The results of the Westat Survey on E-Verify conducted in July 2012 were recently released. Key findings include: TNC error rate declined from 0.7% to 0.3%; the system is correctly identifying a larger number of unauthorized workers; some FNCs are the result of employers not notifying workers of the TNCs; and a large number of TNCs are caused by SSA name mismatch. USCIS has started to take measures to address some of the survey findings and continue to improve the accuracy of E-Verify. To read a summary of the findings, click here.
December Visa Bulletin is Released
The cutoff date movements were as expected. The most notable movement is the retrogression of EB-2 India from June 15, 2008 to November 15, 2004. There were small movements forward in the priority dates for family-based worldwide and China EB-2 and very favorable movement for EB-3 for all countries. Click here to read in its entirety.
Immigration Relief Measures for Filipinos
In light of Typhoon Haiyan in the Philippines, USCIS announced that Filipino Nationals affected may be eligible for certain immigration relief measures such as: change or extension of nonimmigrant status for an individuals currently in the U.S., even when the request is filed after the authorization period is expired. To learn about additional potential benefits click here .
Jeh Johnson to replace Janet Napolitano
President Obama nominated Jeh Johnson, former Pentagon General Counsel, as Secretary of the DHS. He has cleared the Senate Homeland Security Committee but he still needs to get full Senate confirmation, which is on hold pending his submission of reports on immigration enforcement data.
USCIS and SEC Combat
EB-5 Immigrant Investor Fraud
USCIS and U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission's (SEC) have issued an alert to warn of fraudulent investment scams targeting foreign nationals who seek to become permanent lawful U.S. residents through the EB-5 program. The agencies have advised potential investors to take precautionary steps and to conduct thorough research to avoid investing in fraudulent securities offerings. Click here to read more.
USCIS Memo on Eligibility for 17-Month Extension of STEM OPT
On October 6, USCIS released a memo stating that F-1 students engaged in post-completion OPT enrolled in STEM degree programs who have not yet completed their thesis are still eligible for the 17-month STEM extension. Click here to view the memo.
On November 2nd, I completed my second Ironman Florida, 2.4 mile swim, 112 mile bike, 26.2 mile run and gained a lifetime of memories and inspiration. Many thanks to our clients and readers for their good wishes, they got me through the finish line strong with a time of 11:03. This was also my husband's first Ironman and he had an amazing race. I am grateful to be able to participate in this remarkable event and to all of those that make it happen.
This will be the last Immigration Update of 2013. We will be back in January. As always we will continue to cover all the relevant information on immigration policy and reform that affects you and your business. On behalf of Marks Gray and the Immigration & Naturalization practice team, I would like to wish you and yours a Very Happy and Safe Holiday season.
If you need assistance with any immigration-related issues, please contact Giselle Carson or Thyra Reveron at (904) 398-0900.
Marks Gray, P.A. is dedicated to customer service. We monitor proposed and current developments in the law. The contents of this newsletter are not intended as legal advice related to individual situations. If you have any questions about your particular situation, please contact a lawyer.
The results of the Westat Survey on E-Verify conducted in July 2012 were recently released. Key findings include: TNC error rate declined from 0.7% to 0.3%; the system is correctly identifying a larger number of unauthorized workers; some FNCs are the result of employers not notifying workers of the TNCs; and a large number of TNCs are caused by SSA name mismatch. USCIS has started to take measures to address some of the survey findings and continue to improve the accuracy of E-Verify. To read a summary of the findings, click 
This will be the last Immigration Update of 2013. We will be back in January. As always we will continue to cover all the relevant information on immigration policy and reform that affects you and your business. On behalf of Marks Gray and the Immigration & Naturalization practice team, I would like to wish you and yours a Very Happy and Safe Holiday season.