VISA2US Blog

Immigration news is full of optimistic changes on the horizon as US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) continues to revamp its systems and processes. The latest regulations involved requests for rate increases. Should those requests go through, USCIS has big plans for the funds. Regardless of the budget, though, the agency released its goals for FY 2023-2026 in its Strategic Plan. This plan is essentially a roadmap of milestones and targets that will take USCIS to its ultimate goals to strengthen its workforce and aid the country overall. A summary of the plan is found here.

Thousands of US companies employ H-1B visa holders every year. It’s a system designed to ensure the success of the country’s economy. But when your business is deemed “H-1B dependent,” you must follow particular immigration rules and regulations that are much stricter than the average H-1B employer. If USCIS or your lawyer has labeled you in this category (or close to it), keep these requirements in mind as you go through your daily routines.

The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Service (USCIS) is the government agency responsible for processing visa applications for foreign nationals. It can be a challenging and time-consuming process. The process became even more difficult during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The H-1B visa has traditionally been in high demand, resulting in the decision from USCIS to include a lottery. Petitioners applying for a non-cap exempt category must enter this lottery before their visa status could be considered. As of August 23, 2022, after two lotteries, the 85,000 visa quota for fiscal year (FY) 2023 has been met, with no further lottery runs predicted for the rest of the year.

Not everyone seeking to enter the U.S., change jobs (transfer), or extend their time there on an H-1B work visa is approved.  This article will explain the different cap limits and requirements for each. Knowing which type of visa application fits your qualifications can increase your chances of gaining, extending, or transferring an H-1B visa.

Considering petitioning for an H-1B visa? You’re in good company. This document has long been the most popular method of obtaining permission to work in the United States from outside countries. The benefits of the H-1B visa are extensive, and if you’re a foreign professional who qualifies for approval, you’ll enjoy these advantages.

Medical exams for green cards no longer need to conducted within a 60 day time frame of submitting your I-485 application. However, there is still a 2-year validity period associated with all immigrant medical exams.

The State Department will award 55,000 diversity visas for fiscal year 2023. Confirm on their website if you have been picked in this year’s drawing.

Some cities in the U.S. have a historical trend of hosting large immigrant communities. However, in 2022, moving to a new city might present risk factors based on several key issues.

Taking a closer look at U.S. cities that offer immigrants a municipal ID, universal pre-school, affordable rents, and increased wages.