October 4, 2006  

The NSC Accepts Concurrent I-485 Filings for Premium Processing Eligible I-140s

Via AILA
10/03/2006

The Nebraska Service Center has confirmed that it is accepting
concurrent filings of I-140 and I-485s for I-140s eligible for premium
processing. The I-140 will be processed pursuant to the premium
processing program and the I-485 and any concurrently filed I-765 and
I-131 applications will be processed pursuant to regular processing
time lines. Remember that the beneficiary of the I-485 application must
have an immigrant number immediately available to qualify for the
concurrent filing.

October 3, 2006  

Rethinking the Effects of Immigration on Wages

Via AILA
10/03/2006

A crucial question in the current debate over immigration is what
impact immigrants have on the wages of native-born workers. At first
glance, it might seem that the simple economics of supply and demand
provides the answer: immigrants increase the supply of labor; hence
they should decrease the wages of native workers. However, the reality
is more complicated than this.

The latest study published by the Immigration Policy Center
addresses this issue. The study, authored by Giovanni Peri, Associate
Professor of Economics at the University of California, Davis, and a
Faculty Research Fellow at the National Bureau of Economic Research in
Cambridge, Massachusetts, is entitled <!–
D(["mb",""Rethinking the Effects of Immigration on Wages: New Data and Analysis from 1990 2004." In the study, Professor Peri argues that the widespread notion that immigrants decrease native wages is a misconception, complicated by two reasons that too often are overlooked. First, immigrants and natives, with different skills and education levels, do not compete with each other for the same jobs, but actually complement each other performing interdependent jobs, thereby increasing the wages and productivity of natives. Second, evidence shows that new workers added to the labor force stimulate investment by entrepreneurs. When these two factors are included in the analysis of immigration and wages, it becomes clear that immigration has a positive effect on the wages of most native-born workers.
\n \n\n
For a detailed analysis of Professor Peri\’s findings, read the full report here. \n\n

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\n\n

Take Action

\n\n

Hold Members of Congress Accountable at Town Hall Meetings

\n\nIncumbent Candidates are back in their home districts making the most of the pre-election season. Many are hosting Town Hall meetings. This is a good way for them to get out and talk to their constituents and "take the pulse" of the communities they represent in Congress. It is also a great opportunity for AILA members to educate and inform Senators, Representatives, and other meeting attendees about the need for comprehensive immigration reform, H-1B relief, and other key AILA concerns. Consider attending a Town Hall meeting with your AILA colleagues to show collective support for your shared ideals. Generating a large and well-informed crowd at a public meeting is an extremely effective way to elicit the views of your Member of Congress and to share your perspective. Use AILA\’s “,1]
);
//–>“Rethinking the Effects of Immigration on Wages: New Data and Analysis from 1990 2004.”
In the study, Professor Peri argues that the widespread notion that
immigrants decrease native wages is a misconception, complicated by two
reasons that too often are overlooked. First, immigrants and natives,
with different skills and education levels, do not compete with each
other for the same jobs, but actually complement each other performing
interdependent jobs, thereby increasing the wages and productivity of
natives. Second, evidence shows that new workers added to the labor
force stimulate investment by entrepreneurs. When these two factors are
included in the analysis of immigration and wages, it becomes clear
that immigration has a positive effect on the wages of most native-born
workers.

For a detailed analysis of Professor Peri’s findings, read the full report here.

September 28, 2006  

U.S. Department of State – Priority Dates for Diversity Immigrant (DV) Category

Diversity Immigrant (DV)
Category

U.S. Department of State – Priority Dates
NOTE: This information has been obtained
from the Department of State visa bulletin.

OCTOBER 2006

Section 203(c) of the Immigration
and Nationality Act provides a maximum of up to 55,000 immigrant visas each
fiscal year to permit immigration opportunities for persons from countries
other than the principal sources of current immigration to the United States.
The Nicaraguan and Central American Relief Act (NACARA) passed by Congress in
November 1997 stipulates that beginning with DV-99, and for as long as
necessary, up to 5,000 of the 55,000 annually-allocated diversity visas will be
made available for use under the NACARA program. This reduction has resulted
in the DV-2007 annual limit being reduced to 50,000. DV visas are divided
among six geographic regions. No one country can receive more than seven
percent of the available diversity visas in any one year.

For October, immigrant numbers in
the DV category are available to qualified DV-2007 applicants chargeable to all
regions/eligible countries as follows. When an allocation cut-off number is
shown, visas are available only for applicants with DV regional lottery rank
numbers BELOW the specified allocation cut-off number:

Region

All DV Chargeability Areas Except Those Listed Separately

AFRICA

5,700
Except: Egypt
3,100
Ethiopia 3,500
Nigeria 2,700

ASIA

1,550

EUROPE

3,450

NORTH AMERICA (BAHAMAS)

4

OCEANIA

150

SOUTH AMERICA, and
the CARIBBEAN

225

Entitlement to immigrant status
in the DV category lasts only through the end of the fiscal (visa) year for
which the applicant is selected in the lottery. The year of entitlement for all
applicants registered for the DV-2007 program ends as of September 30, 2007. DV
visas may not be issued to DV-2007 applicants after that date. Similarly,
spouses and children accompanying or following to join DV-2007 principals are
only entitled to derivative DV status until September 30, 2007. DV visa availability
through the very end of FY-2007 cannot be taken for granted. Numbers could be
exhausted prior to September 30.

ADVANCE NOTIFICATION OF THE
DIVERSITY (DV) IMMIGRANT CATEGORY RANK CUT-OFFS WHICH WILL APPLY IN NOVEMBER

For November, immigrant numbers
in the DV category are available to qualified DV-2007 applicants chargeable to
all regions/eligible countries as follows. When an allocation cut-off number is
shown, visas are available only for applicants with DV regional lottery rank
numbers BELOW the specified allocation cut-off number:

Region

All DV Chargeability Areas Except Those listed Separately

AFRICA

8,500
Except: Egypt
5,600
Ethiopia 5,600
Nigeria 4,300

ASIA

2,600

EUROPE

5,700

NORTH AMERICA (BAHAMAS)

6

OCEANIA

280

SOUTH AMERICA, and
the CARIBBEAN

350
September 28, 2006  

U.S. Department of State – Priority Dates for Employment-Based Preferences, October 2006

Employment-Based Preferences

U.S. Department of State – Priority Dates for October 2006
NOTE: This information has been obtained
from the Department of State visa bulletin.

Employment-Based

All Chargeability Areas Except Those
Listed

CHINA- mainland born

INDIA

MEXICO

PHILLIPINES

1st

C

C

C

C

C

2nd

C

01APR05

15JUN02

C

C

3rd

01MAY02

01MAY02

22APR01

01MAY01

01MAY02

Schedule A Workers

C

C

C

C

C

Other Workers

01JAN01

01JAN01

01JAN01

01JAN01

01JAN01

4th

C

C

C

C

C

Certain Religious Workers

C

C

C

C

C

5th

C

C

C

C

C

Targeted Employ-ment Areas/ <st1laceName w:st=”on”>Regional</st1laceName> <st1laceType w:st=”on”>Centers</st1laceType>

C

C

C

C

C

“C” means current, i.e., numbers
are available for all qualified applicants; and “U” means
unavailable, i.e., no numbers are available. (NOTE: Numbers are available only
for applicants whose priority date is earlier than the cut-off date listed
below.)

1st:  

Priority Workers: 28.6% of
the worldwide employment-based preference level, plus any numbers not
required for fourth and fifth preferences.

2nd:  

Members of the Professions
Holding Advanced Degrees or Persons of Exceptional Ability: 28.6% of the
worldwide employment-based preference level, plus any numbers not required by
first preference.

3rd:  

Skilled Workers,
Professionals, and Other Workers: 28.6% of the worldwide level, plus any
numbers not required by first and second preferences, not more than 10,000 of
which to “Other Workers”.

4th:  

Certain Special Immigrants:
7.1% of the worldwide level.

5th:  

Employment Creation: 7.1%
of the worldwide level, not less than 3,000 of which reserved for investors
in a targeted rural or high-unemployment area, and 3,000 set aside for
investors in regional centers by Sec. 610 of P.L. 102-395.
September 28, 2006  

U.S. Department of State – Priority Dates for Family Based Preferences, October 2006

U.S. Department of State – Priority Dates for Family Based Preferences, October 2006
NOTE: This information has been obtained
from the Department of State visa bulletin.

Family

All
Chargeability Areas
Except Those Listed

CHINA-mainland
born

INDIA

MEXICO

PHILIP-PINES

1st

01MAY00

01MAY00

01MAY00

01JAN93

01NOV91

2A

22APR01

22APR01

22APR01

15OCT99

22APR01

2B

01JAN97

01JAN97

01JAN97

15FEB92

22JUL96

3rd

22OCT98

22OCT98

22OCT98

01JAN94

01AUG90

4th

15SEP95

01FEB95

01AUG95

15SEP93

01APR84

 

1st:

Unmarried Sons and Daughters of
Citizens: 23,400 plus any numbers not required for fourth preference.

2A:

Spouses and Children: 77% of the
overall second preference limitation, of which 75% are exempt from the
per-country limit;

2B:

Unmarried Sons and Daughters (21
years of age or older): 23% of the overall second preference limitation.

3rd:

Married Sons and Daughters of
Citizens: 23,400, plus any numbers not required by first and second
preferences.

4th:

Brothers and Sisters of Adult
Citizens: 65,000, plus any numbers not required by first three preferences.
September 27, 2006  

Support Habeas Corpus Amendment to Military Tribunal Legislation

Via AILA
09/27/2006

The
existing Senate bills on military tribunals would strip the rights of
certain non-citizens to challenge their detention in a court of law.
The Specter-Levin Amendment, which could come to the Floor later today,
would reinstate habeas corpus and preserve core democratic rights.

Get more information here

September 27, 2006  

Temporary Skilled Workers Enrich America’ s Competitive Edge

Via AILA
09/27/2006

The
recent debate over immigration policy commonly depicts immigrants as
undocumented, uneducated people who flood our borders without
inspection. Although many immigrants who enter this country are
unskilled laborers who provide essential services in many sectors of
our economy, of equal importance to the immigration debate are the
highly educated foreign professionals whose skills play a vital role in
the enrichment of our economy. These foreign born workers bring unique
perspectives and expertise that are essential to maintaining America’s
competitive edge as the leader of the global marketplace.

The United States economy has shifted significantly over the past
fifty years. We are no longer the blue collar nation that we once were.
The transformation of our economy from a manufacturing economy to a
knowledge-based economy has created a growing demand for highly skilled
technical workers. This demand has been accompanied by a decline in the
number of native-born students seeking degrees in the fields of
science, engineering and technology. Our prestigious graduate
institutions currently train more foreign nationals than U.S. citizens
in these important fields. These U.S trained specialists, both native
and foreign-born, cannot fill the demand for highly-skilled workers in
key occupations. U.S. businesses must be able to recruit and hire
additional foreign-born professionals to alleviate temporary labor
shortages in specific occupations.

To keep America competitive, we must increase the number of
specialized worker visas awarded. H-1B visas, or temporary skilled
worker visas, are currently capped at only 65,000 annually. Yet in
recent years, this “cap” is reached in a couple of months and U.S.
businesses are barred from hiring foreign-born professionals for the
remainder of the fiscal year. In order to increase the number of highly
skilled professionals in this country, we must reform the employment
based immigration system and provide a sufficient amount of avenues
through which U.S. businesses can legally employ specialized workers.

At the same time, we must increase recruitment and training of U.S.
students as well – in order to accelerate this process, a hefty portion
of the processing fees for the H visas are directed to the education
and training of U.S. students in science and technology.

It is important that skilled workers are not overlooked in the
current debate regarding comprehensive immigration reform. Raising the
H-1B visa cap is vital to maintaining our leadership in the world
market. We must retain the educated professionals whom we have trained
internally in order to benefit from the unique skills that they
possess. By sending the best and the brightest workers back to their
respective countries, we only create competition for ourselves, thereby
diminishing America’s economic clout. By retaining foreign nationals,
we may ensure that U.S. businesses have the most highly qualified
workers in their fields, helping America maintain its edge in an
increasingly competitive global economy. the most highly qualified
workers in their fields, guaranteeing maximum success and economic
prosperity.


 

September 27, 2006  

Comprehensive Immigration Reform is the Only Way to Fix a Broken System

Via AILA
09/27/2006

The
recent debate over immigration policy commonly depicts immigrants as
undocumented, uneducated people who flood our borders without
inspection. Although many immigrants who enter this country are
unskilled laborers who provide essential services in many sectors of
our economy, of equal importance to the immigration debate are the
highly educated foreign professionals whose skills play a vital role in
the enrichment of our economy. These foreign born workers bring unique
perspectives and expertise that are essential to maintaining America’s
competitive edge as the leader of the global marketplace.

The United States economy has shifted significantly over the past
fifty years. We are no longer the blue collar nation that we once were.
The transformation of our economy from a manufacturing economy to a
knowledge-based economy has created a growing demand for highly skilled
technical workers. This demand has been accompanied by a decline in the
number of native-born students seeking degrees in the fields of
science, engineering and technology. Our prestigious graduate
institutions currently train more foreign nationals than U.S. citizens
in these important fields. These U.S trained specialists, both native
and foreign-born, cannot fill the demand for highly-skilled workers in
key occupations. U.S. businesses must be able to recruit and hire
additional foreign-born professionals to alleviate temporary labor
shortages in specific occupations.

To keep America competitive, we must increase the number of
specialized worker visas awarded. H-1B visas, or temporary skilled
worker visas, are currently capped at only 65,000 annually. Yet in
recent years, this “cap” is reached in a couple of months and U.S.
businesses are barred from hiring foreign-born professionals for the
remainder of the fiscal year. In order to increase the number of highly
skilled professionals in this country, we must reform the employment
based immigration system and provide a sufficient amount of avenues
through which U.S. businesses can legally employ specialized workers.

At the same time, we must increase recruitment and training of U.S.
students as well – in order to accelerate this process, a hefty portion
of the processing fees for the H visas are directed to the education
and training of U.S. students in science and technology.

It is important that skilled workers are not overlooked in the
current debate regarding comprehensive immigration reform. Raising the
H-1B visa cap is vital to maintaining our leadership in the world
market. We must retain the educated professionals whom we have trained
internally in order to benefit from the unique skills that they
possess. By sending the best and the brightest workers back to their
respective countries, we only create competition for ourselves, thereby
diminishing America’s economic clout. By retaining foreign nationals,
we may ensure that U.S. businesses have the most highly qualified
workers in their fields, helping America maintain its edge in an
increasingly competitive global economy. the most highly qualified
workers in their fields, guaranteeing maximum success and economic
prosperity.

September 27, 2006  

Border security plan delayed

Via CNN.com
09/27/2006

WASHINGTON (AP) — A plan to tighten U.S. borders by
requiring passports or tamper-resistant identification cards from
everyone entering the country by land from Mexico and Canada has been
delayed.

House and Senate lawmakers agreed to push back the
program by 17 months, saying they want to make sure new ID cards being
developed by the Bush administration will better secure borders against
terrorists without slowing legitimate travelers from Canada and Mexico.
The new ID’s will be required for Americans and all others entering the
U.S.

The delay would only apply to travelers entering the U.S.
over land borders from Canada and Mexico. It would not affect travel
rules for people coming into the country by airplane or cruise ship,
who will have to show their passports to Customs officials as of
January 8, 2007, to gain entry.

The border crackdown was wrapped
up in an overall $34.8 billion spending plan for the Homeland Security
Department. The House and Senate each aim to approve it later this
week, before lawmakers recess for the elections.

The spending
bill reflects “a dramatic step forward toward making sure that our
borders are secure,” Sen. Judd Gregg, R-New Hampshire, who helped
negotiate the measure, said Tuesday.

Gregg added: “We still have a long way to go. Nobody is going to argue about that.”

The massive spending bill also includes plans to:

  • Spend
    $1.2 billion on border fencing, vehicle barriers and technology to
    prevent illegal immigrants and criminals from sneaking into the country.
  • Overhaul
    the Federal Emergency Management Agency to give its director a direct
    line to the president during catastrophes and remerge disaster
    preparedness planning with response missions.
  • Give the Homeland Security Department authority to shut down chemical plants that fail to meet security standards.
  • Buy nuclear detectors to scan shipping cargo and hire more Coast Guard inspectors and Customs agents at seaports.
  • Allow
    Americans to legally import a 90-day supply of prescription medications
    from Canada by carrying them back across the border, while retaining
    bans on importing drugs by mail or the Internet.

    • Continue reading

    September 25, 2006  

    USCIS to Expand Premium Processing Service / Premium Processing Information

    Via USCIS
    09/22/2006

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) announced today the addition of three new categories to the Premium Processing Service, which allows U.S. businesses to pay a $1,000 Premium Processing fee in exchange for 15-calendar-day processing of their case.

    Starting on September 25, 2006, USCIS will begin accepting Premium Processing requests for
    Form I-140, Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker, involving the following immigrant visa categories:

    • EB-1, outstanding professors and researchers,
    • EB-2, members of professions with advanced degrees or exceptional ability not seeking a National Interest Waiver, and
    • EB-3, workers other than skilled workers and professionals (i.e., unskilled labor requiring less than two years of training or experience.

    Under the Premium Processing Service, USCIS guarantees petitioners that, for a $1,000 processing fee, it will issue either an approval notice, or where appropriate, a notice of intent to deny, a request for evidence or open an investigation for fraud or misrepresentation, within 15 calendar days of receipt. If the petition is not processed within 15 calendar days, USCIS will refund the $1,000 fee and continue to process the request as part of the Premium Processing Service. In addition to faster processing, petitioners who participate in the program may use a dedicated phone number and e-mail address to check on the status of their petition or ask any other questions they may have concerning their petition. Premium Processing Service continues to be available for previously designated classifications within Form I-140 and Form I-129, Petition for Nonimmigrant Worker.

    Since 2001, Premium Processing Service has been available for several classifications within Form I-129, including E Treaty Traders and Investors, H-1B Specialty Occupation Workers, H-2B Temporary Workers performing non-agricultural services, H-3 Trainees, L Intracompany Transferees, O Aliens of Extraordinary Ability and those performing essential support services, P Performers and Athletes and those performing essential support services, and Q international Cultural Exchange Visitors, R Religious Workers and NAFTA Professionals from Canada and Mexico. Form I-129 petitions for those nonimmigrant worker classifications will continue to be eligible for Premium Processing Service unless the filing period has closed (for example, when the annual cap for a specific visa has been reached.)

    Also, since August 28, USCIS began accepting Premium Processing Service requests for petitions involving two other immigrant visa categories, the EB-3 Professionals, (i.e. immigrant workers with bachelor degrees who are members of the professions), and EB-3 Skilled Workers, (i.e. immigrant workers capable of performing skilled labor requiring at least two years of education, training or experience). Employers file for both of these immigrant visa categories using the Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker (Form I-140) as well.

    ——————————-


    Premium Processing Service provides faster processing of certain
    employment-based petitions and applications. Specifically, USCIS
    provides 15 calendar day processing to those who choose to use this
    service or USCIS will refund the Premium Processing fee and the
    relating case will continue to receive faster processing.

    The processing period that is used to determine whether or not USCIS
    meets the 15 calendar day period will begin when the current version of
    Form     I-907
    is received by USCIS at the correct filing address noted on the form.
    Within the 15 day calendar period USCIS will issue an approval notice,
    or where appropriate, a notice of intent to deny, a request for
    evidence or open an investigation for fraud or misrepresentation. If
    the notice requires the submission of additional evidence or of a
    response to intent to deny, a new 15 calendar day period will begin
    upon the delivery to USCIS of a complete response to the request for
    evidence or notice of intent to deny.

    Who is eligible?

    The chart below sets forth the forms, designated classifications
    within each form type, and current availability and termination dates
    for premium processing service.

    Form I-129, Petition for Nonimmigrant Worker

    Designated Classification Within Form I-129

    Corresponding Nonimmigrant Visa Classification

    * Availability Date

    ** Termination Date

    Treaty Trader

    E-1

    June 1, 2001

     

    Treaty Investor

    E-2

    June 1, 2001

     

    Alien in Specialty Occupation

    H-1B CAP

    July 30, 2001

    May 26, 2006 (FY 07)

    August 10, 2005 (FY 06)

    Alien in Specialty Occupation, Advanced Degree Exception (Masters or Higher)

    H-1B CAP

    July 30, 2001

    July 26, 2006 (FY 07)

    January 17, 2006 (FY 06)

    Alien in Specialty Occupation

    H-1B NON-CAP

    July 30, 2001

     

    Temporary Worker performing nonagricultural services

    H-2B CAP

    June 1, 2001

    December 15 2005 (1 st half)

    April 4, 2006 (2 nd half)

    April 4, 2006 (annual FY 06)

    Temporary Worker performing nonagricultural services

    H-2B NON CAP

    June 1, 2001

     

    Trainee

    H-3

    June 1, 2001

     

    Intracompany Transferee, Executive or Manager Capacity

    L-1A

    June 1, 2001

     

    Intracompany Transferee, Specialized Knowledge Professional

    L-1B

    June 1, 2001

     

    Petitioners
    that meet requirements may file a blanket petition seeking continuing
    approval of itself and some or all of its parent, branches,
    subsidiaries, and affiliates as qualifying organizations
    L-BLANKET
    June 1, 2001
     
    Aliens of extraordinary ability or achievements in the sciences, arts, education, business, or athletics
    O-1
    June 1, 2001
     
    Aliens providing essential support services for a principal O-1 alien
    O-2
    June 1, 2001
     
    Internationally recognized athlete or member of an internationally recognized entertainment group
    P-1
    June 1, 2001
     
    Essential
    Support Alien, highly skilled, that performs support services which are
    essential to the successful performance of the principal P-1 alien
    P-1S
    June 1, 2001
     
    Artist or Entertainer under a Reciprocal Exchange Program
    P-2
    June 1, 2001
     
    Essential
    Support Alien, highly skilled, that performs support services which are
    essential to the successful performance of the principal P-2 alien
    P-2S
    June 1, 2001
     
    Artist or Entertainer in a Culturally Unique Program
    P-3
    June 1, 2001
     
    Essential
    Support Alien, highly skilled, that performs support services which are
    essential to the successful performance of the principal P-3 alien
    P-3S
    June 1, 2001
     
    International cultural exchange aliens
    Q-1
    June 1, 2001
     
    Alien in a Religious occupation
    R-1
    July 30, 2001
     
    NAFTA professional, Canada
    TN1-CANADA
    July 30, 2001
     
    NAFTA professional, Mexico
    TN2-MEXICO
    July 30, 2001
     

     
    * The availability date is the date that the classification was initially deemed eligible for Premium Processing Service.

    ** The termination date reflects
    the last day that USCIS accepted filings requesting that specific
    classification. If a date is entered in this column, that
    classification is currently ineligible for filing because of cap
    restrictions or other processing restrictions.

    For additional information relating to the current cap count for Non-Immigrant Worker Visas, refer to: http://www.uscis.gov/graphics/services/tempbenefits/cap.htm

    Form I-140, Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker

    Designated Classification Within Form I-140

    Corresponding Employment-Based Visa Classification

     

    Availability Date

    Termination Date

    Aliens of extraordinary ability

     

    EB-1

    Not Yet Available

     

    Outstanding professors and researchers

     

    EB-1

    September 25, 2006

     

    Multinational executives and managers

     

    EB-1

    Not Yet Available

     

    Members of professions with advanced degrees or exceptional ability not seeking a National Interest Waiver

     

    EB-2

    September 25, 2006

     

    Skilled workers***

     

    EB-3

    August 28, 2006

     

    Professionals***

     

    EB-3

    August 28, 2006

     

    Workers other than skilled workers and professionals

     

    EB-3

    September 25, 2006

     

      *** (if designated as available, please also see section on additional conditions placed on Premium Processing Availability)


    May the beneficiary of a visa petition seek Premium Processing Service?

    No, except
    in cases where the petition is eligible to be filed as a self-petition
    (i.e., the petitioner and the beneficiary are the same). Otherwise,
    only the visa petitioner, or the attorney or representative who has
    filed a notice of appearance (Form G-28)
    on behalf of the visa petitioner, may request Premium Processing
    Service for designated visa petition adjudications. The petitioner,
    attorney or representative, or beneficiary may pay the $1,000 Premium
    Processing fee, but the beneficiary cannot sign or file the Form I-907.

    How do I verify that I am using the current version of the form?

    Check the
    USCIS website at the Forms and Fees webpage for the most up-to-date
    information as well as the most current version of Form I-907 which is
    available for download at http://www.uscis.gov/graphics/formsfee/forms/i-907.htm.

    If you are already in possession of a Form I-907, please use this
    webpage, Forms and Fees, to verify that your version of Form I-907 is
    still current. This can be done by comparing the Forms and Fees webpage
    which includes the “edition” date that USCIS is currently accepting and
    the edition date on your Form I-907. The edition date, which is
    referenced as (Rev. xx/xx/xx) is located in the lower right corner on
    every page of the form and instructions. If the edition date on your
    Form I-907 matches the date or dates, if applicable, on the Forms and
    Fees webpage, your version of Form I-907 is current and will be
    accepted by USCIS. If there is a designation “N” shown after the
    edition date on the Forms and Fees webpage, please note that USCIS will
    not accept any other editions of the form.

    How do I file a request for Premium Processing Service?

    You must
    complete and sign Form I-907, Request for Premium Processing Service,
    in accordance with the instructions on the current version of the form.
    You must file the concurrently filed Form I-907 with Form I-129 or Form
    I-140 at the Service Center designated as the appropriate filing
    location on the instructions to the Form I-907. If you filed Form I-129
    or the Form I-140 and you now wish to request Premium Processing
    Service, file Form I-907 with the Service Center where the Form I-129
    or Form I-140 is currently pending. Submit a copy of the Form I-129 or
    Form I-140 filing receipt. If you received a transfer notice, it is very important
    that you include a copy of it and that you submit your filing to the
    transfer location. If a petitioner or applicant erroneously filed a
    concurrent or standalone Form I-907 at the wrong service center, USCIS
    will not reject the filing, but instead will forward the filing to the
    correct service center having jurisdiction over the petition or
    application. For an incorrectly filed Form I-907, the 15 calendar day
    period will start on the date the file is received at the correct
    service center as indicated in the Form I-907 filing instructions.

    Are there any additional conditions of availability being placed on the Premium Processing Service at this time?

    Yes. This
    will accord USCIS the flexibility to adapt to contingencies affecting
    its ability to provide Premium Processing Service. Premium Processing
    Service is available for the Form I-140 classifications indicated on
    the chart above provided that the case does not involve:

    1. A second filing of a Form I-140 petition while an initial Form I-140 remains pending;
    2. Labor Certification substitution requests, unless the original
      labor certification is submitted with the Form I-140 requesting the
      substitution; and
    3. Duplicate Labor Certification requests (i.e., cases filed without an original labor certification from the Department of labor).

    USCIS is
    prescribing these additional conditions of availability on Premium
    Processing for Form I-140 because of their special processing
    requirements, including locating and transferring other files or
    documents internally and requesting initial evidence from an outside
    agency, that make it difficult for USCIS to guarantee that it will
    process the case within a 15 calendar day period.

    What is the fee for this service?

    The fee for this service is $1,000. The Premium Processing Service fee
    may not be waived. In addition to the Premium Processing Service fee,
    all other filing fees relating to the specific form(s) for which you
    are requesting Premium Processing Service must also be submitted. The
    Premium Processing Service fee must be submitted in a separate
    check or money order. The petitioner, attorney or representative, or
    beneficiary may pay the $1,000 Premium Processing Service fee, but the
    beneficiary cannot sign or file the Form I-907. If e-filed, USCIS
    accepts credit card, debit card, or electronic transfer of funds from a
    checking or savings account from a U.S. bank.

    Are there any additional benefits to the program?

    Yes. USCIS has provided not only a unique mailing address for its
    Premium Processing Service customers, but it has also established a
    special phone number and e-mail address for each of the Service
    Centers. These special communication channels will be available only to
    Premium Processing Service customers.

    USCIS is also collecting, on the Form I-907, your phone number, fax
    number and e-mail address so that we can send you (the petitioner or
    attorney) an automatic e-mail notifying you of the receipt of your Form
    I-907, Request For Premium Processing Service. If the underlying form
    for which you requested Premium Processing Service is approved, we will
    send an automatic e-mail notifying you of the approval. It is important that you provide this information so that USCIS may correspond with you in the most appropriate manner.

    In addition and at no additional cost, USCIS will strive to provide
    faster processing of Form I-539 applications filed by or on behalf of
    dependents of the principal beneficiary of a petition for which Premium
    Processing Service has been requested if the Form I-539 is filed at the same time. USCIS provides this service as a courtesy. Consequently, it cannot guarantee faster processing of the Form I-539.

    Does this program have any effect on the USCIS’ previous expedite practices?

    Yes. The discretionary expedite requests will no longer be available
    for those classifications designated as eligible for Premium Processing
    Service; however, petitioners designated as not-for-profit entities by
    the Internal Revenue Service may continue requesting discretionary
    expedited service as they have in the past or they may choose to pay
    the Premium Processing fee and utilize that service. If the criteria
    for a discretionary expedite are not met, the not-for-profit petitioner
    still has the option of requesting of Premium Processing upgrade by
    filing Form I-907 with fee.

    How will the USCIS manage those categories that have an annual limit in relation to this faster processing?

    USCIS
    does not believe that individuals who pay for Premium Processing
    Service on petitions filed for nonimmigrant classifications that are
    subject to annual limitations will have an unfair access to these
    limited immigration programs.

    For cap-subject H-1B and H-2B petitions, USCIS will apply a random
    selection process to all petitions (whether or not Premium Processing
    Service is requested) received on the date when a sufficient number of
    petitions have been received to reach the applicable numerical limit
    (“final receipt date”). Petitions that are accepted through this random
    selection process are adjudicated to completion. For H-1B cases, USCIS
    will return the fees to the petitioner and hold the cases that were filed ON the cut-off day
    but were not selected in the random process. This way, if USCIS does
    not use all of the projected H-1B1 Singapore/Chile cap cases (which
    count towards the H-1B cap), additional H-1B cap cases will be taken in
    order from the list of cases that were held. Those petitioners will
    then be notified to re-submit the fees. All H-1B cap cases filed AFTER the cut-off day are rejected along with the fees.

    Cases subject to the H-2B cap that were not selected in the random process, and H-2B cases that were filed AFTER the cut-off day
    are rejected along with the fees. Unlike the H-1B cap cases, there is
    no need to hold the H-2B cap cases that were not selected because there
    are no special provisions that apply to the H-2B cap cases like there
    are with the H-1B cap cases, i.e. H-1B1 Singapore/Chile cap cases.

    In order to ensure equitable access to other cap-subject nonimmigrant
    classifications to which USCIS does not currently apply a random
    selection process, USCIS will temporarily terminate the availability of
    Premium Processing when it becomes clear that the demand will exceed
    the annual numerical limitation (e.g., when the USCIS has a pending
    volume of petitions sufficient to reach the limitation). This
    termination of procedure will ensure that all petitioners have
    equitable access to these limited immigration programs.

    Can
    I contact a USCIS Service Center if I have not filed a request for
    Premium Processing Service yet but have questions about the program?

    No, you
    cannot contact the Service Centers directly unless you have already
    filed Form I-907, Request for Premium Processing Service, for the
    underlying Form I-129 or Form I-140. The Premium Processing toll-free
    phone number and e-mail addresses listed on Form I-907 are dedicated
    only to customers who have already submitted a request for Premium
    Processing Service. If you have not requested Premium Processing
    Service, you can call the Customer Service toll free phone number at
    (800) 375-5283 for general information about the program.

    How do I contact the Service Center concerning the Premium Processing request that I filed?

    The
    unique mailing address for each of the Service Centers is listed on the
    instructions to the Form I-907. Additional contact information for each
    Service Center will be provided to you on your receipt notice and will
    also be provided on this Website.

    If you have already filed a Request for Premium Processing Service
    and you need to contact the Service Center, call the Premium Processing
    Toll Free phone number at 1-866-315-5718. You will need to have your
    receipt number when you call, because this phone number is only for
    inquiries relating to Premium Processing Service.

    September 25, 2006  

    USCIS Service Center Processing Times as of 09/19/2006 (Vermont, Nebraska, Texas, California, Missouri)

    The following is the Vermont Service
    Center Processing Time Report as of     September 19, 2006.

    Now
    Processing Cases Receipted On:      – indicates the date of the cases that have moved through
    the process and are now going to an Officer for analysis and decision.

    Form

    Now Processing
    Cases receipted
    on:

    I-90
    Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card . Initial issuance or
    replacement

    March 20, 2006

    I-102 Application
    for Replacement/Initial Nonimmigrant Arrival/Departure Record . Initial
    issuance or replacement of a Form I-94

    February 27, 2006

    I-129 Petition
    for A Nonimmigrant Worker . H-1B – Specialty occupation – Visa to be issued
    abroad

    April 30, 2006

    I-129 Petition
    for A Nonimmigrant Worker . H-1B – Specialty occupation – Change of status in
    the U.S.

    April 30, 2006

    I-129 Petition
    for A Nonimmigrant Worker . H-1B – Specialty occupation – Extension of stay
    in the U.S.

    May 28, 2006

    I-129 Petition
    for A Nonimmigrant Worker . H-2A – Temporary workers

    September 04, 2006

    I-129 Petition
    for A Nonimmigrant Worker . H-2B – Other temporary workers

    August 20, 2006

    I-129 Petition
    for A Nonimmigrant Worker . H-3 – Temporary trainees

    July 06, 2006

    I-129 Petition
    for A Nonimmigrant Worker . L – Intracompany transfers

    August 20, 2006

    I-129 Petition
    for A Nonimmigrant Worker . Blanket L

    May 14, 2006

    I-129 Petition
    for A Nonimmigrant Worker . O – Extraordinary ability

    July 02, 2006

    I-129 Petition
    for A Nonimmigrant Worker . P – Athletes, artists, and entertainers

    July 02, 2006

    I-129 Petition
    for A Nonimmigrant Worker . Q – Cultural exchange visitors and exchange
    visitors participating in the Irish Peace process

    April 02, 2006

    I-129 Petition
    for A Nonimmigrant Worker . R – Religious occupation

    April 02, 2006

    I-129 Petition
    for A Nonimmigrant Worker . TN – North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA)
    professional

    April 07, 2006

    I-129F Petition
    for Alien Fiance(e) . K-1/K-2 – Not yet married – fiance and/or dependent
    child

    March 20, 2006

    I-130 Petition
    for Alien Relative . U.S.
    citizen filing for a spouse, parent, or child under 21

    February 05, 2006

    I-130 Petition
    for Alien Relative . U.S.
    citizen filing for an unmarried son or daughter over 21

    February 19, 2006

    I-130 Petition
    for Alien Relative . U.S.
    citizen filing for a married son or daughter over 21

    January 22, 2006

    I-130 Petition
    for Alien Relative . U.S.
    citizen filing for a brother or sister

    September 30, 2000

    I-130 Petition
    for Alien Relative . Permanent resident filling for a spouse or child under
    21

    October 22, 2005

    I-130 Petition
    for Alien Relative . Permanent resident filling for an unmarried son or
    daughter over 21

    February 12, 2006

    I-131
    Application for Travel Document . All other applicants for advance parole

    June 19, 2006

    I-140 Immigrant
    Petition for Alien Worker . Extraordinary ability

    March 20, 2006

    I-140 Immigrant
    Petition for Alien Worker . Outstanding professor or researcher

    March 20, 2006

    I-140 Immigrant
    Petition for Alien Worker . Multinational executive or manager

    March 20, 2006

    I-140 Immigrant
    Petition for Alien Worker . Schedule A Nurses

    March 20, 2006

    I-140 Immigrant
    Petition for Alien Worker . Advanced degree or exceptional ability

    March 20, 2006

    I-140 Immigrant
    Petition for Alien Worker . Advanced degree or exceptional ability requesting
    a National Interest Waiver

    March 20, 2006

    I-140 Immigrant
    Petition for Alien Worker . Skilled worker or professional

    March 20, 2006

    I-140 Immigrant
    Petition for Alien Worker . Unskilled worker

    March 20, 2006

    I-212
    Application for Permission to Reapply for Admission into the U.S. After
    Deportation or Removal . Readmission after deportation or removal

    June 30, 2005

    I-360 Petition
    for Amerasian, Widow(er), or Special Immigrant . Violence Against Women Act
    (VAWA)

    January 30, 2006

    I-360 Petition
    for Amerasian, Widow(er), or Special Immigrant . All other special immigrants

    February 26, 2006

    I-485
    Application to Register Permanent Residence or to Adjust Status .
    Employment-based adjustment applications

    June 21, 2005

    I-539
    Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status . Change of status to H or L
    dependents

    June 04, 2006

    I-539
    Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status . Change status to the F or
    M academic or vocational student categories

    June 04, 2006

    I-539
    Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status . Change Status to the J
    exchange visitor category

    June 04, 2006

    I-539
    Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status . All other change of status
    applications

    June 04, 2006

    I-539
    Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status . Extension of stay for H
    and L dependents

    June 04, 2006

    I-539
    Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status . Extension of Stay for F or
    M academic or vocational students

    June 04, 2006

    I-539
    Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status . Extension of Stay for J
    exchange visitors

    June 04, 2006

    I-539
    Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status . All other extension
    applications

    June 04, 2006

    I-612
    Application for Waiver of the Foreign Residence Requirement . Application for
    a waiver of the 2-year foreign residence requirement based on exceptional
    hardship or persecution

    March 20, 2006

    I-751 Petition
    to Remove the Conditions on Residence . Removal of lawful permanent resident
    conditions (spouses of U.S.
    citizens and lawful permanent residents

    March 20, 2006

    I-765
    Application for Employment Authorization . Based on a request by a qualified
    F-1 academic student. [(c)(3)]

    July 03, 2006

    I-765
    Application for Employment Authorization . Based on a pending asylum
    application [(c)(8)]

    August 21, 2006

    I-765
    Application for Employment Authorization . Based on a pending I-485
    adjustment application [(c)(9)]

    July 03, 2006

    I-765
    Application for Employment Authorization . Based on TPS for
    Honduras/Nicaragua [(c)(19), (a)(12)]

    July 03, 2006

    I-765
    Application for Employment Authorization . Based on TPS for El Salvador
    [(c)(19)(a)(12)]

    July 03, 2006

    I-765
    Application for Employment Authorization . All other applications for
    employment authorization

    July 03, 2006

    I-817
    Application for Family Unity Benefits . Voluntary departure under the family
    unity program

    April 11, 2005

    I-821
    Application for Temporary Protected Status . El Salvador initial or late
    filing

    March 20, 2006

    I-821
    Application for Temporary Protected Status . El Salvador extension

    March 20, 2006

    I-821
    Application for Temporary Protected Status . Honduras
    and Nicaragua
    initial or late filing

    March 20, 2006

    I-821
    Application for Temporary Protected Status . Honduras
    and Nicaragua
    extension

    March 20, 2006

    I-824 Application
    for Action on an Approved Application or Petition . To request further action
    on an approved application or petition

    March 20, 2006

    N-600
    Application for Certification of Citizenship . Application for recognition of
    U.S.
    citizenship

    March 20, 2006

    N-643
    Application for Certification of Citizenship on Behalf of an Adopted Child .
    Application for recognition of U.S. citizenship on behalf of an
    adopted child

    March 20, 2006

    The following is the Nebraska Service
    Center Processing Time Report as of     September 19, 2006.

    Now
    Processing Cases Receipted On:      – indicates the date of the cases that have moved through
    the process and are now going to an Officer for analysis and decision.

    Form

    Now Processing
    Cases receipted
    on:

    I-90
    Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card . Initial issuance or
    replacement

    March 20, 2006

    I-90 Application
    to Replace Permanent Resident Card . 10-year renewal

    August 07, 2005

    I-90A
    Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card . Initial issuance or
    replacement for Special Agricultral Workers (SAW)

    March 20, 2006

    I-102 Application
    for Replacement/Initial Nonimmigrant Arrival/Departure Record . Initial
    issuance or replacement of a Form I-94

    June 19, 2006

    I-129 Petition
    for A Nonimmigrant Worker . H-1B – Specialty occupation – Visa to be issued
    abroad

    May 16, 2006

    I-129 Petition
    for A Nonimmigrant Worker . H-1B – Specialty occupation – Change of status in
    the U.S.

    May 16, 2006

    I-129 Petition
    for A Nonimmigrant Worker . H-1B – Specialty occupation – Extension of stay
    in the U.S.

    May 16, 2006

    I-129 Petition
    for A Nonimmigrant Worker . H-2A – Temporary workers

    September 04, 2006

    I-129 Petition
    for A Nonimmigrant Worker . H-2B – Other temporary workers

    August 20, 2006

    I-129 Petition
    for A Nonimmigrant Worker . H-3 – Temporary trainees

    May 16, 2006

    I-129 Petition
    for A Nonimmigrant Worker . L – Intracompany transfers

    August 20, 2006

    I-129 Petition
    for A Nonimmigrant Worker . Blanket L

    May 16, 2006

    I-129 Petition
    for A Nonimmigrant Worker . O – Extraordinary ability

    May 16, 2006

    I-129 Petition
    for A Nonimmigrant Worker . P – Athletes, artists, and entertainers

    May 16, 2006

    I-129 Petition
    for A Nonimmigrant Worker . Q – Cultural exchange visitors and exchange
    visitors participating in the Irish Peace process

    May 16, 2006

    I-129 Petition
    for A Nonimmigrant Worker . R – Religious occupation

    May 16, 2006

    I-129 Petition
    for A Nonimmigrant Worker . TN – North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA)
    professional

    May 16, 2006

    I-131
    Application for Travel Document . Permanent resident applying for a re-entry
    permit

    June 19, 2006

    I-131
    Application for Travel Document . Refugee or aslyee applying for a refugee
    travel document

    June 19, 2006

    I-131
    Application for Travel Document . Haitian Refugee Immigrant Fairness Act
    (HRIFA) principal applying for advance parole

    June 19, 2006

    I-131
    Application for Travel Document . Haitian Refugee Immigrant Fairness Act
    (HRIFA) dependent applying for advance parole

    December 19, 2005

    I-131 Application
    for Travel Document . All other applicants for advance parole

    June 19, 2006

    I-140 Immigrant
    Petition for Alien Worker . Extraordinary ability

    November 14, 2005

    I-140 Immigrant
    Petition for Alien Worker . Outstanding professor or researcher

    November 29, 2005

    I-140 Immigrant
    Petition for Alien Worker . Multinational executive or manager

    March 20, 2006

    I-140 Immigrant
    Petition for Alien Worker . Schedule A Nurses

    March 20, 2006

    I-140 Immigrant
    Petition for Alien Worker . Advanced degree or exceptional ability

    March 20, 2006

    I-140 Immigrant
    Petition for Alien Worker . Advanced degree or exceptional ability requesting
    a National Interest Waiver

    September 30, 2005

    I-140 Immigrant
    Petition for Alien Worker . Skilled worker or professional

    March 20, 2006

    I-140 Immigrant
    Petition for Alien Worker . Unskilled worker

    March 20, 2006

    I-212
    Application for Permission to Reapply for Admission into the U.S. After
    Deportation or Removal . Readmission after deportation or removal

    March 20, 2006

    I-360 Petition
    for Amerasian, Widow(er), or Special Immigrant . All other special immigrants

    March 20, 2006

    I-485
    Application to Register Permanent Residence or to Adjust Status .
    Employment-based adjustment applications

    December 02, 2005

    I-485
    Application to Register Permanent Residence or to Adjust Status . Based on
    grant of asylum more than 1 year ago

    August 08, 2003

    I-485 Application
    to Register Permanent Residence or to Adjust Status . Based on refugee
    admission more than 1 year ago

    March 20, 2006

    I-485
    Application to Register Permanent Residence or to Adjust Status . Under the
    Haitian Refugee Immigrant Fairness Act (HRIFA)

    February 02, 2006

    I-485
    Application to Register Permanent Residence or to Adjust Status . Under the
    Indochinese Adjustment Act

    March 20, 2006

    I-539
    Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status . Change of status to H or L
    dependents

    June 11, 2006

    I-539
    Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status . Change status to the F or
    M academic or vocational student categories

    June 11, 2006

    I-539
    Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status . Change Status to the J
    exchange visitor category

    June 11, 2006

    I-539
    Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status . All other change of status
    applications

    June 11, 2006

    I-539
    Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status . Extension of stay for H
    and L dependents

    June 11, 2006

    I-539
    Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status . Extension of Stay for F or
    M academic or vocational students

    June 11, 2006

    I-539
    Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status . Extension of Stay for J
    exchange visitors

    June 11, 2006

    I-539
    Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status . All other extension
    applications

    June 11, 2006

    I-612
    Application for Waiver of the Foreign Residence Requirement . Application for
    a waiver of the 2-year foreign residence requirement based on exceptional
    hardship or persecution

    March 20, 2006

    I-730
    Refugee/Asylee Relative Petition . Petition for accompanying family members
    of a refugee or an asylee

    December 26, 2005

    I-751 Petition
    to Remove the Conditions on Residence . Removal of lawful permanent resident
    conditions (spouses of U.S.
    citizens and lawful permanent residents

    March 20, 2006

    I-765
    Application for Employment Authorization . Based on an approved asylum
    application [(a)(5)]

    August 21, 2006

    I-765
    Application for Employment Authorization . Based on a request by a qualified
    F-1 academic student. [(c)(3)]

    July 03, 2006

    I-765
    Application for Employment Authorization . Based on a pending asylum
    application [(c)(8)]

    August 21, 2006

    I-765
    Application for Employment Authorization . Based on a pending I-485
    adjustment application [(c)(9)]

    July 03, 2006

    I-765
    Application for Employment Authorization . All other applications for
    employment authorization

    July 03, 2006

    I-817
    Application for Family Unity Benefits . Voluntary departure under the family
    unity program

    March 20, 2006

    I-824
    Application for Action on an Approved Application or Petition . To request
    further action on an approved application or petition

    March 20, 2006

     

    The following is the Texas Service
    Center Processing Time Report as of     September 19, 2006.

    Now
    Processing Cases Receipted On:      – indicates the date of the cases that have moved through
    the process and are now going to an Officer for analysis and decision.

    Form

    Now Processing
    Cases receipted
    on:

    I-90
    Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card . Initial issuance or
    replacement

    July 14, 2005

    I-102
    Application for Replacement/Initial Nonimmigrant Arrival/Departure Record .
    Initial issuance or replacement of a Form I-94

    June 10, 2006

    I-129 Petition
    for A Nonimmigrant Worker . H-1B – Specialty occupation – Visa to be issued
    abroad

    April 24, 2006

    I-129 Petition
    for A Nonimmigrant Worker . H-1B – Specialty occupation – Change of status in
    the U.S.

    April 24, 2006

    I-129 Petition
    for A Nonimmigrant Worker . H-1B – Specialty occupation – Extension of stay
    in the U.S.

    April 24, 2006

    I-129 Petition
    for A Nonimmigrant Worker . H-2A – Temporary workers

    September 04, 2006

    I-129 Petition
    for A Nonimmigrant Worker . H-2B – Other temporary workers

    August 20, 2006

    I-129 Petition
    for A Nonimmigrant Worker . H-3 – Temporary trainees

    April 24, 2006

    I-129 Petition
    for A Nonimmigrant Worker . E – Treaty traders and investors

    April 24, 2006

    I-129 Petition
    for A Nonimmigrant Worker . L – Intracompany transfers

    August 20, 2006

    I-129 Petition
    for A Nonimmigrant Worker . Blanket L

    April 24, 2006

    I-129 Petition
    for A Nonimmigrant Worker . O – Extraordinary ability

    April 24, 2006

    I-129 Petition
    for A Nonimmigrant Worker . P – Athletes, artists, and entertainers

    April 24, 2006

    I-129 Petition
    for A Nonimmigrant Worker . Q – Cultural exchange visitors and exchange
    visitors participating in the Irish Peace process

    April 24, 2006

    I-129 Petition
    for A Nonimmigrant Worker . R – Religious occupation

    April 24, 2006

    I-129 Petition
    for A Nonimmigrant Worker . TN – North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA)
    professional

    April 24, 2006

    I-131
    Application for Travel Document . All other applicants for advance parole

    June 19, 2006

    I-140 Immigrant
    Petition for Alien Worker . Extraordinary ability

    March 20, 2006

    I-140 Immigrant
    Petition for Alien Worker . Outstanding professor or researcher

    March 20, 2006

    I-140 Immigrant
    Petition for Alien Worker . Multinational executive or manager

    March 20, 2006

    I-140 Immigrant
    Petition for Alien Worker . Schedule A Nurses

    March 20, 2006

    I-140 Immigrant
    Petition for Alien Worker . Advanced degree or exceptional ability

    March 20, 2006

    I-140 Immigrant
    Petition for Alien Worker . Advanced degree or exceptional ability requesting
    a National Interest Waiver

    March 20, 2006

    I-140 Immigrant
    Petition for Alien Worker . Skilled worker or professional

    March 20, 2006

    I-140 Immigrant
    Petition for Alien Worker . Unskilled worker

    March 20, 2006

    I-360 Petition
    for Amerasian, Widow(er), or Special Immigrant . All other special immigrants

    March 20, 2006

    I-485
    Application to Register Permanent Residence or to Adjust Status .
    Employment-based adjustment applications

    March 20, 2006

    I-485
    Application to Register Permanent Residence or to Adjust Status . Based on
    grant of asylum more than 1 year ago

    August 01, 2001

    I-526 Immigrant
    Petition By Alien Entrepreneur . .

    March 20, 2006

    I-539 Application
    to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status . Change of status to H or L dependents

    May 14, 2006

    I-539
    Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status . Change status to the F or
    M academic or vocational student categories

    May 14, 2006

    I-539
    Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status . Change Status to the J
    exchange visitor category

    May 14, 2006

    I-539
    Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status . All other change of status
    applications

    May 14, 2006

    I-539
    Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status . Extension of stay for H
    and L dependents

    May 14, 2006

    I-539
    Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status . Extension of Stay for F or
    M academic or vocational students

    May 14, 2006

    I-539 Application
    to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status . Extension of Stay for J exchange
    visitors

    May 14, 2006

    I-539
    Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status . All other extension
    applications

    May 14, 2006

    I-612
    Application for Waiver of the Foreign Residence Requirement . Application for
    a waiver of the 2-year foreign residence requirement based on exceptional
    hardship or persecution

    March 20, 2006

    I-751 Petition
    to Remove the Conditions on Residence . Removal of lawful permanent resident
    conditions (spouses of U.S.
    citizens and lawful permanent residents

    March 20, 2006

    I-765
    Application for Employment Authorization . Based on a request by a qualified
    F-1 academic student. [(c)(3)]

    July 03, 2006

    I-765
    Application for Employment Authorization . Based on a pending asylum
    application [(c)(8)]

    August 21, 2006

    I-765
    Application for Employment Authorization . Based on a pending I-485
    adjustment application [(c)(9)]

    July 03, 2006

    I-765 Application
    for Employment Authorization . All other applications for employment
    authorization

    July 03, 2006

    I-817
    Application for Family Unity Benefits . Voluntary departure under the family
    unity program

    March 20, 2006

    I-824
    Application for Action on an Approved Application or Petition . To request
    further action on an approved application or petition

    March 20, 2006

    I-829 Petition
    by Entrepreneur to Remove Conditions . Removal of lawful permanent resident
    conditions (immigrant investors)

    February 07, 2005

    I-829 Petition
    by Entrepreneur to Remove Conditions . Removal of lawful permanent resident
    conditions (immigrant investors) based on PL107-273

    February 07, 2005

    The following is the California Service
    Center Processing Time Report as of     September 19, 2006.

    Now
    Processing Cases Receipted On:      – indicates the date of the cases that have moved through
    the process and are now going to an Officer for analysis and decision.

    Form

    Now Processing
    Cases receipted
    on:

    I-90
    Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card . Initial issuance or
    replacement

    March 04, 2006

    I-102
    Application for Replacement/Initial Nonimmigrant Arrival/Departure Record .
    Initial issuance or replacement of a Form I-94

    June 19, 2006

    I-129 Petition
    for A Nonimmigrant Worker . H-1B – Specialty occupation – Visa to be issued
    abroad

    July 20, 2006

    I-129 Petition
    for A Nonimmigrant Worker . H-1B – Specialty occupation – Change of status in
    the U.S.

    July 20, 2006

    I-129 Petition
    for A Nonimmigrant Worker . H-1B – Specialty occupation – Extension of stay
    in the U.S.

    July 20, 2006

    I-129 Petition
    for A Nonimmigrant Worker . H-2A – Temporary workers

    September 04, 2006

    I-129 Petition
    for A Nonimmigrant Worker . H-2B – Other temporary workers

    August 20, 2006

    I-129 Petition
    for A Nonimmigrant Worker . H-3 – Temporary trainees

    July 20, 2006

    I-129 Petition
    for A Nonimmigrant Worker . E – Treaty traders and investors

    July 20, 2006

    I-129 Petition
    for A Nonimmigrant Worker . L – Intracompany transfers

    August 20, 2006

    I-129 Petition
    for A Nonimmigrant Worker . Blanket L

    July 20, 2006

    I-129 Petition
    for A Nonimmigrant Worker . O – Extraordinary ability

    July 20, 2006

    I-129 Petition
    for A Nonimmigrant Worker . P – Athletes, artists, and entertainers

    July 20, 2006

    I-129 Petition
    for A Nonimmigrant Worker . Q – Cultural exchange visitors and exchange
    visitors participating in the Irish Peace process

    July 20, 2006

    I-129 Petition
    for A Nonimmigrant Worker . R – Religious occupation

    July 20, 2006

    I-129 Petition
    for A Nonimmigrant Worker . TN – North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA)
    professional

    July 20, 2006

    I-129F Petition
    for Alien Fiance(e) . K-1/K-2 – Not yet married – fiance and/or dependent
    child

    March 20, 2006

    I-130 Petition
    for Alien Relative . U.S.
    citizen filing for a spouse, parent, or child under 21

    March 20, 2006

    I-130 Petition
    for Alien Relative . U.S.
    citizen filing for an unmarried son or daughter over 21

    January 17, 2003

    I-130 Petition
    for Alien Relative . U.S.
    citizen filing for a married son or daughter over 21

    April 30, 2001

    I-130 Petition
    for Alien Relative . U.S.
    citizen filing for a brother or sister

    April 30, 2001

    I-130 Petition
    for Alien Relative . Permanent resident filling for a spouse or child under
    21

    January 01, 2005

    I-130 Petition
    for Alien Relative . Permanent resident filling for an unmarried son or
    daughter over 21

    February 07, 2005

    I-131
    Application for Travel Document . All other applicants for advance parole

    June 19, 2006

    I-212
    Application for Permission to Reapply for Admission into the U.S. After
    Deportation or Removal . Readmission after deportation or removal

    March 20, 2006

    I-360 Petition
    for Amerasian, Widow(er), or Special Immigrant . All other special immigrants

    March 07, 2006

    I-485
    Application to Register Permanent Residence or to Adjust Status .
    Employment-based adjustment applications

    March 20, 2006

    I-526 Immigrant
    Petition By Alien Entrepreneur . .

    March 20, 2006

    I-539
    Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status . Change of status to H or L
    dependents

    June 19, 2006

    I-539
    Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status . Change status to the F or
    M academic or vocational student categories

    June 19, 2006

    I-539
    Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status . Change Status to the J
    exchange visitor category

    June 19, 2006

    I-539
    Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status . All other change of status
    applications

    June 19, 2006

    I-539 Application
    to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status . Extension of stay for H and L
    dependents

    June 19, 2006

    I-539
    Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status . Extension of Stay for F or
    M academic or vocational students

    June 19, 2006

    I-539 Application
    to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status . Extension of Stay for J exchange
    visitors

    June 19, 2006

    I-539
    Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status . All other extension
    applications

    June 19, 2006

    I-612 Application
    for Waiver of the Foreign Residence Requirement . Application for a waiver of
    the 2-year foreign residence requirement based on exceptional hardship or
    persecution

    January 15, 2006

    I-751 Petition
    to Remove the Conditions on Residence . Removal of lawful permanent resident
    conditions (spouses of U.S.
    citizens and lawful permanent residents

    March 20, 2006

    I-765
    Application for Employment Authorization . Based on a request by a qualified
    F-1 academic student. [(c)(3)]

    July 03, 2006

    I-765
    Application for Employment Authorization . Based on a pending asylum
    application [(c)(8)]

    August 21, 2006

    I-765
    Application for Employment Authorization . Based on a pending I-485
    adjustment application [(c)(9)]

    July 03, 2006

    I-765 Application
    for Employment Authorization . Based on TPS for Honduras/Nicaragua [(c)(19),
    (a)(12)]

    July 03, 2006

    I-765
    Application for Employment Authorization . Based on TPS for El Salvador
    [(c)(19)(a)(12)]

    July 03, 2006

    I-765 Application
    for Employment Authorization . All other applications for employment
    authorization

    July 03, 2006

    I-817
    Application for Family Unity Benefits . Voluntary departure under the family
    unity program

    March 20, 2006

    I-824
    Application for Action on an Approved Application or Petition . To request
    further action on an approved application or petition

    March 20, 2006

    I-829 Petition
    by Entrepreneur to Remove Conditions . Removal of lawful permanent resident
    conditions (immigrant investors)

    March 20, 2006

    I-829 Petition
    by Entrepreneur to Remove Conditions . Removal of lawful permanent resident
    conditions (immigrant investors) based on PL107-273

    September 10, 1997

    The following is the National Benefits
    Center Service Center Processing Time Report as of     September 19, 2006 .

    Now
    Processing Cases Receipted On:      – indicates the date of the cases that have moved through
    the process and are now going to an Officer for analysis and decision.

    Form

    Now Processing
    Cases receipted
    on:

    I-102
    Application for Replacement/Initial Nonimmigrant Arrival/Departure Record .
    Initial issuance or replacement of a Form I-94

    June 19, 2006

    I-129F Petition
    for Alien Fiance(e) . K-3/K-4 – Already married – spouse and/or dependent
    child

    March 20, 2006

    I-131
    Application for Travel Document . All other applicants for advance parole

    June 10, 2006

    I-539
    Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status . All other extension
    applications

    June 04, 2006

    I-765
    Application for Employment Authorization . Based on a pending I-485
    adjustment application [(c)(9)]

    July 03, 2006

    I-765
    Application for Employment Authorization . All other applications for
    employment authorization

    July 03, 2006

    I-817
    Application for Family Unity Benefits . Voluntary departure under the family
    unity program

    March 13, 2006

    I-824 Application
    for Action on an Approved Application or Petition . To request further action
    on an approved application or petition

    March 20, 2006

     

    September 22, 2006  

    The US Department of State Announces 2008 Diversity Visa Lottery Program Registration

    09/22/2006

    The US Department of State (DOS) announced that applications for the 2008 Diversity Visa (DV) Lottery will be accepted between Wednesday, October 4, 2006, 12 pm EST and Sunday, December 3, 2006, 12 pm EST. Applicants may access the electronic Diversity Visa entry form online. Paper entries will not be accepted. Applicants are encouraged not to wait until the last week of the registration period to enter since heavy demand may result in website delays.

    Visit the DOS website for more information

    September 19, 2006  

    Probe: Canada gave U.S. misleading data

    Via SeattlePI.com

    TORONTO — An inquiry into the U.S. transfer of a Canadian citizen
    to prison in Syria found Canadian authorities gave misleading
    information to the Americans that likely led to the deportation, a
    report released Monday said.

    After his release in 2003,
    Syrian-born Maher Arar made detailed allegations about extensive
    interrogation, beatings and whippings with electrical cable in Syrian
    prison cells.

    Arar was traveling on a Canadian passport when
    he was detained at a New York airport in September 2002 during a
    stopover on his way home to Canada from vacation in Tunisia. He claims
    he was a victim of extraordinary rendition – or the transfer of foreign
    terror suspects to third countries without court approval.

    Arar
    said U.S. authorities sent him to Syria for interrogation on suspicion
    of being a member of al-Qaida, an allegation he denied.

    Canada’s
    federal government established an inquiry in 2004 to determine the role
    Canadian officials played in the case of Arar, who has been cleared of
    any terrorist connections.

    Justice Dennis O’Connor released
    the report on Arar that concluded the Royal Canadian Mounted Police
    passed misleading, inaccurate and unfair information to U.S.
    authorities that “very likely” led to their decision to send Arar to
    Syria, but found no evidence Canadian officials participated in or
    agreed to the decision.

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