USCIS Publishes Notice On Extension Of Re-registration Period For Haitian TPS

WASHINGTON—U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) announced today an extension of the re-registration period for Haitian nationalswho have already been granted Temporary Protected Status (TPS) and seek to maintain that status for an additional 18 months. Given the impact Hurricane Sandy has had on regions where Haitians reside, the re-registration period is extended through Jan. 29, 2013.

I-140 Expedite requests

Question details

What is the process for I-140 expedite requests?

Expedite requests are received through the USCIS NCSC customer service number. In cases of emergency where an AP is required, an INFOPASS appointment will be made possible at the local office. Usually, for expedite issues on I-485 applications for religious workers, the biometrics takes about 14 to 30 days. The lockbox, on the other hand, takes seven to ten days to issue a receipt.

I-140 Petition and Inability to Pay

Question details

What is the process for responding to USCIS’ concern about inability to pay in an I-140 petition?

According to USCIS, a letter is acceptable from a financial officer validating 100 employees and ability to pay. However, further information can be requested in case there are other reasons that show an inability to pay. Please keep in mind the employer in the RFE should be given the reason for the request. It is also important to know that USCIS might take the letter from the financial officer due to discretion.

H-4 to H-1 status

Question details

I was in H-1B status for three years, then changed to H-4 status. If I want to change back to H-1, will I need to wait to file under the new quota?

If your previous H-1B petition was counted against the cap, you should not be subject to the quota and should be able to file an H-1B petition at any time. However, if your prior H-1B employer was cap-exempt, you will be subject to the quota.