DOL RULE AGAINST SUBSTITUTIONS TAKES EFFECT ON July 16, 2007

by Cyrus D. Mehta* The Department of Labor’s (DOL) final rule to “enhance program integrity and reduce the incentives and opportunities for fraud and abuse related to the permanent employment of aliens in the United States” takes effect on July 16, 2007. See 72 Fed. Reg. 27,903-27,947 (May 17, 2007). The provisions apply to permanent […]

July 2007 Immigration Update

Headlines: 1. Immigration Reform Bill Dies in Senate – On a procedural vote, the Senate killed the bipartisan bill on comprehensive immigration reform that has been the subject of much debate and controversy and that had the support of President Bush. 2. DOS Suddenly Announces No More Employment-Based Visa Numbers – In a stunning policy […]

ADJUSTMENT OF STATUS FILING ADVISORY

On July 1, 2007, the Visa Numbers in the Employment-based Second and Third Preferences will become current. The USCIS Service Centers in Nebraska and Texas will be deluged with Adjustment of Status (Form I-485) applications. This advisory is in continuation of July 2007 VISA BULLETIN – “CURRENT.” An update on AILA Infonet expresses concern that […]

UPDATES FROM THE AMERICAN IMMIGRATION LAWYERХS ASSOCIATION (AILA) CONFERENCE IN ORLANDO, FLORIDA

by Elizabeth T. Reichard* Representatives from our firm recently participated in the AILA Annual Conference on Immigration Law in Orlando Florida from June 13 – 16, 2007. The following provides updates on some of the “hot topics” addressed at the Conference. 1. Legislation Update While the Comprehensive Immigration Law Reform Bill was removed from the […]

July 2007 VISA BULLETIN – “CURRENT”

by Mazal Gavrielov* “Current,” may be a regular word to some, but to thousands of foreign nationals the word holds significant meaning. It means that they are finally permitted to apply for adjustment of status in the United States. Applications can be submitted as of July 1, 2007 and through July 31, 2007. > The […]

IS IT MANDATORY TO DETAIN AN AGGRAVATED FELON?

by Cyrus D. Mehta,* Elizabeth T. Reichard** and Adam Ketcher*** Matt and his buddies are members of Delta Tau Delta at Case Western Reserve University in Cleveland, Ohio. During the fall semester, these fraternity boys came up with a “brilliant” plan to take a road trip to Windsor, Ontario. I mean, what could be more […]

June 2007 Immigration Update

Headlines: 1. Immigration Reform Bill Passes ‘Test’ Vote in Senate – The Senate’s bipartisan bill on comprehensive immigration reform has passed a “test” vote; formal debate has begun. 2. DOL Publishes Final Labor Certification Rule, Prohibits Substitutions; USCIS Terminates Premium Processing for I-140s Requesting Substitutions – The regulation’s provisions apply to permanent labor certification applications […]

COMPREHENSIVE IMMIGRATION REFORM BILL WILL RADICALLY ALTER IMMIGRATION LAW

by Cyrus D. Mehta* and Poorvi Chothani** America is a nation of immigrants and its history of admitting newcomers goes all the way back since its inception. Millions upon millions of people have been attracted to this country because it provides opportunities to anyone who works hard, regardless of race, religion or national origin. In […]

SEISMIC ACTIVITY IN IMMIGRATION LAW

by Cyrus D. Mehta* During the week ending May 18, 2007, there has been significant seismic activity that could radically change the way we know US immigration law. Rumblings have gone on throughout the week involving advances in employment –based visa numbers, a DOL rule that will eliminate substitutions and prohibit foreign nationals from paying […]

CIR NEGOTIATIONS REACH ТMAKE OR BREAKУ POINT IN SENATE, URGENT ACTION NEEDED!

We reproduce the following message from the AILA Infonet site: Your urgent action has never been needed more than now, when the debate and negotiations on comprehensive immigration reform legislation are nearing a "make or break" point. Contrary to what you may be reading in the press, the negotiations between a White House-led group of […]