Showing posts with label Chaudhary Law office Citizenship Green Card H1-B H1B Immigration India Minnesota Satveer Chaudhary USA. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Chaudhary Law office Citizenship Green Card H1-B H1B Immigration India Minnesota Satveer Chaudhary USA. Show all posts

Sunday, September 9, 2012

Some Immigration Humor


Sometimes its necessary to share some immigration humor.  Take a moment to listen to comedian Russell Peters about accents.


http://www.slideshare.net/satveerc/h1-b-101slideshare?from=share_email







Contact Us From Anywhere in the U.S.
(952)525-2285 ♦ satveer@chaudharylawoffice.com
Free consultation

Satveer Chaudhary is the founding lawyer of Chaudhary Law Office, PLLC.  In practice over 10 years, Chaudhary brings 14 years of legislative experience as a State Senator and Member of the Minnesota House of Representatives to each and every case.At Chaudhary Law Office, our clients come first. Every client is treated with courtesy and is guaranteed effective representation. Practicing in the areas of  Immigration Law, Wills, Divorce, Family Law, Small Business and Criminal Law, we provide free intial consultations to all our clients.

In 2004  Satveer Chaudhary was named the University of Minnesota Law School Alumni of the Year. He was also awarded the Governor’s Certificate of Commendation for the Legal Aid Society of Minnesota, served as Special Assistant to Minnesota Attorney General Hubert H. Humphrey III, and was recognized by the worldwide Asian-Indian community for  his dedicated work, Chaudhary was named to the top-50 non-resident Indians in the world (NRI World  magazine).  

The information provided is offered for informational purposes only. It is not offered as and does not constitute legal advice. Chaudhary Law Office, PLLC does not seek to represent you based upon your review of this brochure. You should not make legal hiring decisions based merely upon brochures, advertising or other promotional materials.


Thursday, July 12, 2012

Fairness for High-Skilled Immigrants Act

On Wednesday, July 11th, 2012 Senator Chuck Grassley of Iowa put the  statement below in The Congressional Record regarding lifting his hold on H.R. 3012, the Fairness for High-Skilled Immigrants Act.  This is good news for Indian and Chinese highly-skilled workers seeking entry into the United Status under EB status.  

The Durbin-Grassley visa reform bill also includes provisions that give greater authority to program overseers to investigate Visa fraud and abuse.  Specifically, there will be language authorizing the Department of Labor to better review labor condition applications and investigate fraud and misrepresentation by employers.  There’s also agreement to include a provision allowing the federal government to do annual compliance audits of employers who bring in foreign workers through the H-1B visa program.

Contact Chaudhary Law Office for discussion about how this may impact your workers, and business.  (952)525-2285
Mr. President,

Today, I lift my hold on H.R. 3012, the Fairness for High-Skilled Immigrants Act.  This bill would eliminate the per-country numerical limitations for employment–based immigrants and change the per-country numerical limitations for family-based immigrants.  When I placed a hold on the bill, I was concerned that the bill did nothing to better protect Americans at home who seek high-skilled jobs during this time of record unemployment.  Today, I lift my hold because I have reached an agreement with the senior Senator from New York, the Chairman of the Senate Judiciary Subcommittee on Immigration, Refugees and Border Security.

I’ve spent a lot of time and effort into rooting out fraud and abuse in our visa programs, specifically the H-1B visa program.  I have always said this program can and should serve as a benefit to our country, our economy and our U.S. employers.   However, it is clear that it’s not working as intended, and the program is having a detrimental effect on American workers.  

For many years, Senator Durbin and I have worked on legislation to close the loopholes in the H-1B visa program.  Our legislation would ensure that American workers are afforded the first chance to obtain the available high paying and high skilled jobs in the United States.  It would make sure visa holders know their rights.  It would strengthen the wage requirements, ridding the incentives for companies to hire cheap, foreign labor.

While I couldn’t get everything that was included in the Durbin-Grassley visa reform bill, there is agreement to include in H.R. 3012 provisions that give greater authority to program overseers to investigate visa fraud and abuse.  Specifically, there will be language authorizing the Department of Labor to better review labor condition applications and investigate fraud and misrepresentation by employers.  There’s also agreement to include a provision allowing the federal government to do annual compliance audits of employers who bring in foreign workers through the H-1B visa program.

I appreciate the willingness of other members to work with me to include measures that will help us combat visa fraud, and ultimately protect more American workers.  I look forward to working with others as H.R. 3012 progresses in the Senate.  

I yield the floor.

Saturday, June 16, 2012

An Overview on H1B Visas and Your Business

Please find a brief overview on H1B Visas.  Chaudhary Law Office has put this slide series together for your information only and should not be viewed as legal advice.  Attorney Satveer Chaudhary is willing to present this to all interested firms and HR departments.  Please contact Chaudhary Law Office at (952)525-2285.

 http://www.slideshare.net/satveerc/h1-b-101slideshare



Contact Us From Anywhere in the U.S.
(952)525-2285 ♦ satveer@chaudharylawoffice.com
Free consultation

Satveer Chaudhary is the founding lawyer of Chaudhary Law Office, PLLC.  In practice over 10 years, Chaudhary brings 14 years of legislative experience as a State Senator and Member of the Minnesota House of Representatives to each and every case.At Chaudhary Law Office, our clients come first. Every client is treated with courtesy and is guaranteed effective representation. Practicing in the areas of  Immigration Law, Wills, Divorce, Family Law, Small Business and Criminal Law, we provide free intial consultations to all our clients.

In 2004  Satveer Chaudhary was named the University of Minnesota Law School Alumni of the Year. He was also awarded the Governor’s Certificate of Commendation for the Legal Aid Society of Minnesota, served as Special Assistant to Minnesota Attorney General Hubert H. Humphrey III, and was recognized by the worldwide Asian-Indian community for  his dedicated work, Chaudhary was named to the top-50 non-resident Indians in the world (NRI World  magazine).  

The information provided is offered for informational purposes only. It is not offered as and does not constitute legal advice. Chaudhary Law Office, PLLC does not seek to represent you based upon your review of this brochure. You should not make legal hiring decisions based merely upon brochures, advertising or other promotional materials.

Thursday, May 31, 2012

Immigration Technicality May Keep Homecoming Queen From Graduation

Many individuals decide they can go it alone when it comes to green card applications or citizenship issues.  Their employer handles the work visa, and after that  they are home free.  No reason to pay a lawyer to get those remaining forms secured.  They can do it themselves.  After all, that's what their wife's cousin did.

Well contrary to the words of your wife's cousin.  Immigration issues can be tricky.  In fact, ABC news reported May 30, 2012 that an immigration law technicality may keep a homecoming queen from graduating from high school.  Senior classman,  Elizabeth Olivas thought she would be enjoying the last days at her Indiana high school with her classmates before graduating on Saturday.

Instead, the Frankfort High School homecoming queen is in her native Mexico, caught up in an immigration technicality that has her future in the United States straddled between U.S. government agencies, according to the Indianapolis Star.

Olivas has lived in the U.S. since the age 4, and her father is a naturalized U.S. citizen. But after turning 18, according to the law, she had 180 days to return to Mexico  to apply for a long-term visa to the United States. Without that visa she would become an illegal immigrant. So Olivas and her father took the trip down to the Juarez consulate, only to realize they were one day late.  Now she must wait three years before entering the country again, unless she receives a  ”humanitarian patrole” visa waiver. (excerpt from

Read more about this issue at:

http://abcnews.go.com/blogs/politics/2012/05/immigration-technicality-may-keep-homecoming-queen-from-graduation/

This however, does emphasize the importance of maintaining an ongoing relationship with an immigration attorney even after you receive a green card, or if all members of your family have not become citizens.  I frequently find that the do-it-yourself filers can have long term issues that can impact their family and their future.  Saving a few dollars in the short term can cause years of heartache and financial expense.  Ask Elizabeth Olivas.



Contact Us From Anywhere in the U.S.
(952)525-2285 ♦ satveer@chaudharylawoffice.com
Free consultation

Satveer Chaudhary is the founding lawyer of Chaudhary Law Office, PLLC.  In practice over 10 years, Chaudhary brings 14 years of legislative experience as a State Senator and Member of the Minnesota House of Representatives to each and every case.At Chaudhary Law Office, our clients come first. Every client is treated with courtesy and is guaranteed effective representation. Practicing in the areas of  Immigration Law, Wills, Divorce, Family Law, Small Business and Criminal Law, we provide free intial consultations to all our clients.

In 2004  Satveer Chaudhary was named the University of Minnesota Law School Alumni of the Year. He was also awarded the Governor’s Certificate of Commendation for the Legal Aid Society of Minnesota, served as Special Assistant to Minnesota Attorney General Hubert H. Humphrey III, and was recognized by the worldwide Asian-Indian community for  his dedicated work, Chaudhary was named to the top-50 non-resident Indians in the world (NRI World  magazine).  

The information provided is offered for informational purposes only. It is not offered as and does not constitute legal advice. Chaudhary Law Office, PLLC does not seek to represent you based upon your review of this brochure. You should not make legal hiring decisions based merely upon brochures, advertising or other promotional materials.

Saturday, April 28, 2012

USCIS Publishes QAs On Direct Email Communication With EB-5 Regional Center Applicants

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has been implementing a series of proposed enhancements to the EB-5 program. Since the fall of  2011, Form I-924 applicants have been able to communicate directly with USCIS adjudicators via email in an effort to streamline the process and quickly raise and resolve issues or questions that arise during the adjudication process.

The EB-5 Program, also known as the Immigrant Investor Program, is designed to stimulate the U.S. economy through job creation and capital investment by foreign investors. Form I-924 is the Application for Regional Center under the Immigrant Investor Pilot Program.

Some Q&A from Chaudhary Law Office, PLLC


Q1. What are the goals of direct email communication between USCIS and Form I-924 applicants? A1. Direct email communication is a customer-service tool to enhance communication between USCIS and Form I-924 applicants. Form I-924 applicants may email USCIS questions regarding pending applications, including questions related to Requests for Evidence (RFEs) and Notices of Intent to Deny (NOIDs) issued by USCIS. USCIS may email Form I-924 applicants to informally ask for clarification on certain issues to facilitate review, understanding and adjudication of the application. USCIS may also send a courtesy copy of an RFE or NOID to the email address listed on the I-924 and, if applicable, to the email address listed on the Form G-2 8, Notice of Entry of Appearance as Attorney or Accredited Representative, associated with the application. 

Q2. How will the direct email communication process work? 
A2. Form I-924 applicants with pending applications will be sent an email with a unique identifier and a specific email address to use when corresponding with USCIS. Once assigned an email address, applicants may use this contact information to send and respond to emails to discuss—either informally or through the RFE or NOID process—issues raised in their regional center applications. An applicant will receive an email with instructions shortly after his or her Form I-924 application is accepted by USCIS for filing. The direct email communication process is only available to entities that have a pending Form I-924 application. It is not available to regional center promoters who have pending regional center applications that were filed prior to the implementation of Form I-924 on Nov. 23, 2010. 

Q3. Will USCIS use email to issue RFEs and NOIDs, and can Form I-924 applicants use email to provide evidence in response to such notices? 
A3. USCIS may email a courtesy copy of an RFE or NOID to Form I-924 applicants and, if applicable, to attorneys or representatives of record listed on the Form G-28 associated with the application. However, applicants may not formally respond to an RFE or a NOID via email. If an RFE or a NOID is issued in regard to a Form I-924 application, USCIS will follow standard procedures and will mail a hard copy of the RFE or NOID to the address listed on the Form I-924 or, if applicable, to the attorney or accredited representative listed on a valid Form G-28. USCIS cannot accept an applic ant’s formal response to a RFE or NOID via email. Once an applicant is ready to submit the formal response to an RFE or NOID to USCIS, he or she should follow the response submission instructions provided on the RFE or NOID.

Q4. How will USCIS ensure that the attorney or accredited representative listed on the Form G-28 is included in email communication between USCIS and the applicant? 
A4. USCIS can only communicate via email with counsel representing a Form I-924 applicant if the associated Form G-28 includes a valid email address for the representative. If a valid email address is not provided in the Form G-28, the attorney or accredited representative should provide USCIS with an updated Form G-28 that includes a valid email address. This updated Form G-28 should be sent as a PDF to USCIS’s general EB-5 mailbox at uscis [dot] immigrantinvestorprogram [at] dhs [dot] gov. An original, fully executed Form G-28 will also need to be mailed to USCIS for inclusion in the Form I-924 application. 

Q5. Can the direct email communication process be used to discuss issues regarding individual Form I-526 and Form I-829 petitions or other EB-5 issues not directly related to a pending Form I-924 application? 
A5. No. The direct email communication process is solely for discussing issues regarding pending I-924 applications. It is not a forum for general policy and legal questions about adjudicative procedures or decisions, or for questions relating to Form I-526, Immigrant Petition by Alien Entrepreneur; Form I-829, Petition by Entrepreneu r to Remove Conditions; or Form I-290B, Appeals or Motions. USCIS will not respond to emails received concerning issues unrelated to a currently pending I-924 application.

For more information about how to make other EB-5 inquiries, visit the EB-5 Inquiries page on the USCIS website at www.uscis.gov. For further discussion on this issue or other visa related questions call Chaudhary Law Office, PLLC.




Contact Us From Anywhere in the U.S.
(952)525-2285 ♦ satveer@chaudharylawoffice.com
Free consultation

Satveer Chaudhary is the founding lawyer of Chaudhary Law Office, PLLC.  In practice over 10 years, Chaudhary brings 14 years of legislative experience as a State Senator and Member of the Minnesota House of Representatives to each and every case.At Chaudhary Law Office, our clients come first. Every client is treated with courtesy and is guaranteed effective representation. Practicing in the areas of  Immigration Law, Wills, Divorce, Family Law, Small Business and Criminal Law, we provide free intial consultations to all our clients.

In 2004  Satveer Chaudhary was named the University of Minnesota Law School Alumni of the Year. He was also awarded the Governor’s Certificate of Commendation for the Legal Aid Society of Minnesota, served as Special Assistant to Minnesota Attorney General Hubert H. Humphrey III, and was recognized by the worldwide Asian-Indian community for  his dedicated work, Chaudhary was named to the top-50 non-resident Indians in the world (NRI World  magazine).  

The information provided is offered for informational purposes only. It is not offered as and does not constitute legal advice. Chaudhary Law Office, PLLC does not seek to represent you based upon your review of this brochure. You should not make legal hiring decisions based merely upon brochures, advertising or other promotional materials.

Monday, April 23, 2012

A Little Immigration Humor




Contact Us From Anywhere in the U.S.
(952)525-2285 ♦ satveer@chaudharylawoffice.com
Free consultation

Satveer Chaudhary is the founding lawyer of Chaudhary Law Office, PLLC.  In practice over 10 years, Chaudhary brings 14 years of legislative experience as a State Senator and Member of the Minnesota House of Representatives to each and every case.At Chaudhary Law Office, our clients come first. Every client is treated with courtesy and is guaranteed effective representation. Practicing in the areas of  Immigration Law, Wills, Divorce, Family Law, Small Business and Criminal Law, we provide free intial consultations to all our clients.

In 2004  Satveer Chaudhary was named the University of Minnesota Law School Alumni of the Year. He was also awarded the Governor’s Certificate of Commendation for the Legal Aid Society of Minnesota, served as Special Assistant to Minnesota Attorney General Hubert H. Humphrey III, and was recognized by the worldwide Asian-Indian community for  his dedicated work, Chaudhary was named to the top-50 non-resident Indians in the world (NRI World  magazine).  

The information provided is offered for informational purposes only. It is not offered as and does not constitute legal advice. Chaudhary Law Office, PLLC does not seek to represent you based upon your review of this brochure. You should not make legal hiring decisions based merely upon brochures, advertising or other promotional materials.

Thursday, April 19, 2012

POLICE CLEARANCE CERTIFICATE REQUIREMENTS in INDIA


Police Clearance Certificate Requirements in India

Permanent resident ("green card") cases can be finalized either in the United States or at a U.S. consulate abroad. When applying at the consulate, the process involves an application for an immigrant visa. One important part of the documentation needed for approval of an immigrant visa is the police clearance certificate. This requirement is mandatory for most individuals applying for immigrant visas in India.

A Police Clearance Certificate

The term police clearance certificate (often shortened to "police certificate") refers to a certification by appropriate police authorities setting forth what the police records show concerning a particular applicant. The certificate addresses all arrests, the reasons for arrest, and the disposition (outcome) of each case.

Of course, many individuals have never been arrested or charged of any crime. Applicants without criminal records still must obtain police certificates. These certificates confirm the absence of any criminal record.

Timeframes and Ages

Original police certificate/s meeting these requirements are necessary for all immigrant visa applicants aged 16 and above. These certificates must cover the entire period of the applicant's residence in a particular area.

Applicants who have resided in any country/ies outside of India for 12 months or more (while age 16 or above) is required to present police certificate/s from that / those country/ies, as well. It is not necessary, however, to present U.S. police certificates.

Applicants should be aware that the police certificate is only valid for 12 months from the date of issuance. If necessary, the police certificate must be accompanied by a certified English translation.

Where to Obtain Certificates

There is some variation between the instructions on the consular websites and our experiences with the National Visa Center (NVC) as of this writing. Consular websites instruct individuals to obtain the certificate from either the regional passport office or local police station, depending upon circumstances. However, it has been our experience that the NVC requires residents of India to obtain police certificates from both the regional passport office and the local police station. Since the NVC acts as the intermediary between the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) and the consulates, and gathers the documents needed for most immigrant visa applications, we generally advise applicants to obtain police certificates from both locations in order to facilitate immigrant visa processing.

Other Countries

As indicated above, individuals sometimes need to obtain police certificates from more than one country. The U.S. Department of State (DOS) has information regarding document availability worldwide. The information is available online by selecting the particular country and scrolling to the portion on police certificates. If the DOS shows that police certificates cannot be obtained in a particular country, or for particular timeframes, this is sufficient to eliminate the need for the document from that country.

Conclusion

The police clearance certificate continues to be a vital requirement in the immigrant visa application process. The procedures are subject to change, and should be verified for each case.

Wednesday, April 18, 2012

CHAUDHARY MAKES A DIFFERENCE FOR CONSERVATION

http://aapress.com/tag/satveer-chaudhary/


CHAUDHARY MAKES A DIFFERENCE FOR CONSERVATION

0 Comments 30 MAY 2010
Chaudhary makes a difference for conservation
On behalf of the 23,000 members of The Nature Conservancy, I would like to personally thank Senator Satveer Chaudhary for his leadership in the 2010 Legislative Session.
This was a very tough budget year, and the new Clean Water, Land and Legacy funds were the only bright spot in an otherwise bleak financial situation. It was a huge challenge to ensure those funds were appropriated in a manner that would keep faith with Minnesota voters that overwhelmingly approved the measure in 2008.
Given this backdrop, Senator Chaudhary was instrumental in shepherding an inspiring package of conservation projects through the legislative process. These projects will truly leave a legacy for all Minnesotans that preserve our lakes, rivers, forests, prairies and wetlands. These natural resources are the foundation of Minnesota’s wealth and quality of life, and investing in them – even in tough economic times – is essential to our way of life.
Our sincere thanks to Senator Chaudhary for his commitment. This is the type of courageous leadership that Minnesotans need in these challenging times and for the brighter days ahead.
Sincerely,
Tom Landwehr,
Assistant State Director

Satveer Chaudhary and Others Honor Our Declaration of Independence

Chaudhary Law Office, PLLC founder, Satveer Chaudhary, was proud to participate in this reading of the Declaration of Independence. Working in Immigration Law gives this reading even greater personal impact...especially the portion regarding the migration of foreigners. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jCQ5VLRM8aY




Contact Us From Anywhere in the U.S.

Satveer Chaudhary
Chaudhary Law Office, PLLC
(952)525-2285 ♦ satveer@chaudharylawoffice.com
Free consultation

Satveer Chaudhary is the founding lawyer of Chaudhary Law Office, PLLC.  In practice over 10 years, Chaudhary brings 14 years of legislative experience as a State Senator and Member of the Minnesota House of Representatives to each and every case.At Chaudhary Law Office, our clients come first. Every client is treated with courtesy and is guaranteed effective representation. Practicing in the areas of  Immigration Law, Wills, Divorce, Family Law, Small Business and Criminal Law, we provide free intial consultations to all our clients.

In 2004  Satveer Chaudhary was named the University of Minnesota Law School Alumni of the Year. He was also awarded the Governor’s Certificate of Commendation for the Legal Aid Society of Minnesota, served as Special Assistant to Minnesota Attorney General Hubert H. Humphrey III, and was recognized by the worldwide Asian-Indian community for  his dedicated work, Chaudhary was named to the top-50 non-resident Indians in the world (NRI World  magazine).  

The information provided is offered for informational purposes only. It is not offered as and does not constitute legal advice. Chaudhary Law Office, PLLC does not seek to represent you based upon your review of this brochure. You should not make legal hiring decisions based merely upon brochures, advertising or other promotional materials.


FY13 H1B Cap Season Has Begun!

FY13 H1B Cap Filings Began April2, 2012

The fiscal year 2013 (FY13) H1B cap-filing season began last week. April 2, 2012 was the first day for such filings at the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).  Chaudhary Law Office is currently helping many clients with H1B cap filings, and will continue to accept cap-subject H1B cases throughout the cap season. As of this writing, the USCIS has not posted a cap count. However, they have indicated that the rate of filings is significantly higher than in FY12.

Employment Start Date: October 1, 2012

The earliest allowable start date for employment on a cap-subject H1B petition is October 1, 2012, which is the first day of the fiscal year. While cases can be filed up to six months in advance of this date, the validity date cannot be prior to October 1st. Employment before October 1st, based upon such a filing, is not permissible even if the case is approved earlier. Many of these cases will be approved at least several months prior to October 1st, but the validity dates are always clearly stated on the approval.

File Timely and at the Earliest Opportunity

The USCIS will accept cap-subject H1B petitions until there are no more cap numbers. However, it is impossible to predict, with any level of precision, when the cap will be reached. The FY12 cap was reached on November 22, 2011. While it would be surprising if the cap limit was reached very early in the filing season, there are indications that improvements in the economy will lead to a higher volume of filing than in FY12. In a teleconference held April 5, 2012, the USCIS reported that the filings in the first three days of the cap season were more than double the number of such filings received in the same timeframe in FY12.

Employers should take time to identify current employees for whom a cap-subject H1B petition is needed for continued employment. These may be students working on OPT, or L1B or L-2 workers. Employers should also take the cap timing into consideration if they are planning to hire additional employees in the near future.

Tracking H1B Cap Filings

The rate of cap usage and the current cap count are important to many of Chaudhary Law Office’s clients. We therefore closely monitor these matters and enable our readers to keep track of the cap each year, with timely, updated cap-count information and other valuable, strategic information to equip them in their planning.

Do I Need an H1B Cap Number?

The workings of the H1B cap can be somewhat confusing. One may wrongly assume that a cap number is required for an H1B case, particularly if a prior H1B has expired or been denied. If the matter is not clear, individuals may choose to schedule an appointment to consult with our office.

Conclusion

Each cap season brings with it some surprises. In FY12, the cap was reached two months earlier than in the previous fiscal year. The cap count was fairly low early in the season, but the pace increased rapidly at the end. For FY13, the USCIS has reported receipt of far more cases in the first few days than in FY12. There is no way to know if the filings will continue at an accelerated pace.




Contact Us From Anywhere in the U.S.

Satveer Chaudhary
Chaudhary Law Office, PLLC
(952)525-2285 ♦ satveer@chaudharylawoffice.com
Free consultation

Satveer Chaudhary is the founding lawyer of Chaudhary Law Office, PLLC.  In practice over 10 years, Chaudhary brings 14 years of legislative experience as a State Senator and Member of the Minnesota House of Representatives to each and every case.At Chaudhary Law Office, our clients come first. Every client is treated with courtesy and is guaranteed effective representation. Practicing in the areas of  Immigration Law, Wills, Divorce, Family Law, Small Business and Criminal Law, we provide free intial consultations to all our clients.

In 2004  Satveer Chaudhary was named the University of Minnesota Law School Alumni of the Year. He was also awarded the Governor’s Certificate of Commendation for the Legal Aid Society of Minnesota, served as Special Assistant to Minnesota Attorney General Hubert H. Humphrey III, and was recognized by the worldwide Asian-Indian community for  his dedicated work, Chaudhary was named to the top-50 non-resident Indians in the world (NRI World  magazine).  

The information provided is offered for informational purposes only. It is not offered as and does not constitute legal advice. Chaudhary Law Office, PLLC does not seek to represent you based upon your review of this brochure. You should not make legal hiring decisions based merely upon brochures, advertising or other promotional materials.

Monday, April 16, 2012

GREEN CARD LOST?STOLEN? WHAT CAN YOU DO?

A Permanent Resident Card (USCIS Form I-551) is proof of your permanent resident status in the United States. It also serves as a valid identification document and proof that you are eligible to live and work in the United States.

Although some Permanent Resident Cards, commonly known as “Green Cards,” contain no expiration date, most are valid for 10 years. If you have been granted conditional permanent resident status, the card is valid for 2 years. It is important to keep your card up-to-date. Without a valid card, it may be difficult for you to prove that you are a permanent resident, and this could also affect your ability to travel or to prove your eligibility to work in the United States.

You can apply for a replacement card, or contact Chaudhary Law Office (952) 525-2285 for assistance.

The US Citizenship and Immigration Web site also has the answers to many common questions:

When do I need to renew my Permanent Resident Card?


You should renew your Permanent Resident Card if you were issued a card valid for 10 years that has either expired or will expire within the next 6 months.

If your Permanent Resident Card is valid for only 2 years, you are a conditional resident. You will need to file a petition to remove the conditions of your residence before the card expires. You may file this petition 90 days before your conditional green card expires. If your petition is approved, you will be sent a new Permanent Resident Card valid for 10 years. You do not need to file Form I-90. This is discussed below.

If your card does not have any expiration date on the front, then you have a very old version. Most old versions are no longer valid. Even if your card does not have an expiration date on it, we recommend you apply to renew it.

When do I need to replace my Permanent Resident Card?


Apply to replace your Permanent Resident Card if any information on your card needs to be changed, or if your card has been lost, stolen, or damaged.

Also, if you became a permanent resident before you turned 14 years old, you are required to replace your card when you become 14 years old.

What application do I file to replace or renew my Permanent Resident Card?


To apply to renew or replace your card, use Form I-90, Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card. The Form I-90 is available at www.uscis.gov.

How do I file the I-90 to renew or replace my Permanent Resident Card?


Please refer the USCIS Website under Immigration Forms, I-90, for specific filing instructions, and then complete the form. You can also e-file your I-90 at www.uscis.gov.

How do I remove conditions on my 2-year conditional Permanent Resident Card?


Do not use Form I-90 if you are a conditional resident and your status is expiring. If you are a permanent resident who was granted conditional permanent resident status, you are required to file a petition to remove those conditions within 90 days of your card expiring.

If your conditional status was based on a marriage, file Form I-751, Petition to Remove Conditions on Residence.

If your conditional status was based on being an investor or entrepreneur, file Form I-829, Petition by Entrepreneur to Remove Conditions on Permanent Resident Status.

If you do not file the petition to remove the conditions before your card expires, you may lose your permanent resident status. Form I-751 and Form I-829 are available at www.uscis.gov. Instructions for the forms will give you more details. For additional questions, please contact USCIS Customer Service at 1-800-375-5283 or Satveer@Chaudharylawoffice.com or call Chaudhary Law Office (952) 525-2285.

Contact Us From Anywhere in the U.S.
Satveer Chaudhary
Chaudhary Law Office, PLLC
(952)525-2285 ♦ satveer@chaudharylawoffice.com
Free consultation

Satveer Chaudhary is the founding lawyer of Chaudhary Law Office, PLLC.  In practice over 10 years, Chaudhary brings 14 years of legislative experience as a State Senator and Member of the Minnesota House of Representatives to each and every case.At Chaudhary Law Office, our clients come first. Every client is treated with courtesy and is guaranteed effective representation. Practicing in the areas of  Immigration Law, Wills, Divorce, Family Law, Small Business and Criminal Law, we provide free intial consultations to all our clients.

In 2004  Satveer Chaudhary was named the University of Minnesota Law School Alumni of the Year. He was also awarded the Governor’s Certificate of Commendation for the Legal Aid Society of Minnesota, served as Special Assistant to Minnesota Attorney General Hubert H. Humphrey III, and was recognized by the worldwide Asian-Indian community for  his dedicated work, Chaudhary was named to the top-50 non-resident Indians in the world (NRI World  magazine).  

The information provided is offered for informational purposes only. It is not offered as and does not constitute legal advice. Chaudhary Law Office, PLLC does not seek to represent you based upon your review of this brochure. You should not make legal hiring decisions based merely upon brochures, advertising or other promotional materials.

Saturday, October 1, 2011

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services Publishes QAs re EB-5 Applicants

USCIS Publishes QAs On Direct Email Communication With EB-5 Regional Center Applicants

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is implementing the first phase in a series of proposed enhancements to the EB-5 program. Beginning September 15, 2011, Form I-924 applicants will be able to communicate directly with www.uscis.gov.  USCIS adjudicators via email in an effort to streamline the process and quickly raise and resolve issues and questions that arise during the adjudication process.

The EB-5 Program, also known as the Immigrant Investor Program, is designed to stimulate the U.S. economy through job creation and capital investment by foreign investors. Form I-924 is the Application for Regional Center under the Immigrant Investor Pilot Program.

Some Q&A

Q1. What are the goals of direct email communication between USCIS and Form I-924 applicants?
A1. Direct email communication is a customer-service tool to enhance communication between USCIS and Form I-924 applicants. Form I-924 applicants may email USCIS questions regarding pending applications, including questions related to Requests for Evidence (RFEs) and Notices of Intent to Deny (NOIDs) issued by USCIS. USCIS may email Form I-924 applicants to informally ask for clarification on certain issues to facilitate review, understanding and adjudication of the application. USCIS may also send a courtesy copy of an RFE or NOID to the email address listed on the I-924 and, if applicable, to the email address listed on the Form G-28, Notice of Entry of Appearance as Attorney or Accredited Representative, associated with the application.

Q2. How will the direct email communication process work?
A2. Form I-924 applicants with pending applications will be sent an email with a unique identifier and a specific email address to use when corresponding with USCIS. Once assigned an email address, applicants may use this contact information to send and respond to emails to discuss—either informally or through the RFE or NOID process—issues raised in their regional center applications. An applicant will receive an email with instructions shortly after his or her Form I-924 application is accepted by USCIS for filing.

The direct email communication process is only available to entities that have a pending Form I-924 application. It is not available to regional center promoters who have pending regional center applications that were filed prior to the implementation of Form I-924 on Nov. 23, 2010.

Q3. Will USCIS use email to issue RFEs and NOIDs, and can Form I-924 applicants use email to provide evidence in response to such notices?
A3. USCIS may email a courtesy copy of an RFE or NOID to Form I-924 applicants and, if applicable, to attorneys or representatives of record listed on the Form G-28 associated with the application. However, applicants may not formally respond to an RFE or a NOID via email.

If an RFE or a NOID is issued in regard to a Form I-924 application, USCIS will follow standard procedures and will mail a hard copy of the RFE or NOID to the address listed on the Form I-924 or, if applicable, to the attorney or accredited representative listed on a valid Form G-28.USCIS cannot accept an applicant’s formal response to a RFE or NOID via email. Once an applicant is ready to submit the formal response to an RFE or NOID to USCIS, he or she should follow the response submission instructions provided on the RFE or NOID.

Q4. How will USCIS ensure that the attorney or accredited representative listed on the Form G-28 is included in email communication between USCIS and the applicant?
A4. USCIS can only communicate via email with counsel representing a Form I-924 applicant if the associated Form G-28 includes a valid email address for the representative. If a valid email address is not provided in the Form G-28, the attorney or accredited representative should provide USCIS with an updated Form G-28 that includes a valid email address. This updated Form G-28 should be sent as a PDF to USCIS’s general EB-5 mailbox at uscis [dot] immigrantinvestorprogram [at] dhs [dot] gov. An original, fully executed Form G-28 will also need to be mailed to USCIS for inclusion in the Form I-924 application.

Q5. Can the direct email communication process be used to discuss issues regarding individual Form I-526 and Form I-829 petitions or other EB-5 issues not directly related to a pending Form I-924 application?
A5. No. The direct email communication process is solely for discussing issues regarding pending I-924 applications. It is not a forum for general policy and legal questions about adjudicative procedures or decisions, or for questions relating to Form I-526, Immigrant Petition by Alien Entrepreneur; Form I-829, Petition by Entrepreneur to Remove Conditions; or Form I-290B, Appeals or Motions.

USCIS will not respond to emails received concerning issues unrelated to a currently pending I-924 application. For more information about how to make other EB-5 inquiries, visit the EB-5 Inquiries page on the USCIS website at www.uscis.gov.



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Satveer Chaudhary is the founding lawyer of Chaudhary Law Office, PLLC.  In practice over 10 years, Chaudhary brings 14 years of legislative experience as a State Senator and Member of the Minnesota House of Representatives to each and every case.At Chaudhary Law Office, our clients come first. Every client is treated with courtesy and is guaranteed effective representation. Practicing in the areas of  Immigration Law, Wills, Divorce, Family Law, Small Business and Criminal Law, we provide free intial consultations to all our clients.

In 2004  Satveer Chaudhary was named the University of Minnesota Law School Alumni of the Year. He was also awarded the Governor’s Certificate of Commendation for the Legal Aid Society of Minnesota, served as Special Assistant to Minnesota Attorney General Hubert H. Humphrey III, and was recognized by the worldwide Asian-Indian community for  his dedicated work, Chaudhary was named to the top-50 non-resident Indians in the world (NRI World  magazine).  

The information provided is offered for informational purposes only. It is not offered as and does not constitute legal advice. Chaudhary Law Office, PLLC does not seek to represent you based upon your review of this brochure. You should not make legal hiring decisions based merely upon brochures, advertising or other promotional materials.