Immigration News & Updates
Learn more at www.ustraveldocs.com.
-
Over 50,000 refugees admitted in FY 2004
VisaPro.com - Other VisasPress StatementAdam Ereli, Deputy SpokesmanWashington, DCThrough the U.S. Resettlement Program, the United States admitted 52,875 refugees representing more than 40 nationalities during fiscal year 2004. This represents more than an 85% increase over the number of refugees admitted in fiscal year 2003. The success of this year’s program is a result of extraordinary efforts and coordination among federal agencies, international and non-governmental organizations, and overseas partners in successfully implementing and streamlining enhanced security requirements following September 11, 2001.The United States remains committed to a vigorous refugee admissions program and will continue to welcome refugees for whom resettlement is the most appropriate durable solution. Since 1975, we have admitted over 2.5 million refugees for resettlement in the United States. We lead the world in offering resettlement to those in need, and we encourage other countries to participate actively in this humanitarian effort.
Read more... -
President authorizes 70,000 refugee admissions during FY 2005
VisaPro.com - Other VisasPresidential Determination No. 2004-53 of September 30, 2004Presidential Determination on FY 2005 Refugee Admissions Numbers and Authorizationsof In-Country Refugee Status Pursuant to Sections 207 and 101(a)(42), respectively,of the Immigration and Nationality Act, and Determination Pursuant to Section2(b)(2) of the Migration and Refugee Assistance Act, as AmendedMemorandum for the Secretary of StateIn accordance with section 207 of the Immigration and Nationality Act (the "Act")(8 U.S.C. 1157), as amended, and after appropriate consultations with the Congress,I hereby make the following determinations and authorize the following actions:The admission of up to 70,000 refugees to the United States during FY 2005 isjustified by humanitarian concerns or is otherwise in the national interest; provided,however, that this number shall be understood as including persons admitted tothe United States during FY 2005 with Federal refugee resettlement assistanceunder the Amerasian immigrant admissions program, as provided below.The 70,000 admissions numbers shall be allocated among refugees of special humanitarianconcern to the United States in accordance with the following regional allocations;provided, however, that the number allocated to the East Asia region shall includepersons admitted to the United States during FY 2005 with Federal refugee resettlementassistance under section 584 of the Foreign Operations, Export Financing, andRelated Programs Appropriations Act of 1988, as contained in section 101(e) ofPublic Law 100-202 (Amerasian immigrants and their family members); provided furtherthat the number allocated to the former Soviet Union shall include persons admittedwho were nationals of the former Soviet Union, or in the case of persons havingno nationality, who were habitual residents of the former Soviet[…]
Read more... -
Tips for U.S. Citizens and Permanent Residents traveling internationally.
VisaPro.com - Other VisasU.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) today launched a traveler awareness campaignto inform the millions of Americans and U.S. residents who will travel abroadthis holiday season."U.S. Customs and Border Protection is committed to making sure that yourvacation and business travel is as safe and stress free as possible,” statedCommissioner Robert C. Bonner. “U.S. citizens vacationing abroad can maketheir own travel easier by taking a few extra minutes to 'Know Before You Go.""Travelers should also be aware," Commissioner Bonner continued, "thatthe United States and its citizens are targets for terrorists. While CBP is takingevery necessary step to protect our country, employing a highly trained work forcewith the latest technology, we need an alert and vigilant citizenry to reportto enforcement authorities any unusual or suspicious activity. We ask you to beour partners in ensuring a safe, secure and enjoyable holiday season."To learn about the rules for bringing back purchases made and gifts received abroad,travelers should read Know Before You Go, available at www.cbp.gov/xp/cgov/travel.Here is a brief overview of U.S. Customs and Border Protection requirements. If you are a U.S. citizen returning to the United States from outside ofthe Western Hemisphere, e.g., Europe, Asia, Africa, or Australia, you mustpresent a valid passport. If you are a U.S. citizen traveling inside the WesternHemisphere, e.g., North, Central or South America, it is highly recommendedthat you carry any proof of citizenship that clearly establishes identityand nationality, such as a passport (valid or expired), a Certificate of Citizenshipor Certificate of Naturalization, or a birth certificate or baptismal[…]
Read more... -
US and Canada to implement Safe Third Country Agreement on asylum
VisaPro.com - Other VisasEduardo Aguirre, Director of U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS),announced today the publication of a final rule to implement a bilateral agreementbetween the United States and Canada affecting asylum seekers at U.S.-Canada landborder ports-of-entry, and transiting through the United States or Canada duringremoval by the other country. The regulations implementing this agreement willtake effect in 30 days.“The agreement ensures that all asylum seekers will be heard and that individualswill not be removed until Canada or the United States has made a protection determination.USCIS and Citizenship and Immigration Canada have worked diligently to anticipateand resolve potential challenges related to this agreement’s implementation.We have ensured that asylum seekers have procedural safeguards, such as decision-makingreview and the opportunity for asylum seekers to have an individual present wheninterviewed about exceptions to the Agreement,” said the Director.The initiative to enter into a Safe Third Country Agreement was included in the30-point action plan under the Smart Border Declaration signed in December 2001by Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary Tom Ridge and Mr. John Manley,former Deputy Foreign Minister of Canada. The Agreement highlights U.S.-Canadiancooperation to develop mutually beneficial approaches to our common security goalswhile simultaneously continuing to provide access to one of our two nations’asylum systems for those with protection concerns. The Agreement, signed in December2002, could not take effect until both countries published final implementingregulations. Canada published its final regulations on November 3, 2004.The agreement applies only to asylum seekers at a U.S.-Canada land border port-of-entryor being removed from Canada or the U.S. through the other[…]
Read more... -
EOIR notifies persons eligible for Full Asylum Benefits for FY 2004
VisaPro.com - Other VisasThe Executive Office for Immigration Review (EOIR) announced that notices havebeen sent to those individuals in the United States with conditional grants ofasylum based on resistance to a coercive population control program (CPC) whonow are fully eligible for all asylum benefits. The spouses and children of theseindividuals also are eligible for all asylum benefits if they were properly includedin the application for asylum (Form I-589) as dependents and if they reside inthe United States. (To receive asylum benefits as dependents, children must beunder 21 years of age or classified as children under the Child Status ProtectionAct.)The law specifically limits the number of individuals who can be granted asylumon grounds related to CPC to 1,000 per fiscal year (FY). Asylum is granted tosuch individuals on a conditional basis by Immigration Judges and by the Boardof Immigration Appeals in EOIR, or by Asylum Officers in the U.S. Citizenshipand Immigration Services (USCIS) of the Department of Homeland Security (formerlythe Immigration and Naturalization Service). Because the number of individualswho annually establish eligibility for asylum based on CPC has been greater than1,000, these individuals are placed on a waiting list and remain in conditionalgrant status until one of the 1,000 final approval authorization numbers becomesavailable. More than 9,000 asylum applicants currently are on the waiting list.Consequently, for those who were granted conditional asylum during FY 2004, thewaiting period for full asylum benefits is approximately 9 years.Status InquiriesPersons who were granted conditional asylum on or before September 15, 2000, butwho have not received a notice regarding[…]
Read more... -
CBP Recommends Travelers to Prepare For Busy Weekend
VisaPro.com - Other VisasThe U.S. Customs and Border Protection in Buffalo, N.Y. is reminding travelersplanning trips across the border into the United States to make sure they havethe proper documents and to anticipate heavy traffic. During March, the Easterholiday observance and spring break occur during the same timeframe and couldresult in heavy traffic entering the United States. CBP officials want to remindthe traveling public that there are a number of steps that can be taken to facilitatetheir arrival into the United States.Travelers are encouraged to prepare for cross-border travel in advance. Travelerscan obtain local border traffic conditions by either visiting the CBP Web siteto obtain border wait time information for various border crossings. To help facilitatetheir crossing, individuals should have their documents available before reachingthe inspection booth. CBP reminds travelers that since Jan. 31, U.S. and Canadiancitizens--both adults and children arriving to the United States from Canada--mustcarry a document that proves their citizenship. Those who don't have a stand-alone document such as a passport or NEXUS card mustcarry a birth certificate (original or copy) plus government-issued photo ID,such as a driver's license. U.S. and Canadian children ages 18 and under willonly be asked to present proof of citizenship, such as a copy of their birth certificate.Travelers who don't have proof of citizenship may face secondary screening anddelays at border stations while their citizenship is verified. Frequent cross-border travelers are encouraged to participate in the NEXUS alternativeinspection program, which allows pre-screened, low-risk travelers arriving fromland and sea to proceed with little or no delay[…]
Read more... -
IMAGE Program Launched by ICE in Puerto Rico
VisaPro.com - Other VisasThe U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), in cooperation with severallocal businesses, this morning launched the ICE Mutual Agreement between GovernmentEmployers (IMAGE) for Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands.IMAGE is a joint initiative between government and the business community to ensurethe integrity of the U.S. legal immigration system. Under IMAGE, ICE is partneringwith companies in Puerto Rico to strengthen their hiring practices and reducethe unlawful employment of illegal aliens.ICE is responsible for enforcing the nation's immigration and customs laws. Aknown vulnerability is the presence of undocumented workers who have secured jobsby fraudulent means, including identity theft, the use of false documents, andthe submission of fraudulent applications for immigration benefits. To combatunlawful employment and reduce vulnerabilities that help illegal aliens gain suchemployment, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) recently introduced theIMAGE program. The goal is to assist employers in targeted sectors to developa more secure and stable workforce and to enhance fraudulent document awarenessthrough education and training.As part of IMAGE, ICE will provide education and training on proper hiring procedures,fraudulent document detection, use of the E-Verify employment eligibility verificationprogram and anti-discrimination procedures. Employers seeking to participate inIMAGE must agree to submit to an I-9 audit by ICE. Forms I-9,Employment Eligibility Verification, are used to establish a person's identityand work eligibility, and must be completed by each person a company hires.All IMAGE participants gain membership to DHS's E-Verify employment eligibilityverification program. Through this program, employers can verify that newly hiredemployees are eligible to work in the United States. This Internet-based systemis[…]
Read more... -
ICE Arrests 59 at Northern Virginia Resort after I9 Inspection
VisaPro.com - Other VisasAs part of ongoing efforts to secure ournation's borders through the discharge of interior law enforcement missions,U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents executed an enforcementaction at the luxurious northern Virginiaresort.This morning, ICE agents interviewed roughly 100employees that resulted in the arrest of 53 immigration status violatorsworking at the resort. Two females were released at the site for humanitarianconcerns. Another six where apprehended outside of the facility bringing thetotal to 59. This investigation started in early July 2007 after a routineinspection of all I-9 employment forms at the resort.Through the expert analysis of the I-9 forms,ICE agents identified information that led them to suspect that many of theemployees were using fraudulent documents or had stolen someone else's identityto secure employment at the resort. The investigation is still ongoing. The 59men and woman are nationals of El Salvador,Guatemala, Mexico,Honduras, Bolivia, Peruand Argentina,and all face removal proceedings.Today's enforcement action is part of ICE'snationwide aggressive pursuit of unauthorized workers and employers who violatethe law," said Mark X. McGraw, Deputy Special Agent in Charge of the ICEoffice of investigations in Washington,DC. Companies that use cheap,illegal alien labor as a business model should be on notice that ICE isdramatically enhancing its enforcement efforts against illegal employmentschemes."All of the immigration status violators arrestedtoday will be interviewed by ICE personnel, Department of Health and HumanServices, Division of Immigration Health Services (DIHS) staff and offeredaccess to Social Services to record any medical, sole-caregiver or otherhumanitarian situations.Based uponthese interviews, ICE will determine whether detainees remain in custody or areconsidered[…]
Read more... -
Bill proposes ‘Homeowner Visa’ for foreigners who buy residential property in US for at least $500,000
VisaPro.com - Other VisasSenators Charles Schumer and Mike Lee have introduced a bill for the enactment of the Visa Improvements to Stimulate International Tourism to the United States of America Act, or VISIT-USA Act, that calls for the creation of a new ‘Homeowner Visa’ that would allow foreigners who spend at least $500,000 on residential property in the US to obtain visas that would allow them to live temporarily in the US. Under the new, proposed visa, foreign nationals could spend the entire amount on one house or spend as little as $250,000 on a residence and invest the rest in other residential real estate, which can be rented out. The purchase should be in cash and no mortgage or home equity loan is allowed. The new visa will also not allow these foreign national homeowners to work in the US, unless they have obtained a regular work visa through the normal process. They would also need to pay US taxes and spend at least 180 days a year in the US, but they would be ineligible to receive any Social Security or other government benefits. Spouse and children under the age of 18 would be able to company the homeowner. However, they wouldn't be able to stay in the US legally on the new visa once they sold their properties. The homeowner visa would be renewable every three years, but would not put them on a path to citizenship. The provisions under the bill would create visas that are separate from current[…]
Read more... -
TPS Extended for Nicaraguans
VisaPro.com - Other VisasDepartment of Homeland Security has announced extension of Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for eligible nationals of Nicaragua for an additional 18 months, beginning January 6, 2012, and ending July 5, 2013. Current Nicaraguan TPS beneficiaries seeking to extend their TPS status must re-register during the 60-day re-registration period that runs from November 4, 2011, through January 5, 2012. The 18-month extension also allows TPS re-registrants to apply for a new Employment Authorization Document (EAD). Eligible Nicaraguan TPS beneficiaries who timely re-register will receive a new EAD with an expiration date of July 5, 2013. USCIS has also announced that it recognizes that all re-registrants may not receive their new EADs until after their current EADs expire, and therefore, it is extending the current TPS Nicaragua EAD bearing a January 6, 2012, expiration date for an additional six months, through July 5, 2012.To re-register, current TPS beneficiaries must submit a Form I-821, Application for Temporary Protected Status and a Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization, regardless of whether they are applying for an EAD. Re-registrants do not need to pay the Form I-821 application fee, but they must submit the biometric services fee, or a fee waiver request, if they are age 14 or older. TPS re-registrants applying for an EAD must submit the Form I-765 application fee, or a fee waiver request. Failure to submit the required filing fees or a properly documented fee waiver request will result in the rejection of the TPS application.
Read more... -
TPS Extended for Hondurans
VisaPro.com - Other VisasDepartment of Homeland Security has announced extension of Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for eligible nationals of Honduras for an additional 18 months, beginning January 6, 2012, and ending July 5, 2013. Current Honduran beneficiaries seeking to extend their TPS status must re-register during the 60-day re-registration period that runs from November 4, 2011 through January 5, 2012. The 18-month extension also allows TPS re-registrants to apply for a new Employment Authorization Document (EAD). Eligible Honduran TPS beneficiaries who timely re-register will receive a new EAD with an expiration date of July 5, 2013. USCIS has also announced that it recognizes that all re-registrants may not receive their new EADs until after their current EADs expire, and therefore, it is extending the current TPS Honduras EAD bearing a January 6, 2012, expiration date for an additional six months, through July 5, 2012.To re-register, current TPS beneficiaries must submit a Form I-821, Application for Temporary Protected Status, and a Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization, regardless of whether they are applying for an EAD. Re-registrants do not need to pay the Form I-821 application fee, but they must submit the biometric services fee, or a fee waiver request, if they are age 14 or older. TPS re-registrants applying for an EAD must submit the Form I-765 application fee, or a fee waiver request. Failure to submit the required filing fees or a properly documented fee waiver request will result in the rejection of the TPS application.
Read more... -
TPS Extended for Salvadorans
VisaPro.com - Other VisasDepartment of Homeland Security has announced extension of Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for eligible nationals of El Salvador for an additional 18 months, beginning March 10, 2012, and ending Sept. 9, 2013. Current Salvadoran TPS beneficiaries seeking to extend their TPS status must re-register during the 60-day re-registration period that runs through March 12, 2012.The 18-month extension also allows TPS re-registrants to apply for a new Employment Authorization Document (EAD). Eligible Salvadoran TPS beneficiaries who re-register on time will receive a new EAD with an expiration date of Sept. 9, 2013. USCIS has also announced that it recognizes that all re-registrants may not receive their new EADs until after their current EADs expire, and therefore, it is extending the current TPS El Salvador bearing a March 9, 2012, expiration date for an additional six months, through Sept. 9, 2012.To re-register, current TPS beneficiaries must submit a Form I-821, Application for Temporary Protected Status and a Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization, regardless of whether they are applying for an EAD. Re-registrants do not need to pay the Form I-821 application fee, but they must submit the biometric services fee, or a fee waiver request, if they are age 14 or older. TPS re-registrants applying for an EAD must submit the Form I-765 application fee, or a fee waiver request. Failure to submit the required filing fees or a properly documented fee waiver request will result in the rejection of the TPS application.
Read more... -
USCIS Announces Extension Of Stay For Some Foreign Students
VisaPro.com - Student VisasWashington, D.C.- U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) announcedtoday in the Federal Register that certain academic and exchange foreign students(F and J Visa holders) seeking to adjust to H-1B status may remain in the UnitedStates legally until their H-1B petitions are decided. Typically, these foreign students receive either a 60-day or 30-day grace periodto close out affairs and return home at the end of their educational programs.The transition period usually allows enough time for qualified students to receiveH-1B status. Because the congressionally mandated H-1B cap for FY 2004 was reachedin February, no new H-1B visas are available until October 1, 2004. Thus, thegrace period will not allow enough time for a qualified foreign student to receiveH-1B status. Without an extension of the applicable grace period, the studentwould have to leave the U.S. and return when an H-1B visa became available. "The extension of the grace period allows affected foreign students to remainin country and avoid the inconvenience of returning home only to travel back tothe United States in the near future," said Eduardo Aguirre, the Director of U.S.Citizenship and Immigration Services. Foreign students qualify for the extended grace period only if their prospectiveemployer has timely filed an H-1B petition on the student's behalf before July30, 2004. The petition must include a requested employment start date of October1, 2004. A student awaiting approval of an H-1B petition may not work during theextended grace period or engage in any activities not normally allowed duringthe grace period. This extended grace period also applies[…]
Read more... -
DHS Announces OneYear SEVIS Milestone
VisaPro.com - Student VisasFormer paper based system is today recognized for efficiency, innovationWASHINGTON — The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is marking the one-yearanniversary of the requirement for all international student and exchange visitorsto register with the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) bynoting the progress that the web-based student registration system has made inits first twelve months. SEVIS was established as a nationwide system for maintaininginformation on foreign students and exchange visitors to the United States. SEVISalso allows schools and federal authorities to manage the traffic of internationalstudents and exchange visitors into and out of the United States. In its first year, the program was a striking success, streamlining the processfor international students and visitors entering the United States. In June, SEVISwas recognized with the E-Gov Institute’s Pioneer Award for best practices inimproved operations through innovative applications and streamlined processes.“The vast majority of students who come to the United States do so to benefitfrom our academic institutions. Unfortunately, a few of those purporting to comehere for that purpose have exploited the system to cause us harm,” said MichaelJ. Garcia, DHS Assistant Secretary for Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).“The worst examples are those who have committed terrorist acts on our soil, suchas the driver of the explosive-laden van in the 1993 World Trade Center bombingand a number of the 9/11 hijackers. SEVIS helps ensure that people coming hereto study do just that, and puts the rule of law back into our immigration systemby ensuring that violators will face consequences.”In the SEVIS program’s[…]
Read more... -
DOS reminds Posts of Student & Exchange Visitor Processing policies
VisaPro.com - Student VisasU.S.Department of StateR 151338Z JUL 04 FM SECSTATE WASHDC TO ALL DIPLOMATIC AND CONSULAR POSTS SPECIAL EMBASSY PROGRAM AMEMBASSY DUSHANBE AMEMBASSY KABUL AMEMBASSY BUJUMBURA AMEMBASSY BAGHDAD AMEMBASSY KHARTOUM UNCLASSTATE 154060 E.O. 12958: N/A TAGS: CVIS, CMGT SUBJECT: STUDENT AND EXCHANGE VISITOR PROCESSINGREMINDER REF:(A) 04 STATE 70079 (B) 03 STATE 349930 (C) 03STATE 279071 (D) 03 STATE 144850 (E) 03 STATE 144850 1.This cable was cleared by SEP. 1. SUMMARY: With the summer student and exchangevisitor visa season in full swing, the Departmentwould like to remind Posts of several importantvisa processing policies to ensure that applicationsfor these categories of visas are handled in themost expeditious way. INITIAL ENTRY STUDENTS MUST NOT ENTER BEFORE 30DAYS 2. While students may apply for F visas at anytime, consular officers may not physically issuethem until ninety days before the program startdate. More importantly, initial entry studentsmay not use these visas to enter the United Statesfor the first time until thirty (30) days beforetheir program start date. This rule does not/notapply to returning students, who may be issuedan F visa at any time, and who may return to schoolat any time. 3. While J visas may be applied for and issuedat any time, initial- entry J visitors also maynot enter the United States for the first timeuntil thirty (30) days before their program startdate. 4. Immigration inspectors have turned around qualifiedstudents who have attempted to enter the UnitedStates for the first time as a student beforethe thirty-day period. In order to prevent thisfrom happening, Posts should[…]
Read more... -
SEVIS ramps up for Fall semester; 220,000 students expected
VisaPro.com - Student VisasCHANTILLY,Va.– The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) todaymarked the start of the second year of the Studentand Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS),a nationwide registration program for internationalvisitors, with a welcoming event today at DullesInternational Airport for some of the 220,000 foreignstudents and exchange visitors expected to arrivein the United States this fall. Michael J. Garcia, DHS Assistant Secretary for U.S.Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), and RobertC. Bonner, Commissioner of U.S. Customs and BorderProtection (CBP), joined to welcome new internationalstudents arriving at Dulles International Airportand to observe the inspection and entry processfor SEVIS-registered students and visitors.SEVIS is a web-based program for maintaining informationon international students and exchange visitorsand their dependents in the United States, administeredby ICE and used by CBP officers at ports of entry.SEVIS has simplified what was once a manual process,resulting in more accurate and timely data, fasterprocessing and fewer delays. In May, SEVIS was recognizedwith the E-Gov Institute’s Pioneer Award for innovationand excellence in delivering government serviceselectronically. “We want to offer a warm welcome and timely, convenientservice to the great many foreign exchange and studentvisitors coming to America this fall,” said CommissionerBonner. “The SEVIS program allows U.S. Customs andBorder Protection Officers to determine whetherindividuals are legitimate students, and to quicklyprocess these students through our ports of entry.Yet at the same time, we are better able to denyentry to those who would try to illegally gain entryinto the United States masking themselves as students.”“SEVIS addresses the need to put integrity backinto the immigration system,” said Assistant SecretaryGarcia. “Violators of[…]
Read more... -
SEVIS fee payment begins today
VisaPro.com - Student VisasA $100 fee for international students, exchange visitors and scholars attending school or conducting research in the United States associated with the Student Exchange and Visitor Information System (SEVIS), will take effect September 1, 2004.Students, scholars and exchange visitors from abroad whose schools or programs are approved in SEVIS will be required to pay the appropriate fee – in most cases, $100 -- prior to obtaining their visas. SEVIS, administered by ICE within the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), is an award-winning Internet-based system for maintaining information on foreign students and exchange visitors to the United States. “Over the last year, ICE has worked to make SEVIS a stronger and more effective program by listening to our partners at universities and colleges nationwide and incorporating their suggestions for improving the system whenever possible,” said Jill Drury, Director of the Student Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP). “The new fee payment procedure is a continuation of our commitment to manage a system that enhances the integrity of America’s immigration system while facilitating the legal entry of legitimate international students and scholars into the United States.”The purpose of the fee is to cover the costs for the continued operation of the SEVP, including the administration and maintenance of SEVIS. The 1996 law that mandated the establishment of the SEVP also required that the program be funded through the payment of fees. The fee applies to F, J and M nonimmigrant classifications; however, participants in certain J-1 exchange visitor programs will pay a reduced fee[…]
Read more... -
DOS releases Designated J1 visa organizations
VisaPro.com - Student VisasThe Office of Exchange Coordination and Designation of Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs under the US Department of State has released a list of organizations/institutions designated to administer J-1 exchange visitor programs as of April 2004. The list provides the contact information by exchange visitor program categories as:Au PairCamp CounselorGovernment VisitorProfessorResearch ScholarShort-term ScholarSpecialistStudent, College/UniversityStudent, SecondarySummer Work/TravelTeacherTrainee, Non-specialtyTrainee, SpecialtyThe list can be accessed at the following link:Designated J-1 visa organizations
Read more... -
New requirements for SSN for Students
VisaPro.com - Student VisasEvidence Requirementsfor Assignment of Social Security Numbers (SSNs); Assignment of SSNs to ForeignAcademic Students in F-1 Status AGENCY: Social Security Administration (SSA).ACTION: Final rules.SUMMARY: We are revising our rules for assigningSSNs to foreign academic students in Department of Homeland Security (DHS, whichhas subsumed most of the various functions of the former Immigration and NaturalizationService or INS) classification status F-1 (referred to throughout this preambleas F-1 students). Specifically, we are requiring additional evidence for F-1students who are applying for SSNs. Like all other applicants, an F-1 studentmust provide SSA with evidence of age, identity, immigration status, and workauthorization. In addition, unless the F-1 student has an employment authorizationdocument (EAD) from DHS or is authorized by the F-1 student's school for curricularpractical training (CPT), the F-1 student must provide evidence that he or shehas been authorized by the school to work and has secured employment or a promiseof employment before we will assign an SSN. These rules will further enhancethe integrity of SSA's enumeration processes for assigning SSNs by reducingthe proliferation of SSNs used for purposes that are not related to work andthereby decreasing the potential for SSN fraud and misuse.
Read more... -
DOS invites public comments on J Visa Waiver Recommendation Application
VisaPro.com - Student VisasDEPARTMENT OF STATE ACTION: Notice of request for public comments.SUMMARY: The Department of State is seeking Office of Managementand Budget (OMB) approval for the information collection described below. The purpose of this notice is to allow 60 days for public comment in the FederalRegister preceding submission to OMB. We are conducting this process in accordancewith the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995.Title of Information Collection: J Visa Waiver RecommendationApplication.OMB Control Number: 1405-0135.Type of Request: Extension of a currently approved collection.Originating Office: CA/VO.Form Number: DS-3035.Respondents: All J visa waiver applicants.Estimated Number of Respondents: 10,000 per year.Estimated Number of Responses: 10,000 per year.Average Hours Per Response: 2 hours.Total Estimated Burden: 20,000 hours per year.Frequency: Once per respondent.Obligation to Respond: Required to obtain or retain a benefit.DATES: The Department will accept comments from the public upto 60 days from October 12, 2004.ADDRESSES: Comments and questions should be directed to BrendanMullarkey at the Department of State, Visa Office, who may be reached on 202-663-1166.You may submit comments by any of the following methods:E-mail: mullarkeybp@state.gov.You must include the DS form number (if applicable), information collection title,and OMB control number in the subject line of your message.Mail (paper, disk, or CD-ROM submissions): Department of State, Visa Office,2401 E Street, NW., Washington, DC 20522-0106.Fax: 202-663-3897.FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Direct requests for additionalinformation regarding the collection listed in this notice, including requestsfor copies of the proposed information collection and supporting documents, toBrendan Mullarkey of the Office of Visa Services, U.S. Department of State, 2401E St., NW., L-703, Washington, DC[…]
Read more... -
DOS releases list of 20042005 U.S. Fulbright Grantees
VisaPro.com - Student VisasStatement of Secretary Colin L. PowellI am pleased to release the official list of U.S. Fulbright student grantees forthe 2004-2005 academic year. This year, under the nation's premier exchange program,1,099 American students have been awarded Fulbright grants to study and conductresearch in more than 110 countries throughout the world.As Fulbrighters, these Americans have important responsibilities. First and foremost,they engage in serious academic study or research abroad. In addition, they willimmerse themselves in learning about their new host country and will have opportunitiesto share their perspectives on the United States with their hosts.When they return home, these Fulbrighters will share their experiences with theirfriends, families, and colleagues. Over the past six decades, more than 100,000Americans have been awarded Fulbright student grants. Established in 1946 underlegislation introduced by the late Senator J. William Fulbright of Arkansas, theprogram's purpose is to build mutual understanding between the people of the UnitedStates and other countries.Economist Milton Friedman, opera soprano Renee Fleming, Intel CEO Craig Barrett,and Brown University President Ruth Simmons are just four examples of the manydistinguished Fulbright alumni. Last week, a foreign Fulbright alumnus, AaronCiechanover, received the 2004 Nobel Prize in Chemistry, becoming the sixth Fulbrighterin the past five years, and thirty-fourth overall, to be awarded a Nobel Prize.For a complete listing of the 2004-2005 U.S. Fulbright student grantees, pleaseclick here
Read more... -
SEVIS fee payment now possible in your local currency
VisaPro.com - Student VisasNew program facilitates payment for International Students, Exchange Visitors in local currencyPaying the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) fee in local currency is now possible, thanks to a new program announced this month by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and Western Union.The new fee payment method, which became available November 1, makes it possible for non-immigrant students and exchange visitors around the world to pay the fee, which is used to support SEVIS, in their home countries’ currencies using the Western Union Quick Pay ™ service.SEVIS, the Web-based system for collecting and maintaining information on international students and exchange visitors in the United States, is administered by ICE, the largest investigative agency in DHS.The SEVIS fee – in most cases, $100 – is mandated by Congress and was instituted on September 1, 2004. The fee applies to F, J and M non-immigrant visa classifications and is used to cover the costs of maintaining SEVIS and to provide assistance and technical support for SEVIS users.There are currently several methods of payment for the SEVIS fee: Internet payments via debit or credit card; checks or money orders drawn on a U.S. account; third-party payments; and bulk-filing payments for certain exchange visitor program sponsors. The Western Union fee payment method presents an additional, more convenient option to students and exchange visitors wishing to pay in their local currency.Under this new payment initiative, Western Union collects the SEVIS fee, in local currency, along with the student or exchange student’s required registration[…]
Read more... -
DHS travel tips for arriving Students & Exchange Visitors
VisaPro.com - Student VisasThe Department of Homeland Security (DHS) today issued important reminders toassist the estimated 200,000 foreign students and exchange visitors expected toarrive in the United States for the spring semester. These reminders for foreign students and exchange visitors registered in the StudentExchange and Visitor Information System (SEVIS) are intended to ensure that legitimatestudents are quickly processed at ports of entry. For a comprehensive list ofanswers to frequently asked SEVIS questions clickhere. The SEVIS system was implemented after the 9/11 terrorist attacks as part of thefederal government’s effort to restore integrity to the nation’s immigrationsystem. SEVIS is a web-based program that maintains information on internationalstudents (F/M visas) and exchange visitors (J visas) and their dependents residingin the United States. It is administered by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s(ICE) Student Exchange and Visitor Program (SEVP) and used by U.S. Customs andBorder Protection (CBP) Officers at ports of entry. SEVIS has simplified whatwas once a manual process, resulting in more accurate and timely data, fasterprocessing and fewer delays.ICE and CBP offer the following recommendations for students and exchange visitors:Travel Tips for Students and Exchange Visitors Hand carry (do not check) the following documents:Your passport;Your SEVIS form I-20 or DS-2019;Evidence of financial resources; Evidence of student or exchange visitor status, such as tuition receipts,transcripts or letter of acceptance; Paper receipt for the SEVIS fee; and The name and contact information of your designated school official or sponsorImportant Note: If you are a new student, remember tocarry with you the sealed envelope given to you by[…]
Read more... -
DHS to Begin Biometric Exit Pilot as Part of USVISIT Program
VisaPro.com - Visitor VisasAs a part of the border management system introduced at airports and seaports earlier this year, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) today announced that it will pilot and evaluate US-VISIT automated biometric exit procedures for foreign visitors. The exit pilot program will be expanded from its current locations, Baltimore- Washington International Airport and Miami's International Cruise Line Terminal,to Chicago O'Hare International Airport beginning in August 2004. It will be pilotedat the following airports and seaports in September 2004: Atlanta, Georgia (William B. Hartsfield International Airport) Dallas/Fort Worth, Texas (Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport) Denver, Colorado (Denver International Airport) Detroit, Michigan (Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport) Newark, New Jersey (Newark International Airport) Philadelphia, Pennsylvania (Philadelphia International Airport) Phoenix, Arizona (Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport) San Francisco, California (San Francisco International Airport) San Juan, Puerto Rico (Luis Muñoz Marin International Airport) Seattle, Washington (Seattle/Tacoma International Airport Los Angeles, California (San Pedro and Long Beach Seaports) Any foreign visitor with a visa who leaves the United States through one of the pilot locations is required to comply with the exit procedure. After September 30, 2004, visitors traveling under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP) will be required to comply."We will begin testing processes that will make exiting quick for visitors and effective for security," said Asa Hutchinson, Under Secretary for Border and Transportation Security at the Department of Homeland Security. "We must implement a straightforward exit process to ensure that individuals adhere to the terms of their admission. This supports our efforts to strengthen[…]
Read more... -
CBP Officers directed to enforce law with Common Sense on Visa Waiver Overstayers
VisaPro.com - Visitor VisasWashington, D.C. - U.S. Customsand Border Protection (CBP) Commissioner RobertC. Bonner announced today new discretion for CBPofficers to grant no-risk travelers who overstayedunder the Visa Waiver Program (VWP) on a prior visita one-time parole. The use of discretion by CBPsupervisors will avoid the detention and handcuffingwhich Commissioner Bonner said was "inappropriate"for minor violations of the Visa Waiver Program.Commissioner Bonner stated: "A number of situationshave come to my attention where CBP officers havedenied entry to travelers from Visa Waiver Countries,on their arrival at U.S. airports, because of brief,prior overstays, sometimes just a few days, of theVisa Waiver Program, although these travelers posedno threat whatsoever to the U.S. The consequenceof the decision has been that the person has beendetained, often overnight, until a flight back tothe country from whence they came and handcuffedwhile transported to and from the detention facility.This treatment is grossly disproportionate to theinadvertent prior overstays. By my action today,I have directed CBP port directors and supervisorsto see that parole is granted to permit entry, exceptwhere the person poses a threat for terrorism, criminalityor is likely to become an economic migrant.""U.S. Customs and Border Protection is a lawenforcement agency, but enforcement must alwaysbe tempered with common sense. If individuals arenot a potential terrorist threat or criminal threat;nor are likely to contribute to the illegal population,and the overstay was short and inadvertent or forreasons beyond the applicant's control, CBP officersand supervisors have the authority to parole theminto the U.S.," added Commissioner Bonner."Minor violators, who are no threat to thesecurity of the[…]
Read more...