DOL Alerts on PERM Data entry Problems

On Tuesday, September 1, 2015, the Department implemented software updates to the Permanent Labor Certification Case Management System (CMS). An unexpected programming glitch occurred which impacted a small number of applications and resulted in the prohibition of certain information being entered onto the ETA Form 9089. The Department is working to correct this issue.

Until the revisions become operational, an employer who cannot complete and file an ETA Form 9089 online should mail in their application to the Atlanta National Processing Center at the following address:

USCIS Announces Revised Procedures for Determining Visa Availability for Applicants Waiting to File for Adjustment of Status

USCIS, in coordination with Department of State (DOS), is revising the procedures for determining visa availability for applicants waiting to file for employment-based or family-sponsored preference adjustment of status. The revised process will better align with procedures DOS uses for foreign nationals who seek to become U.S. permanent residents by applying for immigrant visas at U.S. consulates and embassies abroad.

Visa Bulletin - October 2015

Number 85
Volume IX
Washington, D.C

A. STATUTORY NUMBERS

This bulletin summarizes the availability of immigrant numbers during October for: “Application Final Action Dates” (consistent with prior Visa Bulletins) and “Dates for Filing Applications,” indicating when immigrant visa applicants should be notified to assemble and submit required documentation to the National Visa Center.

Green Card

Recording of Free Community Conference Call (Every Other Thursday), 2015, 3 September

Immigration.com

Agency

Nonimmigrant Visas

Immigration Law

Substantial transcription for video

Discussed: Gap in status (H-4); EB-3 or EB-2 PERM distinction; BALCA appeal times; obtaining copy of I-140 receipt/approval FOIA; options to work after 6 years of H-1; Sponsoring green card while living outside the USA; OPT issues; CR-1 to IR; Obamacare and affidavit of support; cross-chargeability; E-1 visa; H-1B amendment; H-1 quota issues; multiple H-1 approvals; continuous residence for US citizenship/naturalization; I-140 revoked priority date; green card for researchers; etc.

DHS Announces Temporary Protected Status Designation for Yemen

WASHINGTON—Secretary of Homeland Security Jeh Johnson announced his decision to designate Yemen for Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for 18 months due to the ongoing armed conflict within the country. Yemen is experiencing widespread conflict and a resulting severe humanitarian emergency, and requiring Yemeni nationals in the United States to return to Yemen would pose a serious threat to their personal safety. As a result of Yemen’s designation for TPS, eligible nationals of Yemen residing in the United States may apply for TPS with U.S.

USCIS Simplifies the Immigrant Fee Payment Process

USCIS has simplified the process for paying the USCIS Immigrant Fee online in our electronic immigration system. The revised payment process reduces the amount of information an immigrant must provide to USCIS. Additionally, in response to customer feedback, anyone can now pay the USCIS Immigrant Fee for an immigrant. For example, a family member, friend, employer, attorney, or accredited representative can pay the fee as long as they have the immigrant’s Alien Registration Number (A-Number) and DOS Case ID.

USCIS Launches Spanish-Language myE-Verify and Expands Services

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) today announced the launch of a Spanish-language myE-Verify, plus the addition of Case Tracker and Case History services to the English and Spanish myE-Verify websites. myE-Verify is a one-stop shop for employees and job seekers to access features for identity protection in E-Verify and visibility into the E-Verify process.