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.
I just got my H-1B renewed for a 7th Year through the Law offices of Rajiv S. Khanna. Rajiv, with whom, I had been corresponding on various issues pertaining to my greencard, H-1B, etc., is always accessible and extremely helpful. He is extremely prompt in responding to the email--usually in a few hours and sometimes almost instantaneous. His promptness had always helped to ease the anxiety levels. I will be always be grateful for that, THANK YOU RAJIV. I also would like to thank Richa Narang, Shivane Sharma for their work and time on my GC case. And, Anna Baker and Charu Bhagat for their time and work on my H-1B 7th Year extension. I had countless conversations with Richa, Shivane, and Anna. They are not only diligent and professional in the work they do, but more importantly all the three have a great human trait: EMPATHY. They are prompt in responding to emails and in keeping me informed of the status. My sincere thanks to all of you and keep up the good work. I have already recommended Law offices of Rajiv S. Khanna to several of my friends. And many are now his clients.