Giselle’s CNFBTA Presentation and a Travel Alert: “Extreme Vetting” for Visas

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Travel

On May 4, Giselle Carson gave a presentation to the Central & North Florida Business Travel Association. Here is what the CNFBTA Director of Communications Brian DeLeon had to say about it:

“Awesome update on what to expect when hiring foreign nationals. Dynamic presentation from Attorney and Jacksonville Aviation Authority Vice Chair, Giselle Carson.”

Speaking of travel, the new administration has proposed additional changes to the visa processing procedures, collectively referred to as “extreme vetting”. Here’s how they may impact travelers. 

Trump’s Changes to Visa Issuance and Admissions

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Travel, Trump

Although the travel ban order has been halted by the courts, the new administration has signaled “increased scrutiny” on visa issuance to the US consulates. Its effects are being reflected in the processing of visas at US consulates.

Data released by the government shows that the United States issued about 40 percent fewer temporary visas in March of 2017 to citizens of the seven Muslim-majority nations affected by the bans – Iran, Iraq, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, Syria, and Yemen – than it did on average in March of 2016.

Consulates are erring on the side of not approving a visa if there is missing information or discrepancies in the filing or if the applicant is not well prepared for the interview.  Because of the uncertainty, there also appears to be fewer applicants for US visas at these consulates.

The executive order also eliminated the ability of some individuals to apply for their visas at a US consulate without an in-person interview.

Previously, some individuals – due to their age or the fact that they were repeat applicants for the same visa – could mail in their passports to the US consulate or use a “drop-box” system when applying for a visa. This time-saving interview waiver program (IWP) has been suspended. This suspension is increasing the workload at the consulates and the wait times for visa appointments.

On a positive note, the data also shows that the total of US non-immigrant visas issued worldwide was up by about 5 percent in March compared to the 2016 monthly average.

But visa issuance is not a guarantee of US admission. At the US ports of entry on arrival, our clients are telling us that they are being subject to more questioning.  Particularly, those travelers entering as a business visitor (B-1/B-2) or under the Visa Waiver Program (ESTA) on a frequent basis.

To facilitate your travel, plan to be thorough, prepared, and proactive in this process.

Plan Ahead: Visa Delays Expected

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Travel

Summer is always a busy season for travelers. If you’re traveling on a visa, you may already know to expect more delays and give yourself plenty of time.

This year, though, is likely to be even worse than normal due to the recent executive orders. Already, we are seeing more background checks, more delays in getting through the airport, and more complaints about consulates.

With this in mind, here a few tips to make the process go as smoothly as possible when traveling on a visa.

Trump Administration Executive Orders on Immigration and Workforce Strategy

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E-Verify, Executive Order, H-1B, I-9, Immigration Compliance, Immigration Reform, Travel, Trump

As of this writing, the Trump Administration has issued and is expected to continue to issue Executive Orders (EO) relating to immigration including visa issuance, screening procedures, E-Verify, higher H-1B wages and refugees.

The intent of these EO is to protect our nation but they are also having the effect of creating confusion, anxiety and delays for foreign nationals and their employers.

Happy Travels – Tips for a Stress Free Admission to the U.S.

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Travel

As we approach the holidays and more people travel, it is very important to make sure that you check your I-94 Arrival/ Departure Form every time you enter the United States.  Checking your I-94 form is easy and you can do it online.  It only requires a few minutes and your passport information.  You can download your I-94 Form here.

Unfortunately, there is a high rate of error on the admission records. It is important that the record is correct because the I-94 governs your lawful stay in the U.S., and not your passport, your visa, or your petition approval.

ePassports Required for Travelers Using the Visa Waiver Program

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Travel

The Visa Waiver Program (VWP) is used by citizens from 38 countries to travel without a visa to the U.S.

However, starting in April, the DHS will require these travelers to obtain a visa to travel to the U.S. If they don’t have an ePassport.

An e-Passport contains an electronic security chip, which holds the passenger’s biographical information including name, date of birth and other background information.

For additional information, go here.