October 2024 Immigration Updates
Presidential Election
The upcoming US Presidential Election is the topic on people’s minds. Attorneys Liz Profumo and Jordana Schwartz-Matricardi recently discussed the differences in O-1 and EB-1 processing under the Trump Administration and the Biden/Harris administration. If you’re thinking of applying for an O-1 or EB-1, and wonder how they were handled under Biden/Harris vs Trump, please watch our video on this topic. HERE
Make Sure to Use the Right Forms
USCIS has updated the forms used in many Extraordinary Ability cases, including the I-539 (for O-3 spouses and minor children of O-1 visa holders), the I-140 Petition for Alien Worker, required for EB-1 green card cases, the I-485 Application for Adjustment of Status (aka green card application), I-765 Employment Authorization Document, and I-131 Travel Document. USCIS will now only accept the most recent version of each of these forms. Using any form other than the most recent version will result in the form being rejected.
Incorrect USCIS Case Status Notices
In October we observed a sharp uptick in incorrect case status notifications issued by USCIS. These include notices of Requests for Evidence (RFE’s) being issued on approved cases, RFE’s being canceled (where they were never issued) and other unconventional messages. If you receive an unexpected message, look out for a confirmation notice to arrive by mail.
O-1 Processing Times and Premium Processing
USCIS’ published processing times for O-1 petitions has increased in recent months, with many cases pending at the California Service Center for six months or more. Due to the extended processing times, many are opting to use USCIS’ pricey Premium Processing service. The service costs an additional $2,805 and guarantees that USCIS approves the case or requests more evidence within 15 business days.
Recent Approvals
Since our last newsletter, we’ve had O-1’s approved for 2 Composers, 3 Producers, a Costume Designer & Stylist, 4 Actors, a Creative Director & Director, a VFX Artist, a VFX Producer, 2 Directors of Photography, an Editor, an Audio Engineer, a Makeup Artist, a Writer, 2 Editors, a Photographer and a Singer from Taiwan, China, Russia, Colombia, Canada, India, Greece, UK, Slovenia, Italy, Venezuela and Vietnam. As well as EB-1 green cards for a Sound Technician, Producer, Pole Dance Trainer, and an Ice Cross Downhill Racer from Taiwan, China, Russia, and Colombia.
Congratulations to all of our talented clients who have been approved this month!
DIVA The Play
Global Talent Immigration is proud to sponsor United Stages’ production of DIVA The Play, starring Vivienne Powell. The play will be running at the Zephyr Theater in Los Angeles from November 1 - 10, 2024. If you’re in Los Angeles, come check out the talented cast and crew!
Fall Holiday Greetings
We wish all our very creative clients a Happy Holiday Weekend!​
Need to Speak with an Attorney?
If you have questions for our attorneys or would like to discuss renewing or extending your O-1, please provide your email address and we’ll get in touch with you about your request as soon as possible.
Request to speak with a Global Talent attorney
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