Mid-July 2010 Immigration Update

1. U.S. Files Lawsuit Against Arizona Immigration Law - The Department of Justice has filed a complaint and requested a preliminary injunction to enjoin enforcement of the law, arguing that the law is unconstitutional and will cause irreparable harm.
2. U.S. Expands Appointment Scheduling for Nonimmigrant Visa Applicants in China - Nonimmigrant visa applicants may now schedule interview appointments at any U.S. Consular Section in China, regardless of the province or city where they live.
3. USCIS Extends TPS Designation for El Salvador - El Salvador's TPS designation has been extended through March 9, 2012.
4. State Department Explains Biometric Visa Program's Fingerscan, Photo Requirements - Fingerscans and photos are generally required, with certain exceptions.
5. Labor Department Launches National H-2A Electronic Job Registry - The Employment and Training Administration launched a new National Electronic Job Registry for H-2A job orders on July 8, 2010.
6. Decisions Not to Hire Persons Based on Need for Visa Sponsorship or Employer Submission Okay, Justice Department Says - Only certain classes of individuals are protected from citizenship status discrimination under the law, including U.S. citizens, U.S. nationals, temporary residents, recent lawful permanent residents, refugees, and asylees.
7. CBP Invites Comments on SENTRI and FAST Commercial Driver Applications - U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) has invited the public and other Federal agencies to comment on an information collection requirement concerning CBP's Trusted Traveler Programs.