alterego
09-15 02:12 PM
On the other hand, I think something else might happen unless things change quickly.
Growth is slowing down, budget deficit is high, the long term bond curve is inverted, all pointing to a significantly slowing economy. That does not mean recession, but it does mean more layoffs, and more difficulty in getting labor certified. That might impact how things work next year.
I used to be an optimist, but after 1 year of politics similar to my home country, I am starting to think that most of what you hear and see is hogwash.
I do not mean that nothing will change, possibly 485 filing will happen, but do not raise your hopes high on GC number increase.
That is the exact intent of their policy. They percieve that too many Indian IT folks are coming to america. If what you say happens then their intended consequence would be attained.
Just look at the whole EB thing. Why do they call it EMPLOYMENT BASED immigration then impose COUNTRY SPECIFIC quotas on it. They look at all immigration as a sort of social development. They have EB1 for the truly meritable. The rest of EB immigration/H1b system to them is a safety valve to help keep the labour markets more flexible according to the needs of the day. The 40K is mentioned in the stats. of visas issued for last year. It is on a few of the lawyer websites as well.
When they want to act on something you can see it in the speed of action.
Right now someone in EB2 category in ROW can have a green card in 1yr or less. From India, noone can say how long and probably without changes it would be about 7-10 yrs atleast.
You may be more optimistic that Indians will leave. I am under no such illusion. Having looked at the personas a lot, I tend to feel more will cling on for many many years, just waiting and hoping. Indians will do this for a few reasons. The US advantage in terms of quality of life, money, job opportunities etc is much more. Indians generally tend to put up with more C%^% if it means they can get ahead, and Indians tend to live more for tomorrow than other people ie for children, for financial security etc. These are generally good traits, in this situation they will lead to those clinging on. In a sense AC21 has in a way put us in this situation, by allowing 7th yr H1b extensions. Were that not there, your argument would have been more plausible.
Growth is slowing down, budget deficit is high, the long term bond curve is inverted, all pointing to a significantly slowing economy. That does not mean recession, but it does mean more layoffs, and more difficulty in getting labor certified. That might impact how things work next year.
I used to be an optimist, but after 1 year of politics similar to my home country, I am starting to think that most of what you hear and see is hogwash.
I do not mean that nothing will change, possibly 485 filing will happen, but do not raise your hopes high on GC number increase.
That is the exact intent of their policy. They percieve that too many Indian IT folks are coming to america. If what you say happens then their intended consequence would be attained.
Just look at the whole EB thing. Why do they call it EMPLOYMENT BASED immigration then impose COUNTRY SPECIFIC quotas on it. They look at all immigration as a sort of social development. They have EB1 for the truly meritable. The rest of EB immigration/H1b system to them is a safety valve to help keep the labour markets more flexible according to the needs of the day. The 40K is mentioned in the stats. of visas issued for last year. It is on a few of the lawyer websites as well.
When they want to act on something you can see it in the speed of action.
Right now someone in EB2 category in ROW can have a green card in 1yr or less. From India, noone can say how long and probably without changes it would be about 7-10 yrs atleast.
You may be more optimistic that Indians will leave. I am under no such illusion. Having looked at the personas a lot, I tend to feel more will cling on for many many years, just waiting and hoping. Indians will do this for a few reasons. The US advantage in terms of quality of life, money, job opportunities etc is much more. Indians generally tend to put up with more C%^% if it means they can get ahead, and Indians tend to live more for tomorrow than other people ie for children, for financial security etc. These are generally good traits, in this situation they will lead to those clinging on. In a sense AC21 has in a way put us in this situation, by allowing 7th yr H1b extensions. Were that not there, your argument would have been more plausible.
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darsh678
02-12 08:46 AM
This is what i think as being optimist
Even if Schedule A gets 90 k unused visa, we will be closer to our PD as all schedule A are in EB3. So if this 90 k for schedule A gets approved we will move ahead by 90 k visas.
Even better will be if they have separate category and dont include in EB3.
I think if we are not supporting them then atleast not oppose them as in any case it will be a win win situation for us and we can follow their steps if they are successful to get some solution for our EB3 retro.
This is very serious matter. EB community should strongly oppose
It is time for Fight to Finish !
Even if Schedule A gets 90 k unused visa, we will be closer to our PD as all schedule A are in EB3. So if this 90 k for schedule A gets approved we will move ahead by 90 k visas.
Even better will be if they have separate category and dont include in EB3.
I think if we are not supporting them then atleast not oppose them as in any case it will be a win win situation for us and we can follow their steps if they are successful to get some solution for our EB3 retro.
This is very serious matter. EB community should strongly oppose
It is time for Fight to Finish !
saketkapur
12-02 06:58 PM
This in from Ron Gotcher website....I guess they are reading our letters.....
Good news concerning AOS denials based on I-140 revocations
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
We received some very good news over the weekend. In October and November, our office was contacted by a number of adjustment of status applicants who had received denials based on "revocations" of their approved I-140 petitions by former employers. All of these applicants had AOS applications that had been pending for more than 180 days before they left their sponsoring employers. They also had approved I-140 petitions. Nonetheless, vindictive employers in each case attempted to revoke the approved I-140 petitions. The CIS accepted these "revocations" and promptly denied the AOS applications. We were contacted by six different individuals with these types of cases and we filed motions to reconsider in their cases.
Earlier, in September, we handled this type of case and the MTR was granted and the denial successfully reversed. This happened before any of these October/November cases came in or were filed.
I was disappointed to see that the CIS was still attempting to deny cases on this basis. There is absolutely no law to support this type of denial and, in fact, such denials are directly contrary to both statutory law and explicit CIS policy.
I was gratified to see that all six of the MTRs we field in October/November were granted and the denials reversed. I am also encouraged that the CIS accepted our request to reopen the denials of the dependents as well, on their own motion, and spare the pricipal applicants the cost of paying filing fees for MTRs for the denials of dependents' AOS applications.
I hope this means that the supervisors at the service centers involved are now aware of the blatant illegality of these types of denials and will put and end to them in the future. We can only hope that we have seen an end to this nonsense.
__________________
Good news concerning AOS denials based on I-140 revocations
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
We received some very good news over the weekend. In October and November, our office was contacted by a number of adjustment of status applicants who had received denials based on "revocations" of their approved I-140 petitions by former employers. All of these applicants had AOS applications that had been pending for more than 180 days before they left their sponsoring employers. They also had approved I-140 petitions. Nonetheless, vindictive employers in each case attempted to revoke the approved I-140 petitions. The CIS accepted these "revocations" and promptly denied the AOS applications. We were contacted by six different individuals with these types of cases and we filed motions to reconsider in their cases.
Earlier, in September, we handled this type of case and the MTR was granted and the denial successfully reversed. This happened before any of these October/November cases came in or were filed.
I was disappointed to see that the CIS was still attempting to deny cases on this basis. There is absolutely no law to support this type of denial and, in fact, such denials are directly contrary to both statutory law and explicit CIS policy.
I was gratified to see that all six of the MTRs we field in October/November were granted and the denials reversed. I am also encouraged that the CIS accepted our request to reopen the denials of the dependents as well, on their own motion, and spare the pricipal applicants the cost of paying filing fees for MTRs for the denials of dependents' AOS applications.
I hope this means that the supervisors at the service centers involved are now aware of the blatant illegality of these types of denials and will put and end to them in the future. We can only hope that we have seen an end to this nonsense.
__________________
2011 messi.vs.ronaldo by ~worldcont
logiclife
02-19 11:42 AM
I have been thinking about choosing between EB3 and EB2. I hold a Masters degree from US and have 2 yrs of experience. I am wondering whether to go in EB3 (which is very simple and easy to get with no scrutiny - SURE TO GET APPROVED) and wait for a very long time in the queue OR go for EB2 (which is more difficult and have to pass through all the scrutiny from I-140) and then wait, whose waiting time might be lesser than EB3's
Which one is best to do ? Your suggestions please.
This is a wrong conventional belief. It has been far too many times written about and has now become conventional wisdom, that EB2 or EB1 is determined by the qualification of the employee.
That is only 1 of the 2 things needed to get a case approved under EB2. The other requirement is that the job description and the position must require a person of EB2 qualifications. The position being filled by MS plus 2 years, or BS plus 5 years should be the kind of position that cannot be filled by a lesser qualified employee.
So basically, you can be a Ph.D. from Harvard university with 10 years experience. But if your Greencard is filed for a job that requires someone with BS plus 2 years experience and can be filled by an EB3 candidate, then your case cannot be approved as EB2 even though your qualifications can make you fit for EB2.
Now about the priority dates. See EB2 is right now ahead of EB3. However, the continuation of that is totally dependent on many factors.
1. Future laws. What if EB2 percentages decrease?
2. EB1 spillover. How many EB1s are unused and spill over into EB2.
3. Your chargability, (country of birth), is ofcourse important. India and China EB2 may not be moving ahead this year AT ALL unless there is change in quota.
4. The future applicants for EB2. We dont know about the labor files in backlog centers and how many of those are EB2 and how many are EB3. Of that, how much more crowded would be EB2 or EB3.
It is IMPOSSIBLE to predict which one would be better off. Impossible.
Which one is best to do ? Your suggestions please.
This is a wrong conventional belief. It has been far too many times written about and has now become conventional wisdom, that EB2 or EB1 is determined by the qualification of the employee.
That is only 1 of the 2 things needed to get a case approved under EB2. The other requirement is that the job description and the position must require a person of EB2 qualifications. The position being filled by MS plus 2 years, or BS plus 5 years should be the kind of position that cannot be filled by a lesser qualified employee.
So basically, you can be a Ph.D. from Harvard university with 10 years experience. But if your Greencard is filed for a job that requires someone with BS plus 2 years experience and can be filled by an EB3 candidate, then your case cannot be approved as EB2 even though your qualifications can make you fit for EB2.
Now about the priority dates. See EB2 is right now ahead of EB3. However, the continuation of that is totally dependent on many factors.
1. Future laws. What if EB2 percentages decrease?
2. EB1 spillover. How many EB1s are unused and spill over into EB2.
3. Your chargability, (country of birth), is ofcourse important. India and China EB2 may not be moving ahead this year AT ALL unless there is change in quota.
4. The future applicants for EB2. We dont know about the labor files in backlog centers and how many of those are EB2 and how many are EB3. Of that, how much more crowded would be EB2 or EB3.
It is IMPOSSIBLE to predict which one would be better off. Impossible.
more...
cagedcactus
07-31 07:22 AM
Your input is much appreciated. I filed my I 140.
Thanks a lot again.....
Thanks a lot again.....
MDix
01-06 10:29 AM
Please be advised that the above date ranges are only estimates which are subject to fluctuations in demand during the coming months.
Unless, USCIS advise them on the low demand from ROW. Until then DOS is not going to do any spill-over other than FB left-over from last year( 10K).
Unless, USCIS advise them on the low demand from ROW. Until then DOS is not going to do any spill-over other than FB left-over from last year( 10K).
more...
shirish
09-10 10:47 PM
When did you receive the rfe letter in mail? Was there any LUD (last update date) on your case or any status change on the uscis website online?
Also can you please post your details like RD, ND also where was it sent and where was it transfered,.
Mine was NSC-> VSC-> TSC with RD july27th ND sep 27.
I am expecting rfe for medicals since my lawyer did not send my medical reports with the application :)
I got an RFE on I-485 for the incomplete medicals. The RFE says that a 'specific' test results are missing and they need that test results to complete my application. I went to the same doctor and the lady there said, I did take that 'specific' test last year when I had medicals, but doctor forgot to mention that results in I-693. She said she is going to fill out a new I-693 form with all the results including the missing one (from old results) and will give me that sealed cover. Will this be enough? or do I need to take that 'specific' tests now and send the results?
I am planning to send the results tomorrow overnite.
Also, my Immigration Office number is 009 with TSC. Anybody got any approvals from this IO?
Also can you please post your details like RD, ND also where was it sent and where was it transfered,.
Mine was NSC-> VSC-> TSC with RD july27th ND sep 27.
I am expecting rfe for medicals since my lawyer did not send my medical reports with the application :)
I got an RFE on I-485 for the incomplete medicals. The RFE says that a 'specific' test results are missing and they need that test results to complete my application. I went to the same doctor and the lady there said, I did take that 'specific' test last year when I had medicals, but doctor forgot to mention that results in I-693. She said she is going to fill out a new I-693 form with all the results including the missing one (from old results) and will give me that sealed cover. Will this be enough? or do I need to take that 'specific' tests now and send the results?
I am planning to send the results tomorrow overnite.
Also, my Immigration Office number is 009 with TSC. Anybody got any approvals from this IO?
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neeidd
11-09 06:06 PM
Hi ,
I am planning to use AP for re-enter to USA. Could someone please let me know the list the documents that I should carry ?
Thanks
I am planning to use AP for re-enter to USA. Could someone please let me know the list the documents that I should carry ?
Thanks
more...
sparky_jones
10-01 08:19 AM
^^^^
hair messi vs ronaldo.
![messi vs ronaldo. “He [Messi] carries in his](http://static.guim.co.uk/sys-images/Football/Clubs/Club_Home/2009/12/20/1261268184369/Lionel-Messi-celebrates-B-001.jpg "“He [Messi] carries in his")
willgetgc2005
12-14 03:57 PM
Thanks all.
1) While filing AP online it asks if I want to add more filings. I want to add my wife's I-131 as well. Also my wife is a derivative beneficiary of my pending 485. So, my question is should my wife and my AP supporting documents be mailed in the same packet, even though I will
create 2 separate files in the same packet. Please advise. Else, how will they know that my wife's AP renewal is linked to mine.
2) There is a section which asks for the data of Intended departure. In paper based filing i would type unknown at present time. But in e-file, i cant type that in the date field. Can I leave this field and the length of stay blank ?
3) Part 7 Info for me asks only if my trip is for single entry or multiple entry. It does not ask for any supplemental Info. What is this supplemental info people talk about ?
__________________________________________________ _
1. When you file it online, the category for your wife would be h4.
2. Send it separately please.
3. Send the following after applying online:
a. A print out of the confirmation page that you will get after applying online.
b. 2 Pics each. Put your a# on the back of the pics.
c. A copy of any approval notice showing your current status in USA.
d. A copy of I 485 reciept notice.
e. A copy of old AP (if any).
g. A small letter mentioning why you need the AP.
Thats it and you are all set.
1) While filing AP online it asks if I want to add more filings. I want to add my wife's I-131 as well. Also my wife is a derivative beneficiary of my pending 485. So, my question is should my wife and my AP supporting documents be mailed in the same packet, even though I will
create 2 separate files in the same packet. Please advise. Else, how will they know that my wife's AP renewal is linked to mine.
2) There is a section which asks for the data of Intended departure. In paper based filing i would type unknown at present time. But in e-file, i cant type that in the date field. Can I leave this field and the length of stay blank ?
3) Part 7 Info for me asks only if my trip is for single entry or multiple entry. It does not ask for any supplemental Info. What is this supplemental info people talk about ?
__________________________________________________ _
1. When you file it online, the category for your wife would be h4.
2. Send it separately please.
3. Send the following after applying online:
a. A print out of the confirmation page that you will get after applying online.
b. 2 Pics each. Put your a# on the back of the pics.
c. A copy of any approval notice showing your current status in USA.
d. A copy of I 485 reciept notice.
e. A copy of old AP (if any).
g. A small letter mentioning why you need the AP.
Thats it and you are all set.
more...
chanduv23
06-19 12:23 PM
Wow! Thank you everyone for your input!
So how does one surrender a Green Card abroad - do they have to go to a US Consular Office/Embassy?
Yes, my dad took his expired GC to the Chennai Consulate when he went for his visitor's visa stamping and let the first level screening officer know that he has this document - she then made a note of it (I think) and asked my dad to hand it over the VO during the interview. When my dad handed it to the VO - he was looking and gazing at it for a while and then took it inside and had a small discussion with a couple of people and then filled out a form and had a notary notorize it and asked my dad to fill out the form and gave my dad a copy and then put it in an envelope and attached this to my dad's visitor's visa file.
So how does one surrender a Green Card abroad - do they have to go to a US Consular Office/Embassy?
Yes, my dad took his expired GC to the Chennai Consulate when he went for his visitor's visa stamping and let the first level screening officer know that he has this document - she then made a note of it (I think) and asked my dad to hand it over the VO during the interview. When my dad handed it to the VO - he was looking and gazing at it for a while and then took it inside and had a small discussion with a couple of people and then filled out a form and had a notary notorize it and asked my dad to fill out the form and gave my dad a copy and then put it in an envelope and attached this to my dad's visitor's visa file.
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VisaHelp
07-26 01:51 AM
Okay, I applied for an H1 transfer late June 2006 on my own. Started at new job after receipt. Late August went on maternity leave. Came back to work in December. During maternity leave, my application was sent back due to wrong fee and no LCA (I didn't use a lawyer and was given somewhat bad advice.) By the time I did a re-application for transfer it was April 2007 (with the help of lawyers, this time). My H1 expired (6 years) near the end of June. But I was told I was okay as long as I was pending. Mid-July got a request for evidence with a date of September 20th being the latest date I can send in the evidence...pay stubs, tax returns, etc.
1. Am I currently out of status or okay because of the RFE?
2. If I apply for F-1 status now (thinking of a second Masters or PhD) will I need to send in the evidence for the H1B before that or will that not matter? It will take me a while to get all of the evidence, but I don't have time to wait in regards to getting the F-1 for school this Fall.
My lawyers suggested leaving the country, but I am fearful of that? Any suggestions, answers, advice?
Thanks.
1. Am I currently out of status or okay because of the RFE?
2. If I apply for F-1 status now (thinking of a second Masters or PhD) will I need to send in the evidence for the H1B before that or will that not matter? It will take me a while to get all of the evidence, but I don't have time to wait in regards to getting the F-1 for school this Fall.
My lawyers suggested leaving the country, but I am fearful of that? Any suggestions, answers, advice?
Thanks.
more...
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I_need_GC
10-24 11:33 AM
Ok Guru's I am in an awkward situation. My GC got approved some time in Aug 2008. But before the approval of my GC my wife in india applied for H4 visa based on my H1b. The consulate approved her H4 and stamped it on her passport last month. Even though I am on GC now. i have files I-824 for her Follow to Join.
Now the question I have is.
1- Can she travel to US on that H4 (the visa stamp is valid till 2010)?
2- If the CBP agents at the aiport let her in the country can I file for her I-485 and have her wait here on AOS?
Let me know what you guys think. On mountain crossed and still more hills keep coming.
Now the question I have is.
1- Can she travel to US on that H4 (the visa stamp is valid till 2010)?
2- If the CBP agents at the aiport let her in the country can I file for her I-485 and have her wait here on AOS?
Let me know what you guys think. On mountain crossed and still more hills keep coming.
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Jaime
09-12 02:20 PM
Real Life :
A friend of mine who went to India's premier institution - IIT in India and then to IIM worked for one of the fortune 100 companies here in the US.
He got married and decided to move to UK because his equally qualified spouse being on a dependent Visa could not work due to the obsolete rules.
Both husband and wife are well on thier way to permanent residency in UK.
Doubly bad for the United States!!!
A friend of mine who went to India's premier institution - IIT in India and then to IIM worked for one of the fortune 100 companies here in the US.
He got married and decided to move to UK because his equally qualified spouse being on a dependent Visa could not work due to the obsolete rules.
Both husband and wife are well on thier way to permanent residency in UK.
Doubly bad for the United States!!!
more...
pictures Messi+vs+ronaldo+wallpaper
kaarmaa
05-04 09:01 AM
I just transferred to a new employer in my 7th year. All you need is a copy of the approved I-140.
DO not give a notice to your current employer until the new H1 is approved. Also, apply for premium processing.
DO not give a notice to your current employer until the new H1 is approved. Also, apply for premium processing.
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apahilaj
09-28 03:27 PM
Singhsa,
Thanks for your reply.
I've already called them up twice and they keep on giving me the same reason saying ASC must be busy with other appointments.
Is there any other way to escalate this? Thanks.
Thanks for your reply.
I've already called them up twice and they keep on giving me the same reason saying ASC must be busy with other appointments.
Is there any other way to escalate this? Thanks.
more...
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gc28262
09-03 10:49 PM
In one of my friend's case they approved H1 for 6 months, because he had contract only for 6 months. He just completed 3 years and this is his first extension request. :eek: Who the hell in this world writes contract for more than 6 months even if they have requirements for next 2 years.
Another case I heard was immigration officer at POE granted only 1 year I-94 even though he had 2 years left in his visa. It seems IO spoke to candidates manager and advised him to hire someone locally and get him trained within a year.
Are we in real United States of America? So much of hate around.
This is Obama and Grassley in action :rolleyes:
Another case I heard was immigration officer at POE granted only 1 year I-94 even though he had 2 years left in his visa. It seems IO spoke to candidates manager and advised him to hire someone locally and get him trained within a year.
Are we in real United States of America? So much of hate around.
This is Obama and Grassley in action :rolleyes:
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saint_2010
08-13 11:26 AM
looks like they will make us wait till 17th and accept/reject case from July 2nd...and most of the rejected cases might not be eligible to refile :mad:...this is my guess!
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qualified_trash
07-07 01:09 PM
Investing in a company -> Yes (shareholder)
Own a company -> No
On H1b, you are not even supposed to make money via Google Adsense. Even if the money is diverted to your home country you have to quote these earnings on your taxes. H1b visa holder has to quote his/her worldwide income and its unclear if your income in your home country is taxed here be it Adsense income or a business.
No wonder many entrepreneurial ideas either die or are taking roots in Korea, India or China!
This has been my research on the internet and is not from a legal advisor.
Could you tell me what the difference is between owning a company and being a shareholder? :-))
Jokes apart, you can definitely own a company on an H1. You CANNOT work for it unless you file a H1 for yourself through your own company.
Own a company -> No
On H1b, you are not even supposed to make money via Google Adsense. Even if the money is diverted to your home country you have to quote these earnings on your taxes. H1b visa holder has to quote his/her worldwide income and its unclear if your income in your home country is taxed here be it Adsense income or a business.
No wonder many entrepreneurial ideas either die or are taking roots in Korea, India or China!
This has been my research on the internet and is not from a legal advisor.
Could you tell me what the difference is between owning a company and being a shareholder? :-))
Jokes apart, you can definitely own a company on an H1. You CANNOT work for it unless you file a H1 for yourself through your own company.
Blog Feeds
02-10 08:50 PM
Most lawyers that are versed in the H1B visa process, are getting busier and busier these days. As we are nearing the April 1, 2010 filing deadline for the H1B visa. Many speculations out there as to when will the Cap be reached this year. The economy is still in recovery mode, and employers are careful before hiring. Yet, many Immigration experts feel the Cap will be met early this year, but when is the big question.
With drastic changes to the Labor Condition Application (http://www.visalawyerblog.com/2009/07/icert_portal_for_lca_filing.html)process (now taking more than 7 days to process), as well as unreasonable denials (http://www.visalawyerblog.com/2009/08/h1b_visa_lawyer_about_icert_wo.html), planning early is the key to a successful H1B case this year. But in this post, I want to go back to the basics, the Cap and the legislative background.
Background
On October 21, 1998 Congress passed, and the President signed into law, the much debated American Competitiveness and Workforce Improvement Act of 1998, Pub. L. No. 105-277 (hereinafter ACWIA). This legislation was first introduced by Senator Spencer Abraham (R-MI), the Chairman of the Senate Subcommittee on Immigration, in response to the inadequate numbers of H-1B visas available in any fiscal year. As part of the Immigration Act of 1990, Congress imposed a 65,000 per year cap on these visas. In 1997, the cap was reached prior to the end of the fiscal year. The situation grew to crisis proportions in fiscal year 1998 when all 65,000 visas numbers were taken in May of 1998.
In early March 1998, Senator Abraham introduced a bill entitled, "The American Competitiveness Act." The legislation was introduced on the heels of numerous reports and hearings concerning the high tech worker shortage in the United States. The primary goal of the legislation was to address the looming exhaustion of the H-1B professional or specialty occupation worker visa numbers. (http://www.h1b.biz/lawyer-attorney-1137085.html)
The ACWIA went through many different stages before an agreement could be reached. A complete elimination of the cap had originally been proposed by Senator Abraham. The legislation was then modified to increase the number of H-1B visa numbers available during the government fiscal year; provide additional funds for scholarships in the computer science and mathematics areas; increase enforcement of the Department of Labor component of the H-1B visa process; and provide clarification on the prevailing wage requirements of the process. The legislation also addressed permanent residence by providing for an extension of the H-1B visa should a permanent residence petition be pending, and through restructuring the allocation of the employment-based immigrant visa numbers.
This legislative game between conservative isolationists/liberal protectors of the U.S. workforce and moderate Democrats and Republicans supporting business needs and demands, caused chaos among U.S.-based businesses in need of skilled professional workers. From May 11, 1998 until October 1, 1998 U.S. businesses, research institutions and other organizations were unable to recruit foreign workers as temporary professionals. With the U.S. economy still booming and unemployment rates remaining at an all-time low, businesses, especially in the high tech sector, encountered many problems as a result of the cut-off in H-1B visa availability. These problems included, but were not limited to, taking employees off the U.S. payroll, sending employees back to their home country or to sites outside the U.S. as well as the termination of some critical development projects.
Requirements in the Statute
The ACWIA purportedly balances the need for increased professional visas numbers for foreign workers and the desire to protect the U.S. workforce. The following is a summary of the significant changes made by the legislation.
A. Temporary Increase in the Number of Professional Visas Available
There will be an increase from 65,000 to 115,000 visas for fiscal year 1999 and 2000 (through September 30, 2000). In fiscal year 2001, 107,500 visas will be available. Beginning October 1, 2001 the numbers will revert back to 65,000.
B. Electronic Postings
LCA notices may be posted electronically in situations without a bargaining representative. This provision was effective upon date of enactment.
C. Attestations Required for Employers Dependent Upon Foreign Professionals
U.S. employers of 51 or more employees, whose workforce is comprised of 15% or more foreign nationals in the H-1B category are considered dependent employers and must make certain attestations. Employers will also be considered dependent if they employ 26- 50 full time employees and have more than 12 H-1B employees or if they employ 7 -25 employees and have more than 7 H-1B employees.
The dependent employer must attest that it has not and will not displace a U.S. worker within 90 days before and 90 days after filing the visa application. This attestation carries through to employers who place employees at another worksite. The H-1B dependent employer must also attest that it has taken good faith steps to recruit U.S. workers using industry wide standards and has offered the position to any U.S. worker who is equally or better qualified for the job the foreign worker is sought.
H-1B employees with a Master�s degree or a salary of $60,000 or higher are not included in the attestation requirements and for the first 6 months following the implementation will not be included in the dependent employer calculation.
D. Increased Enforcement and Penalties for Violations
The Department of Labor may fine employers between $1,000-$35,000 per violation and preclude participation in the H-1B program for up to three years.
E. Back Benching H-1B Employees
Employers must pay H-1B nonimmigrants the wage stated on the H-1B petition even if the beneficiary is in nonproductive status. This does not apply to non-productive time due to non work related factors.
F. Benefits
Employers must offer foreign workers benefits and eligibility for insurance, disability, retirement and savings plans, stock options, etc., on the same basis as offerings made to U.S. workers.
G. Additional Fee for Use of H-1B Program
Beginning December 1, 1998, employers are required to pay an additional fee of $500 for an initial H-1B petition and for the first extension. These fees are to be used to support job training programs and scholarships for U.S. workers.
H. Prevailing Wage Computations
For institutions of higher education, related or affiliated non-profit entities or non profit or governmental research organizations, the prevailing wage shall take into account employees at such institutions in the area of employment.
I. Academic Honoraria
Payments of honoraria may now be made to B-1 and B-2 visitors for usual academic activity lasting 9 days at an academic institution or affiliated non-profit entity or a non-profit governmental research organization. No more than 5 honorarium may be received within a six month period.
Employers based in the U.S. now have a temporary reprieve when hiring foreign professionals. However, it is uncertain whether the 65,000 visas for this fiscal year will be adequate to meet the demand for this year and next. Some government officials estimate that visas will be unavailable as early as the beginning of May 2010. In addition, it is still unclear what is on the legislative horizon, reform or not. Pro Immigrants want to come with a proposal to reform legal immigration. U.S. employers employing foreign nationals in any capacity would be well advised to carefully monitor future legislative and regulatory proposals on the horizon. All I can say is that if you plan on hiring a foreign worker, you better call your lawyer now!!!
More... (http://www.visalawyerblog.com/2010/02/h1b_visa_lawyer_the_filing_sea.html)
With drastic changes to the Labor Condition Application (http://www.visalawyerblog.com/2009/07/icert_portal_for_lca_filing.html)process (now taking more than 7 days to process), as well as unreasonable denials (http://www.visalawyerblog.com/2009/08/h1b_visa_lawyer_about_icert_wo.html), planning early is the key to a successful H1B case this year. But in this post, I want to go back to the basics, the Cap and the legislative background.
Background
On October 21, 1998 Congress passed, and the President signed into law, the much debated American Competitiveness and Workforce Improvement Act of 1998, Pub. L. No. 105-277 (hereinafter ACWIA). This legislation was first introduced by Senator Spencer Abraham (R-MI), the Chairman of the Senate Subcommittee on Immigration, in response to the inadequate numbers of H-1B visas available in any fiscal year. As part of the Immigration Act of 1990, Congress imposed a 65,000 per year cap on these visas. In 1997, the cap was reached prior to the end of the fiscal year. The situation grew to crisis proportions in fiscal year 1998 when all 65,000 visas numbers were taken in May of 1998.
In early March 1998, Senator Abraham introduced a bill entitled, "The American Competitiveness Act." The legislation was introduced on the heels of numerous reports and hearings concerning the high tech worker shortage in the United States. The primary goal of the legislation was to address the looming exhaustion of the H-1B professional or specialty occupation worker visa numbers. (http://www.h1b.biz/lawyer-attorney-1137085.html)
The ACWIA went through many different stages before an agreement could be reached. A complete elimination of the cap had originally been proposed by Senator Abraham. The legislation was then modified to increase the number of H-1B visa numbers available during the government fiscal year; provide additional funds for scholarships in the computer science and mathematics areas; increase enforcement of the Department of Labor component of the H-1B visa process; and provide clarification on the prevailing wage requirements of the process. The legislation also addressed permanent residence by providing for an extension of the H-1B visa should a permanent residence petition be pending, and through restructuring the allocation of the employment-based immigrant visa numbers.
This legislative game between conservative isolationists/liberal protectors of the U.S. workforce and moderate Democrats and Republicans supporting business needs and demands, caused chaos among U.S.-based businesses in need of skilled professional workers. From May 11, 1998 until October 1, 1998 U.S. businesses, research institutions and other organizations were unable to recruit foreign workers as temporary professionals. With the U.S. economy still booming and unemployment rates remaining at an all-time low, businesses, especially in the high tech sector, encountered many problems as a result of the cut-off in H-1B visa availability. These problems included, but were not limited to, taking employees off the U.S. payroll, sending employees back to their home country or to sites outside the U.S. as well as the termination of some critical development projects.
Requirements in the Statute
The ACWIA purportedly balances the need for increased professional visas numbers for foreign workers and the desire to protect the U.S. workforce. The following is a summary of the significant changes made by the legislation.
A. Temporary Increase in the Number of Professional Visas Available
There will be an increase from 65,000 to 115,000 visas for fiscal year 1999 and 2000 (through September 30, 2000). In fiscal year 2001, 107,500 visas will be available. Beginning October 1, 2001 the numbers will revert back to 65,000.
B. Electronic Postings
LCA notices may be posted electronically in situations without a bargaining representative. This provision was effective upon date of enactment.
C. Attestations Required for Employers Dependent Upon Foreign Professionals
U.S. employers of 51 or more employees, whose workforce is comprised of 15% or more foreign nationals in the H-1B category are considered dependent employers and must make certain attestations. Employers will also be considered dependent if they employ 26- 50 full time employees and have more than 12 H-1B employees or if they employ 7 -25 employees and have more than 7 H-1B employees.
The dependent employer must attest that it has not and will not displace a U.S. worker within 90 days before and 90 days after filing the visa application. This attestation carries through to employers who place employees at another worksite. The H-1B dependent employer must also attest that it has taken good faith steps to recruit U.S. workers using industry wide standards and has offered the position to any U.S. worker who is equally or better qualified for the job the foreign worker is sought.
H-1B employees with a Master�s degree or a salary of $60,000 or higher are not included in the attestation requirements and for the first 6 months following the implementation will not be included in the dependent employer calculation.
D. Increased Enforcement and Penalties for Violations
The Department of Labor may fine employers between $1,000-$35,000 per violation and preclude participation in the H-1B program for up to three years.
E. Back Benching H-1B Employees
Employers must pay H-1B nonimmigrants the wage stated on the H-1B petition even if the beneficiary is in nonproductive status. This does not apply to non-productive time due to non work related factors.
F. Benefits
Employers must offer foreign workers benefits and eligibility for insurance, disability, retirement and savings plans, stock options, etc., on the same basis as offerings made to U.S. workers.
G. Additional Fee for Use of H-1B Program
Beginning December 1, 1998, employers are required to pay an additional fee of $500 for an initial H-1B petition and for the first extension. These fees are to be used to support job training programs and scholarships for U.S. workers.
H. Prevailing Wage Computations
For institutions of higher education, related or affiliated non-profit entities or non profit or governmental research organizations, the prevailing wage shall take into account employees at such institutions in the area of employment.
I. Academic Honoraria
Payments of honoraria may now be made to B-1 and B-2 visitors for usual academic activity lasting 9 days at an academic institution or affiliated non-profit entity or a non-profit governmental research organization. No more than 5 honorarium may be received within a six month period.
Employers based in the U.S. now have a temporary reprieve when hiring foreign professionals. However, it is uncertain whether the 65,000 visas for this fiscal year will be adequate to meet the demand for this year and next. Some government officials estimate that visas will be unavailable as early as the beginning of May 2010. In addition, it is still unclear what is on the legislative horizon, reform or not. Pro Immigrants want to come with a proposal to reform legal immigration. U.S. employers employing foreign nationals in any capacity would be well advised to carefully monitor future legislative and regulatory proposals on the horizon. All I can say is that if you plan on hiring a foreign worker, you better call your lawyer now!!!
More... (http://www.visalawyerblog.com/2010/02/h1b_visa_lawyer_the_filing_sea.html)
immgirl
06-03 12:20 AM
Don't be ridiculous. If your I-140 and I-485 are approved, this will not affect it. They are auditing PERM that is in process. FYI- Your employer needs to show that there are no qualified US workers for the position that they are recruiting for on PERM. This audit is about employers using FDBL to try to disqualify qualified US workers. This audit will delay PERM applications, but will not affect I-140 s or I-485's that are approved.
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