Waivers of interviews for certain Nonimmigrant Visas until 12/31/2022

On December 23, 2021, the Department of State has authorized consular offices through the end of 2022 to waive the in-person interview requirement for additional visa types including temporary workers applying for H-1, H-3, H-4, L, O, P, and Q who meet certain conditions. Consular officers have the discretion to waive the interview requirement for individuals applying for these visa types that...

Settlement Reached: H-4 EAD Renewals Now Also Qualifies For Automatic 180-Day extension and L-2s Get Work Authorization Without EAD.

Update May 12, 2022 On Nov. 12, 2021, USCIS issued a policy announcement to clarify that it will consider E and L spouses to be employment authorized based on their valid E or L nonimmigrant status. Since the November 2021 announcement, the Department of Homeland Security added new Class of Admission (COA) codes to distinguish between E and L spouses and children. As of Jan. 30, 2022, USCIS and...

Breaking: USCIS to Eliminate Biometrics Requirement for I-539 filers starting May 17, 2021

Update April 19, 2023 USCIS has extended the suspension of biometrics requirements for H-4, L-2, or E nonimmigrant applicants until Sept 30, 2023. If the suspension applies to you, you do not need to submit a biometrics fee of $85 with your I-539 application. Original Post May 4, 2021 On May 3, 2021, USCIS announced that it will suspend biometrics requirement for individuals filing Form I-539 to...

USCIS Processing Update: H-4 / H-4 EAD

Update July 26, 2023 We are glad to share some new insights into the current processing timelines for stand-alone I-539 and H-4 extensions. As of our recent observation, a stand-alone I-539 (H-4 extension) application took roughly four months for processing. However, it's important to note that when H-4 and H-4 EAD applications are filed concurrently with a premium processed H-1B application,...

H-4 EAD is Here to Stay

In response to Ron Klain's Memo to delay all “midnight regulations”, the proposed rule “Removing H-4 dependent spouses from the class of aliens eligible for employment authorization” will not only be delayed but completely withdrawn by the Department of Homeland Security. Although many may now breath a sigh of relief, the current processing time for H-4 EAD is still a huge impediment....