The Visa Bulletin

"The question raised is whether conduct made a felony under state law but a misdemeanor under the Controlled Substances Act is a “felony punishable under the Controlled Substances Act.” 18 U. S. C. §924(c)(2). We hold it is not." Lopez v. Gonzales (No. 05-547). Argued October 3, 2006—Decided December 5, 2006.

Why does it matter whether an offense is classified as a "felony punishable under the Controlled Substances Act"? Read on.

(more…)

"We are writing to urge Congress to take immediate steps to address the crisis facing American
businesses as a result of an H-1B ‘blackout’ and serious employment-based (EB) green card
backlogs."

Read the full letter (.pdf, 58.4K), courtesy of the American Immigration Lawyers Association (AILA.org).

The U.S. Ambassador to India announced last week that, effective immediately, the $50 reciprocal issuance fee has been eliminated for all non-immigrant visas for Indian citizens.  The $100 application fee remains unchanged. 

The Report overviews noncitizen criminal classes (crimes involving moral turpitude, aggravated felonies, and crimes affecting good moral character) and general consequences of criminal activity (inadmissibility, deportation, denial of discretionary relief, and naturalization restrictions). 

View the CRS Report (.pdf, 85.4K)

The Department of Labor (DOL) Administrative Review Board (ARB) recently published a decision addressing H-1B visa issues relating to termination of employment and prevailing wage. Amtel Group of Florida v. Yongmahapakorn, 04-087 (ARB 9/29/06).

Read the full ARB decision (.pdf, 125.4K)

(more…)