December 5th, 2024 at 05:27 am

USCIS Revises Green Card Process: New Form I-693 Requirement

In a significant update for those applying for permanent residency in the United States, the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has implemented a new requirement. Certain applicants must now submit Form I-693, the Report of Immigration Medical Examination and Vaccination Record, alongside Form I-485, the Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status.

This change is designed to streamline the application process and minimize delays caused by additional documentation requests.

Understanding Form I-485

Form I-485 is a vital document for non-U.S. citizens who wish to adjust their status to become lawful permanent residents, commonly known as green card holders. This form allows individuals already present in the U.S. to apply for permanent residency without needing to leave and re-enter the country.

The main purposes of Form I-485 include:

• Register for Permanent Residency: This applies to those seeking a green card while living in the United States.
• Adjust Status: Temporary visa holders may use this form to transition to permanent resident status.

Key Benefits of Form I-485

Filing Form I-485 offers several advantages:

• Work Authorization: Applicants can request employment authorization while their application is pending.
• Travel Flexibility: With an approved travel document, applicants can travel outside the U.S. during processing.
• Family-Based and Employment-Based Applications: Form I-485 accommodates both categories, allowing individuals to adjust their status based on family relationships or job offers.

New Medical Form Requirement: What You Need to Know

Importance of Form I-693

Form I-693 is a health-related document that ensures applicants meet medical requirements for admission to the United States. To complete this form, applicants must undergo a medical examination conducted by a USCIS-designated civil surgeon. They must also provide proof of necessary vaccinations.

Who Needs to Submit Form I-693?

Several categories of applicants are required to submit Form I-693:

• Individuals subject to health-related grounds of inadmissibility.
• Those needing to demonstrate compliance with vaccination requirements.
• Applicants under family-based, employment-based, or humanitarian categories.

Filing Requirements

Mandatory Submission

Form I-693 must now accompany Form I-485 at the time of filing. If an applicant fails to submit both forms together, it may result in the rejection of the I-485 application.

Updated Instructions

USCIS has revised the instructions for Form I-485, emphasizing the necessity of including Form I-693 at the time of submission. This requirement aims to prevent processing delays.

Purpose of the Change

The new requirement seeks to reduce the number of Requests for Evidence (RFEs) issued by USCIS. RFEs can significantly prolong the adjudication process, leading to delays in green card approvals. By ensuring that all necessary medical documentation is submitted upfront, USCIS aims to expedite case processing and enhance overall efficiency.

Medical Examination Process

To meet the new requirements, applicants must consult a USCIS-designated civil surgeon for their medical examination. The examination typically covers:

• Vaccinations: Applicants must provide proof of vaccination against diseases such as measles, mumps, rubella, and more.
• Health Assessment: The exam includes screening for communicable diseases and other health-related grounds of inadmissibility.

For further details on the medical examination requirements, applicants can refer to Volume 8, Part B, Chapter 3 of the USCIS Policy Manual.

Tips for a Successful Application

To ensure a smooth application process, consider the following tips:

• Schedule Early: Book your medical examination well in advance to avoid delays. This proactive approach can save time.
• Double-Check Forms: Ensure that both Form I-485 and Form I-693 are complete and signed before submission. Incomplete forms can lead to rejections.
• Follow USCIS Guidelines: Adhere to the updated instructions provided by USCIS. This practice can help prevent rejections or RFEs.

Further Thoughts

USCIS’s updated policy, which requires Form I-693 to be submitted with Form I-485, marks a crucial change for those seeking permanent residency. By submitting both forms together, applicants can avoid unnecessary delays and increase their chances of a successful adjustment of the status process.

In summary, understanding these new requirements is essential for all applicants. By being prepared and following the guidelines, individuals can navigate the green card application process more efficiently. This proactive approach will ultimately help applicants achieve their goal of becoming lawful permanent residents in the United States.

H-1B Visa Cap Reached for FY 2025: Key Updates for Applicants

The H-1B visa cap for fiscal year 2025 has officially reached its limit, affecting many applicants. This article will provide essential updates on cap-exempt petitions, non-selection notifications, and shifts in sponsorship trends. The United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) announced this significant milestone, which includes 65,000 visas under the general cap.

Additionally, it comprises 20,000 visas reserved for applicants with advanced degrees from U.S. institutions, known as the master’s cap.

Ongoing Petitions Still Accepted

Even though the cap has been reached, USCIS continues to process specific H-1B visa petitions. These include petitions to:

• Extend the stay of current H-1B holders.
• Modify employment terms for existing H-1B workers.
• Facilitate changes in employers or allow concurrent employment.

Current H-1B holders can adjust their employment conditions without worrying about the cap. This flexibility is crucial for maintaining workforce stability.

Non-Selection Notifications Underway

For those who were not selected in the lottery, USCIS will notify applicants through their online accounts. The status for non-selected registrations will read:

• Not Selected: Not eligible to file an H-1B cap petition based on this registration.

This clear communication helps applicants understand their status and plan their next steps.

Cap-Exempt Petitions Still Available

While the general cap is closed, cap-exempt petitions remain open for certain categories. USCIS will accept these petitions for:

• Non-profit organizations and research institutions.
• Current H-1B workers who are changing employers or taking on additional jobs.

These exemptions provide valuable opportunities for those who still seek to work in the United States.

Decline in H-1B Sponsorships

Recent data from USCIS highlights a notable decline in H-1B sponsorships by major U.S. companies. Although Indian nationals continue to receive the majority of H-1B visas, approvals from leading tech firms have decreased significantly.

Notable Changes in Sponsorship Trends

Amazon has historically been the largest H-1B sponsor. However, its approvals dropped sharply from over 11,000 in 2023 to just above 9,000 in 2024. This decline indicates a shift in hiring strategies.

Similarly, companies like Infosys and Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) have reported reduced approvals. This trend suggests that many firms are reassessing their talent acquisition approaches.

Impact on the Tech Industry

The reduction in H-1B sponsorships may signal a broader change in talent acquisition within the tech sector. Many companies might be shifting their focus toward hiring domestic talent or exploring alternative visa programs. This shift could impact the availability of specialized skills in the U.S. job market.

Conclusion

The H-1B cap for FY 2025 has been reached, but opportunities still exist for current H-1B workers to extend or modify their status. Employers and applicants should actively explore cap-exempt options. Staying informed about evolving sponsorship trends in the U.S. is essential for navigating the changing landscape.

In summary, while the cap poses challenges, there are still pathways available for skilled workers seeking opportunities in the United States. Understanding the current situation will help applicants make informed decisions moving forward.