A new study shows the number of illegal Mexican immigrants living in the U.S. has dropped significantly for the first time in decades.

Tuesday, 24 April 2012Read More

A greater number of people from China moved to America and got green cards in 2011 than in 2010, according to statistics released from U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services data.

Monday, 23 April 2012Read More

Major countries including the U.S. should relax visa requirements to revive economic growth, according to the president of the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC).

Thursday, 19 April 2012Read More

Processing capacity for U.S. visitor visas in Brazil and China has significantly increased in 2012, on the way to meet President Obama's goals to make the U.S. the world's top travel and tourism destination and boost the country's economy, the Department of State announced on Wednesday.

Thursday, 19 April 2012Read More

Members of the American Chamber of Commerce in Bangladesh (AmCham) will have their visa application process streamlined under a prioritized Business Visa Program that the U.S. Embassy in Dhaka introduced on April 17, 2012.

Wednesday, 18 April 2012Read More

The U.S. has seen a sharp increase in the number of petitions for H-1B skilled worker visas during the initial week of the application season this year, according to official figures revealed by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).

Friday, 13 April 2012Read More

According to a recent press release the U.S. will make changes to its visa processing fees in Oman starting from April 13, 2012.

Wednesday, 11 April 2012Read More

The Nevada Commission on Tourism and partners in the tourism industry are going to make a business trip to China in order to boost the state's tourism, according to Lieutenant-Governor Brian Krolicki.

Tuesday, 3 April 2012Read More

Due to misinterpretation the US government has clarified there will be no rise in the fee for H-1B work visas for professionals next year.

Friday, 30 March 2012Read More

According to an announcement on March 27, 2012, U.S Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) will start accepting H1-B application for H1-B Visa 2013 Fiscal Year from April 2, 2012.

Thursday, 29 March 2012Read More

The Quebec-Florida Chamber of Commerce (CCQF) is going on a trade mission to Florida from April 16 to 18, 2012 in order to further develop business cooperation between Florida and Quebec.

Thursday, 29 March 2012Read More

New York Mayor Michael Bloomberg continuously gives his support for a state-level Dream Act to provide tuition aid for undocumented immigrants as part of U.S. immigration reform.

Wednesday, 28 March 2012Read More

U.S. visas for Syrians living in the United States will be extended for at least 18 more months due to ongoing violence in Syria, according to Secretary for the Department of Homeland Security Janet Napolitano.

Wednesday, 28 March 2012Read More

A new statement by the U.S. Commerce Department revealed that foreign tourists coming to the U.S. last year hit a new record in 2011.

Tuesday, 27 March 2012Read More

A recent naturalization ceremony at Los Angeles Convention Center welcomed more than 8,000 new U.S. citizens.

Friday, 23 March 2012Read More

The U.S. Consulate in Toronto, Canada issued information regarding changes to U.S. visa applications from Japan including an update for L1 visas, a new interview waiver program and processing procedures for non-immigrant visas.

Wednesday, 21 March 2012Read More

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has recently announced $5 million in competitive grant funding to expand high quality citizenship preparation services for U.S. permanent residents.

Wednesday, 21 March 2012Read More

On March 9, 2012 the U.S. Embassy in Moscow announced the expansion of the current interview waiver program that allows certain Russian citizens to obtain a tourist visa to travel to the U.S. without having to go for an interview.

Tuesday, 13 March 2012Read More

A proposed bill allowing more international tourists to visit the U.S. without visas, which could boost Southern Nevada's economy and create more jobs, has been recently promoted by U.S. Rep. Shelley Berkley.

Tuesday, 13 March 2012Read More

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) recently announced its plan to implement a biometrics data program to track incoming immigrants who overstay their U.S. visas.

Friday, 9 March 2012Read More

U.S. Representative Bill Pascrell, Jr. is hoping that with new legislation, Polish nationals can visit the United States under the Visa Waiver Program, affording easier access due to closer U.S.-Poland relations.

Thursday, 8 March 2012Read More

The number of Chinese students entering Michigan State University has increased by more than 400 percent over the last four years.

Wednesday, 7 March 2012Read More

Relaxation of U.S. visas for UAE nationals should be implemented, considering the enhanced relations between the two countries, claims a leading Dubai official.

Tuesday, 6 March 2012Read More

U.S Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) will begin accepting FY 2013 H-1B cap-subject petitions on Monday, April 2, 2012 for employment with a start date of October 1, 2012 or later.

Friday, 2 March 2012Read More

New federal figures announced at the annual Governor's Conference on Tourism and Travel show that South Carolina (SC) tourism rose in 2010.

Friday, 2 March 2012Read More

The H.R. 3992 legislation that would add Israel to the list of countries eligible for E-2 temporary foreign investor visa was approved by the House of Representatives Committee on the Judiciary, according to a statement of Judiciary Committee Chairman Lamar Smith on February 28, 2012.

Wednesday, 29 February 2012Read More

February 24, 2012, The Hawaii Tourism Authority announced that total expenditure by visitors to Hawaii in January 2012 broke the one-month record with $1.345 billion.

Monday, 27 February 2012Read More

The U.S. Embassy in Lisbon announced on Feb 22, 2012 that neither it nor the U.S. Consulate General in Ponta Delgada will continue to process immigrant visa (IV) or diversity visa (DV) applications after the end of this month.

Friday, 24 February 2012Read More

February 22, 2012. The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) and officials from the White House held a summit aiming to gather information relating to enhancing the immigration process for foreign entrepreneurs.

Thursday, 23 February 2012Read More

Air China passengers with valid U.S. visas who are in direct transit through Vancouver on their movement to the United States have been granted Transit Without Visas status by the Canadian Government.

Wednesday, 22 February 2012Read More

There has been a spike in the number of Chinese students applying for Iowa universities, according to officials.

Tuesday, 21 February 2012Read More

The U.S. Travel Association supports the announcement made by Ambassador Gary Locke on U.S. visa processing changes that aim to increase travel to the U.S. from China.

Wednesday, 15 February 2012Read More

Fine Gael Clare Senator Martin Conway supports news that progress is being made in securing E3 visas for Irish nationals to work in the U.S under a free trade agreement.

Tuesday, 14 February 2012Read More

February 9, 2012, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) announced its completed expansion for E-Verify Self Check.

Monday, 13 February 2012Read More

Chinese immigrants to the U.S. will have the chance to communicate with federal immigration officials through a national Chinese-language public engagement forum.

Monday, 13 February 2012Read More

A new immigration bill was proposed in the U.S. House of Representatives on February 9, 2012 to let Israelis apply for investor visas.

Friday, 10 February 2012Read More

On February 10, 2012 at Chennai, India, the U.S. Department of Commerce and the International Student Network will hold an American Education Expo for Indians wanting to study in the U.S.

Wednesday, 8 February 2012Read More

Kazakhstan and the U.S. have reached an agreement on issuing 5-year multiple visas for their citizens, according to Kazakh Foreign Ministry Spokesman Altai Abibullayev at a press briefing.

Tuesday, 7 February 2012Read More

There was a 'Study USA and Visa' talk held at the Indian Institute of Technology Bhubaneswar, India on February 2, 2012.

Monday, 6 February 2012Read More

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has recently announced its upcoming reform to make the visa process easier for highly-skilled immigrants who want to work in the U.S.

Thursday, 2 February 2012Read More

U.S. visa applicants in Nigeria will benefit from shorter visa processing times with assistance from other embassies and missions.

Wednesday, 1 February 2012Read More

Addressing the growing labor shortage in agriculture and other industries across the country, Kansas Agriculture Secretary Dale Rodman and a coalition of business groups have recently proposed new programs to allow undocumented immigrants to stay and work in the U.S.

Wednesday, 1 February 2012Read More

As the U.S. government simplifies its visa application process, a year-on-year growth of 14 percent in visa processing for Indian citizens is being targetted according to James W. Herman, minister-counsellor for consular affairs at the US embassy in India.

Tuesday, 31 January 2012Read More

U.S. State of Secretary, Hillary Clinton will visit Sofia, Bulgaria on 5 February 2012 to discuss a range of topics, including the U.S. visa regime for Bulgarians.

Tuesday, 31 January 2012Read More

A simplified and faster U.S. visa process will bring major benefits to Nevada's tourism industry and employment opportunities said U.S. Senator Harry Reid on January 19, 2012.

Tuesday, 31 January 2012Read More

More than 400 people met on January 19, 2012 in Ohio to meet the Irish Lobby for Immigration Reform (ILIR) and show their support for the current Irish E3 Visa Bill (Senate Bill 1983).

Monday, 30 January 2012Read More

January 17, 2012, the minority leader of the House Homeland Security Committee wants the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to grant more money for advising immigrants on attaining U.S. citizenship.

Friday, 20 January 2012Read More

International travellers will soon benefit from President Barack Obama's ordering of a more streamlined visa application process for tourist visas to the United States.

Friday, 20 January 2012Read More

The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) in consultation with the Department of State have published a list of 58 countries whose citizens are eligible to participate in the H-2A and H-2B programs for 2012.

Wednesday, 18 January 2012Read More

U,S Consular Officials in Saudi Arabia have clarified details about the process of issuing U.S. visas following recent confusion and delays.

Wednesday, 18 January 2012Read More

A detailed report discussing current policy and legislation pertaining to international students in the U.S has been provided to the Congress by the Congressional Research Service (CRS).

Wednesday, 18 January 2012Read More

Temporary Protected Status (TPS) has been extended for eligible nationals of El Salvador, according to an announcement from Secretary of Homeland Security Janet Napolitano.

Wednesday, 18 January 2012Read More

From January 1, 2012, use of the E-Verify system for employers was made compulsory in five states of America.

Wednesday, 11 January 2012Read More

Jan 6,2012, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has announced its intent to change the time that family members are separated while their U.S. citizenship applications are processed .

Monday, 9 January 2012Read More

U.S. Congress members are pushing the Obama administration to fast-track visas for Haitian citizens who have already had their petitions approved and to include Haiti in the H-2A and H-2B visa programs for low-skilled, temporary immigrants.

Monday, 9 January 2012Read More

The U.S. Department of State has recently released the U.S. visa bulletin summarizing the availability of immigrant numbers during January 2012, which raises hope to some relatives of U.S. citizens who have been waiting roughly two decades.

Wednesday, 4 January 2012Read More

In a statement released in Northwest Iowa on December 31, 2011, Mitt Romney promised to end the DREAM Act if elected President in 2012.

Wednesday, 4 January 2012Read More

The United States Embassy in Manila has announced that immigrant visa appointments for January 23, 2012 will be canceled because the Philippines government declared that day as a special nonworking holiday to mark the Chinese New Year.

Wednesday, 4 January 2012Read More

According to the Princeton Township Police, they have been in partnership with the YWCA, the oldest and largest multicultural women's organization in the world, to help U.S. visitors to understand more about American culture and its customs through short courses.

Tuesday, 3 January 2012Read More

The United States has announced its 20-year plan to improve its visa system after being found that the inefficiencies in the visa process were restricting US tourism.

Thursday, 21 April 2011Read More

According to a new report released by the National Foundation for American Policy (NFAP), corporate fees for US work visas are providing funding to US worker training, science and math scholarships and anti-fraud enforcement.

Friday, 8 April 2011Read More

US Ambassador James Warlick made a speech at the opening of the exhibition entitled "Travel USA" in Sofia, Bulgaria. In his speech, he welcomed Bulgarians to come and discover America.

Monday, 4 April 2011Read More

E-Verify Self Check service has recently been introduced by Secretary of Homeland Security Janet Napolitano and U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) Director Alejandro Mayorkas. This service allows immigrants in the United States to check their own employment eligibility status before formally seeking employment.

Friday, 1 April 2011Read More

According to US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), the US will start accepting applications for H-1B visa from April 1, 2011.

Tuesday, 29 March 2011Read More

Among efforts of the whole world to support Japan after the recent devastating earthquakes and tsunami, U.S Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has reminded Japanese nationals that there are certain U.S. immigration benefits available for them upon request.

Wednesday, 23 March 2011Read More

Russia and the U.S. have recently sat together to talk about improving their bilateral relations through visa-free travel. Russia suggested being included in the U.S. ESTA program and emphasized that this would be a very important step.

Monday, 21 March 2011Read More

Aiming to save $23 million over the next decade for employers, the US government plans to streamline the work visa process over the next 10 years.

Tuesday, 15 March 2011Read More

According to a new study, US ranks ninth position among 32 countries in terms of immigrant integration policies.

Tuesday, 8 March 2011Read More

A proposed rule which establishes an advance registration process for US employers seeking to file H-1B petitions for their overseas workers in specialty occupations will be published on March 03, 2011. The US Citizenship and Immigration Services believes it could save US businesses more than $23 million over the next 10 years.

Tuesday, 8 March 2011Read More

An annotated version of the B-1 visa has been recently created in order to strengthen US maritime global supply chain, according to an announcement from The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and Department of State (DOS).

Tuesday, 22 February 2011Read More

According to Republican Elton Gallegly – the chairman of a congressional immigration policy subcommittee, he is preparing a legislation that makes the US E-Verify checks mandatory for all business in the U.S.

Thursday, 17 February 2011Read More

The US Embassy has recently given advice to The Bahamas and the Turks and Caicos Islands residents on applying for US travel visas for the coming summer.

Friday, 11 February 2011Read More

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) announced that as of January 21, 2011, it has received 62,800 H-1B petitions and there are only 2,200 H-1B visas left. Professional level foreign workers wanting to live and work in the US should consider applying as soon as possible.

Friday, 28 January 2011Read More

Three competitive grant opportunities for US citizenship and integration that got congressional appropriation are now available, according to a recent announcement from U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).

Friday, 28 January 2011Read More

An official report revealed that Indian nationals accounted for approximately half of H1B visa holders. Most of them worked in technology-related section.

Monday, 24 January 2011Read More

On Friday January 14, a notice on the identification of foreign countries whose nationals are eligible to participate in the H-2A and the H-2B programs in 2011 has been released by the Secretary of Homeland Security, with the concurrence of the Secretary of State.

Friday, 21 January 2011Read More

A Migration Policy Institute study released this week concluded that the role of low-skilled US immigrant workers, both legal and unauthorized, produces positive economic benefit to the U.S.

Friday, 21 January 2011Read More

A new law granting lawful permanent resident status to certain orphaned children from Haiti was passed, according to a recent announcement from United State Immigration authorities.

Monday, 10 January 2011Read More

Days after the DREAM Act was rejected in the Senate, President Barack Obama has reiterated his commitment to continue fighting for US immigration reform.

Thursday, 6 January 2011Read More

U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) recently published information advising the public on the steps they should undertake in the event that a traveler does not turn in their Arrival-Departure Record when leaving the U.S., whether by air, land, or sea.

Friday, 23 April 2010Read More

The United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) issued a special update on April 19th, 2010 advising foreign nationals, stranded in the U.S. due to airport closures in Europe caused by the Icelandic volcano eruption, of their options.

Thursday, 22 April 2010Read More

Recently the United States Citizenship and immigration Services (USCIS) reminded Haitian nationals that the registration deadline for Temporary Protected Status (TPS) is fast approaching. Haitian nationals, who meet TPS eligibility requirements, must file their applications for TPS no later than July 20, 2010. The TPS designation for Haiti will remain in effect through July 22, 2011.

Thursday, 22 April 2010Read More

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) began accepting H-1B nonimmigrant visa petitions subject to the fiscal year (FY) 2011 cap on April 1, 2010.

Friday, 2 April 2010Read More

The U.S. Supreme Court recently ruled that the Constitution's Sixth Amendment guarantee of "effective counsel" grants immigrants the constitutional right to be advised by their attorneys whether pleading guilty to a crime could lead to their deportation.

Friday, 2 April 2010Read More

Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary Janet Napolitano recently joined U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) Director Alejandro Mayorkas in announcing several initiatives designed to strengthen the efficiency and accuracy of the E-Verify system.

Saturday, 27 March 2010Read More

As part of its ongoing effort to increase access to immigration information, the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) recently unveiled The Beacon - the agency's official blog. The Beacon is one of the newest tools that provides immigration-related information and fosters an open dialogue between USCIS and the public. 

Saturday, 27 March 2010Read More

Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), Janet Napolitano, recently announced that Greece has been designated as a member of the Visa Waiver Program (VWP).

Tuesday, 16 March 2010Read More

In light of the recent natural catastrophes in Chile, the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) issued a press release reminding Chilean Nationals that there are U.S. immigration benefits available to them upon request.

Tuesday, 16 March 2010Read More

President Obama is scheduled to meet with Senators Chuck Schumer (D., N.Y.) and Lindsey Graham (R., S.C.) later this week to discuss a Comprehensive Immigration Reform (CIR) bill. At controversy is a proposed national worker ID which would be at the center of the Senators’ proposed immigration bill currently being worked on in the U.S. Senate.

Thursday, 11 March 2010Read More

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) recently announced the availability of two different grants totaling $7 million designed to promote citizenship education and immigrant integration in communities across the country.

Friday, 5 March 2010Read More

Recently the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) announced that it has revised Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status, and implemented new filing locations for the form.

Friday, 5 March 2010Read More

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) recently announced that they have revised the filing instructions and addresses for applicants filing Form I-824, Application for Action on an Approved Application or Petition.

Tuesday, 2 March 2010Read More

Effective February 1st, 2010, the Department of State (DOS) has instituted a new procedure for K-3 visa applications where the I-130 and I-129F petitions are both approved and sent to the National Visa Center (NVC) at the same time.

Friday, 26 February 2010Read More

Recently the United States Court of Appeals for the Second Circuit held that the continuous residence requirement in naturalization applies to the period before and after the naturalization interview.

Friday, 26 February 2010Read More

The United States Citizenship and Immigration Service recently announced that workers in H-1B and H-2B classifications, who are admitted to perform labor and services in the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands (CNMI) and Guam, are exempt from the H-1B and H-2B cap from November 28, 2009 to December 31, 2014.

Monday, 15 February 2010Read More

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS), in coordination with the U.S. Department of State, recently announced a humanitarian parole policy, which will allow orphaned children from Haiti to enter the United States temporarily on an individual basis so that they may receive proper care.

Wednesday, 27 January 2010Read More

The United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) Director Alejandro N. Mayorkas published a memo on January 15th, 2010 outlining remedies, other than Temporary Protected Status, that are available to nationals and habitual residents of Haiti affected by the January 12th earthquake there.

Monday, 25 January 2010Read More

In light of the catastrophic earthquake that devastated the island of Haiti, the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Service (USCIS) has announced several initial relief efforts to benefit foreign nationals affected by the earthquake.

Monday, 25 January 2010Read More

The Department of Homeland Security, acting in conjunction with the U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, announced in the Federal Register that eleven (11) new countries would be added to the list of designated countries whose citizens are eligible to apply for the H-2A and H-2B visas.

Monday, 25 January 2010Read More

In the wake of the tragic earthquake that has devastated the small Caribbean island of Haiti, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary Janet Napolitano and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) Assistant Secretary John Morton have temporarily suspended all removals to Haiti. ICE will continue to closely monitor the situation.

Friday, 15 January 2010Read More

On December 30, 2009, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) released a memorandum, which temporarily extends the validity of civil surgeon endorsements on Form I-693 for adjustment of status applicants.

Tuesday, 12 January 2010Read More

The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) announced on December 23rd, 2009 that it received a sufficient number of H-1B petitions to reach the statutory cap for fiscal year (FY) 2010.

Tuesday, 12 January 2010Read More

The United States has always been a top destination for visitors travelling for business and pleasure. However, in 2008, according to the U.S. Department of Commerce, International Trade Administration (ITA), a record number of more than 58 million international visitors, travelled to the United States.

Tuesday, 28 April 2009Read More

USCIS announced on April 9th, 2009, that it has received only 42,000 H-1B petitions counting towards the congressionally-mandated 65,000 H-1B cap, signifying the far reaching negative effects of the US recession.

Friday, 17 April 2009Read More

On April 1, 2009, the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), the government agency that oversees lawful immigration to the United States, will begin accepting petitions for the Specialty Occupation (H-1B) Visa subject to the fiscal year 2010 cap.

Wednesday, 1 April 2009Read More

A decision made by a federal judge strikes down a long-standing government policy that made it more difficult for foreign religious workers to remain in the United States.

Thursday, 26 March 2009Read More

On March 20, 2009, the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), the government agency that oversees lawful immigration to the United States, announced additional requirements for US employers receiving funding from the government.

Tuesday, 24 March 2009Read More

The United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), the government agency that oversees lawful immigration to the United States, announced recently the elimination of the name check backlog.

Thursday, 19 March 2009Read More

The United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), the government agency that oversees lawful immigration to the United States, is seeing a decrease in citizenship requests and believes the reason is the failing economy.

Tuesday, 17 March 2009Read More

In February 2009, the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), the government agency that oversees lawful immigration to the United States, added a new feature to the E-Verify employment authorization program, further improving the program.

Wednesday, 11 March 2009Read More

The United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), the government agency that oversees lawful immigration to the United States, has extended the stay of foreign athletes.

Wednesday, 11 March 2009Read More

Due to the current economic conditions and ever-increasing unemployment rate, the federal government of the United States is tightening its oversight of the Specialty Occupation (H-1B) Visa.

Friday, 6 March 2009Read More

Beginning March 2, 2009, premium processing will be expanded to include employment-based immigration petitions, resulting in decisions on petitions being rendered within fifteen (15) days of submission.

Monday, 2 March 2009Read More

The United States' economic stimulus package signed by President Barack Obama last week affects US immigration policies in many ways.

Thursday, 26 February 2009Read More

On February 12, 2009, United States Representative Jerrold Nadler introduced a bill that would allow homosexual Americans to sponsor their foreign same-sex partners for a US Green Card.

Monday, 23 February 2009Read More

After much debate, the United States Senate decided to exclude the amendments made to E-Verify from the economic stimulus package.

Monday, 23 February 2009Read More

On March 6, 2009, the Certain Special Immigrant (EB4) Visa will begin to only apply to ministers. The other categories of people in which the visa had previously applied will expire.

Wednesday, 18 February 2009Read More

President Barack Obama’s nominee to head the Department of Commerce is a strong supporter of expanding the United States’ Specialty Occupation (H-1B) Visa.

Wednesday, 18 February 2009Read More

The requirement that federal contractors utilize E-Verify has been delayed once again. The argument for this delay is to allow the Obama administration time to review this requirement.

Thursday, 12 February 2009Read More

The United States Department of Homeland Security (DHS) revised the Visa Waiver Program for Guam and the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands.

Wednesday, 4 February 2009Read More

At the end of 2008, President Bush signed into law the William Wilberforce Trafficking Victims Protection Reauthorization Act of 2008. This Act is expected to protect foreign migrant workers from coming to the US under false pretences.

Wednesday, 4 February 2009Read More

The US Embassy in Ghana has made the renewal procedure of certain US visas much easier for eligible applicants. It is hopeful that these procedures will be followed in other US embassies and consulates located in other countries.

Wednesday, 4 February 2009Read More

The United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), the government agency that oversees lawful immigration to the United States, has revised the list of acceptable documents to be used to complete the Form I-9, Employment Eligibility Verification.

Thursday, 29 January 2009Read More

In an attempt to further improve public safety and national security, the United States Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has expanded the US-VISIT program to include United States lawful permanent residents, or green card holders.

Thursday, 29 January 2009Read More

There are over 100,000 educational institutions in the United States, many of which are the most prestigious and successful educational institutions in the world. Each year, over 300,000 foreign students attend educational institutions in the US, receiving an education and training in a variety of exciting areas that will improve and expand their future career plans.

Monday, 19 January 2009Read More

A health insurance bill is expected to be renewed by Congress shortly, and such bill will extend health care benefits to certain immigrants, lifting a provision that limited providing benefits to them in the past.

Wednesday, 14 January 2009Read More

US citizenship is now available for certain temporary US visa holders.

Tuesday, 13 January 2009Read More

At the end of 2008, President Bush signed into law the William Wilberforce Trafficking Victims Protection Reauthorization Act of 2008. This Act is expected to protect foreign migrant workers from coming to the US under false pretenses.

Thursday, 8 January 2009Read More

The US Embassy in Ghana has made the renewal procedure of certain US visas much easier for eligible applicants. It is hopeful that these procedures will be followed in other US embassies and consulates located in other countries.

Tuesday, 6 January 2009Read More

Each month, consular officers and the Bureau of Citizenship and Immigration Services of the US Department of Homeland Security report to the US Department of State the number of visas that have been allocated for numerically limited visa categories. Utilizing this information, the Department of State creates a document called the Visa Bulletin to assist foreigners in determining when they are eligible to submit an application to apply for US lawful permanent residence, or a US "green Card."

Thursday, 1 January 2009Read More

Today marks the first day employers can apply for some of the 65,000 USA temporary visas for highly skilled foreigners available for 2009. But, this may also be the last day.

Tuesday, 1 April 2008Read More

US companies that apply for controversial H-1B visas create additional jobs beyond the positions filled by foreign workers.

Wednesday, 12 March 2008Read More

Within three years, all Americans and other foreigners from outside the European Union will have to have biometric ID cards to work and live in the UK.

Tuesday, 11 March 2008Read More

American officials are lobbying for an increase in the annual quota of temporary skilled worker (H-1 B) visas.

Thursday, 6 March 2008Read More

Between 2020 and 2025, the foreign-born will account for 15% of the American population, if current immigration trends continue.

Wednesday, 5 March 2008Read More

Owners of seasonal businesses in the United States are desperately looking for workers abroad.

Saturday, 1 March 2008Read More

Immigration to the United States could be in the pipeline for many nurses who could fill shortages in California.

Friday, 22 February 2008Read More

If you are considering immigration to the US, your decision could have a positive impact on the future of the US economy, says Dowell Myers, a demographer at the University of Southern California, in a recent study.

Monday, 11 February 2008Read More

The Australian Labour Party (ALP) plans to stop unions from making decisions on whether a business should be allowed to recruit temporary skilled migrants. The plan comes as a bid by the ALP to show that the party recognises the need for employer sponsored visas, despite continuous campaigns against their abuse.

Thursday, 29 March 2007Read More

The increasing number of newborn babies and migrants have driven Australia’s population growth to its highest level in five years, fuelling economic growth and generating expansion in Australia’s research-rich states.

Wednesday, 28 March 2007Read More

The Australian Government encouraged its citizens and residents to get together on 21 March 2007 and acknowledge the nation’s cultural diversity.

Thursday, 22 March 2007Read More

The Australian government is being urged to respond to employer groups calling for a serious increase to the size and scope of the 2007-8 migration program.

Thursday, 15 March 2007Read More

New immigration legislation designed to strengthen Australian security was passed through the Senate on 25 February 2007.

Tuesday, 13 March 2007Read More

We wish to advise our clients that our Australian office will be closed on 12th March, 2007 for Labour Day.

Friday, 9 March 2007Read More

More then 600 new Australian citizens from 50 difference countries were given a ‘home town welcome’ last night at a Citizenship Ceremony held in Brisbane.

Thursday, 8 March 2007Read More

Latin America has opened its door to Australian students and professionals to work and holiday in Chile. The renewed arrangement for the ‘Work and Holiday’ visa will allow up to 500 visas per year for both Australia and Chile.

Thursday, 22 February 2007Read More

According to a recent media release, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister for Immigration and Citizenship Teresa Gambaro has reinforced the government’s commitment to a strong and cohesive Australia through effective integration.

Thursday, 22 February 2007Read More

Thousands of young Germans and Australians will have the opportunity to enjoy a working holiday in each others countries following a renewed agreement in Berlin.

Tuesday, 20 February 2007Read More

Changes to the controversial subclass 457 visa were unveiled this week by new Immigration Minister Kevin Andrews. The adjustments will introduce harsh penalties for those in breach of the sponsorship conditions and reward those who adhere to the rules.

Thursday, 8 February 2007Read More

Australia’s unemployment rate hit an unexpected dip in figures last month sparking discussions that a lack of suitable labors will eventually generate wage and price pressures.

Thursday, 8 February 2007Read More

Several DIMA forms have been updated with essential changes.

Friday, 2 February 2007Read More

Following the ceremony swearing in the new Minister and Parliamentary Secretary on Tuesday, 30th January, The Department of Immigration and Multicultural Affairs (DIMA) has officially changed its name to the Department of Immigration and Citizenship (DIAC).

Wednesday, 31 January 2007Read More

The Australian Government's Migration Programme has released details of the highest skill stream intake on record. These figures are illustrated in DIAC’s annual publication “Population Flows: Immigration Aspects, 2007”, which details statistics for 2005-2006.

Tuesday, 30 January 2007Read More

In a reshuffling of the Australian federal parliament, Australian PM John Howard has identified new immigration, environment and employment ministers ahead of federal elections later this year.

Monday, 29 January 2007Read More

Australia Day, January 26, is the biggest day of celebration in Australia and is observed as a public holiday in all states and territories.

Monday, 29 January 2007Read More

The Greek authorities have announced that as of January 1st 2007, Greek passports issued prior to January 1st 2006 will no longer be considered valid for travel.

Monday, 29 January 2007Read More

In order to participate in the State/Territory Nominated Independent (STNI) program, applicants need to meet the basic visa criteria under the skilled category, meet the pool mark (of 110) and obtain nomination from a participating State/Territory Government.

Tuesday, 14 March 2006Read More

In order to apply under the Investor Retirement Visa, the main applicant must be over 55 years of age, have no dependents (other than a spouse) and have sufficient assets to be self-supporting in Australia. In addition to satisfying these criteria, applicants are required to obtain sponsorship from a State or Territory government agency and a significant investment must be lodged with the sponsoring government treasury corporation.

Tuesday, 14 March 2006Read More

On 16 February, the Commonwealth Treasurer announced changes to the taxation arrangements for temporary residents which will introduce a tax exemption on foreign source income.

Tuesday, 14 March 2006Read More

The celebration of Australia Day on 26 January 2006 was of special significance to 14,000 people who became Australian citizens at ceremonies held around the country. According to government statistics, these 14,000 people came from more than 90 places of birth and joined more than 3.5 million people who have become citizens since Australian citizenship was introduced 55 years ago.

Tuesday, 14 March 2006Read More

With effect from 15 December 2005, the Department of Immigration & Multicultural & Indigenous Affairs (DIMIA) has announced that the following Computer Professional Specialisations were added to the Migration Occupation in Demand List (MODL):

Wednesday, 18 January 2006Read More

In order to attract skilled business migrants to New South Wales (NSW), the Government has announced that they intend to attract 350 sponsored applicants who will generate $89 million in investment, 1120 jobs and $560 million in exports.

Wednesday, 18 January 2006Read More

The Australian Government has recently announced that Australia and Turkey have entered a reciprocal Work and Holiday Visa arrangement. This arrangement will enable university trained people from Australia and Turkey between 18 to 30 years of age to work and holiday in the other country for up to 12 months.

Wednesday, 18 January 2006Read More

In early November 2005, current Working Holiday Visa makers who undertook at least 3 months harvest work, were able to apply for a further 12 month Working Holiday Visa.

Wednesday, 18 January 2006Read More

Statistics released by the Immigration Minister on 31 December 2005 show that more than 123,000 people arrived and settled in Australia during 2004-2005, reflecting a 40% increase over the past 10 year period.

Wednesday, 18 January 2006Read More

The Australian Skilled Migration program for 2005-2006 will increase by up to 20,000 additional places, in a further move to address the growing shortage of skilled workers in the Australian labour force. This substantial increase will take the total number of skilled visas available in 2005–2006 to a record high of 97,500.

Friday, 15 April 2005Read More

The Australian Retirement Visa Subclass 410 category will cease to exist as of the 1st of July 2005. The Department of Immigration and Multicultural and Indigenous Affairs (DIMA) has announced plans to introduce a new visa category. The precise details are yet to be released. There are also changes relevant to current holders of the Subclass 410 Retirement Visas.

Friday, 15 April 2005Read More

As of November 2005 Working Holiday makers who do a minimum amount of seasonal harvest work in regional Australia will be allowed to apply for another Working Holiday Maker visa. This is a major change as at present, Working Holiday Makers can only get one such visa in a lifetime.

Friday, 15 April 2005Read More

Important legislative changes relating to the sponsoring of overseas workers by Australian employers took effect on the 2nd of April 2005. These changes mean that Australian employers will now need to plan ahead when attempting to fill vacancies with overseas skilled staff. They also mean that applicants under this visa category need to fulfill new criteria.

Friday, 15 April 2005Read More

The Australian Department of Immigration and Multicultural and Indigenous Affairs (DIMA) has announced that the pass mark for the Australian Skilled Independent Overseas Student Visa (subclass 880) has changed. As of the 1st of April 2005 the pass mark for the Australian Skilled Independent Overseas Student Visa has been changed to 120 points.

Friday, 15 April 2005Read More

Polish and Estonian nationals are now able to apply for the Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) for the Australian Student Visa. This change recognises that students from these counties have a good track record of completing their studies and complying with their visa requirements. The eligibility criteria for applicants from these countries have also been made easier.

Thursday, 14 April 2005Read More

The Australian Government has recently announced that applications for the Special Humanitarian Program Visa for relatives from Africa and the Middle East can now be lodged in Australia. This is a welcome change as it will make it easier for those wishing to bring relatives from the relevant counties to Australia to apply for this visa.

Thursday, 14 April 2005Read More

According to a media release published by the Australian Goverment Minister for Citizenship and Multicultural Affairs, Peter McGauran, on 7 February 2005, Australia is made up of people from more than 200 countries.

Wednesday, 9 February 2005Read More

Electronic Health Assessments for Online Visa Applicants - issued 14 January 2005

On 14 January 2005, the Minister for Immigration & Multicultural & Indigenous Affairs - Amanda Vanstone - announced that a new electronic system has been developed to help in assessing the health status of online visa applicants to Australia.

Wednesday, 9 February 2005Read More

Updated arrangements for fee payment for internet applications - issued 23 December 2004

Wednesday, 9 February 2005Read More

Victorian Government has announced plans to encourage an increase in migration.

Friday, 30 April 2004Read More

New Migration Statistics Released

Thursday, 29 April 2004Read More

Changes to Points Test

Monday, 5 April 2004Read More

New Skilled Visa to be introduced 1st July 2004

Wednesday, 24 March 2004Read More

Australian Immigration announces changes to the Retirement Visa effective as from 1st January 2004.

Monday, 5 January 2004Read More