Mid-March 2010 Immigration Newsletter

Kuck Immigration Partners LLC

1. USCIS Stops Allowing H-1B Filings With Uncertified LCAs - USCIS will not extend the period in which it temporarily accepted H-1B petitions filed with uncertified labor condition applications.

2. DOS Proposes Increase in Passport Fees - A first-time U.S. passport book for adults (age 16 and over) will increase from $100 to $135.

3. DOS Provides Information on 'Frequently Misunderstood Points' - Topics include fluctuations in demand for visa numbers; per-country limits; and oversubscription.

4. Department of State Eliminates Nonimmigrant Visa Reciprocity Fees for Mexicans, Updates Schedule - The Department of State has eliminated all nonimmigrant visa reciprocity fees for Mexican citizens and updated the reciprocity schedule; TN and TD visa validity is now limited to 12 months.

5. DOL Reopens H-2A Regulations E-Mailbox - The Department of Labor's Office of Foreign Labor Certification has reopened its H-2A regulations e-mailbox for public inquiries.

6. DOL Implements Nursing Relief Act - This legislation allows certain health care facilities to file, and authorizes the Department to review, approve, and enforce, attestation applications to employ foreign workers as registered nurses in health professional shortage areas on a temporary basis under the H-1C visa.

7. USCIS Releases Q&A on Northern Marianas Employment Authorization, Verification – The Q&A addresses employment authorization and verification under Federal immigration law, particularly with respect to "umbrella permits."

Also in this issue:

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Disclaimer/Reminder
This e-mail does not constitute direct legal advice and is for informational purposes only. The information provided should never replace informed counsel when specific immigration-related guidance is needed.

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