Breaking News

Extended stays for professors and researchers
According to a statement of the US Department of Homeland Security (DHS) present and future participants in US research programs may stay in the US for a total period of five years, effective November 4, 2006. After that, it is possible to apply for an extension of five more years. Before this, professors and researchers with the J-1 Exchange Visitor status were allowed to stay in the US for three years.
For more information, please refer to travel.state.gov/visa/temp/types/types_1267.html

US government expands Premium Processing Service again
US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is adding one more category to the Premium Processing Service. As of November 13, 2006, USCIS is accepting premium processing applications, which may now also include the EB-1 visa for foreign workers with exceptional skills in science, art, education, economics and sports. The premium processing service guarantees a confirmation of receipt two weeks after receipt of the application in the US at the latest. Petitioning employers who wish to use the premium processing service have to submit form I-140 (petition for the immigration of foreign workers) together with form I-907 (application for premium processing) and a $1,000 processing fee.
For further information, please refer to www.uscis.gov/graphics/howdoi/prem_process.htm.