The experienced legal team at Panteva Law Group LLC is here to assist clients throughout Chicago with their immigration matters. Whether you have questions about obtaining citizenship or applying for a work visa, we will gladly provide you with the top-notch legal counsel you need to make informed decisions. Keep reading to find out important immigration news for the month of December:
USCIS Will Use Electronic Registration Process for 2021 H-1B Cap Season
On December 6th, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) announced the agency’s plans for the 2021 H-1B cap season. USCIS will now be implementing an electronic registration process that will require employers to electronically register and pay the $10 H-1B registration fee before they can file an H-1B cap-subject petition. Electronic registration is also going to be required for H-1B petitions that are eligible for the advanced degree exemption.
If you plan to petition for an H-1B visa this year, then you need to get in touch with Panteva Law Group to discuss your situation with an experienced immigration lawyer. H1-B visas have a cap of 65,000 every fiscal year. This visa category is very competitive, which is why you should consult with an attorney to get help filing your application.
New Changes to the L-1A Program
Recently, the Trump administration said it would submit a proposal to revise the definition of specialized knowledge for the L-1B visa. The new rule will clarify what constitutes employment and employer-employee relationship. The Trump administration said the change will also ensure that employers pay the correct wages to L-1 visa holders. The L-1A visa is often used by foreign tech companies to transfer managers, executives and specialized knowledge individuals to their offices in the United States. Give us a call today if you have questions about how the revised rules might impact your L-1 visa application.
OPT Changes for Next Year
Under the optional practical training (OPT) program, international students can work in the United States for one year after they get their degree. Foreign students studying science, technology, engineering, or math can petition for a two-year extension. However, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement announced it will “amend existing regulations and revise practical training options available to non-immigrant students on F and M visas.” Although there are no details for the changes, many expect the proposal will define strict conditions for granting applicants OPT.
Federal Court Upholds Temporary Block on Health Insurance Requirement for Immigrant Visa Applicants
A federal district court issued a preliminary injunction that prevents the enforcement of President Trump’s proclamation that requires immigrants to prove they can obtain unsubsidized health insurance within 30 days a of coming to the U.S. The preliminary injunction was issued by an Oregon federal court in the case of Doe v. Trump. The President’s proclamation would have impacted most people applying for immigrant visas on or after the effective date. The Trump Administration is expected to appeal the injunction.
Call Us Today
Are you ready to speak to an experienced immigration attorney in Chicago? Then call Panteva Law Group today to set up your consultation with our compassionate legal professionals so we can get started providing you with the skilled representation you need to obtain your American Dream.
To request a case consultation with our legal team, call (312) 471-0014 today.