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PC | SEONewsWire.net http://www.seonewswire.net Search Engine Optimized News for Business Wed, 09 Mar 2016 21:06:27 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.0.8 SPEC Meeting for Parents of Children with Special Needs http://www.seonewswire.net/2016/03/spec-meeting-for-parents-of-children-with-special-needs/ Wed, 09 Mar 2016 21:06:27 +0000 http://www.seonewswire.net/2016/03/spec-meeting-for-parents-of-children-with-special-needs/ PARENTS of CHILDREN with SPECIAL NEEDS S P E C   M E E T I N G Saturday, March 19, 2016 1:00pm – 2:30pm Chestnut Hill Library, 8711 Germantown Avenue, Philadelphia “Special Needs Trusts & Guardianship” Tom Begley, Esq. and Ethan

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PARENTS of CHILDREN with SPECIAL NEEDS

S P E C   M E E T I N G

Saturday, March 19, 2016

1:00pm – 2:30pm

Chestnut Hill Library, 8711 Germantown Avenue, Philadelphia

“Special Needs Trusts & Guardianship”

Tom Begley, Esq. and Ethan Ordog ,Esq.

of the Begley Law Group, PC

Dedicated to the needs of people with disabilities and the elderly, Begley Law Group, PC, has served the Philadelphia area and New Jersey for 75 years.  SPECIAL PARENTS OF EXCEPTIONAL CHILDREN (SPEC), a group founded and run by parents of children with special needs, invites you to come and share with other parents the triumphs and challenges of raising a child with special needs.  SPEC’s purpose is to provide support and information. We meet monthly during the school year and welcome parents and caregivers of children of all ages and types of special needs.

Come at 12:30pm for light refreshments and to meet other parents. The meeting starts promptly at 1:00pm.

No RSVP is necessary. Paid parking is available at the lot behind Top of the Hill Plaza, entrance on Bethlehem Pike. The Library is close to the terminus of the 23, L and 94 buses and the final stops of the Chestnut Hill East and West train linesFor more information, directions, to volunteer, offer to bring refreshments, or to get

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USCIS Received an Unprecedented Number of H-1B Petitions for FY 2016 http://www.seonewswire.net/2015/04/uscis-received-an-unprecedented-number-of-h-1b-petitions-for-fy-2016/ Tue, 14 Apr 2015 17:55:23 +0000 http://www.seonewswire.net/2015/04/uscis-received-an-unprecedented-number-of-h-1b-petitions-for-fy-2016/ On April 13, 2015, USCIS announced that it had received 233,000 H-1B petitions for Fiscal Year 2016 – the largest ever received in advance of a fiscal year – which reached the statutory cap for both the 65,000 H-1B visa

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On April 13, 2015, USCIS announced that it had received 233,000 H-1B petitions for Fiscal Year 2016 – the largest ever received in advance of a fiscal year – which reached the statutory cap for both the 65,000 H-1B visa numbers in the general-cap category, and the advanced degree exemption of 20,000 H-1B visa numbers.  It received a total of 124,000 H-1B petitions in advance of FY 2015.

USCIS conducted a computer-generated random process to select the 65,000 general cap petitions and the 20,000 advanced degree exemption, and on April 13, 2015, selected all petitions for each group.  The agency will return to petitioning employers those petitions not selected.  USCIS has since announced that the it will begin premium processing the selected H-1B cases who have selected that service on April 27, 2015.  It will continue to accept and process H-1B petitions for H-1B workers who have previously been counted against the H-1B cap.

Rabinowitz & Rabinowitz, PC. is an immigration law firm representing businesses and foreign nationals in employment-based visa cases. To learn more or to contact a Dallas immigration lawyer, visit http://www.rabinowitzrabinowitz.com.

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USCIS Reaches H-1B Cap on April 7, 2015 for FY2016: Delivery Glitches Frustrate Many Employers http://www.seonewswire.net/2015/04/uscis-reaches-h-1b-cap-on-april-7-2015-for-fy2016-delivery-glitches-frustrate-many-employers/ Tue, 07 Apr 2015 21:31:51 +0000 http://www.seonewswire.net/2015/04/uscis-reaches-h-1b-cap-on-april-7-2015-for-fy2016-delivery-glitches-frustrate-many-employers/ In bad news for U.S. employers seeking needed, high skilled foreign talent, USCIS announced on April 7, 2015 that it had enough H-1B petitions on hand to reach the annual advanced degree cap of 20,000 H-1B visa numbers, and the

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In bad news for U.S. employers seeking needed, high skilled foreign talent, USCIS announced on April 7, 2015 that it had enough H-1B petitions on hand to reach the annual advanced degree cap of 20,000 H-1B visa numbers, and the annual general cap of 65,000 H-1B visa numbers for the fiscal year beginning October 1.  It will shortly conduct a random selection of those petitions on hand to determine which cases will be chosen for an October 1 start date.  Making matters worse, delivery services mishandled numerous H-1B petition filings resulting in delayed delivery or damaged delivery of H-1B petition filings.  USCIS issued guidance to affected employers on how to proceed only the day before, April 6, 2015, leaving little time for affected employers to act.

USCIS will use a lottery to decide which cases it will select.  It will reject and later return all cases not chosen, including filing fees.  USCIS has not announced when it will conduct the “H-1B lottery” nor the total number of petitions it has received since it began accepting H-1B filings on April 1 for the fiscal year beginning on October 1.  During the last fiscal year, USCIS received more than 124,000 H-1B petitions.

U.S. employers were further frustrated this year by news that trusted delivery services either delayed or damaged numerous H-1B filings.  Many employers learned too late of the delivery fiasco and USCIS provided instructions on how to withdraw the first and re-submit another  H-1B petition the day before the cap was reached, which was too late for many employers whose cases arrived late or damaged to timely withdraw and re-file.

Rabinowitz & Rabinowitz, PC. is an immigration law firm representing businesses and foreign nationals in employment-based visa cases. To learn more or to contact a Dallas immigration lawyer, visit http://www.rabinowitzrabinowitz.com.

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President Takes Executive Action on Immigration http://www.seonewswire.net/2014/11/president-takes-executive-action-on-immigration/ Sun, 23 Nov 2014 16:53:01 +0000 http://www.seonewswire.net/2014/11/president-takes-executive-action-on-immigration/ On November 20, 2014 President Obama announced multiple administrative changes to the way in which his Administration will implement current U.S. immigration laws.  These far reaching changes provide Deferred Action for parents of U.S. citizens and permanent residents for a

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On November 20, 2014 President Obama announced multiple administrative changes to the way in which his Administration will implement current U.S. immigration laws.  These far reaching changes provide Deferred Action for parents of U.S. citizens and permanent residents for a 3 year period, expand eligibility for Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals, expand enforcement coordination at the southern border, expand provisional waiver coverage, promote citizenship, and tweak various immigrant and nonimmigrant programs.  We will address each of the administrative changes in upcoming, separate posts.  Stay tuned.

Rabinowitz & Rabinowitz, PC. is an immigration law firm in Dallas Texas representing individuals and family members in lawful permanent resident and U.S. Citizenship cases. To learn more visit http://www.rabinowitzrabinowitz.com.

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National Visa Center Changes Document Collection Policy http://www.seonewswire.net/2014/11/national-visa-center-changes-document-collection-policy/ Sat, 15 Nov 2014 16:08:53 +0000 http://www.seonewswire.net/2014/11/national-visa-center-changes-document-collection-policy/ In a move to reduce applicant wait times, the National Visa Center will no longer require original documents to be submitted as part of the U.S. immigration process.  Instead, starting November 12, 2014 immigrant visa applicants need only submit copies

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In a move to reduce applicant wait times, the National Visa Center will no longer require original documents to be submitted as part of the U.S. immigration process.  Instead, starting November 12, 2014 immigrant visa applicants need only submit copies of supporting documents to the NVC.  The immigrant visa applicant will bring the original documents to the interview at a U.S. consular post abroad for evaluation and final case processing.  The NVC will still require an original signed Affidavit of Support be sent to it.

Rabinowitz & Rabinowitz, PC. is an immigration law firm in Dallas Texas representing individuals and family members in lawful permanent resident and U.S. Citizenship cases. To learn more visit http://www.rabinowitzrabinowitz.com.

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USCIS Announces a 72 Hour Trial Test of a Web Based Application to Replace a Green Card http://www.seonewswire.net/2014/11/uscis-announces-a-72-hour-trial-test-of-a-web-based-application-to-replace-a-green-card/ Wed, 12 Nov 2014 23:52:21 +0000 http://www.seonewswire.net/2014/11/uscis-announces-a-72-hour-trial-test-of-a-web-based-application-to-replace-a-green-card/ Starting on November 12, 2014, USCIS will begin a trial test of expanding its on line electronic immigration system, known as USCIS ELIS, to include an application to replace a Permanent Resident Card commonly known as a green card.  During

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Starting on November 12, 2014, USCIS will begin a trial test of expanding its on line electronic immigration system, known as USCIS ELIS, to include an application to replace a Permanent Resident Card commonly known as a green card.  During the 3 day test period, an applicant can submit his or her application on line, pay the required fee, and upload the needed evidence, all as part of a single transaction.  USCIS will process and formally adjudicate any such applications submitted through USCIS ELIS during the limited introduction. Applicants can obtain case status information through USCIS ELIS and be able to provide USCIS with feedback.

After the trial period ends, USCIS intends to implement an application to replace a Permanent Resident Card through the USCIS ELIS portal in early 2015.

Rabinowitz & Rabinowitz, PC. is a Dallas immigration law firm representing businesses, families, and individuals. To learn more or to contact an attorney, click here to visit http://www.rabinowitzrabinowitz.com.

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USCIS Reports on November 2014 EB-5 Processing Times http://www.seonewswire.net/2014/11/uscis-reports-on-november-2014-eb-5-processing-times/ Wed, 12 Nov 2014 16:58:18 +0000 http://www.seonewswire.net/2014/11/uscis-reports-on-november-2014-eb-5-processing-times/ In its November 10, 2014 Processing Time Information, USCIS reports processing initial EB-5 investor immigrant petitions  within 14.3 months of filing.  For EB-5 investors seeking to remove conditions on their residence, USCIS reports a 6.8 months adjudication time frame from

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In its November 10, 2014 Processing Time Information, USCIS reports processing initial EB-5 investor immigrant petitions  within 14.3 months of filing.  For EB-5 investors seeking to remove conditions on their residence, USCIS reports a 6.8 months adjudication time frame from filing date, and for new regional center applications, USCIS reports a 8.5 month adjudication time frame from filing. Compared to the October, 2014 USCIS EB-5 report, initial EB-5 investors have about a month longer to wait, investors seeking to remove conditions have about a month less to wait, and initial regional center applicants have a few weeks longer to wait for case adjudication.

Rabinowitz & Rabinowitz, PC. is a business immigration firm representing businesses and foreign nationals in employment-based visa cases. To learn more or to contact a Dallas immigration attorney, visit http://www.rabinowitzrabinowitz.com.

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China and the U.S. Agree to Lengthen Visitor and Student Visa Validity Periods http://www.seonewswire.net/2014/11/china-and-the-u-s-agree-to-lengthen-visitor-and-student-visa-validity-periods/ Tue, 11 Nov 2014 20:09:09 +0000 http://www.seonewswire.net/2014/11/china-and-the-u-s-agree-to-lengthen-visitor-and-student-visa-validity-periods/ The U.S. Department of State announced that beginning November 12, 2014, the United States and the People’s Republic of China will increase the validity period for business, tourist, student and exchange visitor visas issued to each other’s citizens.  Eligible PRC

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The U.S. Department of State announced that beginning November 12, 2014, the United States and the People’s Republic of China will increase the validity period for business, tourist, student and exchange visitor visas issued to each other’s citizens.  Eligible PRC applicants can receive a multiple entry business or tourist B visa valid up to 10 years.  Similarly, eligible PRC students and exchange visitors in F, M or J classifications can be issued multiple entry F. M or J visas valid up to 5 years.  Eligible U.S. citizens can receive similar visas with similar visa validity periods for temporary entry into PRC.

Rabinowitz & Rabinowitz, PC. is a Dallas immigration law firm representing businesses, families, and individuals. To learn more or to contact an attorney, click here to visit http://www.rabinowitzrabinowitz.com.

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India EB-2 Visa Numbers Expected to Retrogress http://www.seonewswire.net/2014/09/india-eb-2-visa-numbers-expected-to-retrogress/ Fri, 12 Sep 2014 23:48:59 +0000 http://www.seonewswire.net/2014/09/india-eb-2-visa-numbers-expected-to-retrogress/ The October, 2014 Visa Bulletin advises that the current high level of EB-2 demand from India could push back Indian EB-2 priority dates from its current May 1, 2009, to early 2005.  In fact, this retrogression could occur as early

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The October, 2014 Visa Bulletin advises that the current high level of EB-2 demand from India could push back Indian EB-2 priority dates from its current May 1, 2009, to early 2005.  In fact, this retrogression could occur as early as November, 2014, reflecting the large number of filings in behalf of Indian EB-3s who sought a re-filling as an EB-2 to shorten the wait for visa availability.  Eligible Indian EB-2s are urged to file for adjustment of status before the end of October, 2014 while visa numbers remain available.

Rabinowitz & Rabinowitz, PC. is an immigration law firm representing businesses and foreign nationals in employment-based visa cases. To learn more or to contact a Dallas immigration lawyer, visit http://www.rabinowitzrabinowitz.com.

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U.S. Consular Posts in Canada Limit Visa Applications from Non-Canadians http://www.seonewswire.net/2014/06/u-s-consular-posts-in-canada-limit-visa-applications-from-non-canadians/ Thu, 05 Jun 2014 13:51:01 +0000 http://www.seonewswire.net/2014/06/u-s-consular-posts-in-canada-limit-visa-applications-from-non-canadians/ On June 3, 2014. the Department of State has advised that it will severely limit the number of visa applications from non-Canadians, referred to as Third Country Nationals or TCNs, who may want to apply for nonimmigrant visas at any

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On June 3, 2014. the Department of State has advised that it will severely limit the number of visa applications from non-Canadians, referred to as Third Country Nationals or TCNs, who may want to apply for nonimmigrant visas at any U.S. consular post in Canada.  The Department cited heavy case load during the peak demand months of June, July, and August as its reason for the restriction, and encourages TCNs who may otherwise wish to apply for a visa in Canada, to apply in their home country.  Emergency TCN cases may still request to be scheduled, at each post’s discretion.  Non-peak processing may resume in October and November.

Rabinowitz & Rabinowitz, PC. is an immigration law firm representing businesses and foreign nationals in employment-based visa cases. To learn more or to contact a Dallas immigration lawyer, visit http://www.rabinowitzrabinowitz.com.

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USCIS H-1B Premium Processing to Begin April 28, 2014 http://www.seonewswire.net/2014/04/uscis-h-1b-premium-processing-to-begin-april-28-2014/ Mon, 21 Apr 2014 23:05:47 +0000 http://www.seonewswire.net/2014/04/uscis-h-1b-premium-processing-to-begin-april-28-2014/ On April 28, 2014, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) will begin premium processing for H-1B petitions subject to the fiscal year 2015 cap, including H-1B petitions seeking an exemption from the fiscal year cap for individuals who have earned

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On April 28, 2014, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) will begin premium processing for H-1B petitions subject to the fiscal year 2015 cap, including H-1B petitions seeking an exemption from the fiscal year cap for individuals who have earned a U.S. master’s degree or higher.  USCIS provides premium processing service for certain employment-based petitions and guarantees a 15-calendar-day processing time.

Rabinowitz & Rabinowitz, PC. is an immigration law firm representing businesses and foreign nationals in employment-based visa cases. To learn more or to contact a Dallas immigration lawyer, visit http://www.rabinowitzrabinowitz.com.

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White House Announces Employment Authorization Forthcoming for H-4 Spouses http://www.seonewswire.net/2014/04/white-house-announces-employment-authorization-forthcoming-for-h-4-spouses/ Wed, 09 Apr 2014 19:45:42 +0000 http://www.seonewswire.net/2014/04/white-house-announces-employment-authorization-forthcoming-for-h-4-spouses/ White House Announces Employment Authorization to be Available for H-4 Spouses In a press release issued by the White House, the Department of Homeland Security will soon issued regulations permitting employment authorization for H-4 spouses.  This is welcome news for

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White House Announces Employment Authorization to be Available for H-4 Spouses

In a press release issued by the White House, the Department of Homeland Security will soon issued regulations permitting employment authorization for H-4 spouses.  This is welcome news for many high skilled workers in the U.S.  We shall report on the details once the regulations are promulgated.

Rabinowitz & Rabinowitz, PC. is an immigration law firm representing businesses and foreign nationals in employment-based visa cases. To learn more or to contact a Dallas immigration lawyer, visit http://www.rabinowitzrabinowitz.com.

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H-1B Cap Reached on April 7, 2014 for FY 2015 http://www.seonewswire.net/2014/04/h-1b-cap-reached-on-april-7-2014-for-fy-2015/ Mon, 07 Apr 2014 20:13:23 +0000 http://www.seonewswire.net/2014/04/h-1b-cap-reached-on-april-7-2014-for-fy-2015/ On April 7, 2014, USCIS announced the receipt of more than the statutory cap of 20,000 advanced degree exemption H-1B petitions and of the 65,000 H-1B petitions.  It will perform a random selection process to determine which cases are accepted

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On April 7, 2014, USCIS announced the receipt of more than the statutory cap of 20,000 advanced degree exemption H-1B petitions and of the 65,000 H-1B petitions.  It will perform a random selection process to determine which cases are accepted for the coming fiscal year.  All cap subject H-1B petitions received after April 7, 2014 will be rejected.

USCIS will conduct its random selection of the advanced degree exemption H-1B petitions first and those not selected will be added to the pool of petitions to be considered for the 65,000 H-1B petition limit.  Because of the volume of received H-1B petitions, USCIS has not announced when it will conduct the selection process.

Rabinowitz & Rabinowitz, PC. is an immigration law firm representing businesses and foreign nationals in employment-based visa cases. To learn more or to contact a Dallas immigration lawyer, visit http://www.rabinowitzrabinowitz.com.

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U.S. Consulate General in Toronto to Require E Visa Applicants to E-Mail Applications http://www.seonewswire.net/2014/02/u-s-consulate-general-in-toronto-to-require-e-visa-applicants-to-e-mail-applications/ Tue, 18 Feb 2014 02:27:04 +0000 http://www.seonewswire.net/2014/02/u-s-consulate-general-in-toronto-to-require-e-visa-applicants-to-e-mail-applications/ Effective March 1, 2014, the U.S. Consulate General in Toronto will move to an electronic filing of E visa comprehensive packages in advance of an interview.  The post announced the change on February 10, 2014 and requests that the visa

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Effective March 1, 2014, the U.S. Consulate General in Toronto will move to an electronic filing of E visa comprehensive packages in advance of an interview.  The post announced the change on February 10, 2014 and requests that the visa packages arrive at least 2 weeks in advance of the interview appointment date.  The submissions are to be in .pdf format and no longer than 35 double sided or 70 single sided pages.  The Consulate already uses an online appointment service for treaty trader (E-1) and treaty investor (E-2) visa applicants and these enhancements are part of the post’s efforts at greater convenience and efficiency for E visa applicants.

Rabinowitz & Rabinowitz, PC. is a business immigration firm representing businesses and foreign nationals in employment-based visa cases. To learn more or to contact a Dallas immigration attorney, visit http://www.rabinowitzrabinowitz.com.

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HHS Issues 2014 Poverty Guidelines http://www.seonewswire.net/2014/02/hhs-issues-2014-poverty-guidelines/ Tue, 18 Feb 2014 01:31:37 +0000 http://www.seonewswire.net/2014/02/hhs-issues-2014-poverty-guidelines/ The Department of Health and Human Services has released the Poverty Guidelines for 2014.  This annual update reflects changes in the preceding year’s Consumer Price Index.  Annual Poverty Guidelines are part of the calculation used in preparing an Affidavit of

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The Department of Health and Human Services has released the Poverty Guidelines for 2014.  This annual update reflects changes in the preceding year’s Consumer Price Index.  Annual Poverty Guidelines are part of the calculation used in preparing an Affidavit of Support for family based and certain employment based adjust of status case and immigrant visa cases.

The following chart reflects location, family size, and annual income:

2014 POVERTY GUIDELINES FOR THE
48 CONTIGUOUS STATES AND THE
DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

Persons in family/household Poverty
guideline

1 …………………………………….. $11,670
2 …………………………………….. 15,730
3 …………………………………….. 19,790
4 …………………………………….. 23,850
5 …………………………………….. 27,910
6 …………………………………….. 31,970
7 …………………………………….. 36,030
8 …………………………………….. 40,090

For families/households with more
than 8 persons, add $4,060 for each
additional person.

2014 POVERTY GUIDELINES FOR
ALASKA

Persons in family/household Poverty
guideline

1 …………………………………….. $14,580
2 …………………………………….. 19,660
3 …………………………………….. 24,740
4 …………………………………….. 29,820
5 …………………………………….. 34,900
6 …………………………………….. 39,980
7 …………………………………….. 45,060
8 …………………………………….. 50,140

For families/households with more
than 8 persons, add $5,080 for each
additional person.

2014 POVERTY GUIDELINES FOR
HAWAII

Persons in family/household Poverty
guideline

1 …………………………………….. $13,420
2 …………………………………….. 18,090
3 …………………………………….. 22,760
4 …………………………………….. 27,430
5 …………………………………….. 32,100
6 …………………………………….. 36,770
7 …………………………………….. 41,440
8 …………………………………….. 46,110

For families/households with more
than 8 persons, add $4,670 for each
additional person.

Rabinowitz & Rabinowitz, PC. is an immigration law firm representing businesses and foreign nationals in employment-based visa cases. To learn more or to contact a Dallas immigration lawyer, visit http://www.rabinowitzrabinowitz.com.

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USCIS States that Time Spent in H-4 Status Does Not Count Towards Future Time in H-2 or H-3 Status http://www.seonewswire.net/2013/11/uscis-states-that-time-spent-in-h-4-status-does-not-count-towards-future-time-in-h-2-or-h-3-status/ Mon, 18 Nov 2013 17:48:03 +0000 http://www.seonewswire.net/2013/11/uscis-states-that-time-spent-in-h-4-status-does-not-count-towards-future-time-in-h-2-or-h-3-status/ In a Policy Memorandum dated November 11, 2013, USCIS has stated that time spent in the U.S. in H-4 status does not count against future time limits in H-2 or H-3 status. As background, a foreign national spouse in the

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In a Policy Memorandum dated November 11, 2013, USCIS has stated that time spent in the U.S. in H-4 status does not count against future time limits in H-2 or H-3 status.

As background, a foreign national spouse in the U.S. in H-4 status is authorized to stay in the U.S. only so long as the principal alien.  There are time limits on most nonimmigrant stays in the U.S.  If the foreign national dependent spouse later seeks to be re-classified as a principal alien in certain non-immigrant classifications, the question remains whether previous time in dependent H-4 status will count against future time limits as a principal alien. In December, 2006, USCIS determined that time in H-4 status spent by a spouse of an H-1B nonimmigrant does not count toward future time limits if the dependent spouse seeks to become a principal alien in H-1B status, nor does time spent by a spouse in L-2 status count against future time limits if the dependent spouse seeks to become a principal alien in L-1 status.  USCIS had been silent about whether the same rule applied to H-4 status if the dependent spouse seeks to become a principal alien in H-2 or H-3 status.

Now USCIS has supplemented and extended its policy to include future time H-2 and H-3 status.  USCIS states that these changes are appropriate because they are consistent with overall statutory authority and because they promote family unity, resulting in a harmonious application of law.  Thus, a foreign national spouse in the U.S. in H-4 status eligible to be granted H-2 or H-3 status, can remain in the U.S. for the maximum time permitted by each respective classification without subtracting time previously spent in H-4 status.

Rabinowitz & Rabinowitz, PC. is a business immigration firm representing businesses and foreign nationals in employment-based visa cases. To learn more or to contact a Dallas immigration attorney, visit http://www.rabinowitzrabinowitz.com.

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House Republican Plan on CIR: Proceed Slowly Until Other Events Consume Bandwidth http://www.seonewswire.net/2013/09/house-republican-plan-on-cir-proceed-slowly-until-other-events-consume-bandwidth/ Tue, 10 Sep 2013 01:38:04 +0000 http://www.seonewswire.net/2013/09/house-republican-plan-on-cir-proceed-slowly-until-other-events-consume-bandwidth/ Despite  the optimism of Senate passage of S.744 in June, 2013, as of early September 2013, time seems to be running out for House action and passage of comprehensive immigration reform this year.  Since June, the House has refused to

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Despite  the optimism of Senate passage of S.744 in June, 2013, as of early September 2013, time seems to be running out for House action and passage of comprehensive immigration reform this year.  Since June, the House has refused to take up and S.744 has insisted that it will draft its own immigration reform measures and pass it provided a majority Republicans alone support it.  This “go slow” approach embraces House conservative and Tea party concerns that any comprehensive immigration bill contain even tougher enforcement provisions than those in the Senate bill, and removes eligibility for those in the U.S. without status to become permanent residents – a prerequisite for U.S. citizenship.  With that as a strategy, other events will now foreseeably gobble House time and focus.  The issue of U.S. military action in Syria, the looming debt ceiling, and the fiscal year 2014 budget may consume the House’s focus until November, leaving only that month before the December Christmas break.  And next year is midterm elections in the House where concern for being re-elected trumps real debate and action on the always divisive issue of immigration.

Rabinowitz & Rabinowitz, PC. is a business immigration firm representing businesses and foreign nationals in employment-based visa cases. To learn more or to contact a Dallas immigration attorney, visit http://www.rabinowitzrabinowitz.com.

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Paperless I-94 Processing: Some Bumps Along the Road http://www.seonewswire.net/2013/08/paperless-i-94-processing-some-bumps-along-the-road/ Mon, 12 Aug 2013 21:32:29 +0000 http://www.seonewswire.net/2013/08/paperless-i-94-processing-some-bumps-along-the-road/ Since U.S. Customs and Border Protection (“CBP”) began its paperless I-94 processing for air and sea travelers several months ago, foreign nationals have reported some problems with the new system.  Because it is a major change with many other federal

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Since U.S. Customs and Border Protection (“CBP”) began its paperless I-94 processing for air and sea travelers several months ago, foreign nationals have reported some problems with the new system.  Because it is a major change with many other federal and state agencies used to seeing a paper I-94 for their own purposes, it is advisable for foreign nationals to examine and print out a copy of their electronic I-94 upon admission.  It is available at the CBP website.  A number of foreign nationals’ have reported being unable to locate their electronic I-94, which alone is discomforting.  Other foreign nationals have found that their name has been misspelled, or the incorrect class of admission or length of admission have been recorded, issues which would otherwise go undetected but for a direct examination of their electronic I-94 record.  Printing out a copy is beneficial even if everything is correct for one’s own records.

Should there be an issue requiring correction, a foreign national can take the I-94 printout and other documentation to the nearest CBP Deferred Inspection office for  resolution.  Finally, despite CBP’s efforts to advise all state departments of motor vehicles of the paperless I-94 process, some offices still expect to see an I-94 as part of issuance of a state drivers license to a foreign national traveler.

 

 

Rabinowitz & Rabinowitz, PC. is an immigration law firm representing businesses and foreign nationals in employment-based visa cases. To learn more or to contact a Dallas immigration lawyer, visit http://www.rabinowitzrabinowitz.com.

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BIA Holds Same Sex Marriage Valid for Immigration Purposes if Valid Under State Law http://www.seonewswire.net/2013/07/bia-holds-same-sex-marriage-valid-for-immigration-purposes-if-valid-under-state-law/ Thu, 18 Jul 2013 17:37:12 +0000 http://www.seonewswire.net/2013/07/bia-holds-same-sex-marriage-valid-for-immigration-purposes-if-valid-under-state-law/ In its decision dated July 17, 2013 in Matter of Zeleniak, the Board of Immigration Appeals, the appellate body reviewing USCIS decision on immigrant visa petitions, held that the Defensive of Marriage Act (” DOMA”) is no longer an impediment

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In its decision dated July 17, 2013 in Matter of Zeleniak, the Board of Immigration Appeals, the appellate body reviewing USCIS decision on immigrant visa petitions, held that the Defensive of Marriage Act (” DOMA”) is no longer an impediment to approving a same sex marriage immigrant visa petition, provided the marriage is valid in the state where the marriage took place.  In Zeleniak, the same sex marriage was celebrated in Vermont which recognizes same sex marriage. While Zeleniak was pending, the U.S. Supreme Court held Section 3 of DOMA unconstitutional.  That section had defined marriage for federal purposes as a legal union only between a man and a woman.  The BIA remanded Zeleniak for a determination regarding the bona fides of the marriage, the last inquiry prior to petition approval.

Rabinowitz & Rabinowitz, PC. is an immigration law firm representing businesses and foreign nationals in employment-based visa cases. To learn more or to contact a Dallas immigration lawyer, visit http://www.rabinowitzrabinowitz.com.

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Senate Passes Comprehensive Immigration Reform: House Fate Uncertain http://www.seonewswire.net/2013/06/senate-passes-comprehensive-immigration-reform-house-fate-uncertain/ Fri, 28 Jun 2013 13:52:30 +0000 http://www.seonewswire.net/2013/06/senate-passes-comprehensive-immigration-reform-house-fate-uncertain/ By a vote of 68-32, on June 27, 2013, the Senate passed the massive comprehensive immigration reform bill S.744, amended just last week to include beefed up border security and enforcement provisions, which brought  total of 14 Republicans on board

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By a vote of 68-32, on June 27, 2013, the Senate passed the massive comprehensive immigration reform bill S.744, amended just last week to include beefed up border security and enforcement provisions, which brought  total of 14 Republicans on board in addition to all Democrats. The bill now faces an uncertain future in the Republican controlled House.  Representatives in the House want to introduce their own immigration legislation, and many outspoken critics of the Senate bill want to see immigration reform taken up in stages, with enforcement being the sole first step.  The House will begin consideration of immigration-related legislation after the July 4th break.

Rabinowitz & Rabinowitz, PC. is a Dallas immigration law firm representing businesses, families, and individuals. To learn more or to contact an attorney, click here to visit http://www.rabinowitzrabinowitz.com.

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DHS Continues Employment Authorization for Certain Syrian F-1 Students to 2015 http://www.seonewswire.net/2013/06/dhs-continues-employment-authorization-for-certain-syrian-f-1-students-to-2015/ Tue, 25 Jun 2013 01:42:34 +0000 http://www.seonewswire.net/2013/06/dhs-continues-employment-authorization-for-certain-syrian-f-1-students-to-2015/ On June 17, 2013, the Department of Homeland Security published notice that it has extended  employment authorization for Syrian academic students currently in the U.S. who face severe economic need arising out of the civil unrest in Syria.  The notice

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On June 17, 2013, the Department of Homeland Security published notice that it has extended  employment authorization for Syrian academic students currently in the U.S. who face severe economic need arising out of the civil unrest in Syria.  The notice is effective from June 17, 2013 through March 31, 2015.  The original notice granting Syrian students this benefit was effective from April 3, 2012 through October 31, 2013.

As background, DHS can authorize employment authorization while school is in session to students from countries DHS deems to be experiencing civil unrest. The authorization once approved for each student, means that an F-1 student whose country of citizenship is Syria and who faces severe economic need is deemed to be engaged in a full course of study while being able to work increased hours and maintain a reduced course load.

The measure will assist Syrian students who rely mainly on funds from Syria to continue their students and support themselves when funds from Syria may no longer be available to them.

Rabinowitz & Rabinowitz, PC. is an immigration law firm in Dallas Texas representing individuals and family members in lawful permanent resident and U.S. Citizenship cases. To learn more visit http://www.rabinowitzrabinowitz.com.

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CBO Estimates $175 Billion Savings if Senate Bill Enacted http://www.seonewswire.net/2013/06/cbo-estimates-175-billion-savings-if-senate-bill-enacted/ Wed, 19 Jun 2013 02:09:09 +0000 http://www.seonewswire.net/2013/06/cbo-estimates-175-billion-savings-if-senate-bill-enacted/ On June 18, 2013, the Congressional Budget Office issued a Cost Estimate regarding the budgetary effects of Senate bill  S. 744 Border Security, Economic Opportunity and Immigration Modernization Act.  The CBO estimated that implementing the Senate bill as written would

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On June 18, 2013, the Congressional Budget Office issued a Cost Estimate regarding the budgetary effects of Senate bill  S. 744 Border Security, Economic Opportunity and Immigration Modernization Act.  The CBO estimated that implementing the Senate bill as written would increase federal direct spending to $262 billion mostly for increases in refundable tax credits arising out of a larger US population under the bill.  Simultaneously, the report estimated an increase in federal revenues collection of $459 billion over the same period arising out of additional income and payroll taxes from  an increased US workforce and a change of legal status of some current workers.  The result would be a net savings of $175 billion over the 2014-2023 period.

The CBO stated that while the effects of immigration policies on the federal budget are uncertain and complicated especially when extended well into the future, the estimates make assumptions regarding the legislation’s stated increases in nonimmigrant and immigrant categories, together with projections on the number of persons who may obtain legalized status under the bill’s proposed provisions.

 

Rabinowitz & Rabinowitz, PC. is an immigration law firm representing businesses and foreign nationals in employment-based visa cases. To learn more or to contact a Dallas immigration lawyer, visit http://www.rabinowitzrabinowitz.com.

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US Electronic Immigration System Expands to Cover Immigrant Fee http://www.seonewswire.net/2013/05/us-electronic-immigration-system-expands-to-cover-immigrant-fee/ Mon, 20 May 2013 22:09:27 +0000 http://www.seonewswire.net/2013/05/us-electronic-immigration-system-expands-to-cover-immigrant-fee/ Starting May 19, 2013, immigrants abroad who have received their immigrant visas can pay the USCIS Immigrant Fee of $165.00US online through USCIS ELIS, the USCIS Electronic Immigration System. USCIS ELIS is the much touted “transformation” of paper-bound immigration processing

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Starting May 19, 2013, immigrants abroad who have received their immigrant visas can pay the USCIS Immigrant Fee of $165.00US online through USCIS ELIS, the USCIS Electronic Immigration System. USCIS ELIS is the much touted “transformation” of paper-bound immigration processing to electronic on-line processing which USCIS has promised will modernize its immigration processing.

The ELIS system permits an applicants to make a payment, file an application, and submit electronically scanned evidence directly to USCIS. It also permits an applicant to gain real-time information about his or her case and receive USCIS notices electronically. Despite substantial investment by USCIS in ELIS, it covers only a single form: An application used by certain foreign nationals who seek to change or extend their visitor, or student stay. Now ELIS is also to be used by immigrants abroad to pay a Immigrant Fee to USCIS before departing for the U.S. instead of making payment on pay.gov. Starting February 1, 2013, USCIS began collecting a $165.00US fee for each immigrant who receives an immigrant visa package from a U.S. consulate or embassy abroad to receive a green card in the U.S. The fee reimburses USCIS for the cost of immigration processing after an immigrant surrenders his or her visa package to USCIS.

USCIS has not stated when ELIS will be expanded to process any of the other dozens of paper forms which USCIS requires of immigrants and non-immigrants alike.

Rabinowitz & Rabinowitz, PC. is an immigration law firm representing businesses, families, and individuals. To learn more or to contact an attorney, click here to visit http://www.rabinowitzrabinowitz.com.

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F-1 to H-1B Lottery Winners: Travel Before October 1 is Risky http://www.seonewswire.net/2013/05/f-1-to-h-1b-lottery-winners-travel-before-october-1-is-risky/ Mon, 20 May 2013 00:30:02 +0000 http://www.seonewswire.net/2013/05/f-1-to-h-1b-lottery-winners-travel-before-october-1-is-risky/ For many F-1 academic students who have graduated, received post completion Optional Practical Training (“OPT”), had an H-1B petition filed in their behalf with a start date of October 1, and “won” the H-1B lottery, such persons are entitled to

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For many F-1 academic students who have graduated, received post completion Optional Practical Training (“OPT”), had an H-1B petition filed in their behalf with a start date of October 1, and “won” the H-1B lottery, such persons are entitled to continued, authorized F-1 stay and continued employment authorization up until September 30 of the year. This is known as a “cap gap” benefit. The question arises whether a cap gap H-1B beneficiary can travel outside the U.S. without adverse impact if the H-1B petition is pending or already approved.

While there is no guidance directly on point, in a policy Memorandum issued on April, 2010, Immigration and Customs Enforcement (“ICE”) advises against travel for an F-1 student whose H-1B change of status petition has not yet been decided. It bases its reasoning on USCIS policy that considers the change of status portion of an H-1B petition as abandoned if the H-1B beneficiary departs the U.S. before USCIS decides the case. The Memorandum is silent regarding cap-gap travel if the H-1B petition is already approved. To be safe, H-1B cap gap beneficiaries should remain in the U.S. during the cap-gap interval and those considering travel abroad should consider making an H-1B visa application in September. H-1B visa status holders can enter 10 days in advance of their start date but can only begin work on October 1.

Rabinowitz & Rabinowitz, PC. is an immigration law firm in Dallas Texas representing individuals and family members in lawful permanent resident and U.S. Citizenship cases. To learn more visit http://www.rabinowitzrabinowitz.com.

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International Travelers Injected $14.4 Billion Into the U.S. Economy in March, 2013 http://www.seonewswire.net/2013/05/international-travelers-injected-14-4-billion-into-the-u-s-economy-in-march-2013/ Sat, 18 May 2013 16:31:07 +0000 http://www.seonewswire.net/2013/05/international-travelers-injected-14-4-billion-into-the-u-s-economy-in-march-2013/ The U.S. Department of Commerce has reported that international travelers spent more than $14.4 billion on travel and tourism in the U.S. in just one month, March, 2013, which the Department reports is an increase of 3% over the prior

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The U.S. Department of Commerce has reported that international travelers spent more than $14.4 billion on travel and tourism in the U.S. in just one month, March, 2013, which the Department reports is an increase of 3% over the prior year, and is part of the $43 billion spent during the first quarter of 2013. According to Department officials, international travel and tourism represents is the U.S.’s largest service export.

Travel and tourism supports almost 8 million U.S. jobs and recent increases in tourism account for strong job growth in the leisure and hospitality sector. The Administration has a strategy in place to increase travel and tourism to attract more than 100 million international tourists who may spent up to $250 billion per year and expand economic growth throughout the country. The Administration’s goal is to maintain and improve national security through better law enforcement cooperation in the Visa Waiver program, together with enhancements to visa and visitor processing, and processing at U.S. ports of entry while making the U.S. a destination of choice worldwide. The sheer size and significance of the travel and tourism sector of the U.S. economy and long term U.S. concerns regarding terrorism and national security underscore the difficulty in balancing these interests. But balancing them is what the Administration must do.

 

Rabinowitz & Rabinowitz, PC. is an immigration law firm representing businesses, families, and individuals. To learn more or to contact an attorney, click here to visit http://www.rabinowitzrabinowitz.com.

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Paperless I-94 Processing Goes Into Effect http://www.seonewswire.net/2013/05/paperless-i-94-processing-goes-into-effect/ Fri, 17 May 2013 20:28:49 +0000 http://www.seonewswire.net/2013/05/paperless-i-94-processing-goes-into-effect/ Starting April 30, 2013, the United States Customs and Border Protection agency has begun providing foreign national travelers to the United States with a passport stamp and making available an electronic record of admission instead of providing each foreign national

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Starting April 30, 2013, the United States Customs and Border Protection agency has begun providing foreign national travelers to the United States with a passport stamp and making available an electronic record of admission instead of providing each foreign national with a paper I-94 as evidence of lawful admission. The paperless I-94 process is for foreign national travelers arriving by air and sea. While there is no legal requirement for foreign national to print out a paper form I-94 record, there are several good reasons to do so.

First, a traveler can check admission class and validity period to see that they match the CBP passport stamp and annotation. Second, having an I-94 paper printout can assist a foreign national in obtaining a state driver’s license as well as in obtaining a U.S. Social Security number. Finally, an employment authorized foreign national can furnish an I-94 printout to an employer in completing Form I-9 Employment Eligibility Verification. Foreign nationals can go online to www.cbp.gov/i94 and print out their I-94 record.

 

Rabinowitz & Rabinowitz, PC. is a Dallas immigration law firm representing businesses, families, and individuals. To learn more or to contact an attorney, click here to visit http://www.rabinowitzrabinowitz.com.

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Special Education Webinar: Final Instructions for January 24 http://www.seonewswire.net/2013/01/special-education-webinar-final-instructions-for-january-24/ Wed, 23 Jan 2013 17:44:39 +0000 http://www.seonewswire.net/2013/01/special-education-webinar-final-instructions-for-january-24/ Log-In Instructions for Tomorrow’s Webinar: As a reminder, our webinar on Special Education Advocacy with Sheryl Frishman begins at 12:00 PM. Please try logging in a few minutes early to avoid traffic. To begin our webinar, please follow the instructions

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Log-In Instructions for Tomorrow’s Webinar:

As a reminder, our webinar on Special Education Advocacy with Sheryl Frishman begins at 12:00 PM. Please try logging in a few minutes early to avoid traffic.

To begin our webinar, please follow the instructions below:

1. Join my meeting: https://global.gotomeeting.com/join/933621629

2. Use your microphone and speakers (VoIP) – a headset is recommended. Or call in using your telephone.

Dial +1 (626) 521-0015
Access Code: 933-621-629
Audio PIN: Shown after joining the meeting
Meeting ID: 933-621-629

You can participate in this webinar from your computer (PC or MAC), tablet or smart phone. For more details about the webinar, please click on this Attendee Quick Reference Guide.

If for any reason you have difficulties logging into GoToMeeting, please close out of your web browser (i.e. Internet Explorer, Mozilla Firefox, Google Chrome, Safari) completely and try linking from our invitation again.

If you continue having trouble with GoToMeeting, please use the dial-in information above and send us an email at kmama@littmankrooks.com. We will send you a PDF of the presentation so you can follow along.


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