Immigration News

USCIS Regarding Increase in RFEs for H-1B Cases

June 23, 2009

USCIS Headquarters is aware of the increased activity and RFEs in the area of H-1B petitions for 3rd party employers (e.g., consulting companies). Updated guidance on this issue is being developed by USCIS and should be released in the very near future. USCIS headquarters has been in constant contact with the California Service Center and Vermont Service Center on this issue and is working to develop evidentiary criteria that establishes the existence of a valid job offer in a specialty occupation at a location that corresponds to the LCA(s) submitted with the filing based on real world business practices but also meets the regulatory requirements for the H-1B category. The goal is to drastically reduce the number of "kitchen sink" RFEs and have both adjudicators and petitioners focus on evidence that best establishes the bona fides of the petition. USCIS is also drafting H-1B "Helpful Hints" to be published on its website to help guide petitioners on the types of acceptable evidence and packaging tips.

(2/2/2010)
Alert Regarding H-1B Admissions - Newark, New Jersey Airport

(1/21/2010)
San Mateo Executive Prosecuted for Visa Violations

(1/20/2010)
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(1/15/2010)
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(1/11/2010)
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(12/22/2009)
H-1B Cap Update - CAP REACHED

(12/15/2009)
H-1B Cap Update: 62,900 as of 12/11/09 - Up Another 1,800 from 12/04/09

(12/9/2009)
H-1B Cap Update: 61,100 as of 12/04/09 - Up Another 2,200 from last count on 11/27/09

(12/1/2009)
H-1B Cap Update: 58,900 as of 11/27/09 - Up Another 2,000 from last count on 11/20/09

(11/24/2009)
H-1B Cap Update: 56,900 as of 11/20/09 - Up Another 1,300 from last count on 11/13/09

(11/20/2009)
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(11/18/2009)
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(11/17/2009)
H-1B Cap Update: 54,700 as of November 6, 2009 (Up 900 from October 30, 2009)

(11/3/2009)
More DOL Audits To Come

(11/3/2009)
USCIS Updates FY 2010 H-1B Usage

(10/1/2009)
Change in Policy on Deferred Inspection of Legal Permanent Residents