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Proposed USCIS filing fee increase

In November 2019, the Department of Homeland Security proposed to adjust USCIS fees by a weighted average increase of 21 percent, add new fees, and make other changes, including form changes and the introduction of several new forms. For example, the filing fee for the application for naturalization is proposed to increase by 83% to $1,170, petition for H-2A non-immigrant worker by 87% to $860 (named worker), petition for L non-immigrant worker by 77% to $815 and petition for O non-immigrant worker by 55% to $715.

On July 22, 2020, the Office of Information and Regulatory Affairs completed review of a final rule increasing USCIS filing fees. The Federal Register will post a copy of the final rule for public inspection before publishing it officially. In the proposed rule, DHS noted that once the rule was finalized, it would not take effect for at least 60 days after publication.

If you are considering applying for a naturalization, green card or non-immigrant status, call an experienced immigration attorney at (480) 425-2009 or contact us through our website to schedule a consultation
before the filing fees increase.

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USCIS Processing Times for EB-5 Investor Visas (Green Cards) Released

The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services released an updated processing report for EB-5 investor visa applications.  EB-5 investor visas are permanent visas (green cards) for investors who invest $1.8 million (or $900,000 in targeted employment areas) and create 10 jobs.  The average processing time for an EB-5 investor visa application is now 32.5 – 49.5 months.  Once the application is approved, the investor receives a conditional permanent resident status for two years.  Then, within 90 days before the second anniversary of obtaining the conditional permanent resident status, the investor has to file a petition to remove conditions on his or her residence.  The average processing time to remove conditions on residence is 21 – 45.5 months.  The investors who do not want to be actively involved in directing their investment, can invest through one of the approved regional centers.  The processing time for an application to designate a regional center is 5.4 months.  If you would like to discuss the best way to obtain EB-5 investor visa (green card), CALL us TODAY at 480-425-2009 or contact us via our website, and experienced EB-5 investor visa attorney will help you!