
I-140 | Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker | Multinational executive or manager | September 18, 2010 |
I-140 | Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker | Advanced degree or exceptional ability | October 2, 2010 |
I-140 | Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker | Skilled worker or professional | September 16, 2010 |
I-140 | Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker | Unskilled worker | September 16, 2010 |
I-140 | Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker | Advanced degree or exceptional ability requesting a National Interest Waiver | September 14, 2010 |
I-140 | Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker | Schedule A Nurses | October 2, 2010 |
I-212 | Application for Permission to Reapply for Admission into the U.S. After Deportation or Removal | Readmission after deportation or removal | July 1, 2009 |
I-360 | Petition for Amerasian, Widow(er), or Special Immigrant | All other special immigrants | October 15, 2010 |
I-360 | Petition for Amerasian, Widow(er), or Special Immigrant | Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) | July 1, 2009 |
I-360 | Petition for Amerasian, Widow(er), or Special Immigrant | Religious workers | October 15, 2010 |
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 | 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 | January 14, 2011 |
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 | December 1, 2010 |
I-751 | Petition to Remove the Conditions on Residence | Removal of lawful permanent resident conditions (spouses of U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents | June 29, 2008 |
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 | September 24, 2010 |
I-90 | Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card | Initial issuance or replacement | June 1, 2010 |
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. | 2 Months |
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 | April 3, 2011 |
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 | 5 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 | September 11, 2010 |
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 | July 17, 2010 |
I-131 | Application for Travel Document | Refugee or asylee applying for a refugee travel document | September 23, 2010 |
I-131 | Application for Travel Document | Permanent resident applying for a re-entry permit | September 23, 2010 |
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 | January 31, 2008 |
I-140 | Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker | Outstanding professor or researcher | January 31, 2008 |
I-140 | Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker | Multinational executive or manager | January 31, 2008 |
I-140 | Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker | Advanced degree or exceptional ability | January 31, 2008 |
I-140 | Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker | Skilled worker or professional | January 31, 2008 |
I-140 | Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker | Unskilled worker | January 31, 2008 |
I-140 | Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker | Advanced degree or exceptional ability requesting a National Interest Waiver | January 31, 2008 |
I-140 | Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker | Schedule A Nurses | January 31, 2008 |
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 | December 4, 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 | March 13, 2011 |
I-539 | Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status | Change of status to H or L dependents | March 13, 2011 |
I-539 | Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status | Change Status to the J exchange visitor category | March 13, 2011 |
I-539 | Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status | All other change of status applications | March 13, 2011 |
I-539 | Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status | Extension of Stay for F or M academic or vocational students | March 13, 2011 |
I-539 | Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status | Extension of stay for H and L dependents | March 13, 2011 |
I-539 | Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status | Extension of Stay for J exchange visitors | March 13, 2011 |
I-539 | Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status | All other extension applications | March 13, 2011 |
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)] | October 31, 2010 |
I-765 | Application for Employment Authorization | Based on TPS for Honduras/Nicaragua [(c)(19), (a)(12)] | January 6, 2011 |
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 | October 31, 2010 |
I-821 | Application for Temporary Protected Status | El Salvador initial or late filing | October 31, 2010 |
I-821 | Application for Temporary Protected Status | Honduras and Nicaragua extension | October 31, 2010 |
I-821 | Application for Temporary Protected Status | Honduras and Nicaragua initial or late filing | October 31, 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 1, 2009 |
I-90A | Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card | Initial issuance or replacement for Special Agricultral Workers (SAW) | 3.5 Months |
I-914 | Application for T Non-immigrant Status | Provide temporary immigration benefits to an alien who is a victim of trafficking in persons, and immediate family | 4 Months |
I-918 | Petition for U Non-immigrant Status | Provide temporary immigration benefits to an alien who is a victim of qualifying criminal activity, and their qualifying family | 4 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 |
Readers are asked to bear in mind that the above cited estimations do not take into consideration processing at the National Visa Center. Furthermore, these estimates also do not take into consideration Consular Processing at a US Embassy, US Consulate, or American Institute abroad.
14th June 2011
Those who read this blog with any frequency may have noticed that the administration routinely posts the estimated processing times from the United States Citizenship and Immigration Service (USCIS) as a courtesy to the public-at-large. To quote directly from the official website of the USCIS, USCIS.gov:
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 | 5 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 | September 27, 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 | April 25, 2007 |
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 | December 16, 2010 |
I-821 | Application for Temporary Protected Status | El Salvador initial or late filing | December 16, 2010 |
I-821 | Application for Temporary Protected Status | Honduras and Nicaragua extension | December 16, 2010 |
I-821 | Application for Temporary Protected Status | Honduras and Nicaragua initial or late filing | December 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-129 | Petition for A Nonimmigrant Worker | Blanket L | August 1, 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 1, 2006 |
I-129 | Petition for A Nonimmigrant Worker | H-1B – Specialty occupation – Change of status in the U.S. | August 1, 2006 |
I-129 | Petition for A Nonimmigrant Worker | H-1B – Specialty occupation – Extension of stay in the U.S. | August 1, 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 1, 2006 |
I-129 | Petition for A Nonimmigrant Worker | L – Intracompany transfers | 1 Months |
I-129 | Petition for A Nonimmigrant Worker | O – Extraordinary ability | August 1, 2006 |
I-129 | Petition for A Nonimmigrant Worker | P – Athletes, artists, and entertainers | August 1, 2006 |
I-129 | Petition for A Nonimmigrant Worker | Q – Cultural exchange visitors and exchange visitors participating in the Irish Peace process | August 1, 2006 |
I-129 | Petition for A Nonimmigrant Worker | R – Religious occupation | August 1, 2006 |
I-129 | Petition for A Nonimmigrant Worker | TN – North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) professional | August 1, 2006 |
I-130 | Petition for Alien Relative | Permanent resident filling for a spouse or child under 21 | September 9, 2010 |
I-130 | Petition for Alien Relative | U.S. citizen filing for an unmarried son or daughter over 21 | September 9, 2010 |
I-130 | Petition for Alien Relative | Permanent resident filling for an unmarried son or daughter over 21 | September 9, 2010 |
I-130 | Petition for Alien Relative | U.S. citizen filing for a married son or daughter over 21 | September 9, 2010 |
I-130 | Petition for Alien Relative | U.S. citizen filing for a brother or sister | September 9, 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 | 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 9, 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 9, 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 | December 2, 2010 |
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 | January 21, 2011 |
I-539 | Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status | Change of status to H or L dependents | January 21, 2011 |
I-539 | Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status | Change Status to the J exchange visitor category | January 21, 2011 |
I-539 | Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status | All other change of status applications | January 21, 2011 |
I-539 | Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status | Extension of Stay for F or M academic or vocational students | January 21, 2011 |
I-539 | Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status | Extension of stay for H and L dependents | January 21, 2011 |
I-539 | Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status | Extension of Stay for J exchange visitors | January 21, 2011 |
I-539 | Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status | All other extension applications | January 21, 2011 |
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 | January 11, 2011 |
I-821 | Application for Temporary Protected Status | El Salvador initial or late filing | January 11, 2011 |
I-821 | Application for Temporary Protected Status | Honduras and Nicaragua extension | January 11, 2011 |
I-821 | Application for Temporary Protected Status | Honduras and Nicaragua initial or late filing | January 11, 2011 |
I-824 | Application for Action on an Approved Application or Petition | To request further action on an approved application or petition | November 21, 2010 |
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 | January 3, 2011 |
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 | January 22, 2011 |
I-129 | Petition for A Nonimmigrant Worker | Blanket L | December 27, 2007 |
I-129 | Petition for A Nonimmigrant Worker | E – Treaty traders and investors | December 27, 2007 |
I-129 | Petition for A Nonimmigrant Worker | H-1B – Specialty occupation – Visa to be issued abroad | December 27, 2007 |
I-129 | Petition for A Nonimmigrant Worker | H-1B – Specialty occupation – Change of status in the U.S. | December 27, 2007 |
I-129 | Petition for A Nonimmigrant Worker | H-1B – Specialty occupation – Extension of stay in the U.S. | December 27, 2007 |
I-129 | Petition for A Nonimmigrant Worker | H-1C – Nurses | December 27, 2007 |
I-129 | Petition for A Nonimmigrant Worker | H-2A – Temporary workers | December 27, 2007 |
I-129 | Petition for A Nonimmigrant Worker | H-2B – Other temporary workers | December 27, 2007 |
I-129 | Petition for A Nonimmigrant Worker | H-3 – Temporary trainees | December 27, 2007 |
I-129 | Petition for A Nonimmigrant Worker | L – Intracompany transfers | 1 Months |
I-129 | Petition for A Nonimmigrant Worker | O – Extraordinary ability | December 27, 2007 |
I-129 | Petition for A Nonimmigrant Worker | P – Athletes, artists, and entertainers | December 27, 2007 |
I-129 | Petition for A Nonimmigrant Worker | Q – Cultural exchange visitors and exchange visitors participating in the Irish Peace process | December 27, 2007 |
I-129 | Petition for A Nonimmigrant Worker | R – Religious occupation | December 27, 2007 |
I-129 | Petition for A Nonimmigrant Worker | TN – North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) professional | December 27, 2007 |
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 | September 4, 2010 |
I-140 | Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker | Outstanding professor or researcher | September 4, 2010 |
I-140 | Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker | Multinational executive or manager | September 4, 2010 |
I-140 | Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker | Advanced degree or exceptional ability | September 16, 2010 |
I-140 | Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker | Skilled worker or professional | September 16, 2010 |
I-140 | Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker | Unskilled worker | September 16, 2010 |
I-140 | Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker | Advanced degree or exceptional ability requesting a National Interest Waiver | September 7, 2010 |
I-140 | Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker | Schedule A Nurses | September 16, 2010 |
I-212 | Application for Permission to Reapply for Admission into the U.S. After Deportation or Removal | Readmission after deportation or removal | July 31, 2009 |
I-360 | Petition for Amerasian, Widow(er), or Special Immigrant | All other special immigrants | July 31, 2010 |
I-360 | Petition for Amerasian, Widow(er), or Special Immigrant | Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) | July 31, 2009 |
I-360 | Petition for Amerasian, Widow(er), or Special Immigrant | Religious workers | July 31, 2010 |
I-485 | Application to Register Permanent Residence or to Adjust Status | Employment-based adjustment applications | October 31, 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 | November 26, 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 29, 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-751 | Petition to Remove the Conditions on Residence | Removal of lawful permanent resident conditions (spouses of U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents | June 29, 2008 |
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 | November 2, 2010 |
I-90 | Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card | Initial issuance or replacement | March 16, 2010 |
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. | 2 Months |
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 | March 13, 2011 |
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 | 5 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 | September 11, 2010 |
I-130 | Petition for Alien Relative | U.S. citizen filing for a spouse, parent, or child under 21 | November 27, 2010 |
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 | July 10, 2010 |
I-131 | Application for Travel Document | Refugee or asylee applying for a refugee travel document | September 14, 2010 |
I-131 | Application for Travel Document | Permanent resident applying for a re-entry permit | September 14, 2010 |
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 | January 30, 2008 |
I-140 | Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker | Outstanding professor or researcher | January 30, 2008 |
I-140 | Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker | Multinational executive or manager | January 30, 2008 |
I-140 | Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker | Advanced degree or exceptional ability | January 30, 2008 |
I-140 | Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker | Skilled worker or professional | January 30, 2008 |
I-140 | Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker | Unskilled worker | January 30, 2008 |
I-140 | Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker | Advanced degree or exceptional ability requesting a National Interest Waiver | January 30, 2008 |
I-140 | Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker | Schedule A Nurses | January 30, 2008 |
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 | November 13, 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 | February 12, 2011 |
I-539 | Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status | Change of status to H or L dependents | February 12, 2011 |
I-539 | Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status | Change Status to the J exchange visitor category | February 12, 2011 |
I-539 | Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status | All other change of status applications | February 12, 2011 |
I-539 | Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status | Extension of Stay for F or M academic or vocational students | February 12, 2011 |
I-539 | Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status | Extension of stay for H and L dependents | February 12, 2011 |
I-539 | Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status | Extension of Stay for J exchange visitors | February 12, 2011 |
I-539 | Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status | All other extension applications | February 12, 2011 |
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)] | October 31, 2010 |
I-765 | Application for Employment Authorization | Based on TPS for Honduras/Nicaragua [(c)(19), (a)(12)] | January 6, 2011 |
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 | October 31, 2010 |
I-821 | Application for Temporary Protected Status | El Salvador initial or late filing | October 31, 2010 |
I-821 | Application for Temporary Protected Status | Honduras and Nicaragua extension | October 31, 2010 |
I-821 | Application for Temporary Protected Status | Honduras and Nicaragua initial or late filing | October 31, 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 | March 31, 2009 |
I-90A | Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card | Initial issuance or replacement for Special Agricultral Workers (SAW) | 3.5 Months |
I-914 | Application for T Non-immigrant Status | Provide temporary immigration benefits to an alien who is a victim of trafficking in persons, and immediate family | 4 Months |
I-918 | Petition for U Non-immigrant Status | Provide temporary immigration benefits to an alien who is a victim of qualifying criminal activity, and their qualifying family | 4 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 |
Readers may recall that the processing times noted above only pertain to the USCIS processing portion of the overall US visa process. Therefore, readers should not mistake the processing times noted above for the time it takes to actually acquire a visa. After a visa petition has been adjudicated by the officers at the USCIS, if approved, the case file is forwarded to the National Visa Center where it is then sent on to the US Embassy, American Institute, or US Consulate with appropriate Consular jurisdiction. This phase of the process is referred to as Consular Processing. Consular Processing can sometimes be quite quick while, in some cases, the process can be rather cumbersome if the facts of the case are extremely complex.
For related information please see: K1 Visa Thailand.
8th June 2011
USCIS Memo On Expedited Adjudication of I-601 Waiver Applications
Posted by : admin
It recently came to this blogger’s attention that the United States Citizenship and Immigration Service (USCIS) has issued memorandum regarding the process of expediting the adjudication of I-601 waivers. To provide further insight it may be best to quote directly from the official website of USCIS, USCIS.gov:
Purpose
This Policy Memorandum (PM) provides guidelines on how U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) processes requests to expedite the adjudication of Forms I-601 filed by individuals outside the United States. These guidelines will be included in the AFM Chapter 41.7 and in the revised version of International Operations Division Field Guidance for Form I-601 adjudications.
Scope
Unless specifically exempted herein, this memorandum applies to and is binding on all USCIS employees adjudicating Forms I-601 filed by individuals outside the United States.
Authority
8 CFR 212.7 governs USCIS adjudication of Form I-601.
Background
It has been USCIS’s longstanding policy to accept requests to expedite processing of petitions or applications where the applicant or the petitioner demonstrates reasons that merit expedited processing of a petition or application. Consistent with this policy, an applicant may request that the adjudication of a Form I-601 be expedited. Requests to expedite in the Form I-601 adjudication context present unique challenges. Almost all Form I-601 applicants outside the United States have an interest in expeditious processing given that most are required to establish extreme hardship to a qualifying family member in order for USCIS to consider whether to exercise its discretion to waive the bar to an applicant’s entry into the United States. However, some applicants may be experiencing extraordinary circumstances that present the kind of compelling and urgent, time-sensitive reasons that merit expedited processing of a Form I-601. This memorandum provides guidelines on responding to requests to expedite Forms I-601 filed by applicants overseas. Policy Subject to case management requirements and resource constraints, USCIS managers overseas may, in extraordinary circumstances, exercise discretion on a case-by-case basis to approve a request to expedite adjudication of a Form I-601.1 The strong desire to immigrate to the United States as soon as possible is not by itself “extraordinary.” The types of extraordinary circumstances that may, generally, merit expedited processing are those in which there are time-sensitive and compelling situations that necessitate the applicant’s presence in the United States sooner than would be possible if the application were processed under normal processing times…
For those who are unfamiliar with matters pertaining to United States Immigration it should be noted that the I-601 waiver is often utilized as a remedy for those who have been found inadmissible to the United States or ineligible to receive a US visa (such as a K-1 visa [fiance visa], CR-1 visa, or IR-1 visa) during Consular Processing at a US Embassy or US Consulate abroad.
The I-601 waiver is sometimes confused with the I-212 waiver (also referred to as an application for advance permission to reenter the United States). However, the I-601 waiver and the I-212 waiver are two different application categories which are somewhat similar, but not exactly alike.
For related information please see: Legal.
3rd June 2011
It recently came to this blogger’s attention that the United States Embassy in Kabul is taking measures to re-institute a policy which would allow for visa interviews to take place on the premises of the Post in Afghanistan. Readers are reminded that such interviews have not been conducted at that location in approximately 20 years. To quote directly from a Department of State announcement as posted upon the official website of the American Immigration Lawyers Association (AILA):
As of June 1, for the first time in 20 years, immigrant visa applicants will again have scheduled As of June 1, for the first time in 20 years, immigrant visa applicants will again have scheduled interviews in Kabul. U.S. Embassy Islamabad was previously the closest U.S. Embassy or Consulate where immigrant visa applicants could be interviewed.
Applicants for petition-based visas, which are mostly temporary work visas, can also now interview in Kabul. For the last two years, applicants for visitor, student and most other temporary visas could apply in Kabul, but not applicants for visas that if approved allow someone to move to the U.S. or to work there. Applicants for non-immigrant petition-based visas like temporary workers (H) can schedule their own appointments using the existing online system on the Embassy’s web site. All of these categories of visas involve a multi-step process that usually starts with a petition that a U.S. relative or employer files with immigration authorities. It is important to note that prior to the interview, the National Visa Center conducts almost all pre-interview processing of petitions that the immigration service approves in the United States. The National Visa Center will also schedule appointments when approved immigrant visa petitions become current.
All of these categories of visas involve a multi-step process that usually starts with a petition that a U.S. relative or employer files with immigration authorities. It is important to note that prior to the interview, the National Visa Center conducts almost all pre-interview processing of petitions that the immigration service approves in the United States. The National Visa Center will also schedule appointments when approved immigrant visa petitions become current…
It should be noted that those seeking immigrant visas to the United States of America must generally first receive an approved immigration petition from the United States Citizenship and Immigration Service (USCIS). Upon receiving such approval a case file will usually be sent to the National Visa Center which acts as a sort of clearinghouse for visa application files so as to insure that the case file arrives at the US Mission with appropriate jurisdiction. Prospective visa seekers should note that estimated processing times for USCIS adjudication do not take into account Consular Processing at an appropriate US Embassy or US Consulate abroad.
For related information please see: American visa.
2nd June 2011
US Embassy in Kabul, Afghanistan: Holiday Closing Schedule 2011
Posted by : admin
Frequent readers of this web log may have taken note of the fact that the administration routinely posts the holiday closing schedules of the various US Missions in Asia as a courtesy to the public-at-large. To quote directly from the official website of the United States Embassy in Kabul, Afghanistan:
DATE DAY HOLIDAY
January 2* (US) Sunday New Year’s Day
January 16* (US) Sunday Martin Luther King, Jr. Day
February 15 (AF) Tuesday Liberation Day
February 16** (AF) Wednesday Prophet’s Birthday
February 20* (US) Sunday President’s Day
March 21 (AF) Monday Nawrooz (Afghan New Year – 1390)
April 28 (AF) Thursday Victory Day
May 29* (US) Sunday Memorial Day
July 3* (US) Sunday Independence Day
August 1** (AF) Monday First Day or Ramadan
August 18*** (AF) Thursday Independence Day
Aug 31 – Sept 2** (AF) Wednesday – Friday Eid ul-Fitr
September 4* (US) Sunday Labor Day
September 8*** (AF) Thursday Martyrdom of National Hero Day
October 9* (US) Sunday Columbus Day
November 6-8** (AF) Sunday – Tuesday Eid-e Qurban
November 10* (US) Thursday Veteran’s Day
November 24 (US) Thursday Thanksgiving Day
December 6** (AF) Tuesday 10th of Muharram (Ashura)
December 25 (US) Sunday Christmas DayNotes:
* American holidays marked with an asterisk (*) are observed on a different day than in the US.
** Afghan holidays marked with double asterisks (**) are based on the Islamic Calendar and depend on sightings of the moon. As a holiday approaches, adjustments to this schedule may be made based on local practice and Afghan government announcements.
*** Afghan holidays marked with triple asterisks (***) are observed one day earlier.
Those wishing to visit the official homepage of the United States Embassy in Kabul are encouraged to click HERE.
It may sometimes prove necessary for an American Resident Abroad or an American traveling abroad to acquire documentation (US Passport, Consular Report of Birth Abroad, Notarized affidavit, etc.) which can only be obtained from an American Citizen Services section of a US Embassy or US Consulate overseas. Americans seeking such documentation are well advised to contact an American Citizen Services Section with appropriate Consular jurisdiction.
Those seeking an American non-immigrant visa (such as a B-1 visa, B-2 visa, J-1 visa, or F-1 visa) are likely to see their visa application processed at a non-immigrant visa section of a US Embassy, US Consulate, or American Institute abroad. Meanwhile, those seeking an immigrant visa such as a CR-1 visa or IR-1 visa (for purposes of Consular Processing, the K-1 visa; although a non-immigrant US fiance visa, is treated in much the same way as immigrant visa categories for processing purposes) are likely to see their visa application processed by an Immigrant Visa Unit abroad. Immigrant visas such as those noted above are likely to only be granted pursuant to an initial adjudication of an immigration petition at the United States Citizenship and Immigration Service (USCIS).
Those seeking visas such as the EB-5 visa or the L-1 visa are well advised to take note of the fact that it is unlikely that a visa application will be adjudicated by a US Post abroad until after an initial immigration petition is approved by USCIS.
For related information please see: Legal.
31st May 2011
The EB-4 Visa Analyzed And Consular Processing Discussed
Posted by : admin
In a previous posting on this blog the discussion centered upon the EB-3 visa. To remain on a similar topic, the Employment Based visa preference category 4 is another type of travel document which is somewhat similar to other employment based visas although some of the criteria are different. To quote directly from the official website of the United States Citizenship and Immigration Service (USCIS), USCIS.gov:
Employment-Based Immigration: Fourth Preference EB-4
You may be eligible for an employment-based, fourth preference visa if you are a special immigrant. The following special immigrants are eligible for the fourth preference visa:
- Religious Workers
- Broadcasters
- Iraqi/Afghan Translators
- Iraqis Who Have Assisted the United States
- International Organization Employees
- Physicians
- Armed Forces Members
- Panama Canal Zone Employees
- Retired NATO-6 employees
- Spouses and Children of Deceased NATO-6 employees
Petitioning for an Employment-Based Fourth Preference Immigrant
To petition for an employment-based fourth preference immigrant, your employer must file a Form I-360, Petition for Amerasian, Widow(er), or Special Immigrant. However, there are certain situations where you, the employee, may self-petition on your own behalf. Please review the form instructions to see if you are eligible to self petition and what required supporting evidence needs to be included.
Readers are asked to remember that the above citation is not a satisfactory substitute for a full analysis of issues associated with the EB-4 visa especially as each individual immigration case is adjudicated pursuant to the unique factual circumstances present in the given situation.
This blogger has found that some of those who research this area confuse the EB-4 visa with the E-1 visa or the E-2 visa. In some cases, this category gets confused with the EB-5 visa. Regardless, the EB-4 visa is a stand alone visa category which provides the benefit of lawful permanent residence to the bearer upon lawful admission to the United States of America. Clearly, the criteria for EB-4 visa issuance are less stringent than, say, the EB-1 visa; but this visa category is still heavily scrutinized by adjudicators and for this reason prospective EB-4 visa seekers should be prepared to undergo such an adjudication by USCIS.
Concurrently, it should also be noted that those foreign nationals seeking an EB-4 visa abroad are likely required to undergo Consular Processing at a US Embassy or US Consulate abroad in order to ultimately hope to receive a visa. Consular Officers at US Missions abroad are tasked with the responsibility of adjudicating visa applications for those foreign nationals wishing to travel to the United States of America.
For related information please see: US Visa Thailand.
30th May 2011
In a previous posting this blogger discussed issues associated with the EB-2 visa. On the same note, the following posting is a brief discussion of the Employment Based visa in the preference category 3. Readers should take note of the fact that Employment Based visa categories, classified as EB, are substantially different from the E-1 visa and the E-2 visa which are Treaty Trader and Treaty Investor visas, respectively, and somewhat dissimilar from employment based visas. To quote directly from the official USCIS website, USCIS.gov:
Sub-categories | Evidence | Certification |
Skilled Workers |
|
Labor certification and a permanent, full-time job offer required. |
Professionals |
|
Labor certification and a permanent, full-time job offer required. |
Unskilled Workers (Other Workers) | You must be capable, at the time the petition is filed on your behalf, of performing unskilled labor (requiring less than 2 years training or experience), that is not of a temporary or seasonal nature, for which qualified workers are not available in the United States. | Labor certification and a permanent, full-time job offer required. |
The administration of this web log strongly encourages readers to keep in mind that the chart above is not an exhaustive explanation of the criteria associated with EB-3 visa issuance, but should merely be viewed as a brief overview of eligibility criteria for those thinking about petitioning for EB-3 visa benefits. The criteria for EB-3 visa issuance differ from the EB-1 visa and EB-2 visa criteria by some degree especially in the case of the EB-1 visa as that visa category is generally reserved for extraordinary recipients.
Those pondering petitioning for United States immigration benefits such as the EB-3 visa should bear in mind that the petition adjudication process is not necessarily the only phase of what could be a longer overall process if the proposed beneficiary resides outside of the United States and therefore must submit a US visa application and undergo Consular Processing at a US Embassy or US Consulate abroad.
For related information please see: American Embassy.
29th May 2011
The EB-2 Visa: Eligibility And Consular Processing Discussed
Posted by : admin
In a previous posting on this blog the eligibility criteria for the EB-1 visa were briefly discussed. In that same vein, this blogger felt further elaboration on other Employment Based visa categories was warranted to provide insight to readers about issues associated with other employment based preference categories. The United States Citizenship and Immigration Service‘s (USCIS) official website posted an enlightening chart to provide an overall glimpse of the eligibility criteria which this blogger felt could be of interest to readers. To quote directly from the official website of the USCIS, USCIS.gov:
Sub-Categories | Description | Evidence |
Advanced Degree | The job you apply for must require an advanced degree and you must possess such a degree or its equivalent (a baccalaureate degree plus 5 years progressive work experience in the field). | Documentation, such as an official academic record showing that you have a U.S. advanced degree or a foreign equivalent degree, or an official academic record showing that you have a U.S. baccalaureate degree or a foreign equivalent degree and letters from current or former employers showing that you have at least 5 years of progressive post-baccalaureate work experience in the specialty.
|
Exceptional Ability | You must be able to show exceptional ability in the sciences, arts, or business. Exceptional ability “means a degree of expertise significantly above that ordinarily encountered in the sciences, arts, or business.” | You must meet at least three of the criteria below.* |
National Interest Waiver | Aliens seeking a national interest waiver are requesting that the Labor Certification be waived because it is in the interest of the United States. Though the jobs that qualify for a national interest waiver are not defined by statute, national interest waivers are usually granted to those who have exceptional ability (see above) and whose employment in the United States would greatly benefit the national. Those seeking a national interest waiver may self-petition (they do not need an employer to sponsor them) and may file their labor certification directly with USCIS along with their Form I-140, Petition for Alien Worker. | You must meet at least three of the criteria below* and demonstrate that it is in the national interest that you work permanently in the United States. |
Readers are encouraged to conduct their own research into these issues as the chart above is merely presented to provide something of an overview regarding eligibility. The chart above should not be viewed as an exhaustive analysis of the issues at play in a EB-2 petition.
It should be noted that second preference Employment Based petitions are carefully scrutinized as issuance of such visas is intended for those foreign professionals holding an advanced degree or an alien national of “exceptional ability”. Therefore prospective visa seekers are encouraged to note the rather high standards by which those seeking this visa category will be compared during the adjudication process.
Those seeking the visa categorized as an EB-2 are well advised to remember that adjudication of a visa petition at the Department of Homeland Security‘s USCIS may be only one phase of the overall visa process as those residing outside of the United States may be required to undergo Consular Processing at a US Embassy or US Consulate abroad.
For readers who have happened upon this blog in the past, the mention of the “national interest waiver” may bring to mind the I-601 waiver or the I-212 waiver which could be argued to be somewhat similar. Another type of waiver that could be construed as similar to the “national interest waiver” is the waiver sometimes granted by USCIS to permit the filing of multiple petitions for a K1 visa within a relatively short period of time notwithstanding the provisions of the International Marriage Broker Regulation Act (IMBRA).
Frequent readers may recall that the EB-5 visa is also classified as an Employment Based Visa although the criteria for EB-5 visa issuance is different from those of the EB-2 most notably as the EB-5 visa petitioner must demonstrate that a substantial investment has been made in the United States in order to hope to attain eligibility for EB-5 visa status.
The United States visa process can be overwhelming at times and for this reason many opt to retain the assistance of counsel. That stated, when retaining the services of anyone purporting to be qualified to provide advice and/or assistance regarding immigration matters it may be prudent to ascertain credentials as, pursuant to relevant US law, only a licensed American attorney is permitted to take in client fees while engaged in the practice of United States immigration law.
For related information please see: Legal.
28th May 2011
The EB-1 Visa: Eligibility Issues Analyzed
Posted by : admin
There are many different visa categories statutorily designed for those wishing to work and/or invest in the United States of America. The very plethora of visa categories can make researching immigration issues somewhat confusing for the layman. One visa category that relatively few prospective visa seekers seem to understand is the Employment Based First Preference Visa Category, or to put it more succinctly: the EB-1 visa. The eligibility criteria for this visa category are somewhat stringent compared to other visa categories. To elucidate this fact it may be best to quote directly from and eligibility chart found by this blogger on the official website of United States Citizenship and Immigration Service (USCIS) at USCIS.gov:
Categories | Description | Evidence |
Extraordinary Ability | You must be able to demonstrate extraordinary ability in the sciences, arts, education, business, or athletics through sustained national or international acclaim. Your achievements must be recognized in your field through extensive documentation. No offer of employment is required. | You must meet 3 of 10 criteria* below, or provide evidence of a one-time achievement (i.e., Pulitzer, Oscar, Olympic Medal)
|
Outstanding professors and researchers | You must demonstrate international recognition for your outstanding achievements in a particular academic field. You must have at least 3 years experience in teaching or research in that academic area. You must be entering the United States in order to pursue tenure or tenure track teaching or comparable research position at a university or other institution of higher education. | You must include documentation of at least two listed below** and an offer of employment from the prospective U.S. employer. |
Multinational manager or executive | You must have been employed outside the United States in the 3 years preceding the petition for at least 1 year by a firm or corporation and you must be seeking to enter the United States to continue service to that firm or organization. Your employment must have been outside the United States in a managerial or executive capacity and with the same employer, an affiliate, or a subsidiary of the employer. | Your petitioning employer must be a U.S. employer. Your employer must have been doing business for at least 1 year, as an affiliate, a subsidiary, or as the same corporation or other legal entity that employed you abroad. |
Readers should be aware that the above citation is not intended to be utilized as an exhaustive tool for determining EB-1 visa eligibility, but the chart above does shed light upon some of the overall eligibility criteria which will likely be scrutinized during adjudication of a petition.
There are many factors which must be taken into consideration during the adjudication of an Employment Based visa petition. Frequent readers of this blog may recall that there is another visa category classified as EB that is sometimes discussed within these pages. That specific visa is the EB-5 visa which was designed for prospective immigrants wishing to come to the United States to make a substantial investment in the American economy. In the case of the EB-1 visa, the prospective visa holder would be asked to make an investment of sorts in that their extraordinary abilities would be invested in the United States as a likely consequence of issuance of a United States travel document which grants lawful permanent residence to the bearer upon lawful admission to the US by officers of the United States Customs and Border Protection Service (USCBP).
Readers should be aware that often USCIS adjudication is not the only phase of the EB visa process as Consular Processing at a US Embassy or US Consulate abroad may also be required depending upon the unique circumstances of a given case.
For Information Related To Family Based Visa Petitions Please See: US Visa Thailand.
21st May 2011
Those conducting research with regard to United States Family Immigration often look at either the K-1 visa or a CR-1 visa for a recent or prospective spouse. That stated, an acute concern for many American Citizens is the speedy admission of the foreign fiance or spouse to the United States of America. Under many circumstances in places such as the Kingdom of Thailand or the Kingdom of Cambodia, virtually the only means to lawfully bring a Thai or Khmer fiance or spouse to the USA involves a US Marriage Visa (such as the CR-1 visa or the IR-1 visa) or a US fiance visa (officially categorized as a K-1 visa). The question then becomes: which visa can be obtained in a more timely manner?
Currently, it usually takes less time to obtain a K-1 visa compared to a CR-1 visa. That stated, it is this blogger’s opinion that the once large gap separating the processing times of these respective visa categories has closed somewhat, from a practical perspective; and, as a result, it may be best for those researching these issues to ponder the notion of applying for a CR-1 visa or an IR-1 visa from the outset rather than undergoing the K1 visa process. Bearing this in mind, the reader should note that the process is unique to every couple as circumstances tend to dictate the timing of various stages of the process.
Although the K-1 visa does usually result in a foreign fiancee arriving in the United States more quickly than a foreign spouse under the CR-1 visa category, readers should be aware of the fact that CR-1 visa holders are admitted into the United States in Lawful Permanent Resident status. Conversely, those admitted into the United States of America in K-1 visa status must undergo the adjustment of status process in order to obtain their Green Card.
Regardless of the fact that the current USCIS Processing Times note little change in the time it takes to receive adjudication of a K-1 visa petition compared to years past, the plain truth of the matter is that the overall K-1 visa process has lengthened for many in recent months. This increased wait time may be attributable to the fact that the National Visa Center and each and every US Embassy or US Consulate has its own backlog of cases to either process or adjudicate. As the ebb and flow of American immigration continues the consular processing times are likely to increase and/or decrease depending upon the circumstances at the various US Posts abroad. At present, it is difficult to calculate with any specificity what the time frame is for Consular Processing in Asia as many factors must be taken into consideration. It is this blogger’s current opinion that under the totality of the circumstances it may be prudent for prospective family visa petitioners to conduct thorough research into the immigration process before making an irrevocable immigration decision as a visa category that looks more efficient at first glance may, in fact, turn out to be an inefficient travel document if one takes into consideration all of the factors which must be addressed in order to ultimately receive lawful permanent resident status in the U.S.A.
For related information please see: Legal.
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