We’re continuing to see surprisingly fast processing times for family-based adjustment of status applications—at least from the Baltimore Field Office. On May 8, 2025, we shared that I-130/I-485 packages filed in March 2025 for the parents of a U.S. citizen had already been scheduled for an interview. At the time, this seemed like a rare acceleration. But the pattern has since continued. As...
1. Immigration Policy Can Change Suddenly In today’s climate, USCIS policies and reviewing standards are anything but stable. What’s acceptable today may face more scrutiny tomorrow. Delaying your filing now might mean facing a very different and potentially more difficult adjudication environment down the road. 2. You May Miss Out on Work Authorization—and Travel Flexibility If you are...
In December 2024, USCIS published new rules introducing significant changes to Employment Authorization Document (EAD) extensions and the H-1B program. These updates aim to address processing delays and improve continuity for impacted workers and their employers. Key Changes to EAD Extension Periods The automatic extension period for certain EADs has been permanently increased from 180 days to...
Update January 3, 2025 As of January 2025, we have observed a range of processing times for Employment Authorization Document (EAD) and Advance Parole (AP) applications filed concurrently with Form I-485. Below are some sample approvals from recent cases handled at the National Benefits Center (NBC). I-765 Employment Authorization Document (EAD) Processing Times Filed 09/10/2024 → Approved...
Update January 3, 2025 As of January 2025, we have observed a range of processing times for Employment Authorization Document (EAD) and Advance Parole (AP) applications filed concurrently with Form I-485. Below are some sample approvals from recent cases handled at the National Benefits Center (NBC). I-765 Employment Authorization Document (EAD) Processing Times Filed 09/10/2024 → Approved...
Update August 16, 2024 It's official! USCIS will begin accepting requests for the Keeping Families Together process on August 16, 2024. USCIS will start accepting the new Form I-131F, Application for Parole in Place (PIP) for Certain Noncitizen Spouses and Stepchildren of U.S. Citizens, on August 19, 2024. This initiative aims to help families stay together by allowing eligible noncitizens to...
In a significant announcement on September 27, 2023, the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) shared a notable update on the Employment Authorization Documents (EADs). The agency is extending the maximum validity period for initial and renewal EADs to five years for certain categories of noncitizens, including those admitted as refugees, granted asylum, and more. Key Takeaways:...
