For updates, see my blog page on Obama's Immigration Action.
Takeaway points for legal immigration from President Obama’s executive action:
1. USCIS is “about to” publish the final rule on H-4 work authorization. That will make it possible for certain spouses of H-1 holders to get work authorization.
2. Improving employment-based green card backlogs by:
a. Making visa issuance more efficient so no immigrant visas are wasted;
b. Providing for better AC21 rules and other ways to keep immigrant visas intact after a change of jobs. USCIS will clarify what constitutes “same or similar” job so that AC21 will not stop workers from getting promotions or even changing to related jobs within their field. USCIS must clear the path to career progression for green card applicants.
3. Expandingfurther the OPT time for STEM students, but creating tighter control on which universities/schools/degrees are eligible and ensure local workers are protected (Implement some sort of a “mini PERM?”).
4. Creating opportunities for foreign “inventors, researchers and founders of start-up” companies to come to the USA through an existing program called “National Interest Waiver.” Unfortunately for India, this is an EB-2 category program requiring several years of wait. But the following parole program will help:
a. Creating a parole (which is usually a temporary, but very quick measure and could eventually lead to a green card) program so that on a case-by-case bases, “inventors, researchers and founders of start-up” companies can be brought quickly into the USA where:
i.They have raised financing in the USA; OR
ii.Otherwise hold the promise of innovation and job creation through development of new technologies OR cutting edge research
5. Creating guidelines for exceptionally qualified or advanced degreed individuals to come to the USA through an existing program called “National Interest Waiver.” As noted, unfortunately for India, this is an EB-2 category program requiring several years of wait. But the parole option above could be helpful.
6. Providing clear guidance on L-1B program as to who can qualify.
My wife and I got our Passports stamped in San Diego, CA with our I-485 approval notice. Let me try to SQUEEZE in an approx. 750-day history (9/01/99 till date) into 4 paragraphs. The whole GC process through your offices was a REAL PLEASANT experience. I am sure that with your guidance, you and your team will scale NEW HEIGHTS with EASE and STRIDE, and HELP a LOT of people. I would like to thank all of your team members. In particular, I would like to mention the DILIGENCE and PREOFESSIONALISM of Diane Lombardo, in praise of which I apologize, as I am unable to get the RIGHT words. I ENVY your and your staff's CARE, PUNCTUALITY, CONCERN and UNDERSTANDING. I was THRILLED when Suman Bhasin returned my voice mail on Saturday. Also, I am really AMAZED at how you can respond to emails in spite of your busy schedule. Also the immigration forum (http://www.immigrationportal.com) is a NOVEL and WONDERFUL idea. You have once again proven your INNOVATIVENESS. Thanks a lot to you Mr. Khanna and your PROFESSIONAL team. Friends, if you need to get the job done right, hire Mr. Khanna. May GOD bless you and your TEAM with the BEST of the WISHES so that a LOT many souls like us, can see their DREAMS come TRUE. I am eagerly looking forward to working with you in the future. Thanks