Ombudsman

CIS Ombudsman recommends USCIS to strengthen the Special Immigrant Juveniles (SIJ) program by standardizing practices, stop RFEs on state court determinations of dependency, and issue guidance regarding adequate evidence.

Please check the attachment to see the CIS Ombudsman Recommendation.

USCIS Ombudsman update on H-2B Petition RFEs issued by USCIS that question the ”temporary” nature of the employer’s business need for foreign labor. Topics include a “temporary” employment need, and additional information that may help USCIS adjudicate the petition.

Click here to view CIS Ombudsman update.

During FY 2009 and FY 2010, usage of family-based visas has been exceptionally low, especially among spouses and children of green card holders (the F-2A preference category). In FY 2009, approximately 10,000 family-based visas were unused and, by statute, were reallocated for use by employment-based immigrants in FY 2010.

CIS Ombudsman Submits Formal Recommendation to USCIS Regarding the Adjudication of Applications for Refugee Status. Please Check the attachment.

CIS Ombudsman released a recommendation on "Temporary Acceptance of Filed Labor Condition Applications (LCAs) for Certain H-1B Filings."

Please check attachment for detailed information.

This update will share information on current trends and issues to assist individuals and employers in resolving problems with USCIS.

A USCIS memo to CIS Ombudsman responding to his recommendation states that USCIS establish more uniform filing and review procedures for motions to reopen and reconsider among field offices and service centers as well as improve communication of those procedures to customers and stakeholders.

USCIS, responds to the CIS Ombudsman's Recommendation 39: "Improving the Process for Victims of Trafficking and Certain Criminal Activity: The T and U Visas."

CIS Ombudsman released a recommendation on "Improving the Filing and Review Process for Motions to Reopen or Reconsider."