zephyrr
09-07 01:26 PM
I was in the same situation as you when I applied. In general, there should not be a problem with MS+0.
Another alternative is to show the experience gained at your current employer in your application. For that to happen, you should've been promoted to a position in which ur exprience is 50% same as your old position, then you can get an affidavit from your manager stating this fact.
This is what we had done for my traditional labor. I believe it still holds true for PERM, suggest you talk to the company's lawyer.
I am in great need of some suggestions. I hold a MS degree in computer science and graduate in 2004 dec. Since then I have been with the same employer.
Now that he is filing for my LC. Is it difficult to get through with MS+0yrs of expereince ?
Also, at this point of time i have found other employers who is willing to do my GC in which case I will have MS+2 yrs of expereince.
Is it worth changing employer for gaining 2 yrs of expereince for my LC.
Does this really make my case more stronger ? or I am just OVER REACTING ? and doing unneccessary thing
DOES THE EXPEREINCE with MS makes it better for EB2 ?
Please let me know if there are some experts out there
Another alternative is to show the experience gained at your current employer in your application. For that to happen, you should've been promoted to a position in which ur exprience is 50% same as your old position, then you can get an affidavit from your manager stating this fact.
This is what we had done for my traditional labor. I believe it still holds true for PERM, suggest you talk to the company's lawyer.
I am in great need of some suggestions. I hold a MS degree in computer science and graduate in 2004 dec. Since then I have been with the same employer.
Now that he is filing for my LC. Is it difficult to get through with MS+0yrs of expereince ?
Also, at this point of time i have found other employers who is willing to do my GC in which case I will have MS+2 yrs of expereince.
Is it worth changing employer for gaining 2 yrs of expereince for my LC.
Does this really make my case more stronger ? or I am just OVER REACTING ? and doing unneccessary thing
DOES THE EXPEREINCE with MS makes it better for EB2 ?
Please let me know if there are some experts out there
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radhagd
03-09 04:01 PM
There is no premium processing for Labour. but you can premium process your I140 and file I485 together since your dates are current. The reason why I suggested Consular processing is because it will be much faster like within 6 months you will get GC.
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GooblyWoobly
07-18 07:24 PM
1) I think you can file EAD /AP even if you dont have a AOS receipt. Can someone comment on this?
2) What all docs are required for filing EAD & AP?
1. My lawyer clearly said you can't, unless you file it together with AOS.
2. I765 and I131 forms. Everything else has already gone in with the AOS.
2) What all docs are required for filing EAD & AP?
1. My lawyer clearly said you can't, unless you file it together with AOS.
2. I765 and I131 forms. Everything else has already gone in with the AOS.
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bskrishna
08-03 12:16 PM
what to you mean by 485 fingerprinting?
Is it just getting it done or any other issue relating to this...
Is it just getting it done or any other issue relating to this...
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rockets12345
10-31 05:50 PM
yes california service center didn't accept my H1B extension application and returned back saying we have to file it in Vermont Service Center that's what my Attorney told me if he is not lying. But the good thing is my EAD shows 10/10/2007 start date and my H1B expired on 10/11/2007.
But I still am not using EAD and have sent my H extension to Vermont and hoping for good. So for some reason if they don't approve will use my EAD from that point. But will it cause any issues in future or on 485
But lesson learnt is never hire cheap lawyers most of the time they don't know anything.
Thanks
But I still am not using EAD and have sent my H extension to Vermont and hoping for good. So for some reason if they don't approve will use my EAD from that point. But will it cause any issues in future or on 485
But lesson learnt is never hire cheap lawyers most of the time they don't know anything.
Thanks
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Ann Ruben
05-15 03:53 PM
In this circumstance it is fine to file an H-1 petition while the L-1B appeal is pending.
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mihird
02-24 02:19 PM
Visa stamping is not necessary to remain in the US so wondering why a CPA would consider this a necessary work expense.
My CPA had itemized my wife's travel expenses for H1-B stamping on the 2006 return. Here's the logic for justifying the travel to get the visa stamped.
The H4->H1-B change of status is truly a change of intent, and traveling back to your home country and re-entering with a proper visa within a reasonable time after the change of status is what most immigration attorneys will advise.
GC expenses, however should not be claimed. H1-B is needed for the job, GC is not...
There are instances of people have trouble re-entering if they had not got their H1-B visa stamped in a timely manner after the change of status...
My CPA had itemized my wife's travel expenses for H1-B stamping on the 2006 return. Here's the logic for justifying the travel to get the visa stamped.
The H4->H1-B change of status is truly a change of intent, and traveling back to your home country and re-entering with a proper visa within a reasonable time after the change of status is what most immigration attorneys will advise.
GC expenses, however should not be claimed. H1-B is needed for the job, GC is not...
There are instances of people have trouble re-entering if they had not got their H1-B visa stamped in a timely manner after the change of status...
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_TrueFacts
09-04 03:19 PM
Funniest thread and indeed your reply was the funniest for today. I cant stop laughing..really.. you answered so seriously but yet hiding so much humor in it.. wonderful.
Isn't there an online community for people from andhra? why chose IV for these prayer requests? Previously it was praying for SRK who apparently got raped at the POE and now for all dead people??
Even the thread anouncing the members who got freedom this month is being drowned by these discussions. There is enough to celebrate this month...lot of our brothers / sisters have been greened...let us celebrate their freedom and forget our misseries for some time.
Laloo made Bihar the laughing stock of India...following Laloo....YSR and his cronies were on there way to do so for Andhra Pradesh ...Good Riddance..God got rid of this guy. We want to see India and AP like Switzerland and US not like Somalia.
Isn't there an online community for people from andhra? why chose IV for these prayer requests? Previously it was praying for SRK who apparently got raped at the POE and now for all dead people??
Even the thread anouncing the members who got freedom this month is being drowned by these discussions. There is enough to celebrate this month...lot of our brothers / sisters have been greened...let us celebrate their freedom and forget our misseries for some time.
Laloo made Bihar the laughing stock of India...following Laloo....YSR and his cronies were on there way to do so for Andhra Pradesh ...Good Riddance..God got rid of this guy. We want to see India and AP like Switzerland and US not like Somalia.
more...
hello kitty pictures birthday. Hello Kitty Birthday Party
Templarian
11-26 12:24 AM
:lol: Fixed. but I refuse to use a jpeg
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needhelp!
03-24 12:49 PM
Thank You Mark! That was great.
Also thanks to the caller Andy.
Also thanks to the caller Andy.
more...
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posmd
04-13 10:54 AM
Sessions ammendment was for the previous SJC bill, which is dead right? I thought the basis of future bills is the Hagel Martinez compromise. Rest assured if it is, then the numbersusa agent in the senate Sessions will put that obstacle as an ammendment again, and since Dems already agreed it in SJC, it will probably take hold.
If I recollect it was 3 months for a review of the impact, then 3 months after that for implementation.
I am getting a little nervous about the CIR though. Not in the sense that it will be done or it won't. I just feel the USCIS will screw up its implementation very badly, and might end up causing our potential 3 yr waits to turn into 5-10 yr waits along with all these law breakers. We are already seeing the effect of 245i cases right now and that is a fraction of this tidal wave of illegals wanting legalisation.
In that sense a breakdown of CIR with some other resolution for our problem with PACE or TALENT might not be such a bad idea. It is like the old addage, be careful what you wish for.........!
If I recollect it was 3 months for a review of the impact, then 3 months after that for implementation.
I am getting a little nervous about the CIR though. Not in the sense that it will be done or it won't. I just feel the USCIS will screw up its implementation very badly, and might end up causing our potential 3 yr waits to turn into 5-10 yr waits along with all these law breakers. We are already seeing the effect of 245i cases right now and that is a fraction of this tidal wave of illegals wanting legalisation.
In that sense a breakdown of CIR with some other resolution for our problem with PACE or TALENT might not be such a bad idea. It is like the old addage, be careful what you wish for.........!
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krishgreen
06-01 04:43 PM
Hi All,
I have attended for renewal H1B Visa stamping at Matamoros on May 27th 2010.
Here is the complete process that I have followed from start to End:
* I have used a agent for arranging Application fee & transportation to and from Brownsville, TX.
* Drove from Dallas to Brownsville, TX on May 26th, drive was Okay, not many COPS around.
* Stayed at Days Inn hotel owned by Desi, very helpful at giving information on good restaurants around and places to go if there is enough time.
* On May 27th morning 7:45 am agent will come pick-up from the Hotel and take you to the US Consulate in Matamoros (About 10mins drive). On the way he explains all the details of where they meet after the Interview is done and how to get to Port of Entry by Walk. His first stop in Matamoros would be Best Western Hotel where you can leave all your luggage and all the prohibited items at US Consulate.
**** Be sure to carry all your necessary items to stay in Mexico for atleast one more day if your Visa is not ready the same day****
*Then he will drop you at US Consulate and stay outside until you pass the security line.
* After security there are two people checking your documents (I-797, Application fee & Interview confirmation page) and issue you a SERIAL Number.
* After that you will be allowed inside where the first process is to get your pictures and fingure prints taken.
*After that wait for your number to be displayed for the Visa interview (Takes anywhere between 45 to 60 mins at anytime), for me took about 50 mins.
At the Visa Interview counter:
Initial Greeting exchanges and then asks for the paper work (Passports Old & New, I-797 and Interview Confirmation page). She took about 5 mins to go through DS-160 questions/answers filled online.
VO: Why did you change the company from your Old to New.
ME: Explained the situations.
VO: Do you directly work for the client of your Current Company.
ME: No, I work for a client of another Vendor.
VO: This is not the way how the H1B Visa works, you have to work for a Client of your current H1B Employer.
ME: Blank Face, no answer. (I know that is not how the h1B Works, but no answer)
VO: How do we trust that you are really working for the Client.
ME: I pulled out my client letter and Photo ID Card and gave it to VO.
VO: Okay, so, you got the letter from your Project Manager at Client site. Good let me check that.
VO: Can I see all your W2's from the first year that you are in US and pay slips for last six months.
ME: Handed over all the W2's and Payslips.
VO: Can I see your bank statements for last 3 months.
ME: Gave my bank statements.
VO: Let me check all these documents and discuss with my senior. she went inside with all the documents for about 5 mins.
ME: This was the time that I felt tensed, as I don't have a valid visa to enter US if they decided not to issue a Visa based on all the docs that I have. I never felt tensed for the last 4 stampings that I have attended in India.
VO: Came back after 5 mins. Is there any period that you were with current employer and not get paid.
ME : No.
VO: What is your job description.
ME: Explained.
VO: Is your greencard petition filed.
ME: Yes.
VO: Can I see your Approved labot and I-140.
ME: I have approved labor, but, not approved I-140.
VO: You are supposed to carry all the documents.
ME: Blank face
VO: Okay, your Visa is approved.
ME: Thank you :-)
NOTE: I would say if you don't have client letter and a photo id card from client and you won't have a valid visa currently, I would suggest attending visa interview at your home country.
We went back to US Consulate to collect the passport at 3:30 pm, but, those were not ready.
Agent dropped us back at Best western hotel in Matamoros, we stayed there that night. Don't eat at the hotel restaurant, that sucks. There is a very nice restaurant a block away from Hotel (Mexican), very very good food.
Agent picked us back at 3:00 pm next day and took us to US Consulate. Got the passports with Visa stamped and headed to Port of Entry.
Agent dropped us at Port of Entry and we walked across the bridge. There is a small gate when you enter US Geographical area on the bridge, where you need to 50Cents to enter(No need for Under aged children, I guess below 12yrs). Walked over to the port of entry office to get a new I-94. There is a big line, but, you don't need to be in the line, just walked into the first room skipping the line and keep waiting for one of the officers to call you next in spanish for your turn (Took about close to 4 hrs to get the I-94, once the officer is at the counter it's only 5 mins process. But, you won't see any officers coming to counter until the room is atleast 95% filled.
After we got the new i-94 came outside and called agent to pick us. Agent dropped at the hotel. It's a big relief to be back in US.
If anybody is driving, there is a check post 40/50 miles away from Brownsville where Boder protection agents check your immigration papers (took about 2 mins for me).
If anybody have any questions, please let me know.
Good luck.
I have attended for renewal H1B Visa stamping at Matamoros on May 27th 2010.
Here is the complete process that I have followed from start to End:
* I have used a agent for arranging Application fee & transportation to and from Brownsville, TX.
* Drove from Dallas to Brownsville, TX on May 26th, drive was Okay, not many COPS around.
* Stayed at Days Inn hotel owned by Desi, very helpful at giving information on good restaurants around and places to go if there is enough time.
* On May 27th morning 7:45 am agent will come pick-up from the Hotel and take you to the US Consulate in Matamoros (About 10mins drive). On the way he explains all the details of where they meet after the Interview is done and how to get to Port of Entry by Walk. His first stop in Matamoros would be Best Western Hotel where you can leave all your luggage and all the prohibited items at US Consulate.
**** Be sure to carry all your necessary items to stay in Mexico for atleast one more day if your Visa is not ready the same day****
*Then he will drop you at US Consulate and stay outside until you pass the security line.
* After security there are two people checking your documents (I-797, Application fee & Interview confirmation page) and issue you a SERIAL Number.
* After that you will be allowed inside where the first process is to get your pictures and fingure prints taken.
*After that wait for your number to be displayed for the Visa interview (Takes anywhere between 45 to 60 mins at anytime), for me took about 50 mins.
At the Visa Interview counter:
Initial Greeting exchanges and then asks for the paper work (Passports Old & New, I-797 and Interview Confirmation page). She took about 5 mins to go through DS-160 questions/answers filled online.
VO: Why did you change the company from your Old to New.
ME: Explained the situations.
VO: Do you directly work for the client of your Current Company.
ME: No, I work for a client of another Vendor.
VO: This is not the way how the H1B Visa works, you have to work for a Client of your current H1B Employer.
ME: Blank Face, no answer. (I know that is not how the h1B Works, but no answer)
VO: How do we trust that you are really working for the Client.
ME: I pulled out my client letter and Photo ID Card and gave it to VO.
VO: Okay, so, you got the letter from your Project Manager at Client site. Good let me check that.
VO: Can I see all your W2's from the first year that you are in US and pay slips for last six months.
ME: Handed over all the W2's and Payslips.
VO: Can I see your bank statements for last 3 months.
ME: Gave my bank statements.
VO: Let me check all these documents and discuss with my senior. she went inside with all the documents for about 5 mins.
ME: This was the time that I felt tensed, as I don't have a valid visa to enter US if they decided not to issue a Visa based on all the docs that I have. I never felt tensed for the last 4 stampings that I have attended in India.
VO: Came back after 5 mins. Is there any period that you were with current employer and not get paid.
ME : No.
VO: What is your job description.
ME: Explained.
VO: Is your greencard petition filed.
ME: Yes.
VO: Can I see your Approved labot and I-140.
ME: I have approved labor, but, not approved I-140.
VO: You are supposed to carry all the documents.
ME: Blank face
VO: Okay, your Visa is approved.
ME: Thank you :-)
NOTE: I would say if you don't have client letter and a photo id card from client and you won't have a valid visa currently, I would suggest attending visa interview at your home country.
We went back to US Consulate to collect the passport at 3:30 pm, but, those were not ready.
Agent dropped us back at Best western hotel in Matamoros, we stayed there that night. Don't eat at the hotel restaurant, that sucks. There is a very nice restaurant a block away from Hotel (Mexican), very very good food.
Agent picked us back at 3:00 pm next day and took us to US Consulate. Got the passports with Visa stamped and headed to Port of Entry.
Agent dropped us at Port of Entry and we walked across the bridge. There is a small gate when you enter US Geographical area on the bridge, where you need to 50Cents to enter(No need for Under aged children, I guess below 12yrs). Walked over to the port of entry office to get a new I-94. There is a big line, but, you don't need to be in the line, just walked into the first room skipping the line and keep waiting for one of the officers to call you next in spanish for your turn (Took about close to 4 hrs to get the I-94, once the officer is at the counter it's only 5 mins process. But, you won't see any officers coming to counter until the room is atleast 95% filled.
After we got the new i-94 came outside and called agent to pick us. Agent dropped at the hotel. It's a big relief to be back in US.
If anybody is driving, there is a check post 40/50 miles away from Brownsville where Boder protection agents check your immigration papers (took about 2 mins for me).
If anybody have any questions, please let me know.
Good luck.
more...
hello kitty pictures birthday. Hello Kitty Birthday
pns27
06-28 04:34 PM
Please don't create any new thred.. Please close it .. We already have 4 threds going with different rumers.. No need to put another one..
My answer is - No body knows what will happen.. So just chill and enjoy..
Hi ramus can you point to the others threads going on this subject?:o I did check other threads to put this info. In fact I don�t want create any new threads. After looking for one that is appropriate, which I did not find, I started this one. The closest one would be the �June 1st filers - receipt � which is a diffrent subject.
This is not a rumor, this a fact and I thought I should share with all so that every one will chill, take it easy and will not stressout in anticipation of 485 approval.
thx.
My answer is - No body knows what will happen.. So just chill and enjoy..
Hi ramus can you point to the others threads going on this subject?:o I did check other threads to put this info. In fact I don�t want create any new threads. After looking for one that is appropriate, which I did not find, I started this one. The closest one would be the �June 1st filers - receipt � which is a diffrent subject.
This is not a rumor, this a fact and I thought I should share with all so that every one will chill, take it easy and will not stressout in anticipation of 485 approval.
thx.
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kshitijnt
07-17 01:00 PM
I am confused with regards to AOS Vs. CP and which one to choose.
My visa status is L1B with Company A and my green card for future employment is with Company B.
Since I am on L1B, should I choose AOS (Adjustment of status) or CP (Counslar processing) for my I485 processing. Which one wld be the best for me, since I may be in India when the dates become current or may be here in the US ? The timing is a big unknown.
IF I choose CP, what are the steps after I140 approval?
How hard is it to switch from AOS to CP or vice- versa?
What are the pros and cons for AOS Vs CP?
I am looking for some guidance from anyone who has gone through this / familiar with this situation. Thanks!
I initially chose CP on my form but now going to file 485. You can switch it either way
Switching from CP to AOS:
Just file 485, nothing else needs to be done. No need (as of now), to wait for I140 approval. If you do not switch to AOS downside is you cant make use of attorney certified I140 and must make appointment through consular process.
Switching from AOS to CP:
I140 must be approved. Then you need to file I824. Once I824 receipt notice is received, you can talk to the consulate and schedule an appointment. No need to go through NVC. However, if you have already filed 485, it will be abandoned, at the least all the money paid for it, you have to pay for visa again & travel cost to your home country.
My visa status is L1B with Company A and my green card for future employment is with Company B.
Since I am on L1B, should I choose AOS (Adjustment of status) or CP (Counslar processing) for my I485 processing. Which one wld be the best for me, since I may be in India when the dates become current or may be here in the US ? The timing is a big unknown.
IF I choose CP, what are the steps after I140 approval?
How hard is it to switch from AOS to CP or vice- versa?
What are the pros and cons for AOS Vs CP?
I am looking for some guidance from anyone who has gone through this / familiar with this situation. Thanks!
I initially chose CP on my form but now going to file 485. You can switch it either way
Switching from CP to AOS:
Just file 485, nothing else needs to be done. No need (as of now), to wait for I140 approval. If you do not switch to AOS downside is you cant make use of attorney certified I140 and must make appointment through consular process.
Switching from AOS to CP:
I140 must be approved. Then you need to file I824. Once I824 receipt notice is received, you can talk to the consulate and schedule an appointment. No need to go through NVC. However, if you have already filed 485, it will be abandoned, at the least all the money paid for it, you have to pay for visa again & travel cost to your home country.
more...
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sunny1000
02-09 03:00 AM
well i got marriage ceremony , not civil yet...because i didn't know since he have this problem in court. and he says that they would let him out once he's in jail.. the chance of he goes to jail is 50 50... if goes he will get about 18 months. will still can do my papers?
I am not an expert here but, can you not get a certificate from the church that you are married while you are waiting for the official certifcate? see below:
http://boards.immigrationportal.com/showthread.php?t=258893&highlight=marriage+certificate+church
You can also search the above site for answers. But, in the end, please consult a good attorney who is familiar with both immigration and criminal law.
I am not an expert here but, can you not get a certificate from the church that you are married while you are waiting for the official certifcate? see below:
http://boards.immigrationportal.com/showthread.php?t=258893&highlight=marriage+certificate+church
You can also search the above site for answers. But, in the end, please consult a good attorney who is familiar with both immigration and criminal law.
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amitjoey
07-13 04:38 PM
Wow!. I did not realise that. I an unknown quantity. What does that mean?
more...
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Blog Feeds
02-01 08:30 AM
Summary
(LINK TO FULL REPORT BELOW)
Congress created the H-1B program in 1990 to enable U.S. employers to hire temporary, foreign workers in specialty occupations. The law capped the number of H-1B visas issued per fiscal year at 65,000. Since then, the cap has fluctuated with legislative changes. Congress asked GAO to assess the impact of the cap on the ability of domestic companies to innovate, while ensuring that U.S. workers are not disadvantaged. In response, GAO examined what is known about (1) employer demand for H-1B workers; (2) how the cap affects employer costs and decisions to move operations overseas; (3) H-1B worker characteristics and the potential impact of raising the cap; and (4) how well requirements of the H-1B program protect U.S. workers. GAO analyzed data from 4 federal agencies; interviewed agency officials, experts, and H-1B employers; and reviewed agency documents and literature.
In most years, demand for new H-1B workers exceeded the cap: From 2000 to 2009, demand for new H-1B workers tended to exceed the cap, as measured by the numbers of initial petitions submitted by employers who are subject to the cap. There is no way to precisely determine the level of any unmet demand among employers, since they tend to stop submitting (and the Department of Homeland Security stops tracking) petitions once the cap is reached each year. When we consider all initial petitions, including those from universities and research institutions that are not subject to the cap, we find that demand for new H-1B workers is largely driven by a small number of employers. Over the decade, over 14 percent of all initial petitions were submitted by cap-exempt employers, and only a few employers (fewer than 1 percent) garnered over one-quarter of all H-1B approvals. Most interviewed companies said the H-1B cap and program created costs, but were not factors in their decisions to move R&D overseas: The 34 H-1B employers GAO interviewed reported that the cap has created some additional costs, though the cap's impact depended on the size and maturity of the company. For example, in years when visas were denied by the cap, most large firms reported finding other (sometimes more costly) ways to hire their preferred job candidates. On the other hand, small firms were more likely to fill their positions with different candidates, which they said resulted in delays and sometimes economic losses, particularly for firms in rapidly changing technology fields. Limitations in agency data and systems hinder tracking the cap and H-1B workers over time: The total number of H-1B workers in the U.S. at any one time--and information about the length of their stay--is unknown, because (1) data systems among the various agencies that process such individuals are not linked so individuals cannot be readily tracked, and (2) H-1B workers are not assigned a unique identifier that would allow for tracking them over time--particularly if and when their visa status changes. Restricted agency oversight and statutory changes weaken protections for U.S. workers: Elements of the H-1B program that could serve as worker protections--such as the requirement to pay prevailing wages, the visa's temporary status, and the cap itself--are weakened by several factors. First, program oversight is fragmented and restricted. Second, the H-1B program lacks a legal provision for holding employers accountable to program requirements when they obtain H-1B workers through a staffing company. Third, statutory changes made to the H-1B program have, in combination and in effect, increased the pool of H-1B workers beyond the cap and lowered the bar for eligibility. Taken together, the multifaceted challenges identified in this report show that the H-1B program, as currently structured, may not be used to its full potential and may be detrimental in some cases. This report offers several matters for congressional consideration, including that Congress re-examine key H-1B program provisions and make appropriate changes as needed. GAO also recommends that the Departments of Homeland Security and Labor take steps to improve efficiency, flexibility, and monitoring of the H-1B program. Homeland Security disagreed with two recommendations and one matter, citing logistical and other challenges; however, we believe such challenges can be overcome. Labor did not respond to our recommendations.
Recommendations
Our recommendations from this work are listed below with a Contact for more information. Status will change from "In process" to "Open," "Closed - implemented," or "Closed - not implemented" based on our follow up work.
Director:Andrew SherrillTeam:Government Accountability Office: Education, Workforce, and Income SecurityPhone:(202) 512-7252
Matters for Congressional Consideration
Recommendation: To ensure that the H-1B program continues to meet the needs of businesses in a global economy while maintaining a balance of protections for U.S. workers, Congress may wish to consider reviewing the merits and shortcomings of key program provisions and making appropriate changes as needed. Such a review may include, but would not necessarily be limited to (1) the qualifications required for workers eligible under the H-1B program, (2) exemptions from the cap, (3) the appropriateness of H-1B hiring by staffing companies, (4) the level of the cap, and (5) the role the program should play in the U.S. immigration system in relationship to permanent residency.
Status: In process
Comments: When we determine what steps the Congress has taken, we will provide updated information.
Recommendation: To reduce duplication and fragmentation in the administration and oversight of the H-1B application process, consistent with past GAO matters for congressional consideration, Congress may wish to consider eliminating the requirement that employers first submit a Labor Condition Application (LCA) to the Department of Labor for certification, and require instead that employers submit this application along with the I-129 application to the Department of Homeland Security's U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services for review.
Status: In process
Comments: When we determine what steps the Congress has taken, we will provide updated information.
Recommendation: To improve the Department of Labor's ability to investigate and enforce employer compliance with H-1B program requirements, Congress may wish to consider granting the department subpoena power to obtain employer records during investigations under the H-1B program.
Status: In process
Comments: When we determine what steps the Congress has taken, we will provide updated information.
Recommendation: To help ensure the full protection of H-1B workers employed through staffing companies, Congress may wish to consider holding the employer where an H-1B visa holder performs work accountable for meeting program requirements to the same extent as the employer that submitted the LCA form.
Status: In process
Comments: When we determine what steps the Congress has taken, we will provide updated information.
Recommendations for Executive Action
Recommendation: To help ensure that the number of new H-1B workers who are subject to the cap--both entering the United States and changing to H-1B status within the United States--does not exceed the cap each year, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services should take steps to improve its tracking of the number of approved H-1B applications and the number of issued visas under the cap by fully leveraging the transformation effort currently under way, which involves the adoption of an electronic petition processing system that will be linked to the Department of State's tracking system. Such steps should ensure that linkages to the Department of State's tracking system will provide Homeland Security with timely access to data on visa issuances, and that mechanisms for tracking petitions and visas against the cap are incorporated into U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services' business rules to be developed for the new electronic petition system.
Agency Affected: Department of Homeland Security
Status: In process
Comments: When we confirm what actions the agency has taken in response to this recommendation, we will provide updated information.
Recommendation: To address business concerns without undermining program integrity, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services should, to the extent permitted by its existing statutory authority, explore options for increasing the flexibility of the application process for H-1B employers, such as (1) allowing employers to rank their applications for visa candidates so that they can hire the best qualified worker for the jobs in highest need; (2) distributing the applications granted under the annual cap in allotments throughout the year (e.g. quarterly); and (3) establishing a system whereby businesses with a strong track-record of compliance with H-1B regulations may use a streamlined application process.
Agency Affected: Department of Homeland Security
Status: In process
Comments: When we confirm what actions the agency has taken in response to this recommendation, we will provide updated information.
Recommendation: To improve the transparency and oversight of the posting requirement on the Labor Condition Application (LCA), as part of its current oversight role, the Employment and Training Administration should develop and maintain a centralized Web site, accessible to the public, where businesses must post notice of the intent to hire H-1B workers. Such notices should continue to specify the job category and worksite location noted on the LCA and required by statute on current noncentralized postings.
Agency Affected: Department of Labor
Status: In process
Comments: When we confirm what actions the agency has taken in response to this recommendation, we will provide updated information.
Recommendation: To improve the efficiency and effectiveness of its investigations of employer compliance with H-1B requirements, the Employment and Training Administration should provide Labor's Wage and Hour Division searchable access to the LCA database.
Agency Affected: Department of Labor
Status: In process
Comments: When we confirm what actions the agency has taken in response to this recommendation, we will provide updated information.
VIEW FULL REPORT (http://www.gao.gov/new.items/d1126.pdf)
More... (http://ashwinsharma.com/2011/01/25/h-1b-visa-program-reforms-are-needed-to-minimize-the-risks-and-costs-of-current-program.aspx?ref=rss)
(LINK TO FULL REPORT BELOW)
Congress created the H-1B program in 1990 to enable U.S. employers to hire temporary, foreign workers in specialty occupations. The law capped the number of H-1B visas issued per fiscal year at 65,000. Since then, the cap has fluctuated with legislative changes. Congress asked GAO to assess the impact of the cap on the ability of domestic companies to innovate, while ensuring that U.S. workers are not disadvantaged. In response, GAO examined what is known about (1) employer demand for H-1B workers; (2) how the cap affects employer costs and decisions to move operations overseas; (3) H-1B worker characteristics and the potential impact of raising the cap; and (4) how well requirements of the H-1B program protect U.S. workers. GAO analyzed data from 4 federal agencies; interviewed agency officials, experts, and H-1B employers; and reviewed agency documents and literature.
In most years, demand for new H-1B workers exceeded the cap: From 2000 to 2009, demand for new H-1B workers tended to exceed the cap, as measured by the numbers of initial petitions submitted by employers who are subject to the cap. There is no way to precisely determine the level of any unmet demand among employers, since they tend to stop submitting (and the Department of Homeland Security stops tracking) petitions once the cap is reached each year. When we consider all initial petitions, including those from universities and research institutions that are not subject to the cap, we find that demand for new H-1B workers is largely driven by a small number of employers. Over the decade, over 14 percent of all initial petitions were submitted by cap-exempt employers, and only a few employers (fewer than 1 percent) garnered over one-quarter of all H-1B approvals. Most interviewed companies said the H-1B cap and program created costs, but were not factors in their decisions to move R&D overseas: The 34 H-1B employers GAO interviewed reported that the cap has created some additional costs, though the cap's impact depended on the size and maturity of the company. For example, in years when visas were denied by the cap, most large firms reported finding other (sometimes more costly) ways to hire their preferred job candidates. On the other hand, small firms were more likely to fill their positions with different candidates, which they said resulted in delays and sometimes economic losses, particularly for firms in rapidly changing technology fields. Limitations in agency data and systems hinder tracking the cap and H-1B workers over time: The total number of H-1B workers in the U.S. at any one time--and information about the length of their stay--is unknown, because (1) data systems among the various agencies that process such individuals are not linked so individuals cannot be readily tracked, and (2) H-1B workers are not assigned a unique identifier that would allow for tracking them over time--particularly if and when their visa status changes. Restricted agency oversight and statutory changes weaken protections for U.S. workers: Elements of the H-1B program that could serve as worker protections--such as the requirement to pay prevailing wages, the visa's temporary status, and the cap itself--are weakened by several factors. First, program oversight is fragmented and restricted. Second, the H-1B program lacks a legal provision for holding employers accountable to program requirements when they obtain H-1B workers through a staffing company. Third, statutory changes made to the H-1B program have, in combination and in effect, increased the pool of H-1B workers beyond the cap and lowered the bar for eligibility. Taken together, the multifaceted challenges identified in this report show that the H-1B program, as currently structured, may not be used to its full potential and may be detrimental in some cases. This report offers several matters for congressional consideration, including that Congress re-examine key H-1B program provisions and make appropriate changes as needed. GAO also recommends that the Departments of Homeland Security and Labor take steps to improve efficiency, flexibility, and monitoring of the H-1B program. Homeland Security disagreed with two recommendations and one matter, citing logistical and other challenges; however, we believe such challenges can be overcome. Labor did not respond to our recommendations.
Recommendations
Our recommendations from this work are listed below with a Contact for more information. Status will change from "In process" to "Open," "Closed - implemented," or "Closed - not implemented" based on our follow up work.
Director:Andrew SherrillTeam:Government Accountability Office: Education, Workforce, and Income SecurityPhone:(202) 512-7252
Matters for Congressional Consideration
Recommendation: To ensure that the H-1B program continues to meet the needs of businesses in a global economy while maintaining a balance of protections for U.S. workers, Congress may wish to consider reviewing the merits and shortcomings of key program provisions and making appropriate changes as needed. Such a review may include, but would not necessarily be limited to (1) the qualifications required for workers eligible under the H-1B program, (2) exemptions from the cap, (3) the appropriateness of H-1B hiring by staffing companies, (4) the level of the cap, and (5) the role the program should play in the U.S. immigration system in relationship to permanent residency.
Status: In process
Comments: When we determine what steps the Congress has taken, we will provide updated information.
Recommendation: To reduce duplication and fragmentation in the administration and oversight of the H-1B application process, consistent with past GAO matters for congressional consideration, Congress may wish to consider eliminating the requirement that employers first submit a Labor Condition Application (LCA) to the Department of Labor for certification, and require instead that employers submit this application along with the I-129 application to the Department of Homeland Security's U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services for review.
Status: In process
Comments: When we determine what steps the Congress has taken, we will provide updated information.
Recommendation: To improve the Department of Labor's ability to investigate and enforce employer compliance with H-1B program requirements, Congress may wish to consider granting the department subpoena power to obtain employer records during investigations under the H-1B program.
Status: In process
Comments: When we determine what steps the Congress has taken, we will provide updated information.
Recommendation: To help ensure the full protection of H-1B workers employed through staffing companies, Congress may wish to consider holding the employer where an H-1B visa holder performs work accountable for meeting program requirements to the same extent as the employer that submitted the LCA form.
Status: In process
Comments: When we determine what steps the Congress has taken, we will provide updated information.
Recommendations for Executive Action
Recommendation: To help ensure that the number of new H-1B workers who are subject to the cap--both entering the United States and changing to H-1B status within the United States--does not exceed the cap each year, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services should take steps to improve its tracking of the number of approved H-1B applications and the number of issued visas under the cap by fully leveraging the transformation effort currently under way, which involves the adoption of an electronic petition processing system that will be linked to the Department of State's tracking system. Such steps should ensure that linkages to the Department of State's tracking system will provide Homeland Security with timely access to data on visa issuances, and that mechanisms for tracking petitions and visas against the cap are incorporated into U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services' business rules to be developed for the new electronic petition system.
Agency Affected: Department of Homeland Security
Status: In process
Comments: When we confirm what actions the agency has taken in response to this recommendation, we will provide updated information.
Recommendation: To address business concerns without undermining program integrity, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services should, to the extent permitted by its existing statutory authority, explore options for increasing the flexibility of the application process for H-1B employers, such as (1) allowing employers to rank their applications for visa candidates so that they can hire the best qualified worker for the jobs in highest need; (2) distributing the applications granted under the annual cap in allotments throughout the year (e.g. quarterly); and (3) establishing a system whereby businesses with a strong track-record of compliance with H-1B regulations may use a streamlined application process.
Agency Affected: Department of Homeland Security
Status: In process
Comments: When we confirm what actions the agency has taken in response to this recommendation, we will provide updated information.
Recommendation: To improve the transparency and oversight of the posting requirement on the Labor Condition Application (LCA), as part of its current oversight role, the Employment and Training Administration should develop and maintain a centralized Web site, accessible to the public, where businesses must post notice of the intent to hire H-1B workers. Such notices should continue to specify the job category and worksite location noted on the LCA and required by statute on current noncentralized postings.
Agency Affected: Department of Labor
Status: In process
Comments: When we confirm what actions the agency has taken in response to this recommendation, we will provide updated information.
Recommendation: To improve the efficiency and effectiveness of its investigations of employer compliance with H-1B requirements, the Employment and Training Administration should provide Labor's Wage and Hour Division searchable access to the LCA database.
Agency Affected: Department of Labor
Status: In process
Comments: When we confirm what actions the agency has taken in response to this recommendation, we will provide updated information.
VIEW FULL REPORT (http://www.gao.gov/new.items/d1126.pdf)
More... (http://ashwinsharma.com/2011/01/25/h-1b-visa-program-reforms-are-needed-to-minimize-the-risks-and-costs-of-current-program.aspx?ref=rss)
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needinfo80
09-09 10:08 AM
Anybody pl.. need information urgently on medical RfE
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zCool
04-01 02:27 PM
Yes, at the time of adjudication, you will need employment varification letter that shows Permenent Full time job with same or similar duties and reasonable wage difference.
abhijitp
01-24 05:19 PM
^^
daishwarya
07-23 02:45 PM
@linuxra: I am still waiting for my GC with Aug04 PD on EB2. I didn't get any RFE.
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