Mid-April 2010 Immigration Update

Kuck Immigration Partners LLC

1. Few H-1 Petitions Filed So Far - USCIS has received approximately 13,500 H-1B petitions counting toward the 65,000 cap, a stunningly small number which is indicative of the continuing economic doldrums and enhance USCIS scrutiny of all filed petitions.

2. USCIS Discusses Extension of Post-Completion Optional Practical Training and F-1 Status for Students Under H-1B Cap-Gap Regulations - The Q&A explains the cap-gap and other details.

3. Department of State Discusses Visa Number Availability - The Mexico employment third and "Other Worker" categories have become "unavailable," and a cut-off date may need to be established for the employment fourth preference category as early as June.

4. Supreme Court Requires Defense Attorneys to Advise on Immigration Consequences of  Guilty Pleas

5. Supreme Court to Decide Whether Two Convictions for Simple Posession of a Controlled Substance Constitute an Aggravated Felony

6. Greece Added to U.S. Visa Waiver Program

7. All Nonimmigrant Visa Reciprocity Fees Eliminated for Mexican Nationals; Duration of Visa Validity Limited for TN and TD Visa Holders
 

Also in this issue:

Publications and Items of Interest

Government Agency Links

Disclaimer/Reminder

This e-mail does not constitute direct legal advice and is for informational purposes only. The information provided should never replace informed counsel when specific immigration-related guidance is needed.

Copyright © 2010 Kuck Immigration Partners LLC. All rights reserved.