USCIS and NVC processes

18/08/2023

🔔 IMPORTANT UPDATE on Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Ukraine 🇺🇦

📅 Release Date: 08/18/2023

🔹 The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has extended TPS for Ukraine for 18 months, from 10/20/2023 to 04/19/2025 due to the ongoing conflict.

🔹 Redesignation allows more eligible Ukrainian nationals in the US as of 08/16/2023 to apply for TPS.
🔹 Special Relief announced for Ukrainian F-1 students: they can now request work permits, work more hours, and maintain a reduced course load while keeping their F-1 status.

🗣 “Russia’s ongoing military invasion of Ukraine demands the US to offer protection to Ukrainians who can't return,” - Secretary Alejandro N. Mayorkas.

📈 By the Numbers:

26,000 current beneficiaries can retain TPS till 04/19/2025.
Approximately 166,700 additional individuals might be eligible under the new redesignation.
📝 Key Points:

Current TPS beneficiaries need to re-register between 08/21/2023 and 10/20/2023.
Employment Authorization Document (EAD) extensions are provided through 10/19/2024.
Initial TPS applicants for the redesignation must apply between 08/21/2023 and 04/19/2025.

🔗 Check the Federal Register for more details on eligibility and procedures.

✨ Let's stand in solidarity with our Ukrainian friends during these challenging times!

Zara Gottlieb

16/08/2023

25/07/2023

Hello Everyone, 🌏✈️

I wanted to share some insight regarding the U.S. tourist visa application process, specifically for those who have an ongoing family-sponsored petition, i.e., a pending I-130 form.

Many of you may have heard that it's impossible to secure a tourist visa when a family member has petitioned on your behalf, but let me clarify - it is challenging, but not impossible.

The difficulty lies in proving 'non-immigrant intent' - that is, convincing the consular officer that you genuinely intend to visit the U.S. temporarily and return to your home country, despite the ongoing I-130 petition.

A pending immigrant petition can indeed make it more challenging to obtain a non-immigrant visa like a tourist visa, as the officer may presume you intend to immigrate permanently.

If you can successfully demonstrate that your visit is purely for tourism and you have strong ties to your home country that will compel you to return after your visit, you might be granted a tourist visa.

These ties can be a steady job, a family, or any asset or obligation that you can't abandon.

But please remember, everyone's situation is unique, and this doesn't guarantee a positive outcome. It's always best to consult with an immigration expert or lawyer to understand the implications and best approach for your individual case.

Hope this clarifies some doubts and assists in your travel plans! 🌍✈️🇺🇸

Zara

"

11/07/2023

🌟 Navigating the Fiancée Visa Process 🌟

Dreaming of being together with your fiancé in the USA? Let's explore the K-1 fiancée visa process and how I can assist you every step of the way! 💑✈️

🌹 Fiancée Visa (K-1): The K-1 visa allows your fiancé to enter the USA and marry you within 90 days.

Here's what you need to know:
📋 Requirements: The K-1 visa has specific criteria, including being a U.S. citizen, meeting income thresholds, demonstrating a genuine relationship, and being legally free to marry. Additionally, both partners must have met in person within the past two years. 💌

🗂️ Assistance with Forms: Navigating the paperwork can be overwhelming, but don't worry! I offer expert assistance in completing the fiancée visa forms, ensuring accuracy and efficiency. 🖊️📄

⏳ Timelines: Understanding the timelines is crucial. The K-1 visa process as of today takes up to 18 months, including USCIS approval, medical exams, and consular processing. It's important to plan ahead and allow sufficient time for the entire process. ⏰

🔍 Important Considerations: It's essential to be aware of factors like the affidavit of support, evidence of the relationship, police clearances, and the required interview at the U.S. embassy or consulate. 🤔💡

🤝💼 With my expertise as an immigration consultant, you can rely on me to guide you through the intricacies of the fiancée visa process. Together, we'll ensure all requirements are met, documentation is prepared meticulously, and your journey to happily ever after can begin! 🥰✨

💬 Comment below if you have any questions or share your experiences with the fiancée visa process! Let me help you on this incredible journey of love and unity. 💍❤️

For more information about this service, please visit my web-site:www.zaraic.com

Zara

11/07/2023

USCIS Launches New Self-Service Tool for Biometric Services Appointment Rescheduling!

Introducing a remarkable self-service tool by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) that allows benefit requestors, attorneys, and accredited representatives to reschedule most biometric services appointments before the scheduled date! 🙌✨

Previously, rescheduling biometric services appointments required contacting the USCIS Contact Center. However, with this new tool, individuals with a USCIS online account can conveniently reschedule most appointments without having to make a call!

📅💻 It's important to note that the tool has certain limitations: it cannot reschedule appointments that have already been rescheduled twice or more, appointments within 12 hours, or appointments that have already passed. ⏰🛠️

This fantastic tool is accessible through a USCIS online account, regardless of whether the case was submitted online or by mail. While the USCIS Contact Center remains an option for rescheduling, users are strongly encouraged to utilize the new tool to save time, improve efficiency, and reduce call volume. ⏱️📞

In addition to the tool, USCIS is providing guidance in the USCIS Policy Manual, explaining how the agency considers "good cause" for timely requests to reschedule biometric services appointments. Valid reasons include illness, medical appointments, previously planned travel, significant life events, transportation difficulties, inability to obtain leave from employment or caregiver responsibilities, and late or undelivered appointment notices. 📋👥

Please note that untimely rescheduling requests can only be made to the USCIS Contact Center and are not accepted via mail, in-person at USCIS offices, or through the myUSCIS online rescheduling tool.

USCIS continues to prioritize customer service, making progress towards a more accessible and efficient immigration process.

🌍❤️ If you have a pending case or are an accredited representative, use this tool.

Zara

11/07/2023

🔔 Approval Received for I-130 Petition! 🔔

A success story: One of my clients, a U.S. citizen, filed an I-130 petition on behalf of her father, who is a Russian citizen. After diligently working on their case, we received the much-awaited approval in just 11 months! 🎉

What was next:
Within 2 weeks, we received an email from the NVC (National Visa Center) notifying us that they have created an account for us to begin the next phase of the process with them. They provided us with a case number and invoice ID number.

Initially, the case was assigned to the MOS category, indicating that it would be processed at the U.S. consulate in Russia (despite its closure at the moment). However, after one week, we received another email informing us that the case number had been changed to WRW, indicating that it was now assigned to Poland. We were well aware that the parents of U.S. citizens can choose either Uzbekistan or Kazakhstan as their processing location.

So, without delay, we proactively contacted the NVC and requested a transfer of their case to Almaty, Kazakhstan. Our request was approved within just 3 days! 🌍✈️

The entire process of getting Documentarily Qualified after submission took us a smooth and efficient 2 weeks. Now, we eagerly await the transfer of their case to Almaty, Kazakhstan, where the final steps towards the visa interview will take place. 🤞

I understand that many of you have questions about the transfer request process. It's important to note that not every request gets approved. The main reasons for rejection often revolve around incorrect email communication or an overbooked consulate. However, with our experience and attention to detail, we ensure that all necessary steps are taken correctly and promptly. ✉️🗂️

If you're looking for professional assistance with your immigration journey, I am here to guide you every step of the way. Don't hesitate to reach out and let's discuss how I can help you.🌟🤝

Zara Gottlieb

28/06/2023

Greetings, dear friends! 🌎👋🏼

Are you a Lawful Permanent Resident (LPR) of the U.S. and recently welcomed a new member in your family overseas? 🎉👶

You might be wondering, can your child enter the U.S.? 🇺🇸✈️ Well, here's the good news! Your child, born abroad, may enter the U.S. without a visa! 🙌🏼✨ Yes, you heard it right!

Here's how it works: If your child is accompanying you on your first return to the U.S. within two years of their birth, they can enter without a visa! 🛬🎈

However, remember this! You must provide reliable documentation 📑🔍 that confirms your parent-child relationship. So, don't forget to pack those essential documents! 👌🏼

Need more information? Feel free to DM 📩 or leave a comment! I am here to assist you on your immigration journey! 🌉

Please note, dear friends, while I'm an experienced immigration consultant, I am not a lawyer. 🚫⚖️ My posts are intended to provide you with general information and should not be considered legal advice.

The information shared here is based on the Department of State website, which is a trusted and reliable source. However, always remember that individual circumstances can vary widely. For specific legal advice or concerns, it's best to consult directly with an immigration attorney. 🧾👨‍⚖️

Stay tuned for more updates and helpful tips! 📲

18/06/2023

Happy Father's Day, everyone! 🎉 Today we honor the father figures who've made a difference in our lives. But do you know how this special day began? 🤔 Let's take a trip back in time.

Father's Day has its roots in Spokane, Washington, back in 1910. A woman named Sonora Smart Dodd was inspired by a Mother's Day sermon and wanted to honor her own father, a Civil War veteran and single dad who raised six children. 🏡💖

Dodd suggested June 5th, her father's birthday, but the celebration was postponed to the third Sunday in June due to planning difficulties. Despite this, it wasn't until 1972, when President Nixon officially recognized Father's Day as a national holiday, that it became a permanent fixture on our calendars. 🗓️🎈

How do we celebrate? 🥳 It varies, but it's all about showing love and gratitude. Some folks gift thoughtful presents or handwritten cards, others plan a special meal or a family outing. Sports games, BBQs, and fishing trips are popular, too. 🎁🥘⚾🎣 And of course, many simply enjoy a quiet day with family, creating memories that will last a lifetime.

So, whether your Father's Day involves a grand gesture or a simple 'I love you', let's make it count. After all, it's the thought that matters most. ❤️

Here's to all the dads, stepdads, granddads, and father figures who've touched our lives - Happy Father's Day! 🎉 "

16/06/2023

📊 Check out this handy infographic that shows different types of immigration forms! 🌍📝

Navigating through the immigration process can be complex, but understanding the various forms is essential. Whether you're applying for a visa, seeking permanent residency, or requesting a change of status, these forms play a crucial role in your journey.

This infographic provides an overview of some commonly used immigration forms, including:
1️⃣ Form I-130: Petition for Alien Relative
2️⃣ Form I-485: Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status
3️⃣ Form N-400: Application for Naturalization
4️⃣ Form DS-260: Immigrant Visa Electronic Application
5️⃣ Form I-765: Application for Employment Authorization

Remember, each form has its specific requirements and purposes. It's essential to carefully fill out and submit the correct form to avoid delays or complications in your immigration process.

If you need assistance with immigration forms, translation services, or guidance throughout the application process, I'm here to help as an immigration consultant. Reach out to me for professional support.

I can make your immigration journey smoother and more successful! ✨🗺️

15/06/2023

📢 Great news from USCIS! 🎉✨ They are expanding premium processing for applicants seeking to change their status to F, M, or J nonimmigrant status! 📝🌟

Starting June 13, USCIS will accept Form I-907 requests for applicants with pending Form I-539, who are seeking a change of status to F, M, or J status. And from June 26, they will accept Form I-907 requests when filed together with Form I-539. 📅

Premium processing will be available in phases specifically for change of status requests. Please note that it won't be applicable for individuals seeking an extension of stay in M-1 or M-2 status. 🛑

Remember, you must submit Form I-907 the same way you submit Form I-539. If you mail a paper Form I-539, make sure to mail a paper Form I-907. And if you submit Form I-539 online, submit Form I-907 online too. 📮💻
Applicants must also submit their biometrics before premium processing can begin. USCIS will not start the processing time until all the applicants included on the Form I-539 have submitted their biometrics. 📸

To file Form I-907 online, create a USCIS online account, which is free and offers a convenient and secure method to submit forms, pay fees, and track the status of your immigration request. You can even communicate with USCIS through a secure inbox and respond to Requests for Evidence online. 💼🔒

This expansion of premium processing is part of USCIS' efforts to increase efficiency and reduce burdens in the immigration system. It's a phased approach to ensure compliance with the Emergency Stopgap USCIS Stabilization Act. 🌐✅

Let's stay informed and make the immigration process smoother with these improvements! 🌟🌎

14/06/2023

Happy Flag Day, everyone! 🇺🇸🎉 Today, we celebrate not just the Stars and Stripes that flutter freely in the breeze, but also what our American flag represents - unity, liberty, and the enduring spirit of our nation. 🗽

Our flag has witnessed the progression of history, braving the winds of change, and has remained a symbol of hope and freedom for generations. From the starlit blue of justice to the bold red stripes of valor, and the pristine white signifying purity, each element tells a story of our great nation. 🌟

It's amazing to think about how our flag has evolved since the Continental Congress first approved the design on June 14, 1777. The 13 original stripes and 13 stars have grown to 50, symbolizing the strength and growth of our union.🤔💭

On this day, let's celebrate by proudly displaying our flags. Let's remind ourselves of the principles our flag stands for - the rights, liberties, and freedoms that are available to all citizens. Let's reflect on the sacrifices of those who've served and protected these values.🎗️

In the spirit of this day, I want to extend my services to those who dream of being part of this great nation. As an Immigration Consultant, I am here to help navigate the complex process of immigration. Whether it's paperwork, applications, or simply needing advice, my door is always open. 🏢📄🖊️

This Flag Day, let's remember what it means to be American, and extend a helping hand to those wishing to join our diverse and vibrant community. Let's unite under the red, white, and blue today and always! Happy Flag Day! 🇺🇸🎉💕

Please feel free to reach out if you or someone you know needs assistance with immigration processes. Let's work together towards building dreams! 🌟друзья, подписывайтесь на мой новый аккаунт только на английском :

14/06/2023

Greetings everyone! 👋 I'm thrilled to introduce myself as your trusty Immigration Consultant, with over a decade's worth of experience. I've spent 11+ exciting years helping people make their American dream a reality. 🗽🇺🇸

I am registered and bonded with the Secretary of State of California, so rest assured, you're in competent hands. 📝🔒

Navigating immigration paperwork can be overwhelming. That's where I step in, offering my expertise in filling out forms, translating documents, and assembling cases. Please note: While I am not a lawyer and cannot offer legal advice, I can certainly help you make the process smoother and less daunting. 👍📋🖊

One of the things that sets me apart is my multilingual ability - I can communicate in 5 languages! That's right, five! 🗣🌎 This makes it much easier to assist a diverse group of people, and it's a part of my job that I truly enjoy.

Over the years, I've had the privilege of helping countless individuals bring their loved ones to the USA, secure green cards, become US citizens, and much more. Family reunification, new beginnings, and life-changing opportunities - that's what I am passionate about! 🌟👪🌍

I manage several social media accounts for Russian speakers, providing guidance and support throughout their immigration journey. Now, I'm eager to expand my reach to English speakers as well. Let's broaden our horizons together! 🔄🇺🇸

Feel free to reach out, ask questions, or simply share your immigration story. I look forward to embarking on this journey with you. Here's to new beginnings! 🍾🎉 Zara