United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (“USCIS”) announced on September 27, 2023, it is increasing the maximum validity for initial and renewal of Employment Authorization Documents (“EADs”) to 5 years for certain noncitizens. Applicants for initial and renewal EADs, including applicants for adjustment of status, in both employment and family based categories, will receive an EAD with a maximum five-year validity, as opposed to two-years. This change is being implemented by USCIS immediately, “and applies to Applications for Employment Authorization, that are pending or are filed on or after September 27, 2023.”
Read moreUSCIS Updates EAD Authorization to Five Years for Certain Noncitizens, Including Adjustment of Status Applicants
Diversity Visa Lottery for Fiscal Year 2025 (DV-2025)
It’s that time of year again, The Diversity Visa Lottery for fiscal year 2025 (“DV-2025”) will begin accepting registrations at 12 noon EDT October 4, 2023. The registration period for the DV-2025 will conclude on Tuesday, November 7, 2023 at 12:00 noon (EST). It is recommended that foreign nationals not wait until the end of the period to apply as heavy demand could cause delays on the website. Entries are only accepted electronically, and not through the US Postal Service. Keep in mind that “law allows only one entry per person during each registration period” so submitting multiple applications will result in disqualification, not better odds, and yes, “the Department of State uses sophisticated technology to detect multiple entries.”
Read moreThe Backbones of the Fashion Industry
USCIS Will No Longer Require Biometric Services Fee for Form I-539 Applicants
Effective October 1, 2023, United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (“USCIS”) will no longer require applicants filing Form I-539, Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status, to pay the $85 biometric services fee as part of the application process. Additionally, in most cases, applicants will not be scheduled to attend a biometric services appointment. “However, if USCIS determines that biometrics are required, the applicant will receive a notice with information about appearing for their biometric services appointment.”
Read moreRecent Ruling puts DACA in Jeopardy (Again)
On September 13, 2023, the US District Court for the Southern District of Texas ruled that the Biden Administration’s codification of the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (“DACA”) is not legal. The ruling does not prevent DACA beneficiaries enrolled in the program prior to July 16, 2021, to renew their status. United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (“USCIS”) will also continue to accept new applications from first-time, would-be DACA recipients; However, they will not process any new applications.
Read moreNever Forget
US Implements Limits to Hungarian Nationals’ ESTA Authorizations
On August 1, 2023, the Department of Homeland Security (“DHS”) announced the validity period for travel to the US offered to citizens or nationals of Hungary under the Visa Waiver Program (“VWP”) utilizing the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (“ESTA”) has been reduced from two years to one year. Additionally, only single visits will be allowed under each ESTA application, as opposed to multiple entries. According to the US Embassy in Budapest, the reduction of ESTA validity is due to the “Hungarian Government’s inaction” to meet VWP security requirements in line with its “simplified naturalization process” granting Hungarian citizenship “to nearly one million people between 2011 and 2020 without adequate security measures in place to verify their identities.” The reduction in ESTA validity will affect new ESTA applications received after the implementation of the regulation on August 1, 2023 and is not retroactive. All ESTA approvals granted before August 1, 2023 remain valid for two years and more than one entry.
Immigration Reform is Not a New Idea
"Summer for the City" at Lincoln Center
Photos by Lauren Smith
As the temperatures rise and we all daydream of escaping our routine for the great outdoors, Lincoln Center is once again inviting us to the second annual “Summer for the City”, where vanguard artist Clint Ramos, has ensured every inch of the campus has been transformed and delights the senses. Mr. Ramos, a TONY Award Winning artist who was born and raised in the Philippines, is a creative force who has graced over two hundred theater, opera, and dance productions with his vision. With Mr. Ramos’ eye catching designs as the backdrop, ongoing concerts and dances complete with a mega disco ball, Lincoln Center welcomes us all to “come together, see yourselves, and find your home away from home.”
As summer gets under way, we will be taking a holiday from our regular postings for summer until Labor Day, but please check in with us for any significant immigration developments. Wishing you a splendid summer!