Immigration Alerts
EAD Automatic Extension Period Will Increase From 180 to 540 Days
Today, USCIS announced a Temporary Final Rule (TFR) that increases the automatic extension period for Employment Authorization Documents (EADs), available to certain EAD renewal applicants, from 180 to 540 days (360 days of additional automatic extension time). The increase, which will be effective on May 4, 2022, will help avoid gaps in employment for those with pending EAD renewal applications.
Expansion of Premium Processing: Still No Definitive Start Date
This week, Department of Homeland Security (DHS) provided an update for expanding Premium Processing (PP).
H-1B Cap Lottery Completed
Yesterday, on March 29th, USCIS announced that the H-1B random selection (lottery) process has concluded and that it has informed registrants and attorneys of the selection result through “MyUSCIS” accounts.
USCIS To Issue Updated Notices for L-2 and E Status Spouses To Evidence Employment Authorization
In November 2021, USCIS announced that L and E spouses are now employment authorized incident to their E or L nonimmigrant status. Subsequent to that announcement, on January 30, 2022, USCIS and CBP began issuing I-94s with the letter “S” (e.g., L-2S, E-1S, E-2S and E-3S) for E and L spouses. I-94s with the letter “S” became acceptable as evidence of employment authorization, without EAD (under List C of Form I-9). However, spouses who received their I-94 before January 30th still have I-94s without the letter “S”, and thus still lack evidence of work authorization without an EAD.
USCIS Confirms H1B Cap Selection Process
USCIS has confirmed that the registration period for FY 2023 H-1B cap cases will begin on March 1st at 9 AM (Pacific Time), and end on March 18th at 9 AM (Pacific Time).
DOS Expands Interview Waiver Eligibility
On December 23, 2021, the Department of State (DOS) announced the expansion of the interview waiver program for certain types of nonimmigrant visas.
U.S. Tightens Travel Rules
In addition to last week’s announcement of travel restrictions affecting 8 African countries, today, President Biden announced additional new rules as the U.S. confronts the new Omicron variant and the potential of a winter surge.
USCIS Clarifies Handling of EAD for H-4, E and L-2 Spouses
USCIS has clarified new rules related to H-4, E, and L-2 work authorization.
Major Changes to USCIS Handling of EAD for H-4 and L-2 Spouses
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) reached a settlement in which it agreed to two major changes for H-4 and L-2 Employment Authorization Document (EAD) processing.