moonrah
08-27 10:41 AM
Does anybody know which is the current processing date for audited PERM cases? DOL claims March -May 2007 PDs, but I personalley know people filed in Oct 2007 and got audited due to Fragomen are approved. And also can somebody confirm if there is only one processing center (Atlanta) for PERM processing
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slowwin
06-11 08:36 AM
Hi,
vis-a-vis immigration, the burden of proof is on us not on the USCIS, reputed attorney like murthy always suggest to keep copies of I-94s at each stage to show proof of maintenance of status.
Try to collate as much info as possible. Since you have such a long history (H1-B etc) at each step of extension or transfer you must have submitted copies of original H1 documents valid at that time and also passport copies too, go back to those attorney/(s) and request copies form their files. As far as I-20's are concerned you need to talk to your school to get copies.
Thanks,
slowwin
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
DISCLAIMER: This not a legal advise. Please consult your attorney.
vis-a-vis immigration, the burden of proof is on us not on the USCIS, reputed attorney like murthy always suggest to keep copies of I-94s at each stage to show proof of maintenance of status.
Try to collate as much info as possible. Since you have such a long history (H1-B etc) at each step of extension or transfer you must have submitted copies of original H1 documents valid at that time and also passport copies too, go back to those attorney/(s) and request copies form their files. As far as I-20's are concerned you need to talk to your school to get copies.
Thanks,
slowwin
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
DISCLAIMER: This not a legal advise. Please consult your attorney.
gc_wannabe
06-17 09:12 PM
TOTALLY unknown...
No one knows what they look at and won't look at while deciding on your I485. If you one of the "chosen" one, you may get called for personal interview and I have heard lots of horror stories about the stuff they asked at the interview. At the same most of the people get the GC without hitch.
So, the morale of the story is stop worrying. There is nothing you can do/prepare to effect decision on your I-485. Since you have played by book and assuming you don't have any law related issues, you should be fine.
Cheers
ArkBird
Thank you.
No one knows what they look at and won't look at while deciding on your I485. If you one of the "chosen" one, you may get called for personal interview and I have heard lots of horror stories about the stuff they asked at the interview. At the same most of the people get the GC without hitch.
So, the morale of the story is stop worrying. There is nothing you can do/prepare to effect decision on your I-485. Since you have played by book and assuming you don't have any law related issues, you should be fine.
Cheers
ArkBird
Thank you.
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qwert_47
09-25 04:34 PM
I am a Master's student and had applied for H1B through a consultant under master quota 2007. I was devastated when the consultant told me today that my H1B was not approved. When i checked online with my WAC no, as expected it said that a decision was mailed to the employer which in most cases means H1B denied.
I have OPT left until dec 07. I haven't yet found a job while on OPT but have been applying for jobs rigorously. I was really banking on the H1B visa for getting a job and then transferring it over to whoever hires me.
With my H1B not approved, I am totally clueless now. Please advice if my H1B application can be reconsidered/re-appealed/ resubmitted. Any other options/suggestions welcome.
I have OPT left until dec 07. I haven't yet found a job while on OPT but have been applying for jobs rigorously. I was really banking on the H1B visa for getting a job and then transferring it over to whoever hires me.
With my H1B not approved, I am totally clueless now. Please advice if my H1B application can be reconsidered/re-appealed/ resubmitted. Any other options/suggestions welcome.
more...
tonyHK12
11-30 09:14 PM
We need to get all these businesses to join together with Immigration voice and support us by lobbying and funding.
No Great H-1b will come here if its going to take 10-20 years to get a Green card.
I would suggest, lets have another action item to write to these companies about IV and ask for their help for Legal Immigrants that everyone needs.
This is a big thing that is missing so far.
See how the president of the Agricultural board, unions appear on TV asking for support for illegals and also get invited to Congress.
No Great H-1b will come here if its going to take 10-20 years to get a Green card.
I would suggest, lets have another action item to write to these companies about IV and ask for their help for Legal Immigrants that everyone needs.
This is a big thing that is missing so far.
See how the president of the Agricultural board, unions appear on TV asking for support for illegals and also get invited to Congress.
austindesi
07-15 11:19 AM
I am in Austin, Texas.
Will be there for rally in Houston. I am surprised to see very few replies for Texas chapter. There is only 1 reply from Austin and as we know, Austin has significant desi hi-tech crowd. Let's try to do something in Texas. How about organizing rally at State Capitol Building in Austin?
Will be there for rally in Houston. I am surprised to see very few replies for Texas chapter. There is only 1 reply from Austin and as we know, Austin has significant desi hi-tech crowd. Let's try to do something in Texas. How about organizing rally at State Capitol Building in Austin?
more...
invincibleasian
02-21 12:26 AM
invincibleasian :
Could you please share your experience with FOIA application for I-140. Did you finally get the copy ?
Also, what all document you need to apply for it ?
I am planning to do that since my employer denied me for getting I-140 copy.
Appreciate your resposne.
Fill out the G-639 form and follow the instructions. Write a covering note clearly indicating the documents yu need and include information like lin numbers etc if available. get it notarized and mail it to the address in the instructions. yu recv a application recvd note within 20 buss days. this contains a number which you can use to track yur request. I am still waiting for my request to be completed since it has been placed on the complex track!
Could you please share your experience with FOIA application for I-140. Did you finally get the copy ?
Also, what all document you need to apply for it ?
I am planning to do that since my employer denied me for getting I-140 copy.
Appreciate your resposne.
Fill out the G-639 form and follow the instructions. Write a covering note clearly indicating the documents yu need and include information like lin numbers etc if available. get it notarized and mail it to the address in the instructions. yu recv a application recvd note within 20 buss days. this contains a number which you can use to track yur request. I am still waiting for my request to be completed since it has been placed on the complex track!
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optimystic
05-12 08:36 PM
There are certain things that money cannot buy [for everything else there is Master card :) ].
Seriously, If $2000 dollars would buy you a GC (guaranteed) then I think most (> 90%) of the people on this forum would have gone for that (or atleast convince their employers to part with that amount for a guaranteed ROI)
It would be good to get some kind of insight into the thought process of IV core/lead team and how they think they can put a million dollars to effective use?
I mean can we lobby/cultivate our own caucus (not cactus :D) from the ground up in the congress etc, who can work for our cause? What other such effective things can be done?
Any kind of roadmap/plan of action that would probably help generate an interest and convince atleast some people to start donating.
Just saw this on cnet .
http://www.news.com/8301-10784_3-9941962-7.html?tag=nefd.top
"The Hispanic Caucus sees it as a bargaining chip to get what they want, which is comprehensive immigration reform, amnesty for illegal immigrants, whatever you want to call it," Fishman said. "Until the Democratic leadership allows legislation (related to H-1Bs) to go to the floor on its own merits, that's the situation we have here."
Though this is only about H1-B, but I would guess, that caucus would be looking at even other legal immigration/GC related proposals, amendments that come thru and try their best to piggy back on them to further their own agenda. To be able to effectively push legal immigration related laws/changes on their own merit and not held back in one common basket, we might need an equally powerful legal immigration/H1B caucus out there.
But how to get there? Will million dollars help?
Thats the million dollar question currently on everyone's mind I guess :D
Seriously, If $2000 dollars would buy you a GC (guaranteed) then I think most (> 90%) of the people on this forum would have gone for that (or atleast convince their employers to part with that amount for a guaranteed ROI)
It would be good to get some kind of insight into the thought process of IV core/lead team and how they think they can put a million dollars to effective use?
I mean can we lobby/cultivate our own caucus (not cactus :D) from the ground up in the congress etc, who can work for our cause? What other such effective things can be done?
Any kind of roadmap/plan of action that would probably help generate an interest and convince atleast some people to start donating.
Just saw this on cnet .
http://www.news.com/8301-10784_3-9941962-7.html?tag=nefd.top
"The Hispanic Caucus sees it as a bargaining chip to get what they want, which is comprehensive immigration reform, amnesty for illegal immigrants, whatever you want to call it," Fishman said. "Until the Democratic leadership allows legislation (related to H-1Bs) to go to the floor on its own merits, that's the situation we have here."
Though this is only about H1-B, but I would guess, that caucus would be looking at even other legal immigration/GC related proposals, amendments that come thru and try their best to piggy back on them to further their own agenda. To be able to effectively push legal immigration related laws/changes on their own merit and not held back in one common basket, we might need an equally powerful legal immigration/H1B caucus out there.
But how to get there? Will million dollars help?
Thats the million dollar question currently on everyone's mind I guess :D
more...
ilikekilo
05-05 11:42 AM
Wasnt there a recent settled law suit that could evnetually force USCIS to consider and work on a petition if its pending for more than 180 days?
Then I suppose this non concurrent priocessing may be a good thing...isnt it?
I still cant fathom what would be the real consequences of this non concurrent processing..anyone?
going to the comments section, I believe its just a "process" to go thru...
I did submit comments when they proposed fee hike for many gc applications like 485, 140 etc.. they receveid lot of comments BUT they went ahead and increased the fee anwyays...:)
Then I suppose this non concurrent priocessing may be a good thing...isnt it?
I still cant fathom what would be the real consequences of this non concurrent processing..anyone?
going to the comments section, I believe its just a "process" to go thru...
I did submit comments when they proposed fee hike for many gc applications like 485, 140 etc.. they receveid lot of comments BUT they went ahead and increased the fee anwyays...:)
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gcgreen
12-08 12:58 PM
What is your Bachelors degree in? I know of folks who majored in Psychology but got an MS in Computer Science. I also "heard" of folks with a high school degree or History major who are sought after software engineers. It's a free country, the answer depends on your particular situation, skills and experience.
In particular: (1) what is your educational background, please be precise, and (2) what is your current work experience? again, "non-engineering" is very vague. please be precise.
Hi All,
I have come to this forum to ask for some advise because this is one of the forums where lot of the visitors are engineers, and most of them work in computers related fields.
I have a stable job( non-engineering) and I am making a decent salary(more than 200K/year) right now but I just hate my job.I desperatly want to change my field.
I am hoping to get my green card next year( PD 06/2004 NSC EB 2 India).I need your advise on how to get into computer/software/IT field.
I do not have an engineering background but am willing to go back to school. I would like to start working on this transition while I wait for my GC.
My questions are -
1- Is there a shortcut of getting into any computer/software or related field ?training,short courses, anything!
2- If I have to go back to school what major will I need to take? Any specific requirements?
3-I have a bachelors but not in engineering- can I go straight for a MS in a computer related field or will I have to do a bachelors in Computers first.
4-How's the current job market and and also if you have any idea/view about future job scenario?
5-Have any of you made/seen such a transition at my stage?- I am 35, married with working spouse.
6-Also if somebody can give an idea about salaries in computer related fields?
Have a good day guys and thank you in advance for your views.
In particular: (1) what is your educational background, please be precise, and (2) what is your current work experience? again, "non-engineering" is very vague. please be precise.
Hi All,
I have come to this forum to ask for some advise because this is one of the forums where lot of the visitors are engineers, and most of them work in computers related fields.
I have a stable job( non-engineering) and I am making a decent salary(more than 200K/year) right now but I just hate my job.I desperatly want to change my field.
I am hoping to get my green card next year( PD 06/2004 NSC EB 2 India).I need your advise on how to get into computer/software/IT field.
I do not have an engineering background but am willing to go back to school. I would like to start working on this transition while I wait for my GC.
My questions are -
1- Is there a shortcut of getting into any computer/software or related field ?training,short courses, anything!
2- If I have to go back to school what major will I need to take? Any specific requirements?
3-I have a bachelors but not in engineering- can I go straight for a MS in a computer related field or will I have to do a bachelors in Computers first.
4-How's the current job market and and also if you have any idea/view about future job scenario?
5-Have any of you made/seen such a transition at my stage?- I am 35, married with working spouse.
6-Also if somebody can give an idea about salaries in computer related fields?
Have a good day guys and thank you in advance for your views.
more...
Beta_mle
02-20 06:52 PM
Since you already got H4 extensions with attached I-94s, current status is not an issue. The issue will be with his I-485 application as he was out-of-status when it was applied. You should try and go to the US consulate outside US and get a H4 stamped. In my opinion, getting new VISAs will not be an issue since it was an honest mistake on your part and as soon as you realized it you applied for extensions and you should acknowledge it in your visa application. You have to get this done before USCIS issues an RFE asking for your son's status information. For how long was your son out of status. The duration of invalid status has different implications. In any case, before leaving US, you should take advise from a good attorney. Once your son gets H4 visa stamped and re-enters US on a valid H4 status, his previous out-of-status issue will be void. Please note that re-entering on AP does not void earlier out-of-status.
Thanks for your response, Roseball. I really appreciate this community where we can share information and ideas and people like you who share. I gave you green by the way.
Upon further review, I have realized that his 485 was filed when he was in status, ie after his H4 had been extended again. I got mixed up because we had a previous set of 485 applications which were withdrawn on a technicality and when answering previously I looked at the wrong one. The current pending applications happened after we had re-applied and were approved with no trouble at all. I surmise therefore based on your previous post that we should be in good standing and have no trouble when it comes to adjudication? What do you think? I might still consider going to get a stamp, just in case, or is this overkill?
Thanks!
Thanks for your response, Roseball. I really appreciate this community where we can share information and ideas and people like you who share. I gave you green by the way.
Upon further review, I have realized that his 485 was filed when he was in status, ie after his H4 had been extended again. I got mixed up because we had a previous set of 485 applications which were withdrawn on a technicality and when answering previously I looked at the wrong one. The current pending applications happened after we had re-applied and were approved with no trouble at all. I surmise therefore based on your previous post that we should be in good standing and have no trouble when it comes to adjudication? What do you think? I might still consider going to get a stamp, just in case, or is this overkill?
Thanks!
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vinayskadam
11-23 08:49 PM
@sameer2730 :
So when you made the mistake "Country Of Citizenship" on your EAD eFile, how did you get that corrected? Did you send in a "Request For Correction" along with your supporting documentation to USCIS? Did they send you an RFE or did they accept your docs and approved your EAD?
Sent the request for correction with my supporting documents.
-- I have done the same mistake, so can you please tell what exactly you did. I mean did you call the helpline and is there any format in which we need to "Request for correction".
And once you sent the "Request for Correction", was it ok. Or is there any problem with the correction.
Please help me with your advice. I am completely in dilemma as to what needs to done..
Thanks in advance..
Vinay
So when you made the mistake "Country Of Citizenship" on your EAD eFile, how did you get that corrected? Did you send in a "Request For Correction" along with your supporting documentation to USCIS? Did they send you an RFE or did they accept your docs and approved your EAD?
Sent the request for correction with my supporting documents.
-- I have done the same mistake, so can you please tell what exactly you did. I mean did you call the helpline and is there any format in which we need to "Request for correction".
And once you sent the "Request for Correction", was it ok. Or is there any problem with the correction.
Please help me with your advice. I am completely in dilemma as to what needs to done..
Thanks in advance..
Vinay
more...
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GCwaitforever
11-17 09:00 PM
My Dear friends I need your valuable suggestion. I have decided and fixed my mind to return home after 8 years as I recently got laid off after working 4 years in same company. My EB2 LC was pending last three years Dallas backlog. My previous employer will mail me W2 to my India home address. I do not know how to file Tax from India. Do I need to buy Turbo Tax software before leaving home? You can understand my present scenario. Any kind input will be much appreciated.
Very sorry to hear about the layoff. Filing tax from India is not a big deal. Many tax web sites accept credit cards or let you pay the tax filing fee out of your incoming refund or your bank account. You do not even have to wait for your W-2 to pay taxes if you read your last paycheck carefully.
Very sorry to hear about the layoff. Filing tax from India is not a big deal. Many tax web sites accept credit cards or let you pay the tax filing fee out of your incoming refund or your bank account. You do not even have to wait for your W-2 to pay taxes if you read your last paycheck carefully.
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shsk
07-16 11:40 PM
thk u very much
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admin
05-29 08:48 AM
hi, thanks for info. But one more question. Yes, now and then a date in Oct' 2006 is showing up. But, it will take time to fill all the forms after i proceed. What are the chances that i will get that date when other people are competing in real-time? Please post a reply.
As per http://www.murthyindia.com/content/em_appt.html if you're working in the US and are returning back to work, you can qualify for emergency quota. Is this a viable option? My travel dates in Aug / Sep / Oct are not confirmed yet and so I am planning to take an emergency appointment only.
As per http://www.murthyindia.com/content/em_appt.html if you're working in the US and are returning back to work, you can qualify for emergency quota. Is this a viable option? My travel dates in Aug / Sep / Oct are not confirmed yet and so I am planning to take an emergency appointment only.
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Blog Feeds
02-01 08:30 AM
Summary
(LINK TO FULL REPORT BELOW)
Congress created the H-1B program in 1990 to enable U.S. employers to hire temporary, foreign workers in specialty occupations. The law capped the number of H-1B visas issued per fiscal year at 65,000. Since then, the cap has fluctuated with legislative changes. Congress asked GAO to assess the impact of the cap on the ability of domestic companies to innovate, while ensuring that U.S. workers are not disadvantaged. In response, GAO examined what is known about (1) employer demand for H-1B workers; (2) how the cap affects employer costs and decisions to move operations overseas; (3) H-1B worker characteristics and the potential impact of raising the cap; and (4) how well requirements of the H-1B program protect U.S. workers. GAO analyzed data from 4 federal agencies; interviewed agency officials, experts, and H-1B employers; and reviewed agency documents and literature.
In most years, demand for new H-1B workers exceeded the cap: From 2000 to 2009, demand for new H-1B workers tended to exceed the cap, as measured by the numbers of initial petitions submitted by employers who are subject to the cap. There is no way to precisely determine the level of any unmet demand among employers, since they tend to stop submitting (and the Department of Homeland Security stops tracking) petitions once the cap is reached each year. When we consider all initial petitions, including those from universities and research institutions that are not subject to the cap, we find that demand for new H-1B workers is largely driven by a small number of employers. Over the decade, over 14 percent of all initial petitions were submitted by cap-exempt employers, and only a few employers (fewer than 1 percent) garnered over one-quarter of all H-1B approvals. Most interviewed companies said the H-1B cap and program created costs, but were not factors in their decisions to move R&D overseas: The 34 H-1B employers GAO interviewed reported that the cap has created some additional costs, though the cap's impact depended on the size and maturity of the company. For example, in years when visas were denied by the cap, most large firms reported finding other (sometimes more costly) ways to hire their preferred job candidates. On the other hand, small firms were more likely to fill their positions with different candidates, which they said resulted in delays and sometimes economic losses, particularly for firms in rapidly changing technology fields. Limitations in agency data and systems hinder tracking the cap and H-1B workers over time: The total number of H-1B workers in the U.S. at any one time--and information about the length of their stay--is unknown, because (1) data systems among the various agencies that process such individuals are not linked so individuals cannot be readily tracked, and (2) H-1B workers are not assigned a unique identifier that would allow for tracking them over time--particularly if and when their visa status changes. Restricted agency oversight and statutory changes weaken protections for U.S. workers: Elements of the H-1B program that could serve as worker protections--such as the requirement to pay prevailing wages, the visa's temporary status, and the cap itself--are weakened by several factors. First, program oversight is fragmented and restricted. Second, the H-1B program lacks a legal provision for holding employers accountable to program requirements when they obtain H-1B workers through a staffing company. Third, statutory changes made to the H-1B program have, in combination and in effect, increased the pool of H-1B workers beyond the cap and lowered the bar for eligibility. Taken together, the multifaceted challenges identified in this report show that the H-1B program, as currently structured, may not be used to its full potential and may be detrimental in some cases. This report offers several matters for congressional consideration, including that Congress re-examine key H-1B program provisions and make appropriate changes as needed. GAO also recommends that the Departments of Homeland Security and Labor take steps to improve efficiency, flexibility, and monitoring of the H-1B program. Homeland Security disagreed with two recommendations and one matter, citing logistical and other challenges; however, we believe such challenges can be overcome. Labor did not respond to our recommendations.
Recommendations
Our recommendations from this work are listed below with a Contact for more information. Status will change from "In process" to "Open," "Closed - implemented," or "Closed - not implemented" based on our follow up work.
Director:Andrew SherrillTeam:Government Accountability Office: Education, Workforce, and Income SecurityPhone:(202) 512-7252
Matters for Congressional Consideration
Recommendation: To ensure that the H-1B program continues to meet the needs of businesses in a global economy while maintaining a balance of protections for U.S. workers, Congress may wish to consider reviewing the merits and shortcomings of key program provisions and making appropriate changes as needed. Such a review may include, but would not necessarily be limited to (1) the qualifications required for workers eligible under the H-1B program, (2) exemptions from the cap, (3) the appropriateness of H-1B hiring by staffing companies, (4) the level of the cap, and (5) the role the program should play in the U.S. immigration system in relationship to permanent residency.
Status: In process
Comments: When we determine what steps the Congress has taken, we will provide updated information.
Recommendation: To reduce duplication and fragmentation in the administration and oversight of the H-1B application process, consistent with past GAO matters for congressional consideration, Congress may wish to consider eliminating the requirement that employers first submit a Labor Condition Application (LCA) to the Department of Labor for certification, and require instead that employers submit this application along with the I-129 application to the Department of Homeland Security's U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services for review.
Status: In process
Comments: When we determine what steps the Congress has taken, we will provide updated information.
Recommendation: To improve the Department of Labor's ability to investigate and enforce employer compliance with H-1B program requirements, Congress may wish to consider granting the department subpoena power to obtain employer records during investigations under the H-1B program.
Status: In process
Comments: When we determine what steps the Congress has taken, we will provide updated information.
Recommendation: To help ensure the full protection of H-1B workers employed through staffing companies, Congress may wish to consider holding the employer where an H-1B visa holder performs work accountable for meeting program requirements to the same extent as the employer that submitted the LCA form.
Status: In process
Comments: When we determine what steps the Congress has taken, we will provide updated information.
Recommendations for Executive Action
Recommendation: To help ensure that the number of new H-1B workers who are subject to the cap--both entering the United States and changing to H-1B status within the United States--does not exceed the cap each year, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services should take steps to improve its tracking of the number of approved H-1B applications and the number of issued visas under the cap by fully leveraging the transformation effort currently under way, which involves the adoption of an electronic petition processing system that will be linked to the Department of State's tracking system. Such steps should ensure that linkages to the Department of State's tracking system will provide Homeland Security with timely access to data on visa issuances, and that mechanisms for tracking petitions and visas against the cap are incorporated into U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services' business rules to be developed for the new electronic petition system.
Agency Affected: Department of Homeland Security
Status: In process
Comments: When we confirm what actions the agency has taken in response to this recommendation, we will provide updated information.
Recommendation: To address business concerns without undermining program integrity, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services should, to the extent permitted by its existing statutory authority, explore options for increasing the flexibility of the application process for H-1B employers, such as (1) allowing employers to rank their applications for visa candidates so that they can hire the best qualified worker for the jobs in highest need; (2) distributing the applications granted under the annual cap in allotments throughout the year (e.g. quarterly); and (3) establishing a system whereby businesses with a strong track-record of compliance with H-1B regulations may use a streamlined application process.
Agency Affected: Department of Homeland Security
Status: In process
Comments: When we confirm what actions the agency has taken in response to this recommendation, we will provide updated information.
Recommendation: To improve the transparency and oversight of the posting requirement on the Labor Condition Application (LCA), as part of its current oversight role, the Employment and Training Administration should develop and maintain a centralized Web site, accessible to the public, where businesses must post notice of the intent to hire H-1B workers. Such notices should continue to specify the job category and worksite location noted on the LCA and required by statute on current noncentralized postings.
Agency Affected: Department of Labor
Status: In process
Comments: When we confirm what actions the agency has taken in response to this recommendation, we will provide updated information.
Recommendation: To improve the efficiency and effectiveness of its investigations of employer compliance with H-1B requirements, the Employment and Training Administration should provide Labor's Wage and Hour Division searchable access to the LCA database.
Agency Affected: Department of Labor
Status: In process
Comments: When we confirm what actions the agency has taken in response to this recommendation, we will provide updated information.
VIEW FULL REPORT (http://www.gao.gov/new.items/d1126.pdf)
More... (http://ashwinsharma.com/2011/01/25/h-1b-visa-program-reforms-are-needed-to-minimize-the-risks-and-costs-of-current-program.aspx?ref=rss)
(LINK TO FULL REPORT BELOW)
Congress created the H-1B program in 1990 to enable U.S. employers to hire temporary, foreign workers in specialty occupations. The law capped the number of H-1B visas issued per fiscal year at 65,000. Since then, the cap has fluctuated with legislative changes. Congress asked GAO to assess the impact of the cap on the ability of domestic companies to innovate, while ensuring that U.S. workers are not disadvantaged. In response, GAO examined what is known about (1) employer demand for H-1B workers; (2) how the cap affects employer costs and decisions to move operations overseas; (3) H-1B worker characteristics and the potential impact of raising the cap; and (4) how well requirements of the H-1B program protect U.S. workers. GAO analyzed data from 4 federal agencies; interviewed agency officials, experts, and H-1B employers; and reviewed agency documents and literature.
In most years, demand for new H-1B workers exceeded the cap: From 2000 to 2009, demand for new H-1B workers tended to exceed the cap, as measured by the numbers of initial petitions submitted by employers who are subject to the cap. There is no way to precisely determine the level of any unmet demand among employers, since they tend to stop submitting (and the Department of Homeland Security stops tracking) petitions once the cap is reached each year. When we consider all initial petitions, including those from universities and research institutions that are not subject to the cap, we find that demand for new H-1B workers is largely driven by a small number of employers. Over the decade, over 14 percent of all initial petitions were submitted by cap-exempt employers, and only a few employers (fewer than 1 percent) garnered over one-quarter of all H-1B approvals. Most interviewed companies said the H-1B cap and program created costs, but were not factors in their decisions to move R&D overseas: The 34 H-1B employers GAO interviewed reported that the cap has created some additional costs, though the cap's impact depended on the size and maturity of the company. For example, in years when visas were denied by the cap, most large firms reported finding other (sometimes more costly) ways to hire their preferred job candidates. On the other hand, small firms were more likely to fill their positions with different candidates, which they said resulted in delays and sometimes economic losses, particularly for firms in rapidly changing technology fields. Limitations in agency data and systems hinder tracking the cap and H-1B workers over time: The total number of H-1B workers in the U.S. at any one time--and information about the length of their stay--is unknown, because (1) data systems among the various agencies that process such individuals are not linked so individuals cannot be readily tracked, and (2) H-1B workers are not assigned a unique identifier that would allow for tracking them over time--particularly if and when their visa status changes. Restricted agency oversight and statutory changes weaken protections for U.S. workers: Elements of the H-1B program that could serve as worker protections--such as the requirement to pay prevailing wages, the visa's temporary status, and the cap itself--are weakened by several factors. First, program oversight is fragmented and restricted. Second, the H-1B program lacks a legal provision for holding employers accountable to program requirements when they obtain H-1B workers through a staffing company. Third, statutory changes made to the H-1B program have, in combination and in effect, increased the pool of H-1B workers beyond the cap and lowered the bar for eligibility. Taken together, the multifaceted challenges identified in this report show that the H-1B program, as currently structured, may not be used to its full potential and may be detrimental in some cases. This report offers several matters for congressional consideration, including that Congress re-examine key H-1B program provisions and make appropriate changes as needed. GAO also recommends that the Departments of Homeland Security and Labor take steps to improve efficiency, flexibility, and monitoring of the H-1B program. Homeland Security disagreed with two recommendations and one matter, citing logistical and other challenges; however, we believe such challenges can be overcome. Labor did not respond to our recommendations.
Recommendations
Our recommendations from this work are listed below with a Contact for more information. Status will change from "In process" to "Open," "Closed - implemented," or "Closed - not implemented" based on our follow up work.
Director:Andrew SherrillTeam:Government Accountability Office: Education, Workforce, and Income SecurityPhone:(202) 512-7252
Matters for Congressional Consideration
Recommendation: To ensure that the H-1B program continues to meet the needs of businesses in a global economy while maintaining a balance of protections for U.S. workers, Congress may wish to consider reviewing the merits and shortcomings of key program provisions and making appropriate changes as needed. Such a review may include, but would not necessarily be limited to (1) the qualifications required for workers eligible under the H-1B program, (2) exemptions from the cap, (3) the appropriateness of H-1B hiring by staffing companies, (4) the level of the cap, and (5) the role the program should play in the U.S. immigration system in relationship to permanent residency.
Status: In process
Comments: When we determine what steps the Congress has taken, we will provide updated information.
Recommendation: To reduce duplication and fragmentation in the administration and oversight of the H-1B application process, consistent with past GAO matters for congressional consideration, Congress may wish to consider eliminating the requirement that employers first submit a Labor Condition Application (LCA) to the Department of Labor for certification, and require instead that employers submit this application along with the I-129 application to the Department of Homeland Security's U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services for review.
Status: In process
Comments: When we determine what steps the Congress has taken, we will provide updated information.
Recommendation: To improve the Department of Labor's ability to investigate and enforce employer compliance with H-1B program requirements, Congress may wish to consider granting the department subpoena power to obtain employer records during investigations under the H-1B program.
Status: In process
Comments: When we determine what steps the Congress has taken, we will provide updated information.
Recommendation: To help ensure the full protection of H-1B workers employed through staffing companies, Congress may wish to consider holding the employer where an H-1B visa holder performs work accountable for meeting program requirements to the same extent as the employer that submitted the LCA form.
Status: In process
Comments: When we determine what steps the Congress has taken, we will provide updated information.
Recommendations for Executive Action
Recommendation: To help ensure that the number of new H-1B workers who are subject to the cap--both entering the United States and changing to H-1B status within the United States--does not exceed the cap each year, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services should take steps to improve its tracking of the number of approved H-1B applications and the number of issued visas under the cap by fully leveraging the transformation effort currently under way, which involves the adoption of an electronic petition processing system that will be linked to the Department of State's tracking system. Such steps should ensure that linkages to the Department of State's tracking system will provide Homeland Security with timely access to data on visa issuances, and that mechanisms for tracking petitions and visas against the cap are incorporated into U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services' business rules to be developed for the new electronic petition system.
Agency Affected: Department of Homeland Security
Status: In process
Comments: When we confirm what actions the agency has taken in response to this recommendation, we will provide updated information.
Recommendation: To address business concerns without undermining program integrity, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services should, to the extent permitted by its existing statutory authority, explore options for increasing the flexibility of the application process for H-1B employers, such as (1) allowing employers to rank their applications for visa candidates so that they can hire the best qualified worker for the jobs in highest need; (2) distributing the applications granted under the annual cap in allotments throughout the year (e.g. quarterly); and (3) establishing a system whereby businesses with a strong track-record of compliance with H-1B regulations may use a streamlined application process.
Agency Affected: Department of Homeland Security
Status: In process
Comments: When we confirm what actions the agency has taken in response to this recommendation, we will provide updated information.
Recommendation: To improve the transparency and oversight of the posting requirement on the Labor Condition Application (LCA), as part of its current oversight role, the Employment and Training Administration should develop and maintain a centralized Web site, accessible to the public, where businesses must post notice of the intent to hire H-1B workers. Such notices should continue to specify the job category and worksite location noted on the LCA and required by statute on current noncentralized postings.
Agency Affected: Department of Labor
Status: In process
Comments: When we confirm what actions the agency has taken in response to this recommendation, we will provide updated information.
Recommendation: To improve the efficiency and effectiveness of its investigations of employer compliance with H-1B requirements, the Employment and Training Administration should provide Labor's Wage and Hour Division searchable access to the LCA database.
Agency Affected: Department of Labor
Status: In process
Comments: When we confirm what actions the agency has taken in response to this recommendation, we will provide updated information.
VIEW FULL REPORT (http://www.gao.gov/new.items/d1126.pdf)
More... (http://ashwinsharma.com/2011/01/25/h-1b-visa-program-reforms-are-needed-to-minimize-the-risks-and-costs-of-current-program.aspx?ref=rss)
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swarnapuri
12-23 01:32 PM
Check the message by saturnring11 in this thread. He linked the USCIS document which states that PD is retained by the employee once the I-140 is approved unless I-140 is revoked for Fraud.
http://immigrationvoice.org/forum/showthread.php?t=2368
Here is the link that he posted :
Look on Page 27 of the USCIS Press Release
http://www.uscis.gov/files/pressrelease/afm_ch22_091206R.pdf
http://immigrationvoice.org/forum/showthread.php?t=2368
Here is the link that he posted :
Look on Page 27 of the USCIS Press Release
http://www.uscis.gov/files/pressrelease/afm_ch22_091206R.pdf
srkamath
08-05 06:15 PM
It is illegal for the foreign employee to pay or to reimburse the employer (or even agree to a reduced salary) to cover the costs of the foreign labor certification process. There are no exceptions to this - there is no varied interpretation either. The labor certification will be denied or revoked if the foreign applicant had any role to play in the recruitment process.
Disclaimer - This is my understanding, i'm not a lawyer.
Disclaimer - This is my understanding, i'm not a lawyer.
ash0210
12-02 11:53 AM
**** READ question 3 from May12,2005 MEMO (or search/read the full Memo)
20 Massachusetts Avenue, NW Washington, DC 20529 HQPRD 70/6.2.8-P To: REGIONAL DIRECTORS SERVICE CENTER DIRECTORS From: William R. Yates /S/ Associate Director for Operations United States Citizenship and Immigration Services Department of Homeland Security Date: May 12, 2005
Memorandum for Service Center Directors, et al.
Q & A ON PROCESSING OF I-140 PETITIONS AND I-485 APPLICATIONS UNDER THE I-140 PORTABILITY PROVISIONS OF �106(C) OF AC21
Question 3. What is �same or similar� occupational classification for purposes of I-140 portability?
Answer:When making a determination if the new employment is the �same or similar� occupational classification in comparison to the employment in the initial I-140, adjudicators should consider the following factors:
A. Description of the job duties contained in the ETA 750A or the initial I-140 and the job duties of the new employment to determine if they are the �same or similar� occupational classification.
B. The DOT code and/or SOC code assigned to the initial I-140 employment for petitions that have a certified ETA 750A or consider what DOT and/or SOC code is appropriate for the position for an initial I-140 that did not require a certified ETA 750A. Then consider the DOT code and/or SOC code, whichever is appropriate for the new position to make a determination of �same or similar� occupational classification.
C. A substantial discrepancy between the previous and the new wage. (See Question 5 of this section for further clarification).
Guys,
Is it ok to have a title of Business Analyst and do software development? Programmer Analyst makes more sense for the position. Like wise Is it ok to have a programmer analyst title for a systems administrator? What kind of issues can one expect if the title and job duties/resume are not in sync?
Thanks
20 Massachusetts Avenue, NW Washington, DC 20529 HQPRD 70/6.2.8-P To: REGIONAL DIRECTORS SERVICE CENTER DIRECTORS From: William R. Yates /S/ Associate Director for Operations United States Citizenship and Immigration Services Department of Homeland Security Date: May 12, 2005
Memorandum for Service Center Directors, et al.
Q & A ON PROCESSING OF I-140 PETITIONS AND I-485 APPLICATIONS UNDER THE I-140 PORTABILITY PROVISIONS OF �106(C) OF AC21
Question 3. What is �same or similar� occupational classification for purposes of I-140 portability?
Answer:When making a determination if the new employment is the �same or similar� occupational classification in comparison to the employment in the initial I-140, adjudicators should consider the following factors:
A. Description of the job duties contained in the ETA 750A or the initial I-140 and the job duties of the new employment to determine if they are the �same or similar� occupational classification.
B. The DOT code and/or SOC code assigned to the initial I-140 employment for petitions that have a certified ETA 750A or consider what DOT and/or SOC code is appropriate for the position for an initial I-140 that did not require a certified ETA 750A. Then consider the DOT code and/or SOC code, whichever is appropriate for the new position to make a determination of �same or similar� occupational classification.
C. A substantial discrepancy between the previous and the new wage. (See Question 5 of this section for further clarification).
Guys,
Is it ok to have a title of Business Analyst and do software development? Programmer Analyst makes more sense for the position. Like wise Is it ok to have a programmer analyst title for a systems administrator? What kind of issues can one expect if the title and job duties/resume are not in sync?
Thanks
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