Immigration Update: March 2018

Foreign Students on OPT who are Planning to Change Status to H-1B Should Consult with Their Immigration Counsel Prior to Traveling Abroad

If you are an F-1 student who has applied for or who is working on optional practical training (OPT) and who will be the beneficiary of a petition to change status to H-1B in this year’s H-1B cap filing season, it is important that you consult with your immigration attorney prior to international travel.  Travel abroad could have an effect on your ability to change status to H-1B.  Your immigration attorney will go over the risks and requirements with you.

USCIS to Temporarily Suspend Premium Processing of FY 2019 H-1B Cap Petitions

USCIS will temporarily suspect premium processing of all FY 2019 H-1B cap filings starting April 2, 2018.  The suspension is expected to last until September 10, 2018 and is similar to USCIS’ suspension of premium processing at the same time last year.

 DHS to Rescind H-4 Work Authorization Program

DHS announced plans to publish a proposed rule to rescind the H-4 spousal work authorization regulation in June 2018.  This means that the H-4 EAD program will remain in place while DHS completes a months-long regulatory review process.  For now, DHS will continue to accept and process H-4 EAD applications.

TPS for Syria: Re-Registration Period Opens

Temporary Protected Status for Syria is extended for 18 months, from April 1, 2018 to September 30, 2019.  Current TPS beneficiaries will have through May 4, 2018 to re-register their status.