Recent Important USCIS News and Developments

1. Name-Check Backlog Reduction Plan: The USCIS and FBI have been working hard to achieve the reduction of the name-check backlog. Under the plan, the name-check will be completed in 180 days by February 2009, and in 98% in 30 days and 2% in 90 days by June 2009.

2. Single EAD-AP Document Plan: This plan is still in place but the USCIS is pushed ahead EAD related programs step-by-step. The USCIS has already launched two-year valid EAD. However, unlike EAD, in the reform of Advance Parole program, the USCBP is also involved since they will have to perform inspection function for the admission of the aliens.

Accordingly, the USCIS has been working closely with the USCBP to work out the final plan. Once such coordination is completed, the USCIS intends to launch the single EAD document that can also be used as an Advance Parole travel document. It may take a little bit of time, but it is also a good news that the USCIS will launch this program in the future.

3. 245(k) Rule Making: The 245(k) provides a provision that allows certain EB immigrants to file EB-485 applications even if they violated status or engaged in authorized employment for less than 180 days from the date of last admission to the U.S. This law has been implemented by the USCIS without the implementing rule. This rule making is likely initiated in the next one or two months.

4. Schedule of AC-21 Rule Making: This rule making remains a high priority, but because of the other priorities involved, it is not likely that this rule will be published and enacted this calendar year. Another good news for the time-being.

5. Schedule of Termination of I-140/EB-485 Concurrent Filing: This rule-making plan remains still one of the top priorities because of the detected and potential frauds involved, but because of other priorities, it is unlikely that this rule-making will be published within this calendar year. In all likelihood, it will be published in the form of a proposed rule next year. http://www.greencardapply.com/news/news08/news08_0801.htm