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Marks Gray Immigration Update
May 2014
In May's Immigration Update
DHS Proposes Enhanced Opportunities for E-3 and H-1B1 workers.

Under the DHS proposed rule, nonimmigrant high-skilled specialty occupation professionals from Chile and Singapore (H-1B1) and Australia (E-3) would receive an automatic extension for continued employment with the same employer if the employer has timely-filed for an extension of the nonimmigrant's stay.  Under the current regulation, these professionals must stop working when their status expires and wait until the petition extension is approved, which often can be delayed by requests for evidence or from long processing times.  Click here to read the proposed rule in its entirety.

Electronic Travel History Now Available
The Customs and Border Protection (CBP) launched a new webpage that allows nonimmigrants the ability to obtain their five year arrival/departure travel history. Since the April 2013 launch, many foreign nationals have visited the CBP's website to obtain a copy of their I-94 card. Now, they can also access their five year arrival and departure record history which can be used to facilitate the recapture of time spent abroad and to complete other immigration applications. To obtain the information, you will need to provide your applicable name, date of birth and passport information. For more information, click here. To access the website, please visit www.cbp.gov/i94.
June Visa Bulletin is Released

The  June 2014 Visa Bulletin is here.  It shows employment-based, third preference (EB3) category cutoff dates rolling back across the board, except for EB3 India and the Philippines. EB3 China is hit especially hard, with the priority dates retrogressing by full 6-years. The family-based, second preference "A" (FB2A) category for spouses and (unmarried, minor) children of lawful permanent residents retrogresses by more than a year for all countries of chargeability.

H-1B Cap Subject Selection Finalized
USCIS has announced that data entry of all FY2015 H-1B cap petitions has been completed. All H-1B cap petitions that were not chosen in the lottery will be returned over the next few weeks. As of May 6, receipts for selected petitions were also being mailed. For more information, please visit www.uscis.gov.
FAQ: Social Security Numbers 

Social Security Numbers (SSNs) are a key component to many aspects of life in the U.S., but the issuance of SSNs to foreign nationals is restricted and we are often asked questions about it.  The following are answers and resources to provide you with information on this and related topics. 

 

Q: How does a noncitizen obtain a SSN?

A: Noncitizens authorized to work in the U.S. by DHS can apply to obtain a SSN. Although, since the I-94 automation in May 2013, the SSA has changed its 10-day wait policy. It is best if noncitizens wait a few days after admission to apply.  For first time applicants, the process involves completing an application, applying in person at a SS office and presenting at least two acceptable documents to prove identity, work authorization and age.  Processing is roughly two to three weeks after application for the noncitizen to obtain the SSN. Click here to read more questions and answers on social security numbers.
Best Life Tips:
Networking with Confidence in Today's Business World

 

Clockwork Marketing's Maxine McBride recently presented to Marks Gray attorneys on 'best practices' in networking in business. Ms. McBride provided useful tips on working a room, introductions, etiquette at business functions and more. To read more tips click here.
  
   
   On May 5th, Marks Gray attorneys and some of our distinguished clients joined other Jacksonville leaders at the 4th Executive Women's Day at The Players. The PGA TOUR and Astellas Pharma US sponsored a day-long forum focusing on professional, health-related and personal development discussions, as well as contributing to the betterment of our local community.  The keynote speaker, Molly Fletcher, stressed the need to find clarity and focus to "be the best we can be" to execute our true potential.      
  
On behalf of Marks Gray and our Immigration team, I hope you enjoyed reading the
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Giselle Carson

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May Immigration Update. If you know anyone who may be interested in receiving this monthly update, please use the link below named  'Forward this email'If you have suggestions, feedback or would like to learn more about me, please click on my signature below.
  
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