justAnotherFile
08-17 03:06 PM
Here's the trail of events this month for us
Aug 3 Opened SR
Aug 4 Called 2nd Level Customer Service
Aug 5 Online Status Shows Approved
Aug 14 Approval Notice
Aug 16 Green Cards received
End of a loooonnnng chapter and onto next. Best of Luck for all those current and still awaiting approval. Keep following up through all channels and do not give up.
The cards came in a non-descript envelope that also had a 'Welcome to America' pamphlet. The pamphlet describes where to get information on community services, shopping, housing and jobs!!!! What an irony!
Aug 3 Opened SR
Aug 4 Called 2nd Level Customer Service
Aug 5 Online Status Shows Approved
Aug 14 Approval Notice
Aug 16 Green Cards received
End of a loooonnnng chapter and onto next. Best of Luck for all those current and still awaiting approval. Keep following up through all channels and do not give up.
The cards came in a non-descript envelope that also had a 'Welcome to America' pamphlet. The pamphlet describes where to get information on community services, shopping, housing and jobs!!!! What an irony!
wallpaper %IMG_DESC_1%
kcforgc
04-27 01:17 PM
But do you believe they will do any good for us or they are really interest to protect us. Their aim is to divide and rule.
Right, it will not be good for anyone- nonimmigrants, employers or american economy. They are trying to take advantage of the current state of the economy to promote their anti-immigrant protectionist agenda. This is going to make anti-immigrant groups happy. Btw, I think these anti immigrant groups are a very small minority compared to people who support legal immigration but these are the most noisey ones.
so, yes -it is not going to be helpful for anybody. Only results in large scale outsourcing and/or companies would not be able to place right candidates in the right roles which is going to hurt America in the long run.
Right, it will not be good for anyone- nonimmigrants, employers or american economy. They are trying to take advantage of the current state of the economy to promote their anti-immigrant protectionist agenda. This is going to make anti-immigrant groups happy. Btw, I think these anti immigrant groups are a very small minority compared to people who support legal immigration but these are the most noisey ones.
so, yes -it is not going to be helpful for anybody. Only results in large scale outsourcing and/or companies would not be able to place right candidates in the right roles which is going to hurt America in the long run.
vdlrao
03-31 02:58 PM
Very well said.
1. DOS has to move fast in May to test if there are hidden demand (ppl who missed 07/2007 filing, porting, dependent filing). Those new filing cannot get be approved before October 2011. So they can move up to Nov/Dec 2006 safely in May. Also DOS/CIS, who communicate with each other for sure, will know they should process those pre-adjudicated cased first to clear the inventory.
2. In June, July, August, they could be cautious but still move ahead up to March 2007.
3. September is critical, as that time, if DOS doesn't want to waste any quota, (100% CIS cannot approve any cased filed in that month), they have to move to a point to get all quota used. Based on 12K/half year, or 12K/year from EB1, say 20K be safe this year from EB1. 7K from EB2 ROW as last year, 8K from EB3, 0 from FB (EB2 get only 10k/4 last year as 10K FB is divided by Eb1/2/3/4), and normal 2.8K for EB2 I/C each (6K total), there are total 41K possibly for EB2 I/C.
4. Porting (6K this year), New filing (ppl who missed 07/07 with PD before 07/07), could have a negative efffect
5. The inventory for EB2 I/C is about 34K before 07/2007 (based on DOS October/2010 and CIS inventory)
6. This is very close. Will DOS move beyond 07/2007 a little to allow new filings (those won't get approved in Sept) and also make CIS easier to clear all 07/2007? This will be a judgement call. I am 50/50 on that.
7. There are many factors that will play in the scenario.. But I am sure EB2 I/C 09/2011 PD will be pass
May 2007 100%
June 2007 80%
July 2007 60%
Sept 2007 30%
Nov 2007 10%
Dec 2007 or Current 0% (DOS/CIS learned the lesson)
Explantion is Very rationale rodnyb. Thanks.
1. DOS has to move fast in May to test if there are hidden demand (ppl who missed 07/2007 filing, porting, dependent filing). Those new filing cannot get be approved before October 2011. So they can move up to Nov/Dec 2006 safely in May. Also DOS/CIS, who communicate with each other for sure, will know they should process those pre-adjudicated cased first to clear the inventory.
2. In June, July, August, they could be cautious but still move ahead up to March 2007.
3. September is critical, as that time, if DOS doesn't want to waste any quota, (100% CIS cannot approve any cased filed in that month), they have to move to a point to get all quota used. Based on 12K/half year, or 12K/year from EB1, say 20K be safe this year from EB1. 7K from EB2 ROW as last year, 8K from EB3, 0 from FB (EB2 get only 10k/4 last year as 10K FB is divided by Eb1/2/3/4), and normal 2.8K for EB2 I/C each (6K total), there are total 41K possibly for EB2 I/C.
4. Porting (6K this year), New filing (ppl who missed 07/07 with PD before 07/07), could have a negative efffect
5. The inventory for EB2 I/C is about 34K before 07/2007 (based on DOS October/2010 and CIS inventory)
6. This is very close. Will DOS move beyond 07/2007 a little to allow new filings (those won't get approved in Sept) and also make CIS easier to clear all 07/2007? This will be a judgement call. I am 50/50 on that.
7. There are many factors that will play in the scenario.. But I am sure EB2 I/C 09/2011 PD will be pass
May 2007 100%
June 2007 80%
July 2007 60%
Sept 2007 30%
Nov 2007 10%
Dec 2007 or Current 0% (DOS/CIS learned the lesson)
Explantion is Very rationale rodnyb. Thanks.
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new2gc
08-26 06:06 PM
Hi mckottayam,
Thanks for your question, while we don’t have a Vonage plan that can be used on your cell phone right now, we’ve got some exciting mobile news in development. Stay tuned to Vonage news on our Facebook (http://www.facebook.com/vonage) page and on our Twitter (http://twitter.com/Vonage_Voice)handle!
Best,
Michael
MY friend just spoke to Lingo, they are coming up a cheaper(may be $1 or $2 cheap) plan with unlimited to India/China and 101 countries and also can be used from a registered cellphone incase you do not have internet for any reason.
So, wait for couple of weeks and then choose the right one.
Thanks for your question, while we don’t have a Vonage plan that can be used on your cell phone right now, we’ve got some exciting mobile news in development. Stay tuned to Vonage news on our Facebook (http://www.facebook.com/vonage) page and on our Twitter (http://twitter.com/Vonage_Voice)handle!
Best,
Michael
MY friend just spoke to Lingo, they are coming up a cheaper(may be $1 or $2 cheap) plan with unlimited to India/China and 101 countries and also can be used from a registered cellphone incase you do not have internet for any reason.
So, wait for couple of weeks and then choose the right one.
more...
rubaru
10-15 04:42 PM
Yes ndialani,i waited for 6 month which i did because i don't know I140 premium started from June 2009(For most the cases).They started in Feb 2009 but its applicable to some limited cases).
May be i would have moved it to premium if i knew in June.Some of the options which i would have tried during that 6 months period was InfoPass,Senator,Ombudsman etc but wasn't very serious about 140 as i thought it may take some years for gc(since the dates very moving very slowly at that time).
Thanks,
May be i would have moved it to premium if i knew in June.Some of the options which i would have tried during that 6 months period was InfoPass,Senator,Ombudsman etc but wasn't very serious about 140 as i thought it may take some years for gc(since the dates very moving very slowly at that time).
Thanks,
aps
10-29 01:00 AM
One of the iv member, has stated that the I485 has been denied for his friend, upon withdrawl of 140 by his ex-employer. His ex-employer has informed USCIS, that the employee left the job on his own. Also, he quoted that "USCIS denied I485 because, ac21 can be used in case of layoffs only , not switching for jobs"
In your letter you are requesting to give RFE/NOID before denial, but the fundamental reason for denial is different in the above case. what is use of getting RFE/NOID, in that case?
thanks,
aps
From IV: IV commends the initiative taken by it's members nk2006, pd_recpaturing, ItsNotfunny and others. As these members have observed, we all know that any one who has filed for AOS/I-485 can potentially be hit with this issue, especially in the current job market situations. If you believe in the old adage prevention is better than cure, this is an action item you have to subscribe to. It will be only a matter of time the number of such denials is going to spike.
In recent weeks there has been a spate of I485 denials by USCIS in the AC21 cases. In most of these cases, the underlying I-140 has been revoked by previous employer. But AC21 regulations and related memo�s require that I485�s should not be denied based on that � provided I485 has been pending for more than 180 days and the applicant has changed to a new job that is same or similar. USCIS has been rejecting cases without even issuing a NOID � again required by AC21 regulations. So USCIS is not following AC21 regulations and related field memo�s for whatever the reasons.
Obviously this will have a very bad impact on us � in addition to tremendous amount of stress it can have very bad economic implications including loss of job. In the current economic conditions we cannot afford to lose the job change flexibility provided by AC21 regulations. IV has started a campaign to fight this.
After a brief campaign to write to Ombudsman, it has been decided to intensify this campaign and write to various officials in USCIS hierarchy. IV core members have been actively involved in coming up with a strategy and are actively supporting this effort. By sending large number of letters we can draw their attention to this issue and resolve as quickly as possible. There are other strategies that are being discussed and will be underway soon to tackle this issue. This is the first and the most important step up on which other steps depend.
I request all the members to start sending the following 4 letters. For your convenience the letters have been completely written including addresses to be sent � all you have to do is download following 4 google documents � add the date, your name and address � and send it to the address provided on each letter.
http://docs.google.com/Doc?id=dcqssdt7_1d3mzhr6c
http://docs.google.com/Doc?id=dcqssdt7_2fp3nrhvb
http://docs.google.com/Doc?id=dcqssdt7_3d8h2x7dr
http://docs.google.com/Doc?id=dcqssdt7_4fxnvq9tw
To reiterate: You have to send 4 letters � these letters can be downloaded at the above URL�s. Edit the document to add current date, name, address etc. and mail it (regular mail). After doing that, please update the poll so we know how many letters are being sent.
To get more background on this issue and see what has been done so far, please see these two threads: http://immigrationvoice.org/forum/showthread.php?t=22052;
http://immigrationvoice.org/forum/showthread.php?t=21716
To achieve positive results we need to send these letters in large numbers - please send them today and let everyone else be aware of this effort. Thank you.
Request to core/web site admin: can you please add a link to this thread on the IV main page to get better coverage to this campaign - thanks.
In your letter you are requesting to give RFE/NOID before denial, but the fundamental reason for denial is different in the above case. what is use of getting RFE/NOID, in that case?
thanks,
aps
From IV: IV commends the initiative taken by it's members nk2006, pd_recpaturing, ItsNotfunny and others. As these members have observed, we all know that any one who has filed for AOS/I-485 can potentially be hit with this issue, especially in the current job market situations. If you believe in the old adage prevention is better than cure, this is an action item you have to subscribe to. It will be only a matter of time the number of such denials is going to spike.
In recent weeks there has been a spate of I485 denials by USCIS in the AC21 cases. In most of these cases, the underlying I-140 has been revoked by previous employer. But AC21 regulations and related memo�s require that I485�s should not be denied based on that � provided I485 has been pending for more than 180 days and the applicant has changed to a new job that is same or similar. USCIS has been rejecting cases without even issuing a NOID � again required by AC21 regulations. So USCIS is not following AC21 regulations and related field memo�s for whatever the reasons.
Obviously this will have a very bad impact on us � in addition to tremendous amount of stress it can have very bad economic implications including loss of job. In the current economic conditions we cannot afford to lose the job change flexibility provided by AC21 regulations. IV has started a campaign to fight this.
After a brief campaign to write to Ombudsman, it has been decided to intensify this campaign and write to various officials in USCIS hierarchy. IV core members have been actively involved in coming up with a strategy and are actively supporting this effort. By sending large number of letters we can draw their attention to this issue and resolve as quickly as possible. There are other strategies that are being discussed and will be underway soon to tackle this issue. This is the first and the most important step up on which other steps depend.
I request all the members to start sending the following 4 letters. For your convenience the letters have been completely written including addresses to be sent � all you have to do is download following 4 google documents � add the date, your name and address � and send it to the address provided on each letter.
http://docs.google.com/Doc?id=dcqssdt7_1d3mzhr6c
http://docs.google.com/Doc?id=dcqssdt7_2fp3nrhvb
http://docs.google.com/Doc?id=dcqssdt7_3d8h2x7dr
http://docs.google.com/Doc?id=dcqssdt7_4fxnvq9tw
To reiterate: You have to send 4 letters � these letters can be downloaded at the above URL�s. Edit the document to add current date, name, address etc. and mail it (regular mail). After doing that, please update the poll so we know how many letters are being sent.
To get more background on this issue and see what has been done so far, please see these two threads: http://immigrationvoice.org/forum/showthread.php?t=22052;
http://immigrationvoice.org/forum/showthread.php?t=21716
To achieve positive results we need to send these letters in large numbers - please send them today and let everyone else be aware of this effort. Thank you.
Request to core/web site admin: can you please add a link to this thread on the IV main page to get better coverage to this campaign - thanks.
more...
anda007
07-11 10:12 AM
I AM ORDERING PIZZA and gourmet food from local restuarants every week to be delivered to Emilio Gonzalez
The delivery will be on the 15th July.
Anybody want to join
The delivery will be on the 15th July.
Anybody want to join
2010 %IMG_DESC_3%
WaldenPond
01-05 11:57 PM
Call up multiple rallies at the same time at different locations, NYC, DC, Boston, LA, SF...
Look what the NY MTA workers did?
Hello flygo,
I am sorry but I am not able to understand your post. Are you suggesting that there is way for us to spread the word around. Could you help us and provide more details on this? All of us would love to do anything that you would suggest to helps the cause.
Thanks,
-WP
Look what the NY MTA workers did?
Hello flygo,
I am sorry but I am not able to understand your post. Are you suggesting that there is way for us to spread the word around. Could you help us and provide more details on this? All of us would love to do anything that you would suggest to helps the cause.
Thanks,
-WP
more...
sayantan76
01-08 11:50 AM
Yes you are correct.
I dont know about the Govt and bureaucrats and political aides - maybe they have big attention spans - but i know for a fact if someone in a corporate structure receives such a long letter as proposed originally- most would not have the patience to read it. Maybe, the handwritten and personalized part should be:
1. I am XYZ - educated at ABC and work in DEF sector. Been in US legally for XX years - no able to buy a house, progress in career, start my company etc for not having visa certainity.
2. While we wait anxiously for comprehensive reform - the following administrative fixes can speed up the processing backlog, specially for some countries like India, China etc
a.
b.
c.
Highly skilled immigrants have been a key stakeholder in keeping America competitive and your leadership in providing relief to this segment through these fixes would ensure that the best and brightest from around the world continue to be attracted to America.
I am also enclosing a detailed write-up on this issue for your further reference and I look forward to your urgent attention in this matter.
Yours truly.....
Encl: as above
Then the standard printed mailer can be an attachment. Keeps the main letter short and sweet.
This may be a trash proposal - but is based on my close observance of senior management (and i am asssuming senior mannagement in corp world is not that different from politicians) - would increase the probability of the main message being read!
I dont know about the Govt and bureaucrats and political aides - maybe they have big attention spans - but i know for a fact if someone in a corporate structure receives such a long letter as proposed originally- most would not have the patience to read it. Maybe, the handwritten and personalized part should be:
1. I am XYZ - educated at ABC and work in DEF sector. Been in US legally for XX years - no able to buy a house, progress in career, start my company etc for not having visa certainity.
2. While we wait anxiously for comprehensive reform - the following administrative fixes can speed up the processing backlog, specially for some countries like India, China etc
a.
b.
c.
Highly skilled immigrants have been a key stakeholder in keeping America competitive and your leadership in providing relief to this segment through these fixes would ensure that the best and brightest from around the world continue to be attracted to America.
I am also enclosing a detailed write-up on this issue for your further reference and I look forward to your urgent attention in this matter.
Yours truly.....
Encl: as above
Then the standard printed mailer can be an attachment. Keeps the main letter short and sweet.
This may be a trash proposal - but is based on my close observance of senior management (and i am asssuming senior mannagement in corp world is not that different from politicians) - would increase the probability of the main message being read!
hair %IMG_DESC_4%
ras
08-08 10:06 AM
Good job analysing this particular issue. Appreciate ur patience in sharing with others.
The contents of this postings are based on what I have read from various Lawyer's website and my lawyer's suggestions.
Multiple I-485 Fillings Scenario:
1. Two I-485 for the with the same primary applicant
Case a: One I-140/I-485 Pending with another employer and one I-140/I-485 to be filed in July with the current employer.
Case b: One I-140/I-485 Pending due to substituted labor (and cannot be expedited because premium processing not available). Another I-485 to be filed based on approved I-140 (on one's own labor). Both from the same employer.
2. Two I-485 with different primary applicants (Primary on one and dependent on other)
Case a: I-140 for one is approved while other's pending
Case b: Both I-140 Approved
Case c: Both filling concurrently in June
Pros and Cons
Scenario 1, Case a: In this case there is a substantial risk that I-485 filed with first employer might lead to issues esp if I-140 is not approved. Thus is a good idea to file another one with current employer. (Pro)
Scenario 1, Case a: How can one Adjust the Status from two employer at the same time. (Con)
Scenario 1, Case b: Since first I-485 application is already filed and I-140's outcome is not known. It is a good idea to file another one as a fall back option. If one waits for the outcome of first I-140 and it is denied and then it will be too late to file another I-485 because dates might have retrogressed.
Scenario 2, Case a: One with the approved I-140 should file I-485 with other as dependent.
Scenario 2, Case b: I-485 for both is almost ensured and thus filling two will give added cover in case something happens. One might have a better priority date than other. (Pro)
Scenario 2, Case b: Job loss of one would still allow other with AC-21 benefits. (Pro)
Scenario 2, Case b:Only one of the two partners has to stick to the job description and other is free to pursue anything (including studies).
Scenario 2, Case c: Use I-140 Premium Processing on at least one application for added certainty.
Summary of Pros and Cons
Pros:
1. More flexibility as there are two applications to fall back on.
2. Only opportunity to file EAD/AP before retrogression kicks in.
3. Useful if I-140 is pending and outcome of it is unknown.
4. There are NO USCIS memos that prohibits such filling explicitly.
5. Many lawyers have recommended this as a best option.
6. It has been mentioned that USCIS cancels the second I-485 after approving the other. That makes this a hassle free option.
7. If there are issues with multiple filling one of the application can be withdrawn.
8. If later on it turns out two application is a norm and right thing to do and retrogression hits one has no one to blame but himself.
Cons:
1. Cost of two fillings (if paid by self)
2. There have been indications by lawyers that two fillings could lead to unnecessary delays and interviews.
3. Apart from delays there has been indications that USCIS might issue an
RFE and ask to choose one.
Conclusion
========
There is nothing wrong with two filings, worst case scenario could be an RFE from USCIS to choose one. Best case scenario is USCIS upon approving one cancels other. Two filings indeed give you a peace of mind and reduce risk during the process. It doesn't change the outcome (like your application will not be denied just because you have filed two). If a little delay is acceptable to you as a price you pay to reduce a bigger risk and added benefits then multiple filing is right thing to do.
The contents of this postings are based on what I have read from various Lawyer's website and my lawyer's suggestions.
Multiple I-485 Fillings Scenario:
1. Two I-485 for the with the same primary applicant
Case a: One I-140/I-485 Pending with another employer and one I-140/I-485 to be filed in July with the current employer.
Case b: One I-140/I-485 Pending due to substituted labor (and cannot be expedited because premium processing not available). Another I-485 to be filed based on approved I-140 (on one's own labor). Both from the same employer.
2. Two I-485 with different primary applicants (Primary on one and dependent on other)
Case a: I-140 for one is approved while other's pending
Case b: Both I-140 Approved
Case c: Both filling concurrently in June
Pros and Cons
Scenario 1, Case a: In this case there is a substantial risk that I-485 filed with first employer might lead to issues esp if I-140 is not approved. Thus is a good idea to file another one with current employer. (Pro)
Scenario 1, Case a: How can one Adjust the Status from two employer at the same time. (Con)
Scenario 1, Case b: Since first I-485 application is already filed and I-140's outcome is not known. It is a good idea to file another one as a fall back option. If one waits for the outcome of first I-140 and it is denied and then it will be too late to file another I-485 because dates might have retrogressed.
Scenario 2, Case a: One with the approved I-140 should file I-485 with other as dependent.
Scenario 2, Case b: I-485 for both is almost ensured and thus filling two will give added cover in case something happens. One might have a better priority date than other. (Pro)
Scenario 2, Case b: Job loss of one would still allow other with AC-21 benefits. (Pro)
Scenario 2, Case b:Only one of the two partners has to stick to the job description and other is free to pursue anything (including studies).
Scenario 2, Case c: Use I-140 Premium Processing on at least one application for added certainty.
Summary of Pros and Cons
Pros:
1. More flexibility as there are two applications to fall back on.
2. Only opportunity to file EAD/AP before retrogression kicks in.
3. Useful if I-140 is pending and outcome of it is unknown.
4. There are NO USCIS memos that prohibits such filling explicitly.
5. Many lawyers have recommended this as a best option.
6. It has been mentioned that USCIS cancels the second I-485 after approving the other. That makes this a hassle free option.
7. If there are issues with multiple filling one of the application can be withdrawn.
8. If later on it turns out two application is a norm and right thing to do and retrogression hits one has no one to blame but himself.
Cons:
1. Cost of two fillings (if paid by self)
2. There have been indications by lawyers that two fillings could lead to unnecessary delays and interviews.
3. Apart from delays there has been indications that USCIS might issue an
RFE and ask to choose one.
Conclusion
========
There is nothing wrong with two filings, worst case scenario could be an RFE from USCIS to choose one. Best case scenario is USCIS upon approving one cancels other. Two filings indeed give you a peace of mind and reduce risk during the process. It doesn't change the outcome (like your application will not be denied just because you have filed two). If a little delay is acceptable to you as a price you pay to reduce a bigger risk and added benefits then multiple filing is right thing to do.
more...
small2006
01-24 12:58 PM
With all due sympathies, this is one of the funniest posts I have read in a long time....It helps to lighten up a bit every now and then considering we are all in this for a long haul...
Anyway, just wanted to let you know that I went through London back in 2004 and my experience was completely different. I went to the NYC consulate to get my TV for $50, yes just $50 and the whole paper work etc was done in less than 30min and I had to go back after 2 hours to collect my passport with a 1 year multiple entry stamped on it.
My point being, I think they have changed a lot of rules and made it more stringent after the recent security threats etc.
Getting a GC soon is our saviour
I had the misfortune of travelling thru London in December on my way to Mumbai. After I purchased my tickets, I learnt that I need a transit visa (TV) for UK. (Who is going to tell them (UK) that they are no longer the center of attraction esp. if you have lived and worked in US). Anyway, as per the rules, you need a transit visa if you don�t have a valid US visa. (Note: If you have AP, and don�t have a valid visa, you still need a TV).
I went to their site and did all the research to get a TV. Good god Heavens! Has anyone filled out their painful form for a TV? Besides asking the usual details, they get extremely nosy. They want to know each and everything about you. Where you work, what money do you make, name of your wife, kids and their citizenship status, name of your father and mother and where they were born, their birth date, how much money you have and where the money is (stocks, bonds, CDS) etc. etc. While filling up the form I realized that, even my future father in law did not pose so many probing questions to me. (Please note: I don�t mind answering these silly questions for a regular visa, but for the damn TV, it is certainly overkill).
Anyway to cut the long story short. The regular cost of TV is/was $92. However, when I filled up the application form they were asking for $184. (The satisfaction of getting a good deal on the tickets was quickly evaporating). I assumed I must have made a mistake in thinking the cost to be $92 and reluctantly paid $184. Next it was time to fill the application for my wife and answer the idiotic questions again. You should have seen the �I will kill you right now� look on my wife�s face after I woke her up in the middle of night and asked details about her parents. After I filled up the form, to my surprise, now they were asking $274 for visa fees. It was already 2:00 am and I have no choice but to painfully enter my credit card details, hoping that they would realize the mistake in their recon process and would reimburse the difference. (Of course, I was only dreaming).
It is now almost the end of January and I have still now received any money from them. I have tried sending several email to the emb(ass)y, but none of their emails work. I get bounced email for all the emails that I have used. I have tried calling them and left messages and no one has called back. I have send emails to my credit card company and the people who processed the payment and none of them have been able to help me. There is a way to talk to someone in the emb(ass)y, but you need to dial a 900 number, which BTW costs $2.49 per minute. Throwing good money after bad is not an option.
I just wanted to share this experience with you and remind you of the pain ahead, if you are travelling thru UK and don�t have a valid US visa. Personally, even if they had charged me the regular $92, I will still use other options to travel next time. The amount of time wasted in filling the crappy application form, going to NY, (starting Dec doing your finger prints) is simply too much to handle. Visiting your motherland/fatherland is a very special occasion and all these intermediate steps certainly water down the �good feeling� that you experience during the days leading to your trip.
I haven�t given up my quest for a refund, but now, not only I want my money back I would like to bring back home the Koh-i-noor too.
Anyway, just wanted to let you know that I went through London back in 2004 and my experience was completely different. I went to the NYC consulate to get my TV for $50, yes just $50 and the whole paper work etc was done in less than 30min and I had to go back after 2 hours to collect my passport with a 1 year multiple entry stamped on it.
My point being, I think they have changed a lot of rules and made it more stringent after the recent security threats etc.
Getting a GC soon is our saviour
I had the misfortune of travelling thru London in December on my way to Mumbai. After I purchased my tickets, I learnt that I need a transit visa (TV) for UK. (Who is going to tell them (UK) that they are no longer the center of attraction esp. if you have lived and worked in US). Anyway, as per the rules, you need a transit visa if you don�t have a valid US visa. (Note: If you have AP, and don�t have a valid visa, you still need a TV).
I went to their site and did all the research to get a TV. Good god Heavens! Has anyone filled out their painful form for a TV? Besides asking the usual details, they get extremely nosy. They want to know each and everything about you. Where you work, what money do you make, name of your wife, kids and their citizenship status, name of your father and mother and where they were born, their birth date, how much money you have and where the money is (stocks, bonds, CDS) etc. etc. While filling up the form I realized that, even my future father in law did not pose so many probing questions to me. (Please note: I don�t mind answering these silly questions for a regular visa, but for the damn TV, it is certainly overkill).
Anyway to cut the long story short. The regular cost of TV is/was $92. However, when I filled up the application form they were asking for $184. (The satisfaction of getting a good deal on the tickets was quickly evaporating). I assumed I must have made a mistake in thinking the cost to be $92 and reluctantly paid $184. Next it was time to fill the application for my wife and answer the idiotic questions again. You should have seen the �I will kill you right now� look on my wife�s face after I woke her up in the middle of night and asked details about her parents. After I filled up the form, to my surprise, now they were asking $274 for visa fees. It was already 2:00 am and I have no choice but to painfully enter my credit card details, hoping that they would realize the mistake in their recon process and would reimburse the difference. (Of course, I was only dreaming).
It is now almost the end of January and I have still now received any money from them. I have tried sending several email to the emb(ass)y, but none of their emails work. I get bounced email for all the emails that I have used. I have tried calling them and left messages and no one has called back. I have send emails to my credit card company and the people who processed the payment and none of them have been able to help me. There is a way to talk to someone in the emb(ass)y, but you need to dial a 900 number, which BTW costs $2.49 per minute. Throwing good money after bad is not an option.
I just wanted to share this experience with you and remind you of the pain ahead, if you are travelling thru UK and don�t have a valid US visa. Personally, even if they had charged me the regular $92, I will still use other options to travel next time. The amount of time wasted in filling the crappy application form, going to NY, (starting Dec doing your finger prints) is simply too much to handle. Visiting your motherland/fatherland is a very special occasion and all these intermediate steps certainly water down the �good feeling� that you experience during the days leading to your trip.
I haven�t given up my quest for a refund, but now, not only I want my money back I would like to bring back home the Koh-i-noor too.
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sayantan76
11-18 04:48 PM
did you emailed to ombudsman also? any replies from him?
While a lot of people sending generic letters on this issue would certainly bring the underlying issue to the discussion table - the lack of "locus standi" would prevent ombudsman or even USCIS from acting.
Let me explain what I mean by the above statement - every case is different and is adjudicated according to the merits of that specific case alone based on applicable laws and procedures. So, investigation and even future policy direction can be only be based on specific instances of the entire case files and detailed specific reasons of how these cases were wrongly adjudicated.
So, the service centers and even the ombudsman is right in saying - we cant help till we have actual case #s
While a lot of people sending generic letters on this issue would certainly bring the underlying issue to the discussion table - the lack of "locus standi" would prevent ombudsman or even USCIS from acting.
Let me explain what I mean by the above statement - every case is different and is adjudicated according to the merits of that specific case alone based on applicable laws and procedures. So, investigation and even future policy direction can be only be based on specific instances of the entire case files and detailed specific reasons of how these cases were wrongly adjudicated.
So, the service centers and even the ombudsman is right in saying - we cant help till we have actual case #s
more...
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karl65
03-26 12:24 PM
http://smallbusiness.findlaw.com/employment-employer/employment-employer-hiring/
Looks the FAQs questions:
http://smallbusiness.findlaw.com/employment-employer/employment-employer-hiring/employment-employer-hiring-faq.html
Those are some of your rights you should know when you have an interview. Find more information in your local area (DOL office)
Looks the FAQs questions:
http://smallbusiness.findlaw.com/employment-employer/employment-employer-hiring/employment-employer-hiring-faq.html
Those are some of your rights you should know when you have an interview. Find more information in your local area (DOL office)
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NKR
01-06 09:37 AM
I would like this idea to materialize but I am just wondering how it is practical.
Except for waiting for a visa number to be available all other delays are due to the time that it takes to process a case (and also due to the country quota). In labor stage, DOL determines if there is any citizen who fit in the labor description and who is looking for a job. In 140 stage, USCIS determines if the company is in good standing and has the ability to pay. In final stage, the candidate�s biometrics is taken and his background checked. All these are essential process in adjudicating a GC case in the employment category. I just do not how all these can be surpassed and candidates handed over a GC, let alone citizenship.
Allocating recaptured visa numbers and following a sensible order is more practical in eliminating some of the delays�
Except for waiting for a visa number to be available all other delays are due to the time that it takes to process a case (and also due to the country quota). In labor stage, DOL determines if there is any citizen who fit in the labor description and who is looking for a job. In 140 stage, USCIS determines if the company is in good standing and has the ability to pay. In final stage, the candidate�s biometrics is taken and his background checked. All these are essential process in adjudicating a GC case in the employment category. I just do not how all these can be surpassed and candidates handed over a GC, let alone citizenship.
Allocating recaptured visa numbers and following a sensible order is more practical in eliminating some of the delays�
more...
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willwin
08-07 02:46 PM
I think, you meant earlier. No I won't because it won't yield anything. Its water under the bridge.
I did mean later not earlier! It would yield you your GC! Most GC approved this month so far has gone to people with PD 2006. One of those is possibly yours!
So go ahead and file a lawsuit.
I did mean later not earlier! It would yield you your GC! Most GC approved this month so far has gone to people with PD 2006. One of those is possibly yours!
So go ahead and file a lawsuit.
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Hassan11
05-24 09:04 AM
Cheran,
Did you go through the medical exam yourself??
Is there another blood work required besides the one for HIV and Syphilis?? Thanks
Did you go through the medical exam yourself??
Is there another blood work required besides the one for HIV and Syphilis?? Thanks
more...
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lord_labaku
11-20 11:43 AM
I dont think it will affect your GC at all. But it will greatly affect your credit history. That being said....foreclosure probably is the easily viable option when you have a large negative equity & have to sell the house.
Wonder why we are in this real estate mess??
Wonder why we are in this real estate mess??
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nitinba
06-29 07:45 PM
seems like, now its 98% final and to me its 100% final that I have missed the bus, though I bought tickets for the bus and bus company is refusing to payback the ticket money to me
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sri1309
01-06 07:41 AM
After staying legally for so long, and suffering due to administrative lapses, I think we must ask for Citizenship. Nothing wrong absolutely. Just compare yourself with your friend who is applying for Citizenship, though you are equally eligible. Dont ask for less. NOthing against who got in.
When you have fulfilled the requirements, then you must get what you deserve.
When we post our requests and stories on sites incl obama'ssite, do make sure you mention about Citizenship also. Its not easy to settle back home with some situations like children etc..
When you have fulfilled the requirements, then you must get what you deserve.
When we post our requests and stories on sites incl obama'ssite, do make sure you mention about Citizenship also. Its not easy to settle back home with some situations like children etc..
Macaca
12-05 04:45 PM
AMY GOODMAN: Our guest for the hour is Lou Dobbs, well known as the CNN anchor of Lou Dobbs Tonight. In May, the New York Times published a critical article about you, Lou.
LOU DOBBS: [inaudible]
AMY GOODMAN: It was called �Truth, Fiction and Lou Dobbs.� Columnist David Leonhardt wrote, �Mr. Dobbs has a somewhat flexible relationship with reality.� Leonhardt highlighted this profile about you that aired on CBS�s 60 Minutes.
LESLEY STAHL: One of the issues he tackles relentlessly is illegal immigration. And on that, his critics say his advocacy can get in the way of the facts.
LOU DOBBS: Tuberculosis, leprosy, malaria?
LESLEY STAHL: Following a report on illegals carrying diseases into the US, one of the correspondents on his show, Christine Romans, told Dobbs that there had been 7,000 cases of leprosy in the US in the past three years.
CHRISTINE ROMANS: Leprosy, in this country
LOU DOBBS: Incredible.
LESLEY STAHL: We checked that and found a report issued by the US Department of Health and Human Services saying 7,000 is the number of leprosy cases over the last thirty years, not the past three, and nobody knows how many of those cases involve illegal immigrants.
[interviewing Dobbs] Now, went to try and check that number, 7,000�we can�t. Just so you know�
LOU DOBBS: I can tell you this: if we reported it, it�s a fact.
LESLEY STAHL: You can�t tell me that. You did report it�
LOU DOBBS: No, I just did.
LESLEY STAHL: How can you guarantee that to me?
LOU DOBBS: Because I�m the managing editor, and that�s the way we do business. We don�t make up numbers, Lesley, do we?
AMY GOODMAN: A day after the 60 Minutes report aired, Lou Dobbs discussed the issue on his program with his reporter, the CNN reporter Christine Romans.
LOU DOBBS: Then there was a question about some of your comments, Christine, following one of your reports. I told Lesley Stahl we don�t make up numbers, and I will tell everybody here again tonight, I stand 100% behind what you said.
CHRISTINE ROMANS: That�s right, Lou. We don�t make up numbers here. This is what we reported. We reported: �It�s interesting, because the woman in our piece told us that there were about 900 cases of leprosy for forty years. There have been 7,000 in the past three years. Leprosy, in this country.� I was quoting Dr. Madeleine Cosman, a respected medical lawyer and medical historian. Writing in The Journal of American Physicians and Surgeons, she said: �Hansen�s disease��that�s the other modern name, I guess, for leprosy��Hansen�s disease was so rare in America that in forty years only 900 people were afflicted. Suddenly, in the past three years America has more than 7,000 cases of leprosy,� Lou.
LOU DOBBS: It�s remarkable that this�whatever, confusion or confoundment over 7,000 cases. They actually keep a registry of cases of leprosy. And the fact that it rose was because of�one assumes, because we don�t know for sure�but two basic influences: unscreened illegal immigrants coming into this country, primarily from South Asia, and the�secondly, far better reporting.
CHRISTINE ROMANS: That�s what Dr. Cosman told us, Lou.
LOU DOBBS: And, you know, in talking with a number of people, it�s also very clear no one knows, but nearly everyone suspects, there are far more cases of that. It is also, I think, interesting, and I think important to say, one of the reasons we screen people coming into this country is to deal with communicable diseases like leprosy, tuberculosis. The fact is, if we would just screen successfully, all of those diseases can be treated effectively, efficiently and relatively quickly.
AMY GOODMAN: That�s Lou Dobbs on the show. The source behind the claim that there was a spike of 7,000 new cases of leprosy was a controversial medical attorney named Madeleine Cosman. In 2005, she described undocumented immigrants as �deadly time bombs, because of the diseases they bring into the country.� Cosman, who died last year, has also been criticized for these comments she made about Mexican men.
MADELEINE COSMAN: Recognize that most of these bastards molest girls under age twelve, some as young as age five, others age three. Although, of course, some specialize in boys, some specialize in nuns, some are exceedingly versatile and rape little girls age eleven and women up to age seventy-nine.
What is important here is the psychiatric defenses: Why do they do what they do? They do not need a jail; they need a hospital. They are depraved because they were deprived in their home country. But more important is the cultural defense: they suffer from psychiatric cognitive disjuncture, for what does a poor man do if in his home country of Mexico in his jurisdiction if rape is ranked lower than cow stealing? Of course, he will not know how to behave here in strange America. This is thoroughly reprehensible.
AMY GOODMAN: Madeleine Cosman, that�s her quote. She actually is not a medical doctor. She�s a Renaissance author and scholar of sorts. Lou Dobbs?
LOU DOBBS: What would you have me say, Amy? Because what�the reality is what you don�t say, is that Leonhardt�s piece was filled with errors. Secondly, Madeleine Cosman, as we learned following that report in Physicians and Surgeons, the publication, is precisely what you styled her: she is a wack�or was a wackjob. But the New York Times didn�t know that, either. If you would read the obituary for Madeleine Cosman in the New York Times�have you done that, by the way? She died a year ago, which was, by the way, a year after we had used her as a source in a report, along with other people. Did you read that obituary? Did you find that the New York Times had come to basically the same conclusion we had, that she was a credible source? Because if you read that obituary, it is glowing and filled with plaudits for Madeleine Cosman. And so�
JUAN GONZALEZ: Well, but, Lou, I think the issue�
LOU DOBBS: But I must�no, no. I am going to say this�
JUAN GONZALEZ: The issue is that we, as journalists�
LOU DOBBS: To go through a body of
JUAN GONZALEZ: �all have our own responsibility to�
LOU DOBBS: No, listen to me, Juan�
JUAN GONZALEZ: No, no, no, no, no, Listen�
LOU DOBBS: �because at least we can have some civility�
JUAN GONZALEZ: Lou�
LOU DOBBS: �to go through this and try to convey that this is a body of work. I spoke for eight seconds after that report on tuberculosis and the screening of illegal immigrants into this country. For eight seconds. And you�re trying to project this as if it is reflective of a body of work. And that, I think, is�I think�
JUAN GONZALEZ: No, but, Lou, the issue�
LOU DOBBS: I would hope that you would be embarrassed by that.
JUAN GONZALEZ: No, Lou, the issue is�
AMY GOODMAN: You�re the managing director of your show�
LOU DOBBS: I am the managing director.
AMY GOODMAN: �and editor of your show.
LOU DOBBS: And let me ask you a question: how many�how many people are on the registry for Hansen�s disease in this country?
JUAN GONZALEZ: 7,000, total.
LOU DOBBS: It�s over 7,000, correct.
AMY GOODMAN: For thirty years.
JUAN GONZALEZ: For thirty years.
LOU DOBBS: Absolutely.
AMY GOODMAN: You said over the last three years because of illegal immigration.
LOU DOBBS: And what did we say? Did I say because of illegal immigration?
AMY GOODMAN: Yes.
LOU DOBBS: I said no one knows, but one assumes primarily, because they�re not being screened. That�s what the doctors at the Hansen centers were telling us. Secondly, the issue of�if you want to, I mean, explode eight seconds into a whole body of discussion, fine. The reality is, I think you would agree, that if we were screening illegal immigrants, as well as legal immigrants, we would probably have a heck of a lot less in the way of tuberculosis in this country, and Hansen�s disease.
JUAN GONZALEZ: OK, Lou, I�d like to get into�take this in a much deeper perspective than just the particular fact�
LOU DOBBS: I hope so.
LOU DOBBS: [inaudible]
AMY GOODMAN: It was called �Truth, Fiction and Lou Dobbs.� Columnist David Leonhardt wrote, �Mr. Dobbs has a somewhat flexible relationship with reality.� Leonhardt highlighted this profile about you that aired on CBS�s 60 Minutes.
LESLEY STAHL: One of the issues he tackles relentlessly is illegal immigration. And on that, his critics say his advocacy can get in the way of the facts.
LOU DOBBS: Tuberculosis, leprosy, malaria?
LESLEY STAHL: Following a report on illegals carrying diseases into the US, one of the correspondents on his show, Christine Romans, told Dobbs that there had been 7,000 cases of leprosy in the US in the past three years.
CHRISTINE ROMANS: Leprosy, in this country
LOU DOBBS: Incredible.
LESLEY STAHL: We checked that and found a report issued by the US Department of Health and Human Services saying 7,000 is the number of leprosy cases over the last thirty years, not the past three, and nobody knows how many of those cases involve illegal immigrants.
[interviewing Dobbs] Now, went to try and check that number, 7,000�we can�t. Just so you know�
LOU DOBBS: I can tell you this: if we reported it, it�s a fact.
LESLEY STAHL: You can�t tell me that. You did report it�
LOU DOBBS: No, I just did.
LESLEY STAHL: How can you guarantee that to me?
LOU DOBBS: Because I�m the managing editor, and that�s the way we do business. We don�t make up numbers, Lesley, do we?
AMY GOODMAN: A day after the 60 Minutes report aired, Lou Dobbs discussed the issue on his program with his reporter, the CNN reporter Christine Romans.
LOU DOBBS: Then there was a question about some of your comments, Christine, following one of your reports. I told Lesley Stahl we don�t make up numbers, and I will tell everybody here again tonight, I stand 100% behind what you said.
CHRISTINE ROMANS: That�s right, Lou. We don�t make up numbers here. This is what we reported. We reported: �It�s interesting, because the woman in our piece told us that there were about 900 cases of leprosy for forty years. There have been 7,000 in the past three years. Leprosy, in this country.� I was quoting Dr. Madeleine Cosman, a respected medical lawyer and medical historian. Writing in The Journal of American Physicians and Surgeons, she said: �Hansen�s disease��that�s the other modern name, I guess, for leprosy��Hansen�s disease was so rare in America that in forty years only 900 people were afflicted. Suddenly, in the past three years America has more than 7,000 cases of leprosy,� Lou.
LOU DOBBS: It�s remarkable that this�whatever, confusion or confoundment over 7,000 cases. They actually keep a registry of cases of leprosy. And the fact that it rose was because of�one assumes, because we don�t know for sure�but two basic influences: unscreened illegal immigrants coming into this country, primarily from South Asia, and the�secondly, far better reporting.
CHRISTINE ROMANS: That�s what Dr. Cosman told us, Lou.
LOU DOBBS: And, you know, in talking with a number of people, it�s also very clear no one knows, but nearly everyone suspects, there are far more cases of that. It is also, I think, interesting, and I think important to say, one of the reasons we screen people coming into this country is to deal with communicable diseases like leprosy, tuberculosis. The fact is, if we would just screen successfully, all of those diseases can be treated effectively, efficiently and relatively quickly.
AMY GOODMAN: That�s Lou Dobbs on the show. The source behind the claim that there was a spike of 7,000 new cases of leprosy was a controversial medical attorney named Madeleine Cosman. In 2005, she described undocumented immigrants as �deadly time bombs, because of the diseases they bring into the country.� Cosman, who died last year, has also been criticized for these comments she made about Mexican men.
MADELEINE COSMAN: Recognize that most of these bastards molest girls under age twelve, some as young as age five, others age three. Although, of course, some specialize in boys, some specialize in nuns, some are exceedingly versatile and rape little girls age eleven and women up to age seventy-nine.
What is important here is the psychiatric defenses: Why do they do what they do? They do not need a jail; they need a hospital. They are depraved because they were deprived in their home country. But more important is the cultural defense: they suffer from psychiatric cognitive disjuncture, for what does a poor man do if in his home country of Mexico in his jurisdiction if rape is ranked lower than cow stealing? Of course, he will not know how to behave here in strange America. This is thoroughly reprehensible.
AMY GOODMAN: Madeleine Cosman, that�s her quote. She actually is not a medical doctor. She�s a Renaissance author and scholar of sorts. Lou Dobbs?
LOU DOBBS: What would you have me say, Amy? Because what�the reality is what you don�t say, is that Leonhardt�s piece was filled with errors. Secondly, Madeleine Cosman, as we learned following that report in Physicians and Surgeons, the publication, is precisely what you styled her: she is a wack�or was a wackjob. But the New York Times didn�t know that, either. If you would read the obituary for Madeleine Cosman in the New York Times�have you done that, by the way? She died a year ago, which was, by the way, a year after we had used her as a source in a report, along with other people. Did you read that obituary? Did you find that the New York Times had come to basically the same conclusion we had, that she was a credible source? Because if you read that obituary, it is glowing and filled with plaudits for Madeleine Cosman. And so�
JUAN GONZALEZ: Well, but, Lou, I think the issue�
LOU DOBBS: But I must�no, no. I am going to say this�
JUAN GONZALEZ: The issue is that we, as journalists�
LOU DOBBS: To go through a body of
JUAN GONZALEZ: �all have our own responsibility to�
LOU DOBBS: No, listen to me, Juan�
JUAN GONZALEZ: No, no, no, no, no, Listen�
LOU DOBBS: �because at least we can have some civility�
JUAN GONZALEZ: Lou�
LOU DOBBS: �to go through this and try to convey that this is a body of work. I spoke for eight seconds after that report on tuberculosis and the screening of illegal immigrants into this country. For eight seconds. And you�re trying to project this as if it is reflective of a body of work. And that, I think, is�I think�
JUAN GONZALEZ: No, but, Lou, the issue�
LOU DOBBS: I would hope that you would be embarrassed by that.
JUAN GONZALEZ: No, Lou, the issue is�
AMY GOODMAN: You�re the managing director of your show�
LOU DOBBS: I am the managing director.
AMY GOODMAN: �and editor of your show.
LOU DOBBS: And let me ask you a question: how many�how many people are on the registry for Hansen�s disease in this country?
JUAN GONZALEZ: 7,000, total.
LOU DOBBS: It�s over 7,000, correct.
AMY GOODMAN: For thirty years.
JUAN GONZALEZ: For thirty years.
LOU DOBBS: Absolutely.
AMY GOODMAN: You said over the last three years because of illegal immigration.
LOU DOBBS: And what did we say? Did I say because of illegal immigration?
AMY GOODMAN: Yes.
LOU DOBBS: I said no one knows, but one assumes primarily, because they�re not being screened. That�s what the doctors at the Hansen centers were telling us. Secondly, the issue of�if you want to, I mean, explode eight seconds into a whole body of discussion, fine. The reality is, I think you would agree, that if we were screening illegal immigrants, as well as legal immigrants, we would probably have a heck of a lot less in the way of tuberculosis in this country, and Hansen�s disease.
JUAN GONZALEZ: OK, Lou, I�d like to get into�take this in a much deeper perspective than just the particular fact�
LOU DOBBS: I hope so.
stuck_here
01-24 01:30 PM
hmmm.. i had noticed that for couple of persons whose approval was done early got their passport immediately but in you case it is not true!! :confused: so I guess it is difficult to decide any pattern.. (i am not sure whether it is related to H1 approval of any specific center.. if we decide some template and ask everyone to post all such details that might help but i am not sure whether everyone will follow that template...) was there anything complex in your case which you think might have caused this problem?
my H1 approval was done in April 2007 and I have my appointment in Feb 1 st week. I will post my details as soon as my interview is done.. Good luck to you..
Thanks and good luck to u too !
I called DOS and they r just saying that they have't gotten to verifying my data yet in PIMS coz it's not yet available.. it's been a month 13 days and counting since my visa appearance..
my H1 approval was done in April 2007 and I have my appointment in Feb 1 st week. I will post my details as soon as my interview is done.. Good luck to you..
Thanks and good luck to u too !
I called DOS and they r just saying that they have't gotten to verifying my data yet in PIMS coz it's not yet available.. it's been a month 13 days and counting since my visa appearance..
