Key Changes to the I-140 Petition Process: What You Need to Know
The immigration landscape is always evolving, and a crucial update has just been announced that impacts the I-140, Immigrant Petition for Alien Workers. As of April 1, 2024, significant changes, particularly in terms of immigration fees, will come into effect. Here’s what you need to grasp about these important modifications.
Adjustments in Immigration Fees
A vital piece of news for applicants and petitioners is the final rule published on January 31, 2024, in the Federal Register. This rule introduces adjustments to the fees required for most immigration applications and petitions. These changes are not to be underestimated, as they will directly affect the filing process of the I-140 petition moving forward.
What Does This Mean for Your I-140 Petition?
From April 1, 2024, the new fee structure comes into play, and it’s essential to note that applications or petitions postmarked on or after this date must adhere to the new fees to be accepted. This adjustment means no grace period for the I-140 petition; thus, meticulous planning is necessary to ensure compliance.
Critical Dates and Editions for Form I-140:
- Before April 1, 2024: The 05/31/22 edition of Form I-140 will be accepted if postmarked before April 1, 2024.
- On or After April 1, 2024: The 05/31/22 edition postmarked on or after this date won’t be accepted. Only the 04/01/24 edition postmarked on or after April 1, 2024, will be considered valid.
It’s crucial to pay careful attention to these dates to avoid any complications or delays in your application process.
Premium Processing Expansion
In a move that will surely be welcomed by many, premium processing services have been expanded. This now includes certain previously filed and newly filed Form I-140 petitions, specifically those requesting E13 classification for multinational executives and managers and E21 national interest waiver (NIW) classification.
For more detailed information on how to request premium processing, visit the “How Do I Request Premium Processing” page. This expansion is a significant development, offering a faster pathway for certain classifications, making the road to achieving U.S. work authorization smoother for qualified individuals.
Staying Informed and Prepared
With the introduction of these new fees and the update to the I-140 petition process, being well-informed and prepared is more important than ever. Planning ahead and keeping abreast of the latest updates will ensure that your journey through the U.S. immigration process is as seamless as possible.
Remember, changes in immigration policies and fees are par for the course, but with careful preparation and adherence to the new rules, you can navigate these changes successfully.
This Article In A Nutshell:
Stay informed about key changes in the I-140 Petition Process. Starting April 1, 2024, new immigration fees apply. No grace period granted for filing with the old fee structure. Premium Processing now includes more categories. Use the correct form edition—05/31/22 before, 04/01/24 after April 1, 2024. Stay updated to navigate immigration updates smoothly.
— By VisaVerge.com
