STEM Careers
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STEM Immigration Policy Update: Expansions and Clarity

On January 21, 2022, the Departments of State and Homeland Security announced new policies with the goal of attracting and retaining more STEM talent to the US. Below is an explanation of the key changes and clarifications. F-1 OPT/STEM OPT Extensions The Department of Homeland Security published a notice on the Federal Register announcing their…

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News Flash: Expansion of Interview Waiver Eligibility

Secretary of State Antony Blinken has temporarily expanded the ability of consular officers to waive the in-person interview requirement for individuals wishing to renew a nonimmigrant visa. The visa must be in the same classification and category. This is not the first instance of such an expansion.   48 Months is the Magic Number Originally, only applicants whose visa had expired within the last…

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U.S. Business Visa Interview Best Practices

Several options for immigration are available for business visitors to the United States. There are five categories of “EB” visas (employment-based visas) for immigrants eligible to work in the United States as permanent residents, and employer sponsorship is sometimes required for those business visas. Temporary, non-immigrant visas are also offered to those who want or…

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Visa Waiver Program for Business and Tourism

The Visa Waiver Program (VWP) allows citizens of participating countries to travel to the United States without a visa for stays of ninety days or less for tourism or for business purposes. Transiting or traveling through the United States to Canada or Mexico is generally permitted for VWP travelers. Business activities permitted while in the…

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L-1A vs H-1B Visas

These days, there are many questions about the differences in visas available for immigrants. Understanding those differences can get confusing and frankly, overwhelming. For instance, what is the difference between L-1A and H-1B visas? If you are not sure, you are not alone. Let’s review what visa class may be right for you, as well…

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Audit by DOS: Verification or Intrusion?

The Department of State (DOS) has recently confirmed the commencement of its independent verification of information contained in visa applications. Shihab Burke, LLC, Attorneys At Law also confirms that some of its clients have been contacted by the Kentucky Consular Center (KCC) via contractors by telephone as part of the process. Intrusive Verification Questions However,…