peyton sawyer
07-23 02:20 AM
hi chisinau,or anyone..
Hi chisinau..
It's destiny that I came across your posting.. like you, I am an RN waiting for the DS230 approval also since Oct.2006.. believe it or not ,I was also informed by the NVC to resubmit a new DS230 because the previous one I submitted last year was already outdated. Now, I sent them the updated DS230 last June 27,2007.
I really want to ask if in your opinion, or if you have some positive information regarding this…do we still have a chance of receiving an embassy interview and medical exam schedule before October 2007?
I would really appreciate a response.. thank you
Hi chisinau..
It's destiny that I came across your posting.. like you, I am an RN waiting for the DS230 approval also since Oct.2006.. believe it or not ,I was also informed by the NVC to resubmit a new DS230 because the previous one I submitted last year was already outdated. Now, I sent them the updated DS230 last June 27,2007.
I really want to ask if in your opinion, or if you have some positive information regarding this…do we still have a chance of receiving an embassy interview and medical exam schedule before October 2007?
I would really appreciate a response.. thank you
wallpaper K2 Chloe Wallpaper Black/White
logiclife
02-01 02:16 PM
Logiclife,
Below is a recent story on travel on AP. I see many posts where folks are asked at POE by CBP offcials if they are still working from the petitioning employer.
Can you advise why CBP officers are even asking to several AP travellers if they are still working for the GC petitioning employer?
My situation: I am not working for the petitioning employer anymore and dont have an attorney as well and so need to get prepared to answer the CBP officails why i am not working for the petitioning employer at POE and you know, CBP officails dont understand AC-21 etc
Please read below.
================================================== =
japs19
Junior Member Join Date: May 2006
Posts: 22
My story...
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
I feel like sharing mine as mine is the most horrifying.
After scanning my expired H-1 and reviewing my AP, I was sent to "secondary check" where they ask you few questions and verify the authenticity of the documents.
I was asked if I work for the original petitioner? I said no, currently I work for another employer. I showed them my H-1 approval (I-797). The CBP officer was about to stamp my AP and he was told by a "side-kick" that I have to be employed at the same employer otherwise what is the guarantee that I will go and work for that employer. I calmly explained the fact that GC is for future employment and per AC-21 I can change after 180 days. The CBP officer said wait here and then he walked in to some room. He returned after 20 minutes and I was told to go and wait and other officer will take care of the situation. From one officer to another and another to another. I was asked if I am trying to do any fraud. Finally after 5 hours of questioning, I somewhat lost my temper and told them that either send me back to home country or let me go. So after making few phone calls, they concluded that they don't have access to all my records on their system and it is very gray situation so the office in downtown will take care of the situation.
They took my passport, AP, H-1 approval letter and told me to go to downtown office after 30 days and they will decide what to do.
My lawyer was kind enough to accompany me as she was also upset with their act. When I went there, we were rudely asked completely out of place questions which had nothing to do with whose employer I work for or anything and I was told that "I" confused CBP officers by showing AP and H-1 and I should have just shown them AP and everything would have been fine. I am the culprit and I choose to get myself in trouble.....
I said nothing and just saw him stamping my AP and walked out. I don't know what to conclude out of it. But A friend of mine had valid H-1 and AP and they asked "has any one applied for AOS for you?" he said yes. They asked him to show 485 and AP if he had and same story,,,one officer to another and another to another which lasted for 3 hours and finally his H-1 was stamped.
So, again I am not sure what they are trying to get out of this but this is happening at the airport. I am not trying to scare anyone but just be prepared to deal with such situation and keep in mind that you are not doing any fraud and keep the honesty.
This is still not a big deal.
Firstly, the lesson learned from this is, dont show your H1 to the officer at counter if that H1 is expired and you are entering on AP. The officer doesnt care what your history is and how many beautiful H1s you had in past that are now expired. If you are entering into US using advanced parole, then show advanced parole. What is the point of showing an expired H1 stamp?
Secondly, as far as JFK is concerned, that airport seems to have procedure that all AP holders are processed in back office (secondary inspection office) and not processed at the counter. In my case, as soon as the officer saw an AP, (that first thing I showed him even before passport and the I-94 filled out), he said "oh parole ... let me grab that and walk down that room", he put all things (parole, I-94, passport) into a plastic bag and took me to a back office. There, another employee entered AP info in the system, stamped the AP and gave it back to me. It did take about 10-15 minutes for them. But they didnt ask any questions.
So, try to make it simple for employees at POE by showing them the authorization for re-entry - WHICHEVER it is. If you are re-entering on H1, then show them h1 stamp that is valid. Dont show AP. If you are re-entering on AP, then show them AP and TELL THEM you are entering on AP, rather than flashing an expired H1 stamp.
Thirdly, this isnt a nightmare, the guy was processed in downtown office, and took a few extra hours. Big deal. Yes, its a hassle, but one must act professionally rather than throwing tantrums like "let me in or let me go back to my home country". That's NOT how government operates, definately not at that level. There are procedures in place. Emotions and rhetorical outbursts are not going to sway the decision. If you have the right authorization to re-enter, then you will be let back in, there is no other alternative. If you dont, then no amount of rhetoric and outburst is going to save you. The decision is driven by paperwork and not by the impression you create on them. The impression matters when you are getting visa for first time in US consulate. But at POE, its more procedural and there isnt that much discretion and leeway to deport people back.
If you want to throw tantrums and use rhetoric, then there are plenty of places to do that, and I'd suggest you start with your congressman and senator's office. Go there and tell them that let's end the probationaly shackles on skilled immigrants and regularize them in American mainstream OR if they are bad for america, then send them all back. That's where the rhetoric and emotional tantrums might work. They wont work at POE at airports or in USCIS offices.
Calm down people, use AP freely and peacefully and also EAD. AP is not just used by us, it is also used by family and marriage immigration cases. Many people get engaged, come here, then get married and then file for green card based on marriage to citizen. Even they use AP. In fact, they have no other choice except AP for re-entry as they dont have H1 or L1 alternatives.
Below is a recent story on travel on AP. I see many posts where folks are asked at POE by CBP offcials if they are still working from the petitioning employer.
Can you advise why CBP officers are even asking to several AP travellers if they are still working for the GC petitioning employer?
My situation: I am not working for the petitioning employer anymore and dont have an attorney as well and so need to get prepared to answer the CBP officails why i am not working for the petitioning employer at POE and you know, CBP officails dont understand AC-21 etc
Please read below.
================================================== =
japs19
Junior Member Join Date: May 2006
Posts: 22
My story...
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
I feel like sharing mine as mine is the most horrifying.
After scanning my expired H-1 and reviewing my AP, I was sent to "secondary check" where they ask you few questions and verify the authenticity of the documents.
I was asked if I work for the original petitioner? I said no, currently I work for another employer. I showed them my H-1 approval (I-797). The CBP officer was about to stamp my AP and he was told by a "side-kick" that I have to be employed at the same employer otherwise what is the guarantee that I will go and work for that employer. I calmly explained the fact that GC is for future employment and per AC-21 I can change after 180 days. The CBP officer said wait here and then he walked in to some room. He returned after 20 minutes and I was told to go and wait and other officer will take care of the situation. From one officer to another and another to another. I was asked if I am trying to do any fraud. Finally after 5 hours of questioning, I somewhat lost my temper and told them that either send me back to home country or let me go. So after making few phone calls, they concluded that they don't have access to all my records on their system and it is very gray situation so the office in downtown will take care of the situation.
They took my passport, AP, H-1 approval letter and told me to go to downtown office after 30 days and they will decide what to do.
My lawyer was kind enough to accompany me as she was also upset with their act. When I went there, we were rudely asked completely out of place questions which had nothing to do with whose employer I work for or anything and I was told that "I" confused CBP officers by showing AP and H-1 and I should have just shown them AP and everything would have been fine. I am the culprit and I choose to get myself in trouble.....
I said nothing and just saw him stamping my AP and walked out. I don't know what to conclude out of it. But A friend of mine had valid H-1 and AP and they asked "has any one applied for AOS for you?" he said yes. They asked him to show 485 and AP if he had and same story,,,one officer to another and another to another which lasted for 3 hours and finally his H-1 was stamped.
So, again I am not sure what they are trying to get out of this but this is happening at the airport. I am not trying to scare anyone but just be prepared to deal with such situation and keep in mind that you are not doing any fraud and keep the honesty.
This is still not a big deal.
Firstly, the lesson learned from this is, dont show your H1 to the officer at counter if that H1 is expired and you are entering on AP. The officer doesnt care what your history is and how many beautiful H1s you had in past that are now expired. If you are entering into US using advanced parole, then show advanced parole. What is the point of showing an expired H1 stamp?
Secondly, as far as JFK is concerned, that airport seems to have procedure that all AP holders are processed in back office (secondary inspection office) and not processed at the counter. In my case, as soon as the officer saw an AP, (that first thing I showed him even before passport and the I-94 filled out), he said "oh parole ... let me grab that and walk down that room", he put all things (parole, I-94, passport) into a plastic bag and took me to a back office. There, another employee entered AP info in the system, stamped the AP and gave it back to me. It did take about 10-15 minutes for them. But they didnt ask any questions.
So, try to make it simple for employees at POE by showing them the authorization for re-entry - WHICHEVER it is. If you are re-entering on H1, then show them h1 stamp that is valid. Dont show AP. If you are re-entering on AP, then show them AP and TELL THEM you are entering on AP, rather than flashing an expired H1 stamp.
Thirdly, this isnt a nightmare, the guy was processed in downtown office, and took a few extra hours. Big deal. Yes, its a hassle, but one must act professionally rather than throwing tantrums like "let me in or let me go back to my home country". That's NOT how government operates, definately not at that level. There are procedures in place. Emotions and rhetorical outbursts are not going to sway the decision. If you have the right authorization to re-enter, then you will be let back in, there is no other alternative. If you dont, then no amount of rhetoric and outburst is going to save you. The decision is driven by paperwork and not by the impression you create on them. The impression matters when you are getting visa for first time in US consulate. But at POE, its more procedural and there isnt that much discretion and leeway to deport people back.
If you want to throw tantrums and use rhetoric, then there are plenty of places to do that, and I'd suggest you start with your congressman and senator's office. Go there and tell them that let's end the probationaly shackles on skilled immigrants and regularize them in American mainstream OR if they are bad for america, then send them all back. That's where the rhetoric and emotional tantrums might work. They wont work at POE at airports or in USCIS offices.
Calm down people, use AP freely and peacefully and also EAD. AP is not just used by us, it is also used by family and marriage immigration cases. Many people get engaged, come here, then get married and then file for green card based on marriage to citizen. Even they use AP. In fact, they have no other choice except AP for re-entry as they dont have H1 or L1 alternatives.
ivslave
09-11 05:37 PM
###
2011 wallpaper black white.
nixstor
10-12 12:13 PM
Sent my email.
For those who are thinking what should be done, Please send an email to the guy who wrote that editorial
For those who are thinking what should be done, Please send an email to the guy who wrote that editorial
more...
.jpg "Beautiful Black White Stripe")
floridasun
12-31 04:17 PM
I have decided to give a break to these pain in the rear issues ...atleast for today and tomorrow. F***k this... Come what may... I will have a blast next 2 days :p
Wish you all a very happy new year 2011 and may every one cross the ocean of this GC torture system this new year !!
Wish you all a very happy new year 2011 and may every one cross the ocean of this GC torture system this new year !!
senthil1
04-14 09:49 PM
Your employer might think that it is difficult to find a project in the current economic condition. Anyhow your husband started working there should not be any issue. You can join another company after 6 months.
Yesterday, I was told by the client that my project is going to end by this month end i.e Apr 30. Actually it was supposed to go for the next 2 years. I am currently in the project working for the project. They said the lay off was becoz of budget issues. But I see I am the only one that is target in this lay-off. I am working with the same client for the past 3 years. The lay off news was really shocking and devastating.
I am currently 9 months pregnant. As the client did that to me, I thought that atleast I might have some options with my current employer. My employer is a desi consultancy. I never been on Bench for single day for the Past 6 years ( Day 1 that I entered into US to till now).
When I spoke to my employer today he gave me a termination letter stating that my project end date will be my last date with them. It was more shocking. I will be on maternity leave anytime in month of may depending on the delivery. I don't see any possible options that any client can take me into project when I am in 9th month of pregnancy.
As my husband is doing consulting, I filed the green card thru this employer, 485 is pending more than 180 days, 140 approved in EB2 category. We paid all the attorney fees and filing fees from our pocket. We spent nearly $10,000 for the GC process. My husband was on bench for the past 2 months. He got a job on EAD which is going to start next week.
1. I see that my employer is terminating me immediately because he can avoid maternity expenses. I told him that I will take 3 months FMLA for unpaid maternity leave from Apr 30th. And look for the Job immediately after delivery and get into the Job. But still he is telling he won't provide me that time. Maintaining the status is very important for me as me and my husband depends on the EAD.
2.My medical insurance is with my employer, If I get laid off in this critical situation, I won't be having insurance. We can't afford the delivery expenses without insurance.
3. Even though my husband will get insurance with the new company, We are not sure that company will cover the pre-existing pregnancy that is in final stages.
4. And also not sure that the insurance will be under the network of OBG/YN and the hospital I registered for delivery. His job is in different state but he will find out the options once he starts his job next week.
5. Does anyone think that my employer is discriminating the law? He is terminating me immediately becoz I am pregnant.
I am not sure whether he is doing the right thing but the situation I am in is the worst situation I ever expected of. Its lot of stress on me and my baby. We are unable to sleep for hour with all the tensions ahead. My husband's job is dependent on my valid status. If something screw up we both be in very bad situation. I really don't want any one in my situation.
Please help me, if any one know any options where I can maintain my status during the pregnancy and maternity leave, Please tell me.
Yesterday, I was told by the client that my project is going to end by this month end i.e Apr 30. Actually it was supposed to go for the next 2 years. I am currently in the project working for the project. They said the lay off was becoz of budget issues. But I see I am the only one that is target in this lay-off. I am working with the same client for the past 3 years. The lay off news was really shocking and devastating.
I am currently 9 months pregnant. As the client did that to me, I thought that atleast I might have some options with my current employer. My employer is a desi consultancy. I never been on Bench for single day for the Past 6 years ( Day 1 that I entered into US to till now).
When I spoke to my employer today he gave me a termination letter stating that my project end date will be my last date with them. It was more shocking. I will be on maternity leave anytime in month of may depending on the delivery. I don't see any possible options that any client can take me into project when I am in 9th month of pregnancy.
As my husband is doing consulting, I filed the green card thru this employer, 485 is pending more than 180 days, 140 approved in EB2 category. We paid all the attorney fees and filing fees from our pocket. We spent nearly $10,000 for the GC process. My husband was on bench for the past 2 months. He got a job on EAD which is going to start next week.
1. I see that my employer is terminating me immediately because he can avoid maternity expenses. I told him that I will take 3 months FMLA for unpaid maternity leave from Apr 30th. And look for the Job immediately after delivery and get into the Job. But still he is telling he won't provide me that time. Maintaining the status is very important for me as me and my husband depends on the EAD.
2.My medical insurance is with my employer, If I get laid off in this critical situation, I won't be having insurance. We can't afford the delivery expenses without insurance.
3. Even though my husband will get insurance with the new company, We are not sure that company will cover the pre-existing pregnancy that is in final stages.
4. And also not sure that the insurance will be under the network of OBG/YN and the hospital I registered for delivery. His job is in different state but he will find out the options once he starts his job next week.
5. Does anyone think that my employer is discriminating the law? He is terminating me immediately becoz I am pregnant.
I am not sure whether he is doing the right thing but the situation I am in is the worst situation I ever expected of. Its lot of stress on me and my baby. We are unable to sleep for hour with all the tensions ahead. My husband's job is dependent on my valid status. If something screw up we both be in very bad situation. I really don't want any one in my situation.
Please help me, if any one know any options where I can maintain my status during the pregnancy and maternity leave, Please tell me.
more...
lskreddy
05-21 12:49 PM
If they state their reasoning behind these processing times and let us know in writing that only apps with current priority dates are being considered, that will put to rest a lot of our anxiety.
As much as I am anxious to know about the application being approved, the lack of transparency is what frustrates me the most. They create the rules and they bend it as and when it suits them.
I wish they would only state the true state of affairs.
As much as I am anxious to know about the application being approved, the lack of transparency is what frustrates me the most. They create the rules and they bend it as and when it suits them.
I wish they would only state the true state of affairs.
2010 BMX trees lack white picture
paskal
12-17 02:48 PM
With all due respect, the probelem I have with volunteers is that I don't think amtures can pull a job this big, you've got to have profesionals, somethng like a compain maneger.
I admire the courage of your guys, and think the goal is fantastic. But the way it goes, I don't see how it can be achieved.
I've learned a great deal about immigration from the forum here. I very much appreciate it. I try to give back by answering questions others may have. I think IV has been doing a great job serving as that capacity.
But you guys want do something bigger. Well, you have faith in it, I don't, at least not now, neither many others. Maybe that is why you are still asking for money and volunteers.
we have professional lobbyists. and they cost the erath.
and that is why we need contributions. as long people "don't believe" we don't succeed. it's up to you, it's your issue as much as mine. professionals cost a lot of money, and this thread is quibbling over 20 and 50 bucks. anyway who is the knight on the white horse coming to rescue us? it's just us buddy, and we have to do our best. i like your analytical thinking. we need you to join in and help. any number of volunteers is less imho...
I admire the courage of your guys, and think the goal is fantastic. But the way it goes, I don't see how it can be achieved.
I've learned a great deal about immigration from the forum here. I very much appreciate it. I try to give back by answering questions others may have. I think IV has been doing a great job serving as that capacity.
But you guys want do something bigger. Well, you have faith in it, I don't, at least not now, neither many others. Maybe that is why you are still asking for money and volunteers.
we have professional lobbyists. and they cost the erath.
and that is why we need contributions. as long people "don't believe" we don't succeed. it's up to you, it's your issue as much as mine. professionals cost a lot of money, and this thread is quibbling over 20 and 50 bucks. anyway who is the knight on the white horse coming to rescue us? it's just us buddy, and we have to do our best. i like your analytical thinking. we need you to join in and help. any number of volunteers is less imho...
more...
chanduv23
10-08 07:36 PM
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
hair Black and white manage style
ps57002
09-23 01:11 PM
it's working now...the link
more...
EkAurAaya
05-14 05:20 PM
Can someone please advice pros and cons, keeping in mind the forward movement of priority dates could be just for the month of June!
My 140 is still pending in NSC I have the option to quicky upgrade that to premium and then go for CP, what would be the course of action?
Also what are the wait times for CP in Mumbai India?
Thanks!
May we all get outa this mess :cool: and move on with life!
=======================
COMPARISON OF ADJUSTMENT OF STATUS VERSUS CONSULAR PROCESSING
The purpose of this page is to address the advantages and disadvantages of Adjustment of Status and Consular Processing. There are various factors that need to be considered, including the procedures, the cost, the time and the risks involved in each process.
I. TIME
Generally, Adjustment of Status Applications take about 12-15 months to be approved by the INS. In most cases, Consular Processing takes approximately 6 to 9 months, depending on which US Consulate is chosen.
II. CONSULATE NOTIFICATION
The decision to consular process often turns on the issue of whether the overseas consulate will accept an application without notification from the INS via the National Visa Center (NVC). At present only a handful of Consulates will accept such an application. The usual course calls for the INS to send notice of the approval of the I-140 to the NVC in Portsmouth, New Hampshire, which then notifies the particular consulate.
From time to time, an I-824 is required in order to Consular Process. In these scenarios, Consular processing takes in excess of one year and is almost never a good option. Because some consulates are realizing that the I-824 processing times at the Service Centers are unreasonably lengthy, several Consulates have opted to allow consular processing in their discretion without the requirement of the notification from the NVC. Under this process, the AC I-140 (attorney certified I-140), the attorney directly sends the Consulate a certified copy of the I-140 approval notice.
There are a few things to keep in mind if you choose the AC I-140 process. First, not all consulates recognize it. Second, some Consulates may later switch to an approach where they demand the I-824. Third, some of the consulates who do accept ACI-140 do so only on grounds of hardship, such as the aging out of a child.
III. 180 DAY PORTABILITY RULE
Persons whose I-485s have been pending at the INS for 180 days or longer are ordinarily eligible to transfer to a new employer without abandoning their I-485 Adjustment of Status Application. The rules surrounding the 180 Day Portability are new and can be complex. However, the Portability rule can provide great relief to employees who are concerned that future lay-offs or Reductions In Force may cause their permanent Residency Applications to fail. Because of several liberalized I-485 rules, it usually a poor choice to opt for Consular Processing.
IV. LOCAL ISSUES
Each consulate has its own nuances. Most U.S. Consulates require police certificates for all applicants 16 years or older covering all periods that they have resided in a foreign country. This requirement does not exist in the case of adjustment of status. The consular officers also require a certified copy of any military records, whereas this is not required in adjustment of status applications. The consulate in Manila will only accept birth certificates issued by the National Statistics Office. A person who does not have all the documents at the time of the interview will need to appear for a second interview.
In all cases however, the medical exams have to be completed by a designated doctor in that country. In London, the medical exams are completed the same day as the interview. However, in Johannesburg, Chennai, and Mumbai, the medical exams have to be completed at least two weeks before the interview. Essentially, this means the employee will need to spend approximately three weeks overseas or will require two trips overseas.
In most cases, interview notices are generated approximately 30 days prior to the actual interview. As a practical matter, families need to depart the U.S. immediately upon receipt of an interview notice in order to have plenty of time to complete the medical exam.
In addition to the general procedural differences between the two processes, there are more stringent requirements in consular processing. For example, it is generally easier to obtain waivers of certain medical grounds for exclusion, such as HIV, if you are Adjusting.
V. COSTS
Another issue that should be analyzed is the cost associated with each process. The major monetary difference is travel costs. Plainly, you only need to pay for a flight overseas if you are Consular processing. This can be burdensome and costly where there are several family members.
Another factor that may indirectly affect the costs to the employer and employee is the time that will be required to be spent outside of the United States. During the adjustment of status process, a person can continue their employment in the United States while the case is processing. In consular processing cases, they are required to be out of the U.S. for approximately a month, assuming no problems arise in their case. If problems do arise in their case, they may need to stay overseas longer than anticipated. Alternatively, they could, in most cases, come back to the U.S. but would need to travel to the consulate again for a follow-up interview. Obviously, this adds to additional time away from work and additional expenses. In addition, for employees who have school age children, this would require the child's absence from school.
VI. RISKS
The major factor in deciding whether to choose adjustment of status or consular processing is the risk involved. By far, consular processing is much more risky than the adjustment of status process. First, consular processing provides less opportunity for attorney assistance. In the adjustment of status process, the attorneys prepare the application and file it with the INS. If the INS has a Request for Additional Evidence or any issues in the case, the information is sent to the attorney at which time the attorney can review the issues with the client and submit a response. In consular processing, the consulates do not allow the person to be represented by an attorney during the interview. Sometimes the attorney can stay in the waiting room and address any questions that the applicant has, but is not allowed to actually represent them at the interview.
Second, consular processing involves a personal interview whereas the adjustment of status does not. Of course, any time that there is a personal interview, there is more risk that the applicant will say something unfavorable to his case. It also provides the officer with more time to go in depth into the applicant's immigration history or any issues of excludability. For example, if the employee's job title or job duties have changed at all since the filing of the labor certification then there is more of a chance that the consulate will focus on this issue and could deny the application. In contrast, in adjustment of status the INS does not delve into the exact job duties, (e.g. specific tools, utilities, software) but rather focuses on the job title, salary, and whether there is a continued offer of employment.
Third, consular officers sometimes work with a mindset of distrust because they are accustomed to seeing fraudulent cases. Keep in mind that Manila, Mumbai, and Chennai are high fraud posts.
Fourth, anyone who has been unlawfully present in the United States and is subject to the 3/10 year bar would immediately trigger that bar once he departed the U.S. Clearly, a person in this situation should not even consider consular processing as such as decision would be fatal.
Finally, and most importantly, a denial of a visa at a Consulate post cannot be appealed.
VII. EMPLOYMENT FOR SPOUSES
Spouses can obtain employment authorization while their Application for Adjustment of Status is pending at the INS. They are ineligible for work authorization while their Consular Processing Application is pending.
VIII. CONCLUSION
In sum, consular processing can be advantageous in some situations. However, the decision to do consular processing should be made on a case-by-case basis based upon the particular consulate and the facts of each case. Ordinarily, Adjustment of Status is the better approach.
My 140 is still pending in NSC I have the option to quicky upgrade that to premium and then go for CP, what would be the course of action?
Also what are the wait times for CP in Mumbai India?
Thanks!
May we all get outa this mess :cool: and move on with life!
=======================
COMPARISON OF ADJUSTMENT OF STATUS VERSUS CONSULAR PROCESSING
The purpose of this page is to address the advantages and disadvantages of Adjustment of Status and Consular Processing. There are various factors that need to be considered, including the procedures, the cost, the time and the risks involved in each process.
I. TIME
Generally, Adjustment of Status Applications take about 12-15 months to be approved by the INS. In most cases, Consular Processing takes approximately 6 to 9 months, depending on which US Consulate is chosen.
II. CONSULATE NOTIFICATION
The decision to consular process often turns on the issue of whether the overseas consulate will accept an application without notification from the INS via the National Visa Center (NVC). At present only a handful of Consulates will accept such an application. The usual course calls for the INS to send notice of the approval of the I-140 to the NVC in Portsmouth, New Hampshire, which then notifies the particular consulate.
From time to time, an I-824 is required in order to Consular Process. In these scenarios, Consular processing takes in excess of one year and is almost never a good option. Because some consulates are realizing that the I-824 processing times at the Service Centers are unreasonably lengthy, several Consulates have opted to allow consular processing in their discretion without the requirement of the notification from the NVC. Under this process, the AC I-140 (attorney certified I-140), the attorney directly sends the Consulate a certified copy of the I-140 approval notice.
There are a few things to keep in mind if you choose the AC I-140 process. First, not all consulates recognize it. Second, some Consulates may later switch to an approach where they demand the I-824. Third, some of the consulates who do accept ACI-140 do so only on grounds of hardship, such as the aging out of a child.
III. 180 DAY PORTABILITY RULE
Persons whose I-485s have been pending at the INS for 180 days or longer are ordinarily eligible to transfer to a new employer without abandoning their I-485 Adjustment of Status Application. The rules surrounding the 180 Day Portability are new and can be complex. However, the Portability rule can provide great relief to employees who are concerned that future lay-offs or Reductions In Force may cause their permanent Residency Applications to fail. Because of several liberalized I-485 rules, it usually a poor choice to opt for Consular Processing.
IV. LOCAL ISSUES
Each consulate has its own nuances. Most U.S. Consulates require police certificates for all applicants 16 years or older covering all periods that they have resided in a foreign country. This requirement does not exist in the case of adjustment of status. The consular officers also require a certified copy of any military records, whereas this is not required in adjustment of status applications. The consulate in Manila will only accept birth certificates issued by the National Statistics Office. A person who does not have all the documents at the time of the interview will need to appear for a second interview.
In all cases however, the medical exams have to be completed by a designated doctor in that country. In London, the medical exams are completed the same day as the interview. However, in Johannesburg, Chennai, and Mumbai, the medical exams have to be completed at least two weeks before the interview. Essentially, this means the employee will need to spend approximately three weeks overseas or will require two trips overseas.
In most cases, interview notices are generated approximately 30 days prior to the actual interview. As a practical matter, families need to depart the U.S. immediately upon receipt of an interview notice in order to have plenty of time to complete the medical exam.
In addition to the general procedural differences between the two processes, there are more stringent requirements in consular processing. For example, it is generally easier to obtain waivers of certain medical grounds for exclusion, such as HIV, if you are Adjusting.
V. COSTS
Another issue that should be analyzed is the cost associated with each process. The major monetary difference is travel costs. Plainly, you only need to pay for a flight overseas if you are Consular processing. This can be burdensome and costly where there are several family members.
Another factor that may indirectly affect the costs to the employer and employee is the time that will be required to be spent outside of the United States. During the adjustment of status process, a person can continue their employment in the United States while the case is processing. In consular processing cases, they are required to be out of the U.S. for approximately a month, assuming no problems arise in their case. If problems do arise in their case, they may need to stay overseas longer than anticipated. Alternatively, they could, in most cases, come back to the U.S. but would need to travel to the consulate again for a follow-up interview. Obviously, this adds to additional time away from work and additional expenses. In addition, for employees who have school age children, this would require the child's absence from school.
VI. RISKS
The major factor in deciding whether to choose adjustment of status or consular processing is the risk involved. By far, consular processing is much more risky than the adjustment of status process. First, consular processing provides less opportunity for attorney assistance. In the adjustment of status process, the attorneys prepare the application and file it with the INS. If the INS has a Request for Additional Evidence or any issues in the case, the information is sent to the attorney at which time the attorney can review the issues with the client and submit a response. In consular processing, the consulates do not allow the person to be represented by an attorney during the interview. Sometimes the attorney can stay in the waiting room and address any questions that the applicant has, but is not allowed to actually represent them at the interview.
Second, consular processing involves a personal interview whereas the adjustment of status does not. Of course, any time that there is a personal interview, there is more risk that the applicant will say something unfavorable to his case. It also provides the officer with more time to go in depth into the applicant's immigration history or any issues of excludability. For example, if the employee's job title or job duties have changed at all since the filing of the labor certification then there is more of a chance that the consulate will focus on this issue and could deny the application. In contrast, in adjustment of status the INS does not delve into the exact job duties, (e.g. specific tools, utilities, software) but rather focuses on the job title, salary, and whether there is a continued offer of employment.
Third, consular officers sometimes work with a mindset of distrust because they are accustomed to seeing fraudulent cases. Keep in mind that Manila, Mumbai, and Chennai are high fraud posts.
Fourth, anyone who has been unlawfully present in the United States and is subject to the 3/10 year bar would immediately trigger that bar once he departed the U.S. Clearly, a person in this situation should not even consider consular processing as such as decision would be fatal.
Finally, and most importantly, a denial of a visa at a Consulate post cannot be appealed.
VII. EMPLOYMENT FOR SPOUSES
Spouses can obtain employment authorization while their Application for Adjustment of Status is pending at the INS. They are ineligible for work authorization while their Consular Processing Application is pending.
VIII. CONCLUSION
In sum, consular processing can be advantageous in some situations. However, the decision to do consular processing should be made on a case-by-case basis based upon the particular consulate and the facts of each case. Ordinarily, Adjustment of Status is the better approach.
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GCmuddu_H1BVaddu
03-26 09:10 PM
Man, everyone gave me REDs for opening this thread and I am surprised it is keep coming to the top. I can see this going to several pages :confused::confused:
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cbpds
05-06 03:07 PM
I think u guys are getting anxious and thinking of such ways. u will need some determination to complete the MS besides ur regular work.......suppose if EB2 gets clogged suddenly next year, will u stop doing MS then?
I am also in the same boat. Could anybody suggest some good affordable online universities?
I am also in the same boat. Could anybody suggest some good affordable online universities?
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redds777
04-17 10:40 PM
You're welcome.
Yep. Got copies of labor, I-140 forms and approvals via FOIA. :)
Can you tell me the procedure to apply for FOIA and also how long did it take you to get the copy of labor . Did you use an Lawyer to fet this info ?
I am trying to get the job description on my labor . My employer is not providing me the same .
Thanks for your help
Yep. Got copies of labor, I-140 forms and approvals via FOIA. :)
Can you tell me the procedure to apply for FOIA and also how long did it take you to get the copy of labor . Did you use an Lawyer to fet this info ?
I am trying to get the job description on my labor . My employer is not providing me the same .
Thanks for your help
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pappu
03-10 03:54 PM
:mad:
Why would we have an exam after dropped out of school?
I thought dropping out is like going back to home country
Why would we have an exam after dropped out of school?
I thought dropping out is like going back to home country
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gvenkat
09-05 01:55 PM
Recently I returned after a one month trip to India. At DC airport the CBP secondary inspection officer grilled us rough. First he called my wife and asked why did we leave US. She told that since my parents are old and not in good health we visited them. Then he started asking for documents proving it. And told us that without documents he won't let us enter. He went on to say that AP is only on humanitarian basis and unless CBP officer is satisfied with proof they cannot allow AP holder to enter. Finally after convincing him for another 30 min he let us in.
This was a really shocking experience. Are employment based GC's AP supposed to be treated like humanitarian AP? or was the CBP officer over reacting? Gurus please throw some light.
Tough Luck for you. I entered thro AP yesterday in chicago. Guess what the officer did not even talk a single word. He saw the document stamped and let me in. all it took was 5 minutes.
This was a really shocking experience. Are employment based GC's AP supposed to be treated like humanitarian AP? or was the CBP officer over reacting? Gurus please throw some light.
Tough Luck for you. I entered thro AP yesterday in chicago. Guess what the officer did not even talk a single word. He saw the document stamped and let me in. all it took was 5 minutes.
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perm2gc
08-23 09:21 AM
unless I am egregiously mistaken, I 140 is totally employers and not employee's. How can you invoke FOIA on that? I mean freedom of info doesnt mean a breach of privacy or disclose "compny/personal" documentation. Nixstor..i have only same view but i dont understand how USCIS is proceeding...As per gc_in_30_years it seems possible..but never trust Customer Support at USCIS..Many Dont know the rules..
gc_in_30_years..let us know when you got the copy.
gc_in_30_years..let us know when you got the copy.
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pappu
08-22 02:16 PM
Hi Diptam,
You spoiled Aadimanav's day already :D:D
No Diptam spoiled several years of his .... :D:D:D
You spoiled Aadimanav's day already :D:D
No Diptam spoiled several years of his .... :D:D:D
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h1techSlave
01-23 01:02 PM
With your 485 application packet, you need to attach proof of your 140 application.
You can switch to EAD after you get EAD (which may or may not happen within 6 months of applying for 485 and EAD). 6 months after you apply for 485, you can switch employer with out negative consequences to your 485.
Disclaimer: Any thing and every thing related to USCIS is like gambling.
I hope they do that ..
Can i apply for 485..with 140 pending? and then switch to EAD after 6 months?
I will be completing my 9 yrs for H1 in Jan 2010...;)
You can switch to EAD after you get EAD (which may or may not happen within 6 months of applying for 485 and EAD). 6 months after you apply for 485, you can switch employer with out negative consequences to your 485.
Disclaimer: Any thing and every thing related to USCIS is like gambling.
I hope they do that ..
Can i apply for 485..with 140 pending? and then switch to EAD after 6 months?
I will be completing my 9 yrs for H1 in Jan 2010...;)
optimist
02-08 02:47 PM
Hi,
I have 3 yrs degree + 1 yr PG diploma.
But they won't file my GC in EB2 category, as I don't meet the 4 yr BS requirement.
Here is a list of accredited institutions that offer online MS degrees at reasonable tuition:
Best Buy Masters Computer Science & Information Technology | Ratings & Rankings | GetEducated.com (http://www.geteducated.com/online-college-ratings-and-rankings/best-buy-lists/best-buy-masters-computer-science-and-information-technology)
You can also consider getting a US bachelor's degree through online courses and credits-by-testing from one of these:
Thomas Edison State College/ Academic Programs (http://tesc.edu/academics/academicprograms.php)
http://www.excelsior.edu/ecapps/degreeProgram/degreeTable.jsf?gw=1
List of Programs Available at Charter Oak State College (http://www.charteroak.edu/Prospective/Programs)
If you do an official evaluation of the 3-yrs degree that you already have, it can be equivalent to up to 90 credits from a US School (which is equal to 3 years of undergrad education here). All these credits may or may not be transferable to the school/degree that you choose to enrol in. But you would have to research and find a school that would let you use most of them. That way you can complete your degree much faster than the standard process.
Whatever you choose, make sure that the school is regionally-accredited by one of these organizations:
CHEA: Directory of Regional Accrediting Organizations (2009-2010) (http://www.chea.org/Directories/regional.asp)
Remember every long journey begins with just one baby step... Good Luck!
I have 3 yrs degree + 1 yr PG diploma.
But they won't file my GC in EB2 category, as I don't meet the 4 yr BS requirement.
Here is a list of accredited institutions that offer online MS degrees at reasonable tuition:
Best Buy Masters Computer Science & Information Technology | Ratings & Rankings | GetEducated.com (http://www.geteducated.com/online-college-ratings-and-rankings/best-buy-lists/best-buy-masters-computer-science-and-information-technology)
You can also consider getting a US bachelor's degree through online courses and credits-by-testing from one of these:
Thomas Edison State College/ Academic Programs (http://tesc.edu/academics/academicprograms.php)
http://www.excelsior.edu/ecapps/degreeProgram/degreeTable.jsf?gw=1
List of Programs Available at Charter Oak State College (http://www.charteroak.edu/Prospective/Programs)
If you do an official evaluation of the 3-yrs degree that you already have, it can be equivalent to up to 90 credits from a US School (which is equal to 3 years of undergrad education here). All these credits may or may not be transferable to the school/degree that you choose to enrol in. But you would have to research and find a school that would let you use most of them. That way you can complete your degree much faster than the standard process.
Whatever you choose, make sure that the school is regionally-accredited by one of these organizations:
CHEA: Directory of Regional Accrediting Organizations (2009-2010) (http://www.chea.org/Directories/regional.asp)
Remember every long journey begins with just one baby step... Good Luck!
kaisersose
08-15 11:08 AM
Citizenship is going to happen only after 5 years . But by then it would be long time gone .
the only way that they could find out would be based on your tax return.DO they really scrutinize to that extent?
They will know because when you fill out the N-400 application form, you are required to list your employment details for the last 5 years.
the only way that they could find out would be based on your tax return.DO they really scrutinize to that extent?
They will know because when you fill out the N-400 application form, you are required to list your employment details for the last 5 years.